
*«' 












,0^ V • • • ' 



*^ 



<^ 



•<^. 






-^^0^ 



V 



4 o 



^«^ 



^o 






A> ... < 



y . " . . 



% 



4 o 












>^ ....,^<;.. 



J^ -V^:^..', ^..^.j"^ ,--'^:-.% ^^ ^^ y^.7^. 

o V" 






"<. 



o > 
P-r, 



^■\ ''>^/ ^f^ "^o '.y,.^' ^/'"\ ''^^.^ ^^'- -^o -'^Ui^ ,0 "^"^ 



-^f.-^rp:'^:. 









^ O m O 



<» 



' . . • * A 






1. ' • . "»> . 









o V '--••' .1^1 - -'•0 









■<? 










■A .1, 






^ .vv;,-- 






.^^ 



>i^ 















•^^0^ 
^-^°^ 






•7 



,0' 



•^.. .<■ 



°o 






^^^ 












: .^ 



v->. 






,0' 



V •;,%•- 



V'. 



o V 






V . • • »- o. 



\ 



.'\ 






^"-^ 



- ■ /\ 

.0'^ c • " ° . \: 



o > 

■ ^"""^^^ ■ 






v^^ 









"-0 






,0^ t " " • . *o 






.0'" 












.*«:/^vV 







^'•v/^ -*^«W1^'<. »V-^ ,^</> .V"* 



"^^ 




BLACK RIVER TALLS 

WATtfiTO'.VK, UEt/ yOPK. 






i 



a 



?? 



U| 



ci 



5 



m 



i 

i 

i 



I 
I 



|5 



'797 



A^^TO/^ 



-OF- 



JEFFERSON COUNTY, 



NEW YORK. 



t.g=sWITH ===i.' 



|[llnsiraiia!is ami "||togra^lucaI BKefclic^ 



«-€==OF=^_> 



SOME OF ITS PROMINENT MEN AND PIONEERS. 



I^TTBLISKED B-ST Ij. H. EVERTS & CO., 
71-i— 16 Filbert Street, Pbilaclelphia. 

L. H. EVERTS. ; * ' J. M. HOLCOMB. 



1878. 



1^ 



u 



'■' _-_^ ^,..-^ -^^ — :-^^. — :- -^ ^ _^ ^ _ ^ ^ ^ _ . _^ ^ ^p -sSl^ 






M- n ^1 I 






'^A 



CONTENTS. 



HISTORV OF JEFFERSON COUNTY. 

CHAPTER PAGE 

r. — Physical Features 9-21 

II. — Pro-IIistorio 21-25 

III.— Chaniplain iinil Fronlcnac 25-42 

IV.— History nf Land-Titles 42-55 

v. — Castorlnnd 55-64 

VI. — Civil Organization 64-85 

VII.— Statistical 85-94 

VIII.— Public Officers 94-100 

IX. — The Learned Professions 100-111 

X. — -Internal Improvements ...... 111-129 



ILLUSTRATIONS 

Black Uiver F.alls (Frontispiece) 
Plan of Old Fort Carlton 
Outline Map of Jefferson County . 
View of Court-IIousc . 
First Steamboat on the Lakes, 1S16 



facing title-page. 

40 

. facing 9 

80 

125 



facing 



130 

1.30 

' 161 

' 100 

168 

168, 109 

H CI 

169 

" 176 

177 

148 

bet. 148, 149 

facing 149 

" 152 

153 

" 142 

143 

" 179 

between 134, 135 



Hubbard 



CITY OF WATERTOWN. 

History of the Village and City 
View of the Public Square .... 

Residence of Wm. Howard, with Portraits 
" J. (J. Harbottle, " 

" Elam and Chas. E. Brown, with Portraits 

Portraits of Rev. d. Baker and wife, with Biography bet, 
Residence of G. H. Tallett, with Portraits . . " ' 

" and Brick-Yard of E. D.Whitney, with Port's, facin; 
" of Pliny Monroe, with Portraits 

Portrait of L. I). Hill, with Biography 
Residence of J. T. Gotham, with Portraits 
Taggarts & Davis" Papor-.Mill (double page view) 
St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church 
Residence and Portrait of Edward S. Massey 
Residence, Business Block, and Portrait of V. S, 
" of G. C. Bradley, with Portraits 

" Hon. .lolin A. Sherman 

Portrait of Hon. J. A. Sherman (steel) 
Portraits of Hon. Willard Ives and wives 
Residence of Hon. W. Ives, with Biography 
" G. Bradford 

" A. Palmer Smith . 

T. A. Smith .... 
Portrait of A. W. Peck, with Biography . 
" Hon. Joseph Mullin (steel) 

" Hon. 0. Ilungerford (steel) 

View of the Fairbanks Mansion 
Biography of Gordon P. Spencer, M.D. 
John A. Sherman 
** Joseph Mullin 

** Jenery T. Gotham 

" John G. Harbottle 

*' Perley G. Keyes, with Portrait 

** Isaac Munson, ** 

" Thomas Baker, " 

" Hiram Dewey, " 

" Ward Hubbard, " 

" S. W. Ballard, 

" G. Bradford, 

" L. Ingalls, " 

S. Boon, " 

" J. W. Moak. " 



facing 



138 
139 
139 
212 
180 
204 
198i 
198i 
179 
180 
181 
181 
182 
183 
184 
185 
186 
187 
188 
189 
190 
191 



Biography of Asahel Read, with Portraits 

" Lysandor H. Brown, with Portrait 

" I. B. Crawe, 

" the Fairbanks Family 

" Judge W. C. Thomp-'-on, with Portrait 

" .lohn Winslow, " 

" Bradley Winslow, " 

" Hon. 0. Hungerf<»rd 

" Dr. Amasa Trowbridge, with Portrait 

" Dr. W. K. Trowbridge, " 

" E. B. Fowler, " 

" N. W. Streetor, 

" Jno. C. Strceter, " 

*' Henry Hopkins, " 

" Solomon 0. Gale, with Portraits . 

" Milton Carpenter, " 

" Evelyn F. Carter, with Portrait . 

" Winslow I'attridgc, " 

" Hart Massey, " 

" Solon Massey, ** 

'* Edward S. Massey 

" Edwin A. Holbrook, with Portrait 

Henry W. Shead, " 

N. M. WooiIrufT, 

View of the Woodruff House .... 
*' Henry Keep's Home Building and Arcade 

Biography of Charles T. Woodruff . 

Residence of Mrs. 0. R. Davis 
" Hon. Hiram Dewey 

" the late Gen. Abner Baker . 

Biography of *' " " " with Portrai 

" William Howard .... 

" Egbert D. Whitney 

" Pliny iMonroo .... 

** Aaron Brown, with Portrait 

" Levi H. Brown. " 

" Volney S. Hubbard (Supplement) 

TOWN OF WATERTOWN. 



History of the Town of Watertown . 

Biography of Ebenezcr Tolman, with Portrait . 
" Alexander Parker, with Portraits 

" Jeremiah Parker, '* 

'* Francis Smiley, with Portrait 

" Austin Everett, *' 

" William Tolman, " 

" Joseph Sawyer, with Portraits 

Residence of L. T. Sawyer, and Portraits 
John B. Ball, " 

Biography of " " " . . 



facing 



facing 



facing 



PAoa 
192 
193 
195 
196 
199 
200 
201 
204 
205 
205 
206 
207 
207 
208 
209 
210 
211 
212 
213 
214 
215 
216 
217 
218 
218 
219 
220 
220 
220 
221 
221 
222 
223 
223 
224 
224 
592 



226 
234 
235 
236 
237 
238 
239 
240 
240 
241 
241 



TOWN OF ADA.tlS. 



fac 



242 
261 

261 
263 



History of the Town of .\dams 

Portrait of Gen. S. D. Ilungerford (steel) . 

Biography of " " " ... 

" A. S. Greene (U. S. N.) 

" Samuel Fox 264 

" Daniel Fox (2d) 264 

" John C. Cooper 264 

" Lumnn Arms 264 

" Thomas R. Greene ...... 2150 



CONTENTS. 







PAOI 






PAes 


Residence nnd Shops of W. 11. TVhooIcr . 


facing 


245 


Biography of Thomas S. Knap 




303 


" of J. M. Cleveland (double piigc view) between 244, 245 


" John A. Cathcart 




304 


" A. D. Stanley, with Portraits 


facing 


253 


" Hon. Henry Spiccr, with Portrait 




309 


" and Sash Factory of 0. D. Greene . 


a 


252 


" Hon. Alanson Skinner, with Portraits . 




310 


Farm View and Residence of J. L. Greene, Esq. (double page) 




" James Douglass, " " 




311 


between 252, 253 


" Hazael S. While, " " 




312 


Residence of Giles Parker, with Portraits 


facing 


244 


" Alvin A. Gibbs, with Portrait 




313 


" Mrs. Nancy S. Thomas 


« 


255 


Farm View and Residence of E. T. White 


facing 


312 


« Mrs. Thomas R. Greene, with Portrait 


" 


254 


Residence of Amos Otis, Jr. .... 


" 


313 


Portraits of W. T. Searles and wife 


" 


24a 


" Walter Zimmerman 


" 


313 


Portrait of Luman Arms ...... 


" 


249 


" John C. Knapp .... 


tt 


298 


" Thomas 11. Brcen 


" 


249 


Mrs. A. A. Clarke . . . • . 


" 


295 


" A. S. Greene (U. S. N.) .... 


It 


249 


Mrs. J. A. Scofield 


ti 


294 


"Valley Park Farm," Residence of Gen. S. D. Hun 


gerforc 










(double page) between 248, 249 


TOWN OF CAPE VINCENT 


* 




Residence of 11. H. Crosby 


facing 


246 


History of the Town of Cape Vincent 


, 


314 


" 11. C. Averill 


" 


246 


Biogrtiphy of Joel and Levi Torrey . 


. 


328 


" and Shop of R. C. Langworthy 


** 


251 


" Elisha P. Dodge, with Portraits . 


. 


330 


" and Store of E. C. Crosby 


« 


251 


" David C. Shuler .... 




331 


" of Chauncey Colton ..... 


'•' 


258 


Residence of A. J. Humphrey .... 


facing 


323 


and Mill of T. P. Saunders 


" 


256 


F. M. Rogers .... 


tt 


323 


" of T. V. Maxon (ilouble page) . . between 250,251 


" Riverside Hotel," F. 11. Dodge, prop.. Milieu's Bay " 


322 


" Miss L. J. Bullock .... 


facing 


259 


Residence of David C. Shuler, with Portraits . 


tt 


314 


" A.J. Greene ..... 


*' 


259 


" Edwin Gray, '• " (double page) 




Hungerford Collegiate Institute .... 


" 


257 


between 314, 315 


Residence of Mrs. J. C. Cooper, with portrait . 


tt 


250 


" Shepard Warren, " " 


facing 


315 


Portraits of Daniel and Hannah Fox 


it 


2C4 








Portrait of Samuel Fox 


" 


264 


TOWN OF CHAMPION. 






" Daniel Fox, Jr. . . . 


" 


264 


History of the Town of Chamjiion . 




331 


TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. 






Biography of Col. Elias Sage . 
" Elam Brown 






339 
.",40 


History of the Town of Alexandria .... 






266 


" A. W. Twining 






340 


Biography of Chauncey Wcstcott .... 






273 


" Noadiah Hulbard, with Portraits 






341 


Thos. B. Marshall .... 






274 


** Hiram Hubbard, with Portrait 






342 


" Azariah Walton, with Portrait . 






274 


" Alphonso Loomis . 
" Norman J. Fuller . 






343 


Portraits of Ashley and Susan Tanner 






275 






343 


Biography of Ashley Tanner (.Supplement) 






593 


Residence of N. J. Fuller, with Portraits . 




facing 


343 


Residence, Portrait, and Biography of 11. S. White 


facing, 


272 


Biography of Russell W^ilmot, *' " 
Residence of George Bush, with Portraits 




tt 


342 


Portraits of Chauncey Westcott and wife . 


" 


273 




tt 


336 


Residence of .loseph W. Reade, Esq. 


It 


273 


Biography of Hon. Merrill Coburn, with Portrait 


tt 


337 


" T. B. Marshall, with Portraits . 


" 


274 












Wm. M. Coburn, 


*' 


33/ 


TOWN OF ANTWERP. 






Residence of Mrs. Lucina Loomis, with Portraits 

" Col. E. Sage, with Portraits (double pag 


ti 

e) betweer 


332 


History of the Town of Antwerp .... 




275 




332, 333 


Residence of E. A. Carpenter, and Portraits 


facing 


■ 276 


" A. W. Twining, " 


facing 333 


Farm and Residence of Hiram B. Keeno (double 


page 










between 27 


6, 277 


TOWN OF CLAYTON. 






Residence of Elijah llcmghton, with Portrait . 


facing 


277 








" 0. G. Uall, and Homestead of Asber Lew 


is, witl 




History of the Town of Clayton 




. 


343 


Portraits 


facing 


280 


Biography of John .lobnston 






353 


Farm and Residence of Hiram T. Nutting, with Portrai 


ts, " 


281 


Portrait of .< .> ... 




facing 347 


Homestead of Loren Stone, with Portraits 


it 


275 


Residence of Capt. S. G. Johnston . 




" 


347 


Portraits <»f Hirum and Betsey Kcene 


•> 


290 


Christ Church, Clayton .... 




«< 


347 


Residence of N. J. Cooper, with Portraits . between 2t 


0,291 


Halpin's Block. " .... 




li 


346 


Biography of Abraham Cooper, with Portraits . 


It 25 


0,291 


Residence of Thomas Ries 




ti 


346 


Residence of Clark Weston, and Portraits of Lawrence 


Westor 




" A. F. Barker 




ti 


.346 


and wife ........ 

Biography of Hiram B. Keeno 


facing 


' 291 
290 


TOWN OF ELLI8BURG. 






Caleb G. Hall 






291 


History of the Town of EUisburg 


facing 354 


" E. A. Carpenter 






291 


Biography of Wm. G. Hitchcock, with Portraits 


*( 


374 


" L. A. Bacon, with Portraits . 






292 


A. A. Wheeler .... 


n 


375 


" Asher an<l Nancy Letvis 






293 


" Charles Goodenough 




ti 


376 


" Hiram T. Nutting .... 






293 


** Erastus B. Haven 




" 


376 


" hlijali Houghton ..... 






293 


'* Nabuiu C. Houghton, Esq. . 




" 


376 


" Lawrence Weston ..... 






293 


" James F. Converse 




" 


377 


•' Loren Stone (Supplement) . 






593 


" James Brodie 




" 


377 








" Lavius Fillmore . 




tt 


378 


TOWN OF BROWNVIM-E. 






Alvah Bull .... 




. 


-.378 


History of the Town of Brownville .... 




294 


" Frederick Williams 




tt 


378 


Biography of Major-General Brown .... 






302 


"Riverside," Residence of J. F. Converse 




tt 


350 


** Colonel Kdniund Kirliy 






302 


1 osidence of F. AVilliaras {double page) . 




)etween 356, 357 


" George Brown, Esq. .... 






302 


" James Brodie, with Portraits 




facing 


357 


" Colonel William Lord .... 






303 


" Andrew .\. Wheeler, with Portrait 


" 


358 


" General Thomas Looinis 






303 


" Marcus Judsoii. with Portrait and 


Biog 


rajjhy " 


359 



CONTENTS. 



View of Union Aoailcmy facing 354 

Residence of E. B. Haven " 360 

" Alvah Bull, with Portraits ... " 361 

" N. C. Houghton, " . . " 363 

Views of Property of Lavius Fillmore, with Portraits (double 

page) between 362, 363 

Residences of iJavid Holly and J. A. Bemis . . facing 362 
The Haven Kiiniily — (Iroup of Portraits ... " 
Residence of Mrs. G. W. Greene, and Portrait of Chas. Good- 
enough facing 

Old Mill and Goodenough Church .... " 



376 



377 
377 



TOWN OF HENDERSON. 

History of the Town of Henderson 379 

Biography of the Russell Wallace Family 386 

" RoMvell Davis 386 

Homestead of Samuel Griggs, with Portraits , . facing 378 

Residence of Hon. Geo. Babbitt, " " . . " 379 

Biography >• i> .1 38j' 

Portraits of Herbert D. Babbitt and Wife 387 

Biography of Truman 0. Wbilney 388 

" Geo. W. Collins 388 

" A. D. Stanley 389 

" Leonard Seaton 389 

" Abel Bickford 389 

" Reuben W. Leflingwell 390 

" George Bunnel . . . ._ . . .390 

" Joel Dodge 390 

'■ Simeon Mather 391 

Capt. H. R. Warner 391 

" Harvev Smith 391 



Portraits of the Wallace Family 

Residence of Abel Bickford, with Portraits 

G. W. Collins, " . 

" Simeon Mather, " 

" Mrs. T. 0. Whitney, " 

** Leonard Seaton, " 

R. Leffingwell, " 

" Harvey Smith, " 



between 386, 387 
facing 387 
" 380 
(double page) 

between 380, 381 
facing 381 
" 38i 
(double page) 

between 384, 385 
facing 385 
Biographies of D. M. Hall and Austin Robbins, with Portraits 

facing 390 
Residence of H. R. Warner and Son, with Portraits (double 

page) ...... between 390, 391 

" Joel Dodge, with Portraits . . . facing 391 

" L. B. Simmons "386 

" the late Russell Wallace, with Portraits bet. 386, 387 

" G. G. Whitney, " " . facing 388 

" George Bunnel, " " . " 389 

" W. P. Davis (double page) . between 382, 383 

" Mrs. E. J. Hall, with Portraits . . facing 382 

" W. S. Griggs, " " . . " .383 

TOWN OF HOUNSFIELD. 

History of the Town of Hounsfield 392 

Views of Ship-House, and Line-of-battic Ship "New Orleans," 

facing 410 
Farm View of Geo. Frasier (double page) 
Residence of Sylvester Benjamin 

" F. R. Smith .... 

Portrait of Andrew Smith, with Biograpli\ 
" Merrick M. Bates, 

Ira Hall, " 

Biography of Cornelius W. Inglehart 
Property of Anson Potter, with Portraits and Biography 

between 392, 393 

Earl House. R. M. Earl. Proprietor .... facing 401 

Residence of Cornelius W. Inglehart, with Portrait . " 400 

" D. C. Read "396 



between 


410, 411 


fac 


ng 416 




417 




. 417 




. 418 




. 419 




. 419 



TOWN OF LE RAY. 

History of the Town of Le Ray ..... 

Biography of J. D. Le Ray de Chaumont, with Portrait . 



420 
432 



Biography of A. F. Marshall .... 

" Thomas Dunten .... 

" Christopher Poor .... 

" D. H. Scott 

" Randall Barnes .... 

" W. S. Wilcoi .... 

" Phineas Hardy .... 

Homestead of Randall Barnes, with Portraits . 
Residence of A. F. Marshall, Black River 
Packing-Bo.v Factory of D. H. Scott i Son, Black River 
" Lockport .Mills," Warren A Ingraham, " " 

Residence of H. lugraham, " " 

Residences of Matthew and P. V. Poor, with Portraits 
Residence of Thomas Dunten, '* " 

** Phineas Hardy, ** '* 



facing 



436 
434 
435 
436 
4.36 
437 
437 
426 
427 
427 
421 
421 
420 
422 
423 



TOWN OF LORRAINE. 

History of the Town of Lorraine 

Residence of Henry Bailey .... 

Daniel Wise .... 

" 0. S. Wilcox .... 

Portrait and Biography of Dr. H. W. Jewett . 

TOWN OF LY.ME. 



. 438 

facing 444 

" 444 

445 

" 445 



History of the Town of Lyme 445 

Residence of Hiram Copley, Chaumont . . . facing 449 
Property of Jerry P. Shulcr, with Portraits . . " 448 

TOWN OF ORLEANS. 

History of the Town of Orleans 454 

Biography of Adam J. Snell 460 

" Hon. R. B. Biddlecom, with Portraits . . 461 

" William Whaley 462 

" Simon Folts 462 

" Nathan UoUoway 462 

Residence of Adam J. Snell, with Portraits (double page) 

between 460, 461 
Portraits of Edmund Sargent and wife . . . facing 461 
Residence of M. W. Nellis, with Portraits (double page) 

between 454, 455 
Farm Residence of Gideon Budlong, with Portraits . facing 457 
Property of William Whaley, with Portraits (double page) 

between 456, 457 
Residence and Dairy-Furra of Simon Folts . . facing 459 
•' " " " Sanford Pctrie, with Portraits 

(double page) between 458, 459 

" of Nathan Holloway, with Portraits . facing 458 

" and Dairy-Farm of A. A. Hughes, with Portraits 

facing 462 
" '■ " " George Eckerl, with Portraits 

(double page) ...... between 4G2, 463 

" of Edmund Sargent ..... facing 463 



TOWN OF PA.MELIA 

History of the Town of Pamelia 
Biography of Ebeuezcr Williams 

" Henry and Elizabeth Countryman, wit 

" Oren Barnes, with Portrait 

" Paul Anthony, with Portraits 

Residence of Thos. H. Anthony, with I'ortrait . 

" E. Williams, with Portraits . 

Biography of Col. 0. S. Woodruff, with Portrait 
" John L. Parrish .... 

" Truman B. Townsend . 

Residence of J. L. Parrish, with Portraits 

" and Cheese-Factory of A. P. Balti . 

" of M. Goulding .... 

" Truman B. Townsend, with Portraits 

TOWN OF PHILADELPHIA. 

History of the Town of Philadelphia 
Biography of Oliver Child ..... 

" Lyman Wilson, with Portraits 



h Po 



acing 



acing 



463 
467 
468 
469 
470 
470 
471 
471 
471 
472 
466 
467 
464 
465 



472 
483 
484 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE 

Biographj of John Strickland, with Portraits .... 485 

" Erastus Wiiilney 486 

" Edmund Tuclser 486 

Residence of George E. Tuclicr, Esq. . . . facing 486 

" Oliver Child "472 

" W. M. Whitney "473 



faeinc; 



TOWN OP RODMAN 

History of the Town of Rodman 
Residence of Charles E. Glazier 

" H. Herring .... 

Biography of Henry Gordinier . 
" Hirry Harrington 

" George Gates 

Residence of Henry Gordinier, with Portraits 
" A. P. Gardner 

" Luman Lovoland . 

" S. H. and George A. Gates, with Portrait (double 

page) . 
" Harry Harrington, with Portraits 

N. A. Wright 
" Daniel Todd . 



A. C. Hughs . 
D. M. Todd . 
Charles S. Sage 
John S. Sill (two v 



iews) 



facing 



between 48S, 
facing 



" Seymour S. Plank, with Portraits 

TOWN OF RUTLAND. 

History of the Town of Rutland 
Biography of Harlan P. Dunlap 

'* the Eames Family, with Portraits 

" Hon. And. C. Middleton 

Portrait of Samuel Jliddlcton .... 
Biography of Christopher and William Middleton 

" L. D. Olney . . . \ 

" Chauncey D. Huntington 

" the Parkinson Family . 

" Peter Pohl 

" Charles C. Hardy 

" Arnold Webb .... 

" H. P. Dunlap .... 

Cabinctwarc Rooms of AV. S. AVilcox 
Beut Chair Stock Factory, Poor &, Dexter 



facing 



487 
486 
487 
493 
493 
494 
493 
492 
488 

489 
489 
491 
491 
490 
490 
490 
495 
494 



495 
505 
,i06 
507 
507 
508 
508 
509 
509 
510 
510 
510 
501 
501 
500 



Chair-Factory of D. Dexter & Son .... 
Residence of P. C. and J. B. Parkinson, with Portraits 

" Peter Pohl, with Portraits 

" Arnold Webb, " " 

" Henry C. Eames . 

" C. Middleton 

" W. D. Middleton, with Portraits 

" L. D. Olney, " " 

" Chas. C. Hardy . 

" A. Rose .... 



fac 



FAOI 

ng 500 
' 499 
' 498 
' 505 
' 604 
503 
' 502 
' 496 
497 
510 



TOWN OF THERESA. 



History of the Town of Theresa 

Residence of M. B. Bodman 

Biography of Jonathan Stratton 

Portrait and Biography of Benjamin Still 

American House, A. Church, Prop. . 

Residence of David Bearup 

*' Jno. Stratton, with Portraits 

" and Cheese-Factory of J. P. Douglass 

Portrait and Biography of N. D. Yost 

TOWN OF WILNA. 

History of the Town of Wilna .... 
Biography of Samuel Branaugh 
Residence and Dairy-Farm of F. 0. Symonds . 
" of Simeon Fulton .... 



. 511 

facing 511 

. 521 

facing 514 

515 

" 513 

" 512 

" 519 

" 518 



. 522 
. 531 

facing 522 
522 



TOWN OF WORTH. 

History of the Town of Worth 532 

Biography of Levi Wilcox 535 

" Leonard Bullock 536 

Residence of Leonard Bullock, with Portraits . . facing 533 

" Levi Wilcox, « •< . . « 532 

MILITARY AND NAVAL 536 

Biography of Maj.-Gen. Brown, with Steel Portrait . . 548 

" Brig.-Gen. Z. M. Pike 553 

" Col. Edmund Kirby 553 

" Col. John L. Goldsmidt 553 

Rosters of the Soldikrs of the War op 1812, Mexica.n 

War, War of the Rebellion 500 

PATRONS' RECORD AND DIRECTORY . . . .577 



INTKODUCTORY. 



This volume has been compiled from many sources. A 
valuable history of Jefierson County was published by Dr. 
Hough in 1854. Its compilation required a vast amount of 
physical and mental labor, and was a very complete work. 
During the twenty-three years which have elapsed since its 
publication much interesting material has accumulated, and 
the demand for a new and more elaborate work was believed 
by the present publishers to warrant the compilation of the 
one herewith given to the public. Arrangements were 
made with Dr. Hough, whereby the use of his history was 
secured, and much valuable assistance rendered by him and 
.his son, Mr. F. H. Hough. 

Taking Dr. Hough's work as a foundation, it has been 
the aim of those in charge to collect all the additional 
material which the most diligent application could reach, 
and from the great mass thus accumulated construct a 
thorough and reliable work. Beginning with the earliest 
discoveries and settlements of the French in the region of 
the St. Lawrence and the Great Lakes, everything of 
importance has been introduced, and the expeditions of 
Cliamplain, De Nouvillc, La Bane, Frontenac, Bradstreet, 
and Montcalm treated as much in detail as their connection 
with the region now within the bounds of the county 
seemed to demand. 

The military and naval history of the War of 1812 — so 
far as it attaches to Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence — 
is closely connected with Jeffereon County, inasmuch as all 
important operations were conducted from Sackct's Har- 
bor, then the most important point on the northern frontier. 
The illustrious commander of the United States army in 
aiicr-years* was one of the earlier pioneers, and then a 
resident of the county. The chapter devoted to this war 
is from Dr. Hough's work, carefully corrected and revised 
by liim, and is as complete as the limits of the present 
work would admit. 

The history of land titles is also from the same source, 
and gives a thorough understanding of the complicated legis- 
lation and the multitudinous surveys and speculations of the 
various corporations and individuals who operated in the 
wild lands of northern New York. 

The history of the city of Watertown and the various 
towns r»nd villages has been carefully compiled and brought 
down to the present time. The civil organization, the 
courts, learned professions, churches, schools, agricultural 
and manufacturing interests, mternai improvements, politi- 



cal matters, and every subject of interest will be found, 
each in its proper connection, thoroughly written up. 

An important and interesting chapter upon the War of 
the llcbcllion is furni.shed from material obtained through 
the courtesy of the Adjutant-General at Albany, including 
a history of the various organizations which entered the 
service from Jefferson County, and closing with a carefully- 
prepared roster of the soldiers of the county. 

Absolut* perfection we cannot claim, but every care has 
been taken that the work shall be as complete and accurate 
as possible; and we trust that it will be received in that 
spirit which is characteristic of an in(«lligent community. 
If minor errors and inadvertencies shall he found, we 
simply ask the public to remember that 'perfection is an 
attribute of the Infinite alone. 

Among the various works and test-books consulted have 
been the following: Documentary History of New York, 
Parkman's Works, Dr. Hough's History of Jefferson County, 
various Encyclopaedias, Legislative Manuals, Hon. C. R. 
Skinner's Pamphlet upon Watertown, The Records of 
Jefferson County, Public School Library, Annals of the 
West, " Olden Time," etc. 

In conclusion, we would tender our obligations to the 
following citizens, who have kindly aided us in the compila- 
tion of the work : 

To Dr. F. B. Hough and his son, Mr. F. H. Hough, we 
are under obligations for special favors. Hon. Charles R. 
Skiimer, Hon. Robert Lansing, Bernard Bagley, Esq.: 
Edmund B. Wynn, Esq.; J. Mortimer Crawe, M.D. ; 
Samuel B. IJpham, Cashier Jefferson Union National Bank ; 
T. H. Camp, President Jefferson County National Bank ; 
George H. Cole, Esq., County Clerk ; W. D. V. Rulison, 
Clerk Board of Supervisors ; Dr. J. D. Huntington, D.D.S. ; 
Rev. E. 0. Haven, D.D., LL.D., Chancellor of Syracuse 
University, Syracuse ; Pearson JIundy, Esq. ; Postmaster 
Williams ; the Press, the Clergy generally. Railway officials, 
and officers of the various Societies and Orders of the 
County and the City of Watertown ; the Insurance Com- 
panies and Manufacturers; Foster M. Ferrin, Esq.; Mrs. 
Jason Fairbanks and her sons ; Master Cyrus H. Cole, 
Librarian Public School Library ; Superintendent of City 
Schools ; Gilbert Bradford, the eminent engineer, and many 
others. 

Samuel W. Dceant, 
Henry B. Peirce. 



* General Jacob Bronn. 



Watertow.v, Nov. \ 1877. 



\^p 





'•-i^Go' 



HISTOEY 



OF 



JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW Y^ORK. 



BY S. W. DUIIANT AND H. B. PEIRCE. 



CHAPTER I. 

PHYSICAL FEATURES. 
Geographical, Geological, Topographical, and Climatologioal. 

Jefferson County is situated in the northern part of 
the State, and is bounded on the northeaat by St. Law- 
rence county, on the northwest by the St. Lawrence river, on 
the west by Lake Ontario, on the south by Oswogo county, 
and on the e;ist by Lewis county. The superficial area of 
the county, according to the latest statistics, is 733,585 
acres ; equivalent to eleven hundred and forty -six square 
miles. 

The latitude of the court-house in Watertown is about 
44° north, and the longitude 76° west from Greenwich, or 
one degree west from AVashington, D. C. 

The main wat«r features of the county are the beautiful 
Ontario lake and the St. Lawrence river. The main in- 
dentations of the lake are tlie great Black River bay, for- 
merly called Hungry bay (and sonietiuies supposed to be 
the Bay de la Famine of the French), Chaumout bay, 
Henderson bay, and GuflBn's bay. 

Black River bay, upon which is located the town and 
port of Racket's Harbor, is by all odds the finest on the 
lake, and is surpassed by none on the upper lakes for ca- 
pacity, depth of water, and safety. It is a magnificent arm 
of this inland sea, completely land-locked, and surrounded 
by a bold escarpment of Trenton limestone, varying from 
the water's edge to thirty feet in height. Heiidei-son, 
.Chauniont, Giiffin's, and a small inlet called Three-Mile bay, 
are arms or prolongations of the main bay. 

This magnificent harbor, including its various ramifica- 
tions, covers an area of about .•si.xty square miles, with abun- 
dance of water to float the heaviest ships. The principal 
islands attached to JefFersun County are Wells, Grind- 
stone, and Carlton islands in the St. Lawrence, and Grena- 
dier, Galloo, and Stony islands in Lake Ontario. Besides 
these there are many smaller ones, including several in the 
mouth of Black river, a number in Black river and Chau- 
mont bays. Fox island, and a portion of the archipelago 



known as the "Thousand Islands" in the St. Lawrence.* 
Among the most prominent headlands and capes are Stony 
jioint (I'oiiitc (le la Traverse of the French), Sixtown 
point. Pillar point, Point peninsula, and Tibbett's point. 

There are about twenty small lakes in the county, of 
which ten are in Theresa and Alexandria, four in Ellis- 
burg, two in Antwerp, two in Henderson, and one each 
in Orleans and Painelia, Champion, and Rutland. The 
largest is Biittcrficld lake, lying between Theresa and 
Alexandria, which is about four miles in length. The 
other more important ones are Perch lake in Orleans and 
Pamelia, nearly three miles in length, and Pleasant lake in 
Champion, about two miles long.f 

The county is wholly drained by Lake Ontario and the 
St. Lawrence. The most important of the interior streams 
is Black river, which drains about one-fourth of the county, 
passing through a little south of the centre. Between 
Carthage, on the east line of the county, and the lake, this 
stream falls four hundred and eighty feet, and, as may be 
imagined, is almost a continuous series of rapids, with sev- 
eral cascades varying from two to fifteen feet in perpen- 
dicular descent. 

The waters of this river are of a peculiarly dark and for- 
bidding appearance, resembling, in deep places, the lye of 
wood-ashes, caused probably by the leachings of the cedar 
and hemlock swamps and peaty bogs which it drains 
towards its head-waters, and by oxides. 

This stream furnishes an immense amount of water- 
power; it being estimated as high as one hundred and 
thirty-five thou.sand three hundred and sixty horse-power, 
in the dry season, within the limits of Jefierson County 
alone. 

The other princi]ial streams are Indian river, a branch of 
the Oswegatchie ; Chauniont river, flowing into Chauniont 
bay ; Perch river, which drains Perch lake and discharges 
into Black River bay ; the two branches of Sandy creek, in 
the south part of the county ; Stony creek, in Henderson 

* See histi»ry of land titles. 
■(■ Sec history of tuwn.-'hips. 



10 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



and Adams ; and Mill creek, in Hounsfield ; the last four 
named flowing into Lake Ontario south of Black river. 

FIRST MAP OF THE COUNTY. 

The first attempt to delineate JefiFerson County upon a 
map was probably made in October, 1802, by Simeon De 
Witt, surveyor-general of the State, who published a 
State map. At that date the only village in the county 
was Brownville. All the region north of Black river was 
called Ca-storland, and the position now known as the 
"Thousand Islands" was marked "unknown." Chau- 
mont bay was then called Hungry bay. Watertovvn was 
subdivided into throe sections, Hesiod, Leghorn, and Milan. 
On the south were Henderson, Aleppo, Orpheus, and Han- 
del ; and along the south side of the county were Minos, 
Atticus, Fenelon, and Shakspeare. 

THE THODSAND ISLANDS. 

The following interesting article upon the Thousand 
Islands is from Dr. Hough's history : 

" Several of the early travelers describe, in romantic 
terms, the beauty of this group of islands ; but no lan- 
guage is adequate to convey a just idea of the charming 
variety that they present to the traveler. The following ex- 
tract is from " Weld's Journal" (1799), and gives a truth- 
ful description, due allowance being made ibr the changes 
which cultivation and settlement have made : 

" ' About eight o'clock the next and eighth morning of 
our voyage, we entered the last lake just before you come 
to that of Ontario, called the Lake of a Thousand Islands, 
on account of the multiplicity of them which it contains. 
Many of these islands are scarcely larger than a bateau, and 
none of them, except such as are situated at the upper and 
lower extremities of the lake, appeared to mc to contain 
more than fifteen English acres each. They are all covered 
with wood, even to the very .smallest. The trees on these 
last are stunted in their growth, but tiie larger islands pro- 
duce as fine timber as is to be found on the wain shores of 
the lake. Many of these islands are situated so closely to- 
gether that it would be cxsy to throw a pebble from one to 
the other, notwithstanding which circumstance, the passage 
between them is perfectly safe and commodious for bateaux, 
and between some of them that are even thus close to each 
other is water sufficient for a frigate. The water is un- 
commonly clear, as it is in every part of the river, from 
Lake St. Francis upwards; between that lake and the 
Utawas river downwards it is discolored, ;is I have before 
observed, by passing over beds of marl. The shores of all 
these islands under our notice are rocky ; most of them rise 
very boldly, and .some exhibit perpendicular ma.sscs of rock 
towards the water upwards of twenty feet high. The 
scenery presented to view iiisiiiliiig between these islands 
is beautiful in the highest degree. Sometimes, after pass- 
ing through a narrow strait, you find yourself in a basin, 
land-lixiked on every side, that appears to have no commu- 
nication with the lake, except by the piussage through which 
you entered ; you are looking about, perhaps, for an outlet 
to enable you to proceed, thinking at last to .sec some little 
channel which will just admit your bateau, when on a sud- 
den an expanded sheet of water opens upon you, whose 



boundary is the horizon alone ; again in a few minutes you 
find j'ourself laiid-loeked, and again a spacious pas.sage as 
suddenly presents itself; atother times, when in the middle 
of one of these basins, between a cluster of islands, a dozen 
different channels, like so many noble rivers, meet the eye, 
perhaps equally unexpectedly, and on each side the islands 
appear regularly retiring till they sink from the sight in the 
distance. Every minute during the passage of this lake 
the prospect varies. The numerous Indian hunting en- 
campments on the different islands, with the smoke of their 
fires rising up between the trees, added considerably to tlie 
beauty of the scenery as we passed it. The lake of a 
Thousand Islands is twenty-five miles in length, and about 
six in breadth. From its upper end to Kingston, at which 
place we arrived early in the evening, the distance is fifteen 
miles. 

" ' The length of time required to ascend the River St. 
Lawrence, from Montreal to Kingston, is commonly found 
to be about seven days. If the wind should be strong and 
very favorable, the passage may be performed in a less time ; 
but should it, on the contrary, be adverse, and blow very 
strong, the pa.s.sagc will be protracted somewhat longer ; an 
adverse or favorable wind, however, seMom makes a difler- 
ence of more than three days in the length of the passage 
upwards, as in each case it is necessary to work the bateau 
along by means of poles for the greater part of the way. 
The passage downwards is performed in two or three days, 
according to the wind. The current is so strong that a 
contrary wind seldom lengthens the passage in that direc- 
tion more than a day.' " 

The following lines, by Caleb Lyon, are meritorious as a 
production of the fancy, and will be read with interest : 

The Tliousanil Isles I the Thousnml Isles! 
Diuiiikil, the wave iirouml tliem smiles, 
Kissed liv a tliousaiul red li])|icil flowers, 
Geinmetl by a thonsaml emerald bowers; 
A thousand birds Ihcir praises wako 
By rooky glade antl plumy brake, 
A thousand eedars" fragrant shade 
Falls where the Indians' children pl.ayed ; 
And I'nney's dream my heart beguiles 
While singing thee, thou Thousand Isles ! 

No vestal virgin guards their groves, 
No Cupid breathes of Cyprian loves, 
No Satyr's form at eve is seen, 
No Dryad peeps the trees between, 
No Venus rises from their shore, 
No loved Adonis, red with gore. 
No pale Endyinion wooed to sleep, 
No brave Ivcander breasts their deep, 
No Gnnynicde, — no Pleiades, — 
Theirs are a. New World's memories. 

The flag of Franco lirst o'er them hung, 
The mass was said, the vesper sung, 
Tho/)ere« of Jesus hailed the stramls 
As blessed Virgin Mary's lands; 
And red men mutely heanl, surprised, 
Their heathen names all Christianized. 
Next floated a banner with cross and crown, 
'Twas Freedom's eagle phickcd it down, 
Retaining its pure and crimson dyes 
With the stars of their own, their native skies. 

There St. Lawrence gentlest flows. 
There the south wind softest blows. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



11 



There the lilies whitest bloom, 
There the birch hath leafiest gloom, 
There the rc<l deer feed in spring;, 
There doth glitter wood-duck's wing, 
There ]ca]>8 the muskclungc at mora. 
There the loon's night song is burnu, 
There is the fisherman's paradise, 
AVith trolling skiff' at red sunrise. 

The Thonsan.l Isles! the Thousand Isles! 
Their charm from every care beguiles j 
Titian alone hath grace to paint 
The triumph of their jiatron saint, 
^Vhose waves return on memory's tide, 
La 8alle and Toiity side by side. 
Proud Krontenac and bold Champlain 
There act their wanderings o'er again; 
And while the goMen sunlight smiles 
Pilgrims shall greet thee, Thousand Isles! 

Thomas Moore, the Irish poet, early in the century 
traveled on the St. Lawrence, and his Canadian Boat Song 
is familiar to all admirers of his writings. The mairniBcent 
scenery of this noble river naturally excited the enthusiastu 
of a temperament formed for the perception of the beauties 
which are so strikingly reflected in his poetry. The boat- 
men were accustomed to beguile tlie tedium of rowing by 
singing, their voices being perfectly in tune together, and 
the wliole joining in the chorus. Of the effect of this he 
says: "Without that charm which association gives to 
every little memorial of scenes or feelings that are past, the 
melody may perhaps be thought common and trifling; but 
I remember when we had entered at sunset upon one of 
those beautiful lakes into which the St. Lawrence so 
grandly and unexpectedly opens, I have heard this simple 
air with a pleasure which the finest compositions of the 
first masters have never given me ; and now tliere is not a 
note of it which does not recall to my memory the dip of 
our oars in the St. Lawrence, the flight of our boat down 
the rapids, and all those new and fanciful impressions to 
which my heart was alive during the whole of this interest- 
ing voyage." 

CANADIAN BOAT SONC. 
Et regimen canfiM hortatur, — Quintilian. 

Faintly as tolls the evening chime 
Our voices keep tune, and our oars keep time; 
Soon as the woods on shore look dim, 
We'll sing at St. Ann's our parting hymn. 
Row, brothers, row, the stream runs fast, 
The rapids are near and the daylight's past ! 

Why should we yet our sail unfurl ? 
There is not a breath the blue wave to curl! 
But, when the wind blows off the shore, 
Oh, sweetly we'll rest on our weary oar! 
Blow, breezes, blow, the stream runs fast, 
The rapids are near and the daylight's p:ist! 

Utawa's tide! this trembling moon 
Shall see us tloat over thy surges soon : 
Saint of this green isle I hear our prayers, 
Oh, grant us cool heavens and favoring airs! 
Blow, breezes, blow, the stream runs fast, 
The rapids are near and the daylight's past ! 

GEOLOGY, MINERALOGY, ETC. 

The chapter upon the geology^ mineralogy, etc., of the 
county, in Dr. Hough's History, published in 1854, is so 
complete, and treats the various subjects with such thor- 



oughness and marked ability, that we give it nearly en- 
tire: 

To an agricultural population, like tliat which forms the 
basis of society in Jcflcison Couuty, there are none of the 
physical sciences which have stronger claims to attention 
than geology and its allied branches, miiieralogy and chem- 
istry, for it is these that teach the character and capabilities 
of the soil, and the train of causes which, acting harmo- 
niou.sly through long periods of time, compared with which 
the hi.storic enis of man are but as monieuts, have gradu- 
ally prepared the earth's surface for bis support ; given 
form and beauty to its hills and plains ; scooped out the 
valleys through which rivers find their way to the sea, and 
placed stores of metallic wealth within reach of his labors. 
Nor have these agencies failed to record their action in the 
traces they have left, as enduring as time, yet easily inter- 
preted, and abuniiaiitly rewarding such as will but obsiTve 
them. There is no pursuit more engaging or better calcu- 
lated to impart a true k nowledge of the grandeur and harmony 
of nature's works, and a devout reverence for their Author. 

Such is the intimate relation between the soil and the 
rock from which it has been derived, and usually with that 
by which it is immediately underlaid, that a definite knowl- 
edge of its capabilities can .saircely be had without an ac- 
quaintance with the latter. Besides this, we are indebted 
to mineral products for so many articles of necessity, to 
say nothing of the conveniences and luxuries in life, that 
their relations and the indications which lead to their 
occurrence become subjects of necessary knowledge, and 
indispensable to our civilization. 

PRIMARY ROCKS. 

Geologists divide rocks into two great classes, named, 
from their relative ages, primari/, and sedimentary or sec- 
ouihtri/ ; the fir.st never presenting traces of organic re- 
mains, but from their crystalline character and mode of 
occurrence often exhibit evidences of having been sub- 
jected to the agency of heat, while the latter appear made 
up of materials derived from the former, broken up and 
deposited in water, and u.sually contain fossil remains of 
animals and plants that lived at the period of their forma- 
tion. As we ascend in the series, wc find the characters of 
the rocky strata vary, as if their deposit had been produced 
under different agencies, which had changed repeatedly, 
and at each time the forms of organic life had disappeared, 
to give place to some other, which bad iu like manner 
passed away ; and so constant is the type of these fassil 
remains for each cla.ss of rocks, that it affords an infallible 
gui<le, when present, to a knowledge uf the place ami rela- 
tion of the rocks in which they occur. The science of 
I'alitunlolngy has for its object the classification and de- 
scription of these fos.sil remains, and few sections afford a 
more profitable field for the.se researches than this county. 
Both primary and secondary rocks occur in Jefferson 
County, the former of which, with the dividing line be- 
tween them, affords the only rational prospects of valuable 
metallic veins and deposits, as well as most of the crystal- 
line minerals, which form so attractive objects to the niin- 
cralot;ist and .such dazzling ornaments to cabinets. 

Of the latter, however, we are not without localities that 



12 



HISTORY OF JKFFEUSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



vie with the most notod, and tlic juiinitive region of the 
coiintj will abiindaiilly repay the labor bestowed upon min- 
eral collection. The details of these will be hereafter given. 
The rock constituting the primary is mainly composed of 
ffiuiss ; a mixture of qiuirtz, liornhleiuh, and /ehlsjxtr, 
which are regarded as elementary or simple minerals, and 
make up by far the largest part of what is known of the 
earth's surface. In gneiss, these usually occur in irregular 
strata, often ct)ntorted, never horizontal, and seldom contin- 
uing of uniform thickness more than a few feet. It forms 
by far the largest part of the surface rock throughout the 
great northern forest of New York, and in Jefferson this 
rock constitutes the greater part of the islands iii the St. 
Lawrence, between French Creek and Morristown, and ap- 
pears in Clayton, Orleans, and Alexandria on the river- 
bank ; in the latter town it extends back a mile or two 
from the shore. It forms a strip, extending up on both 
sides of Indian river to Theresa village, and the shores 
and islands of most of the lakes of that town and Antwerp, 
and much of the country within the node of Indian river, 
towards the village of Philadelphia, where it forms the 
surface rock and extends to Antwerp, the greater j)art of 
which it underlies. From this town it extends along Indian 
river to the village of Natural Bridge, and thence to Car- 
thage, where it forms the islands among the rapids of the 
Long fills, and thence follows up the river, keeping a little 
west of its channel, through Lewis into Oneida county. In 
this area there are occasional ledges of white or primary 
limestone, especially in Antwerp, with limited ([uantities of 
serpentine, and superficial patches of sandstone. 

SEDI.MENTARY KOCKS. 

Lying next above the primitive, and forming a consider- 
able amount of surface rock, in Alexandria, Theresa, Clay- 
ton, Orleans, and Antwerp, is the I'olsdam saiidsfoite, so 
named from the fine manner in which it is developed in 
that town. It is the oldest of sedimentary rocks, and con- 
tains (but rarely) the forms of organic bodies that were 
created at the dawn of the vital principle. Two genera, 
one a plant the other shell, have been found in this rock, 
but so rarely that it may be almost said to be without fos- 
sils. Its principal constituent is silex, in the form of sand, 
firndy consolidated, and forming, where it can be cleaved 
into blocks of regular shajie and uniform size, a most elegant 
and durable building material. 

In the vicinity of Theresa, Redwood, etc., there occurs 
in numerous j)laces in this rock the ci//iiulriail structure, 
common at many localities in St. Lawrence county,* and 
apparently produced by eddies acting n])on the sands at 
the bottom of shallow water. This formation is generally in 
thick ma.sses, often disturbed by upheavals, almost invari- 
ably inclined from the horizontal, and seldom in this coiinly 
80 evenly stratified as to admit of that nniformily of frac- 
ture that gives value to it as a building material at Pot.sdam, 
Malone, etc. It is, however, extensively used for- this pur- 
pose, and forms a cheap and durable, but not an elegant 
wall. This rock has two applications in the useful arts, of 
great importance, — the lining of blast furnaces, and the 

* Ilietor; of St, Lawrence and Franklin counties, p. 078.— Hough, 
1853. 



manufacture of glass ; for the former of which it has been 
used extensively at all the furnaces in the northern counties, 
and for the latter at Redwood. The quarry that has been 
most used for lining stone occurs on the ftirm of Hiram 
B. Keene, in Antwerp, where the rock occurs highly in- 
clined, but capable of being divided into blocks of uniform 
texture and any desirable size. The edges of the stone, 
when laid in the furnace, are exposed to the fire, and become 
slightly fu.sed, forming a glazing to the surface. It is seldom 
that a material is found so finely adapted to this purpose. 
For the manufacture of glass the stone is calcined in kilns, 
and crushed and sifted, when it affiirds a sand of much 
whiteness, and eminently suitable for the purpose. 

This rock is generally overlaid by a fertile soil, but this is 
more due to the accidental deposition of drift than the dis- 
integration of the rock itself, for such is its permanence 
that it can scarcely be found to have yielded to the destruc- 
tive agencies that have covered many other rocks with .soil. 
On account of its capacity to resi.st decay it should be se- 
lected, when possible, for the piers of bridges, the founda- 
tion of houses, and other structures where permanence and 
solidity are required. A very peculiar feature is presented 
by the margin of this rock, which, by the practiced eye, 
may be detected at a distance, and which strongly dis- 
tinguishes it from all others. The outline is generally an 
abrupt escarpment, sometimes extending with much regu- 
larity for miles, occasionally broken by broad ragged ravines, 
or existing as outstanding insular ma.sses, and always pre- 
senting, along the foot of the precipice, huge masses of 
rock that have fallen from above. The most remarkable 
terrace of this kind begins on tlie north shore of Black 
lake, in Morristown, and extends through Hammond into 
Alexandria, much of the distance near the line of the Mili- 
tary road, and other instances are common throughout the 
region underlaid by this rock. 

Next in the ascending series is a rock which, in this part 
of the State, constitutes a thin but level formation, and, from 
its being a sandy limestone, has been named calci/erotis naud- 
stijiic. It Idis generally an open, porous texture, much dis- 
colored by iron, and occasionally, like some strata of the 
sandstone beneath it, filled with small masses of incoherent 
sand, that easily falls out, leaving irregular colls. It is this 
rock that contains the beautiful ((uartz crystals for which 
Middlevillc and the vicinity of Rockton, in Herkimer 
county, have become celebrated. It appears as the surfiice 
rock between Antwerp and Carthage ; between the Clieck- 
ercd House, in Wilna, and the Natural Bridge ; between 
Antwerp and Sterlingville ; and in Theresa, Alexandria, 
Orleans, and Clayton. It is valueless as a building mate- 
rial, from its coarse, rotten texture, and want of regular 
fracture. In many places it is .filled with the forms of 
marine plants, which, though obscure, arc conclusive, and 
appear to have been like some still existing, with thick, 
succulent, hollow stems. Shells are less comujon, and are 
but imperfectly j)re.served, constituting .seven genera and 
about a dozen species. Of the probable condition of the 
earth's surface when this rock was forming. Prof Hall has 
made the following remarks :")" 

t Palieonliilogv ol' New Voik, i. 5. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTV, NEW YORK. 



13 



"During the progress of this formation, and towards its 
close, a considerable number of forms of animal life ajipear 
to have been called into existence. We have passed from 
that condition of the earth unfiivorable to animal develop- 
ment, and we perceive the gradual change which, in the 
next period, presents us with swarms of animated existences. 
If we can, in imagination, allow ourselves to go back to the 
preceding epoch, — to fancy the earth enveloped in one wa.ste 
of ocean, save, perhaps, a few rocky peaks ; when the natu- 
ral agitation of the waters by the winds was increased by 
volcanic or igneous oulburstings ; while tiie rocky points 
were abraded, and thence fine sand ami pebbles spriiad over 
the bed of the ocean, — we behold life, struggling into exist- 
ence in this stormy period, only manifested in the fragile 
yet enduring form of the little Lingula, while an apparently 
rootless, leafless plant is the representative of the vegetable 
. kingdom. 

" Look forward from this period to a gradual change. A 
more congenial element to the inhabitants of the ocean 
comes in the form of calcareous matter, and new organisms 
are gradually called into existence. Still the heated waters 
bear their burden of silex in solution, and now they permeate 
every portion of this habitation of the new-born vitality, 
destroying the living, enveloping the dead in a siliceous 
paste, and preventing that development of numbers which 
awaits only a more congenial condition." 

Next above this rock is the Chuzt/ limestone, that 
occurs highly developed, and abounding in organic remains, 
but, according to Professor Emmons, does not appear in the 
Black River vallej-. The next rock there is the Bird's- Ei/e 
limestone, which includes the close-grained, hard, and 
thick-bedded strata, in which the layers of water limestone 
occur in Le Ray, Pamelia, Orleans, IJrownville, and Clay- 
ton. The properties which give it value as a hydraulic 
cement are uncertain, as upon analysis it is found to con- 
tain variable proportions of silica, alumina, and magnesia. 
Its characteristic fos.sil, in the manner in which its vertical 
stems divide and interlace with each other, presents features 
totally distinct from any known analogy, either in marine 
plants or the zoophytes. These stems are tilled with crj's- 
talline matter, and often make up a great part of its mass. 
It has received from Professor Hall the generic name of 
]'lii//fipsis,* of which there are two species, — P. tabn/osKni 
and P. ce//(dosiiiii, — both of which occur abundantly in this 
county. Whi'u polished this rock presents an appearance 
which has given it the name, and in quarrying it readily 
breaks into regular masses. Its briltleness, when struck 
with a smart blow, prevents it being useful as a marble. 

This forms the surface rock over a considerable extent of 
Cape Vincent, Lyme, Brownville, Pamelia, Le Ray, and 
Wilna. The part that overlies the yellowish or water lime 
strata abounds in nodules of flint that everywhere stand in 
relief upon the weathered surface. These are thought to be 
the fossil remains of sponges, or other forms of animal life 
analogous. These masses of flint often contain shells, 
corals, crinoidea, and obscure traces of other organic bodies 
that flourished in the seas in which this rock was depasitod. 
Perhaps the most striking of llie.se fossils is the Orllioa'nis 

* rulaM)iituIo;rv uf New Yurk, i. ."JS. 



mull icamcrat urn, which is very comnion. Specimens are 
found of shells of a class analogous, of the enormous length 
of ten feet and breadth of twelve inclies.f Besides the 
obscure fossil whose doubtful nature we have above noticed,]; 
six genera and about a dozen species have been described. 

T/ie Bl(tck River limestiine, in tlie classification of Pro- 
fessor Hall (the Ml- La Mulle marbU of Professor Em- 
mons), is interposed between the rock last named and the 
Trenton limestone. It is a well-defined ma.s.s of grayish- 
blue limestone, in this county not exceeding ten feet in 
thickness, but in its fossils clearly distinct from the strata 
above and below it. Five genera and six species of corals, 
and five genera and ten species of cephalopoda, are described 
in the State Palaeontology ;is occurring in this rock. 

The delicacy of markings upon the surfaces of .some of 
these corals, when magnified, is beautiful ; and their differ- 
ences afford the ground of classification of families and the 
generic and specific distinctions. 

Another coral is of freciuent occurrence in the Black 
river limestone. It is sometimes seen of the size of half 
a bushel, and in the Mohawk valley much larger. It is 
commonly mistaken by the unobserviiig fm petrified howy- 

coinli, which in some respects it resembles. 

• 

CAVERNS IN XHE BLACK RIVER LI.MESTONE. 

It is this formation that contains the caverns of Wafer- 
town, Pamelia, and Brownville, concerning which many 
fabulous accounts have been told. We have endeavored to 
obtain authentic information on this subject by a personal 
examination. 

In Pamelia, opposite the village of Watertown, and in 
the immediate vicinity of the cascade, is a cavern that has 
attained quite a notoriety, and will amply repay the curious 
visitor who may undertake to explore it. It was discovered 
in the spring of 1822, and for a short time was exhibited 
for pay. The opening is in a natural depression, and by 
a sloping passage leads to a chamber about twenty feet 
below the surface, from which avenues lead in various direc- 
tions, frequently communicating with each other, and form- 
ing a labyrinth of much intricacy. When first observed, 
it was beautifully adorned with curtains and drapery of 
lime, deposited from the ceaseless dripping of water charged 
with that mineral. In some of the remote chambers and 
avenues, these deposits, of dazzling whiteness, still exist in 
great profusion, but the wanton depredations of visitors have 
done much towards destroying those that occurred in the 
more frequented part of the cavern. In numerous instances 
huge tables of rock have fallen from the roof, allowing a 
passage both above and below them. The pendent mas.ses 
are usually flat, with their sides waved and edges serrated, 
and the surface below them is often beautifully formed into 
basins and cells, usually filled with limpid water. Occa- 
sionally the masses from above, meeting those from below, 
form pillars of great size. Slight dams of tufa are of 
friMpient occurrence, forming shallow pools of water and 
lime-sediment. Altogether, from its convenience of access, 
safety, and beauty, this place is well worthy of attention. 

f Report of Professor Einmims on tlie (tpology of the 2<1 I>i>itrict, 
p. 3S2. 

t I'fiylopnii rcHntusniii, 



14 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Conflicting; accounts existing in relation to the extent of 
this cavern, tlie autlior, in company with a friend, explored 
it, with a view of ascertaining this point, and was only able 
to penetrate about seventy fathoms from the chamber at the 
foot of the outlet. The temperature of the water in June 
was 43°, and in winter it never freezes. It probably varies 
but little with external changes. 

On the north bank of Black river, opposite Factory 
village, in Watertown, are several caves of limited extent, 
which offer no calcareous incrustations of interest. The 
principal of these opens at its two ends upon the river 
bank. They are chiefly interesting from the evidence they 
furnish of having been formed by water running along the 
natural seams in the rocks. 

On the south bank of the river, in Watertown village, 
and under the termination of Jackson street, is the en- 
trance of a cave, which was first explored in the summer 
of ISoS, and is said to have been traced nearly five hun- 
dred feet. It aft'urds calcareous concretions of a peculiar 
variety, externally resembling pisofi/e, and formed by the 
agglutination of spheroidal granules of carbonate of liu)e. 
]t is known as the ice cuve, from the occurrence of ice in 
the summer months, which almost obstructs its passages. 
Towards autumn the rocks above become warmed, and the 
ice melts, nor does the freezing process become established 
till near .spring. From the slow transmission of heat the 
seasons thus become reversed in this cavern. A current of 
cold air issues from over this mass of subterranean ice, 
which, when the air is warm and damp, becomes a dense 
fog. When the temperature in the shade was 92°, that at 
the mouth of this c.ive has been noticed to be 32°. 

In the town of Watertown, near the bank of the river, 
and about a mile from the village of Brownville, there 
occurs in a wood a sunken place, around and in the vicin- 
ity of which are numerous avenues, leading under ground, 
and communicating with each other by innumerable passages. 
Almost every natural seam in the rock has been widened 
into a space large enough to admit (if the pa.s.sage of a man, 
and sometimes opening into wide and lofty halls, of which 
several are found radiating from a central point. The 
form of these subterranean vaults is that of the Gothic 
arch, springing from the floor, and forming an acute angle 
above. Theextremc distance that this cave can be traced 
is less than thirty rods. It aflPords no calcarenus deposits 
of interest, and its only peculiarity consists in the numer- 
ous projecting masses of flint on the walls, which have re- 
sisted the decomposing action to which the rock has 
yielded. The floor of the cave is generally covered with 
mud or water. 

On the west bank of I'ercli river, near the village of 
Jjimerick, is a cavern, which, after passing twenty-four 
yards, opens into an external passage, from whence, de- 
scending to a level about thirty feet below the surface, it 
proceeds sixty-three yards farther, through a passage in 
some places ipiile lofty and flat-roofed, to a low horizontal 
chamber, beyond which, by creeping, one can proceed to a 
distance of one hundred and fifty-four yards from the en- 
trance to the extremity. It differs from all the others 
above described in having no lateral passages, nor does it 
aft'ord calcareous deposits. 



There probably exist other caverns in the county, but 
analogj' would lead us to the belief that they are of limited 
extent. So far as observed, they agree in aflFording evi- 
dence of having been worn by running water in early times, 
and in occurring in the same stratum. The Ormuceras, 
Endoceras, and other fos.sils characteristic of the rock are 
seen exposed in relief on the walls of the caves in many 
instances. 

It is to be observed of the strata that intervene between 
the water lime and the Trenton limestone, that from their 
soluble nature the natural seams have generally been 
widened into open chasms, and that from this cause .streams 
of water often find their way under ground in dry seasons. 
Although generally horizontal, the strata are occasionally 
disturbed by upheavals, as is seen at several j)laces along 
the line of the railroad between Chaumont and Cape Vin- 
cent. These disturbances are generally limited to a few 
rods, and often to a few yards. These rocks often afford 
an excellent building material, and are quarried extensively 
at Chaumont for locks and other public works. The black 
marble of Glen's Falls is derived from strata corresponding 
with the upper portion of these. 

The next rock above those above described is named the 
Trenton Z/»)<'.s/rv»c, which mostly constitutes the rock under- 
lying the soil in Champion, Rutland, Watertown, Ilouns- 
field, Henderson, Ellisburg, Adams, and a part of Rod- 
man and Brownville. In extent, thickness, number of 
fossil remains, and economical importance it far surpasses 
the others, and as a material for building and the manufac- 
ture of lime it has few superiors. Its color is usually gray, 
its fracture more or less cry.stalline, occurring usually in 
strata nearly or quite horizontal, and often separated by 
thin layers of shale. Many of its fossils are common with 
the slates above. 

Fossil plants of the lower orders are .somewhat common, 
but are limited to a few species. Of corals the number is 
greater ; twenty diflTerent species of zoophytes are found in 
this rock. Of that singular class of animals called /n'/ohitrs, 
of which there are at present but few living analogies, the 
Trenton limestone furnishes .several species. This animal 
possessed the power of coiling up into a ball, and of flat- 
tening itself out. Petached portions are of frequent 
occurrence; the head, tail, and parts of the body being 
often found separately. Of shells, this rock affords a very 
great variety. 

The thickness of this rock can not be less than five hun- 
dred feet. Its stratifii'ation is generally nearly horizontal, 
and disturbances wluii they occur are usually quite limited. 
In some places it contains veins of calcite, and of hc;ivy 
spar, the latter, in Adams, being associated with fluor spar. 

Resting upon tlie Trenton limestone, with which, in the 
bed of Sandy creek, in Rodman, it is seen in contact, is a 
soft black slate, readily crumbling to fragments under the 
action of frost, and divided by vertical parallel seams into 
regular masses. From its occurrence in the hills north of 
Utica, it has been called Utica stale. It has not been 
found applicable to any useful purpose, although experi- 
ments have been made to test its value as a litliie paint. 
Where sul]ihuret of iron could be ]irocured, the manufacture 
of alum might be attempted with prospect of success. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



15 



Fossils are common, but less numerous in tliis rock than 
in those below it. Several of tliese arc common in the 
rocks above and below this. 

Only one species of trilohUe is found in this .slate, tliough 
found both above and below it. 

The graplolithiis is numerous both in individuals and 
species in the shales on tiie Hudson river. Being often 
compressed, their true nature was for some time unknown,* 
and they were classed with plants by some writers. Wiien 
preserved in calcareous matter their true nature becomes 
more apparent, and show them to have been animals of the 
lower orders, with a semi-calcareous body and a corticiform 
covering. Sulphur springs are of frecjuent occurrence in 
this rock, and native sulphur is sometimes noticed incru.st- 
ing the surfaces in ravines, where waters charged with 
sulphuretted hydrogen liave been cxpo.sed to vegetable 
action. 

Covering this formation, and constituting the super6cial 
rock of Lorraine, Worth, and part of Rodman, is a series 
consi-sting of alternating layers of .shale and slate, some of 
whidi are highly fussiliferous, and others entirely destitute 
of organic remains. From the remarkable development of 
this rock in Lorraine, it has received the name of Lorraine 
shales. For a similar reason it is known elsewhere as the 
llmhoii river ffroiip, from its forming the highly-inclined 
shales that occur, of enormous thickness, in tlie valley of 
the Hudson. This rock is nearly worthless for any useful 
purpose, although at I'ula.ski and elsewhere layers are 
found that are adapted for building. The mineral springs 
of Saratoga arise from this ruck. Having thus briefly 
enumerated the leading geological features of the countj', 
some generalizations of the several rocky formations may 
be made. 

TOPOGRAPUICAL — GEXER.\L OBSERVATIONS. 

To one accustomed to close and careful observation, the 
features of a country and the contour of its hills afford a 
reliable means of opinion on the character of the subjacent 
rock. There pertains to each of these in this county a pe- 
culiarity of profile, when exposed in the brow of hills, 
that is as constant and as unmistakable as any cla.ss of phe- 
nomena offered to the observation of geologists ; and these 
distinctive features arise from the greater or less facility 
with which the several rocks yield to disintegrating forces. 
The shales and slates being easily decomposed, and offering 
little resistance to the action of running water, present a 
rounded outline; running streams have here worn deep, 
winding gulfs, through which the channels meander, wash- 
ing alternately the right bank and the left, affording a suc- 
cession of crumbling precipices, often of romantic beauty, 
and spreading over the plains, where they issue from the 
hills, the broken materials brought down from the ravines. 
The rock b everywhere covered with soil, derived from its 
own disintegration, and is inclined to clay, from which 
cause, when level, there is a tendency to the formation of 
swamps, from the impermeable character of this material. 
The soil is generally fertile, and especially adapted to graz- 
ing. Wherever diluvial action hsus existed, it has worn, 

® PalacuntoIo;.T of New York, i. 265. 



with little difficulty, broad valleys, and pcmovcd immense 
({uantitics of the detritus to other places. 

Tlie.se shales form a* ridge of highlands, extending from 
this county, through Oswego, Lewis, Oneida, and Herkimer 
counties, being known in L(!wis as Tug hill. The margin 
of this elevated tract is worn into deep ravines; but when 
the head of these is reached, the country becomes level and 
sometimes swami)y, with frequent beaver meadows. The 
streams are sluggish and miry, and the water highly dis- 
colored, probably from the presence of the black oxide of 
manganese, that is of frequent occurrence in the swani])s, 
and is found coating the bowlders exposed to running 
water. The junction between the Utica slate and Trenton 
limestone is generally concealed by deep deposits, brought 
down from the u]iper formation. 

The change, where observed in the bed of Sandy creek, 
is well defined, there being no blending of the two rocks. 
Along the ba.se of the slate is usually a strip of clay, a few 
rods in width, but continuing for considerable di.stanccs. 
The thickness of these shales in the ridge of highlands 
extending towards Utica, cannot be less than five hundred 
feet. Local disturbances are but seldom seen, and the 
stratification is usually horizontal. 

The limestone occurs in terraces, with steep but not pre- 
cipitous margins, the whole of which is covered with a soil 
derived from its own decomposition, where not protected 
by drift. The soil is inclined to be thin, and consequently 
liable to be affected with drouth, but is extremely fertile, 
and alike adaj)ted to gra.ss and grain. The richest and best 
portions of Jefferson County, if not in the State, are under- 
laid by this rock. Running streams, when small, do not 
wear ravines, but fall down the slope of the terraces in 
pretty cascades, broken into foam and noisy from the nu- 
merous p<iints of resistance which they meet. 

The Burrville cascades have been before noticed, and are 
among the most romantic and pleasing which the country 
affords. Streams, if large, and especially if liable to be 
swollen into impetuous torrents, wear gulfs of short extent 
into the plains from which they flow; and where these rocks 
form the beds of streams, the latter have worn channels of 
suSicient depth to contain the ordinary volume of the 
stream only; where the surface luis been protected by a 
drift deposit, but not often cl.-iewhere, it presents the marks 
of attrition of the drift, period ; springs are of frequent 
occurrence, oftener near the foot of the terraces, and the 
water is limpid, but unfit for wa.>ihing, from being charged 
with lime. 

The calciferous sand.stone presents a jlut country, with 
few valleys, and those but a few feet below the level of the 
adjacent plains. The rock is covered with a very thin soil, 
derived from its own decomposition, but one of much rich- 
ness, from the presence of lime. It seldom descends by a 
gentle slope into the valleys, but presents a shelving ledge, 
very peculiar to this rock, in this .section of the Slate. 
Swamps, when they occur, are bordered with this sharp 
■margin of rock, and have a deep soil, as if they had 
anciently been lakes. When springs exist, they are com- 
monly hard, fnini the lime which the rock contains. 

The Putsilani sandstone generally presents a level surface, 
but more liable to upheavals, and is covered with soil en- 



IG 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



lircly brought from other formations, and varies in quality 
with sources from which it lias been derived. This rock 
never presents a fertile slope into the valleys, but is bor- 
dered with (ihrupt precipices, at the foot of which are piled 
husje masses that have tumbled from the face of the ledge. 
The primitive rocks of the county pre.seiit a constant 
succession of abrupt roiinileJ rii/r/es, scantily covered in 
the state of nature with timber, and, when cleared, with a 
thin soil, with intervening valleys of considerable fertility, 
that have received their soil from the wash of the hills. 
The nature and amount of soil varies with the rock, and is 
abundant and fertile where lime.stone and feldspar abound 
as its constituents, but much less so where the chief ele- 
ment is quartz. The fact is observable, that the south slope 
of the hills is more abrupt than the uorfJi, as if they had 
been more upheaved. The prevailing dip of the strata of 
gnei.ss is towards the north or northwest, where observed 
in this county. 

Drift deposits occur promiscuously over rocks of every 
age, covering them unequally with transported materials, 
and, when occurring in hills, presenting that viifiiJeil and 
conical outline often seen in snow-drifts. Having been 
deposited in moving water, wherever a sheltered point or 
conflicting currents favored, they were subject to all the 
dynamic laws which modify the motions of .solids movin"- 
in fluids. These deposits may be distinguished from soil 
underlaid by rock by the endless variety of rounded outline 
which they present, and are invariably covered with vc^e- 
tiition. 

About a third of the county, in its central part, lies in 
the valley of Black river, the remainder being drained by 
Sandy creek, Indian river, and the minor streams running 
into the lake and St. Lawrence. E. H. Brodhead* estimated 
its volume, at low water, at ninety-four thousand cubic feet 
per minute; that of the Oswegateliie being twenty thou- 
sand, and of Indian river, three thou.sand.-f- The river de- 
scends four hundred and eighty feet between Carthage and 
the lake, giving a power equal to one hundred and thirty- 
five thousand three hundred andsi.xty horses, working eight 
hours a day. In this distance, at the present time (1854), 
the water passes over thirteen dams, at none of which the 
entire amount of water is used, and at most of them but a 
very small portion is employed. Although Indian river 
and several of its tributaries, and the two branches of Sandy 
creek, and other streams of less note afford at many points 
eligible sites for hy<lrauli(- purposes, yet their au^reo-ate is 
far below that atl'ordcd by Black river, which, at a future 
time, will doubtless be improved to an extent infinitely sur- 
pa.ssiiig the most sanguine anticipations of the present age. 
This river has proved somewhat subject to floods, which 
requires the exercise of care in locating buildings upon its 
banks; but from it* bed being generally rock, ample means 
are available for the .security of dams, which have been 
seldom or never swept ofl'. 

From the extent and number of the lakes that exist near 
the sources of this river and its tributaries, in the primary 
region of Lewis and Herkinnr counties, no apprehension 



» Report uf BliiLk Uivir cuiml cxtenfiion, Asscm. Doc, 1840, No. 
23.*i, p).. .10, 40. 
t lb., p. 36. 



need be felt that the opposite extreme of drouth will neces- 
sarily occur in future, for, by constructing dams and sluices 
at the outlets of these lakes, tliey may be cheaply converted 
into immense reservoirs to retain the spring floods resulting 
from the melting of winter snows, and equalize the dis- 
charge tlirough the dry season ; thus serving the double 
purpose of preventing excessive freshets or extreme drouth. 
The greatest freshet known occurred in the spring of 
1807, from the melting of .spring snows. In 1818, in May, 
1833, in 1839, 1841, and 1843, were heavy spring floods. 

LAKE ONTARIO 

has many features in its geology of engaging interest. Its 
length is one hundred and seventy-two miles, and greatest 
bre.idth fifty-nine and a half miles. According to the 
chart of Captain A. Ford, U. S. N., its greatest depth is 
ninety-five fathoms, and its elevation above tide being but 
two hundred and thirty-four feet, \ it would still be a lake 
if the outlet was deepened so as to allow the tide to flow up 
t<) it. The east end of the lake is, to some extent, bordered 
by low sand-hills, behind which arc marshes ; the south 
shore is moderately elevated, the north and northwest more 
elevated, and much of the way rocky. Its waters are sub- 
ject to changes of level that occupy .several years, but 
appear to be governed by no other causes than the une(|ual 
supply from tributaries. It is a somewhat curious fact that 
the highest water frequently occurs in the dryest and 
warmest months, when the evaporation is greatest, — July, 
August, and September. This is accounted for from an- 
other fact, — that the great supply conies from the upper 
lakes, whose affluents, especially those of Lakes Superior 
and Huron, reach high latitudes, whore the snow lingers 
long in the spring, and whose surplus waters are also held 
back by the enormous outspread upon the lakes. Low 
water is said to have occurred in 1803, 1804, 1808 to 1811, 
1822 to 1828, 1844 to 1850 ; high water is mentioned in 
1798, 1805 to 1807, 1812 to 1819,1829 to 1831, 1837 to 
1839, 1852, 1853 ; middling height in 1820, 1821, 1832 to 
1830, 1840, 1841, 1851. The water at this time, October, 
1877, is also very low. The change of level is about five 
feet. 

Charlevoix, in 1721, noticed a periodical flux and reflux 
of the lake, recurring at intervals of a few minutes, and by 
him a.serihed to springs at the bottom of the lake, and the 
shock of rivers discharging into it. This flow is probably- 
caused by the prevalence of distant winds that at times 
create a swell at one end of the lake when it is calm at the 
other. It is further noticed that long prevailing gales from 
the west, from the friction u])on the surface, cause the 
waters to rise several feet at the east end. It was from a 
similar cause that a serious inundation occurred on Lake 
Erie, at Buffalo, in the fall of 1844. 

Wnler-npouts have been often seen on the lake, usually 
in the summer or fall, and in showery, fickle weather. They 
arc accompanied by black clouds and a roaring sound. 
When they strike the land they prove to be tornadoes, 
tearing up the trees and strewing their track with ruin. 



X On Burr's State Map, the height of the lake is stated to be two 
huiiilri'd ami thirty-four feet; the Canndiivn railroiiJ surveys give 
two hunilreil !in<l thirlv-eizht and n half feet. 



IIISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY. NEW YOllK. 



17 



The mirage is a phenomenon frequent in bright, sunny 
weather in bummer and fall, elevating distant objects by 
refraction and bringing thom nearer. Some remarkable 
instances have been noticed. The most common form of 
this illusion consists in raising distant objects a little into the 
air, the sky seeming to extend under them. 

That the lake once flowed over a large portion of the 
county at a very recent geological period is proved by the 
elevated lake rulges, which extend from Oswego county 
through Ellisburg, Adams, Watertown, and Kutland. .Mr. 
William Dewey, in surveying the railroad route in 18:56, 
thus mentions them : " We found the .summit of the 
highest ridge to be about four Inindrcd feet (more exactly, 
three hundred and ninety feet) above Lake Oiitario.* Its 
formation offers a curious subject for geological investiga- 
tion. It is remarkably uniform, and is supposed, in past 
ages, to have constituted the shores of some great inland 
sea, whose surface lay far above those mighty forests and 
fertile plains that now form some of the richest portions of 
our State. Frequently three or four successive ridges are 
plainly developed, varying in level from fifteen to twenty 
feet. ... A more beautiful site for the location of a 
railroad could not be desired than the summit of these 
ridges, were not the uniformity of their cour.se frei|uently 
broken by sharp angles, and interrupted at intervals by deep 
gullies, caused by the action of small streams carrying away 
the very light material of which they are composed. . . . 
This ridge we found to extend on the line of our survey 
about thirty miles from the point where we were first en- 
abled to avail ourselves of its advantage." 

Along the brow of the first hill, in going ea.st from 
Watertown, this ridge is cut through in making the plank- 
road, and the beach, with its piles of bowlders below it, may 
be traced each wa\' from this place very easily. Along the 
side of the slope of limestone rock, which approaches Black 
river, below the village of Lockport, may be seen, plainly 
marked, the traces of an ancient bciich, at two or three 
different levels. The limestone must here have formed a 
bold shore to the lake. 

A curious occurrence of red cedar timber on a snuill hill 
in Pamelia, about three miles north of Watertown, was 
mentioned to the author by Mr. John Felt, who ingeniously 
suggested that, as the margin of the hill was a bed of smooth 
gravel, and as this timber occurs on islands in the lake, this 
sj)o/ miijlit then have been an island. 

Endless speculations might be made on the extent of this 
former lake and the causes that have wrought the change. 
The subject is too extended for our discussion ; but the 
following questions at once arise and would need to be first 
settled. Rome is on a summit, from whence the waters 
flow by Wood creek and the Jlohawk in opposite directions. 
It is but thirty-two feet higher than Watertown. The lake 
ridges are two hundred and thirty-two feet above Water- 
town. Queries. Did the lake then flow through the Mo- 
hawk valley? Did it then cover the country down to the 
Noses, on the Mohawk, and the highlands of Quebec ? It 
is quite probable that at the time the sea extended up the 
St. Lawrence valley and filled all the Viust basin bounded by 

* The author is indebted to C. V. R. HortoD, of Chauniont, for 

these iiniuirief. — T)r. Hough. 



these lofty terraces, it also communicated with the bay of 
New York by way of Lake Champlain and the Hudson river, 
and by way of the valley extending from the southca.st angle 
of Lake t)ntario via Rome and ITtica, and down the Mo- 
hawk to the Hudson, and that the primitive region of New 
York (the Adirondacksj was then a great island in the sea. 

EARTHQUAKES. 

Earthquakes have several times occurred in this section 
of the country. One is recorded in Canada, February 5, 
16G3, and is related as most terrific and awful. The ice in 
the St. Lawrence w;is broken up, the earth wa« violently 
shaken, houses thrown down, and such was the tumult of 
the elements that many believed that the end of the world 
was coming. Several times since the settlement of the 
country slight shocks have been felt. On the 12th of 
March, 1853, at two o'clock a.m., a shock occurred that 
was felt in parts of Lewis and Jefferson counties. It com- 
menced with a rumbling sound that lasted about a minute 
and a half and was attended with a deep rolling thunder. 
It is credibly related that in Champion the snow, then 
covered by a strong crust, was found broken into fissures 
by the movement. 

The Xew York Reformer of November 8, 1860, de- 
scribes an earthquake felt on the 26th of October, 18G0, 
at seven p.m., in Elli.sburg, Henderson, and Adams, ac- 
companied by a heavy, subterranean, rumbling noise, last- 
ing ten seconds. The sound and agitation passed from 
south to north, and buildings were considerably shaken 
during its continuance. 

VALLEYS — DRIFT AOE.NCIES. 

Several remarkable valleys occur in the county, that 
must be attributed to causes that have long since ceased to 
operate. That of Rutland hollow, parallel with Black river, 
has been noticed.^ It is continued across the towns of 
Watertown, Ilounsfield, and Henderson, by way of Sniith- 
ville, to the lake, having both of its sides composed of 
Trenton limestone. It was probably formed by the same 
agencies that have removed the Trenton from over the 
lower limestones, north of Black river ; transported vast 
quantities of loose materials from the distant primary 
regions, and deposited them as bowlders, gravel, hard-pan, 
sand, and clays, promiscuously over the other formations. 
The surface rock often presents a polished and grooved 
appearance, and at no locality is this more wonderfully 
shown than at the lailroad bridge below Watertown village. 
The grooves are liere widened and deepened into troughs, 
that obliqueh' cross the bed of the river, having their sur- 
faces polished and scratched, showing that the rock was 
then as firm and unyielding as now. The.«e furrows are 
from one to three feet deep, and from five to ten feet wide. 

MI.VERAL LOCALITIES. 

Anthraeite has been observed in minute quantities, 
glazing the surface and lining the cavities of fossil.s, in the 
Trenton limestone at Watertown. In minute quanlitics 

t This is most probably one of the abandoned beds of Blacl( river. 
— Eds. 



18 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



and thin seams it has also been noticed in Utica slate, in 
the southwestern border of the county. 

Apatite (phosphate of lime) is rarely found in small 
crystals near Ox Bow, in white limestone, with pargasite, 
etc. On Butterfield lake it occurs nias.sive. It is also 
found near Grass lake, in Theresa. A most remarkable 
locality of this mineral occurs in Rossio, near this lake. 
When in quantity, it is prized as a fertilizing agent, being 
in chemical composition analagous to burnt bones. It is 
also used in assa3'ing gold and silver. 

Azurite (blue carb. copper) occurs with the green car- 
bonate on an island in Muskclunge lake, Theresa. 

Qilcite (carbonate of lime), besides forming a principal 
constituent of white and secondary limestone, occurs, often 
crystallized in groups of great beauty, at Ox Bow, and on 
the banks of Vrooman lake. Huge crystals, some nearly 
transparent, and tinged of a delicate pink, were found on 
the farm of Mr. Benton many years since, and the locality 
here still affords many interesting forms. Veins of white 
spar are common in fossiliferous limestones, and the cavi- 
ties of fossils are very often lined with crystals. It occurs 
also in minute veins in shale. Tufa is found in a few 
limestone springs, and agaric mineral abounds in the caves 
in Pamelia, opposite Watertown. Marl occurs in Pleasant 
lake, Champion. Satin spar occurs near Ox Bow, not far 
from Pulpit rock. 

Ctlestiiie (sulphate of strontia) is said to occur in Tren- 
ton limestone, in disseminated nodules. The quantity must 
be small, ^nd its existence is somewhat uncertain. 

ChiitcuJite. — Under this name has been described, by 
Professor C. U. Sheppard, of New Haven,*, a mineral 
which had previously been considered cacoxene.f It occurs 
in minute globular and stellar groups, on surfaces of specu- 
lar iron ore, of a yellow color, fibrous texture, and so 
slightly coherent as to be easily broken by contact with a 
solid bod}'. Surfaces covered with this mineral are fre- 
([uently obtained at the Sterling iron mine, in Antwerp, at 
which locality aloue, in this section of the State, it has been 
found. It is interesting for its rarity more than its splendor. 

Cliondiiiditc has been observed in small quantities, with 
spinel, in Antwerp. 

Chlorite has been detected in bowlders, but is not com- 
mon. 

Copper pyrites has been found at several localities in 
Antwerp, adjacent to Vrooman lake, and near the Ox Bow, 
and also about three miles from Natural Bridge, in Wilna, 
where it was wrought to some extent, late in the fall of 
1847, by a Boston company. This mineral has not hitherto 
been found in sufficient quantities to pay the cost of mining 
in this section of the State. 

Diloinitc occurs often disseminated in white limestone, 
where, from its ability to resist solution, it remains in relief 
upon the weathered surface, in prominent mas.scs. Pearl 
spar is found at Ox Bow, coating crystals of calcite. An- 
kerite has been attributed to the iron mines of this county, 
but we have never been able to distinguish it from .•spathic 
iron. 

• Pr.Jcccdings of .\incricnn An.'inciation, Albany, 1851. p. 2.12. 
t X. Y. Ccoldgiciil Kc|)., IHIII, p. 110. Dr. Buck's Min. Kcp., p. 
4fl2. Kama's Mineniliigy, .'ij nl., p. 2:!2, ct;. 



Epidote, in granular mas.ses, disseminated in bowlders of 
greenstone, is of frequent occurrence. It has not been found 
in situ in the county. 

Feldspar (orthoclase), besides forming a common ingre- 
dient in gneiss, often occurs, highly crystallized, in Ant- 
werp and Theresa, near Grass lake, etc. Porphyry occurs 
in bowlders and trap, and greenstone both in bowlders and 
dikes. The latter occur with peculiar interest and variety 
in Antwerp, between Vrooman and Muskelunge lakes. 
Dikes of great width are observed in the neighboring town 
of Rossie. 

Fluor Spur. — The most remarkable locality of this 
mineral in the State was discovered about fifteen j'ears since, 
on the east bank of Muskelunge lake, in Theresa, in a vein 
of considerable width, with calcite and heavy spar. Cubic 
crystals, a foot in diameter, quite transparent, and yielding 
by cleavage an octahedron, were procured here. With 
heavy spar, in Adams, green crystals occur of small size, 
and it is more abundantly diffused in a massive state. 
Rarely, cavities in fossils in the Trenton limestone are 
lined with small crystals of this mineral. 

Garnet is common in bowlders, but otherwise does not 
here occur. 

Graphite (black-lead) occurs in minute scales, to a small 
extent, in the white limestone of Antwerp. 

Heavy Spar (sulphate of barytes). — One of the most 
interesting localities of this mineral in the State occurs on 
Pillar Point, in Brownville, on the shore facing Chaumont 
bay and Cherry island. It occupies a vein in Trenton lime- 
stone from one to two feet thick, and is chiefly interesting 
for the delicate alternations of color, in zones and bands, 
which become apparent upon the polished surface. It has 
been wrought to a considerable extent as a material for 
lithic paint, but has lately (1854) been purchased from its 
supposed importance in indicating the exi.steuce of metallic 
ores, although none have hitherto been observed in its 
vicinity. 

In Antwerp, about a mile east from the Ox Bow, on the 
farm of Robert Dean, occurs an interesting locality of this 
mineral, in a cavity or vein of white limestone. The cavi- 
ties often present globular surfaces, studded with cry.stals. 
The mineral is nmch stained with the yellow oxide of iron ; 
but wlu^re it has not been exposed to the weather it is 
sometimes white. No metallic iissociates have been noticed 
here. 

In the town of Theresa, an interesting locality of highly 
crystalline heavy spar, which has been suspected to contain 
strontia, occurs. The banks of Muskelunge lake afford small 
but elegant crystals. In Adams, near the north border, and 
about two miles northwest from Adams Centre depot, on 
the farms of Calvin Warrener, II. Colton, and others, is a 
very remarkable locality of this mineral. A ragged and 
very irregular vein has here been traced more than a mile, 
nearly east and west, in a hill of Trenton limestone, that 
rises on three sides to a commanding height, and overlooks 
the country north and west to a great distance. About 
1845, it came to the notice of a paint-nianul'aeturing com- 
pany in Bruwuville, and about fifty tuns have been removed 
i for that purpose, on a ten years' lease, giving fifty cent.s per 
I pcich triliiile. .\ perch when prepared makes two thousand 



HISTOllY OF JEFFERSOX COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



19 



five liundred pounds of paint. The mineral in Adams is 
much mingled witli tlie limestone, through whiili it sends 
thin veins, and detached nias.ses of the latter frcc|U<'ntly 
occur imbedded. It.s structure is eonipact, color wiiitc or 
flesh-colored, and inclined to assume the peculiar waved and 
contorted appearance common at the Pillar Point locality. 
Heavy spar ha.s been e.\tcn.sively used, at Hrowiivillo, to 
adulterate wliit«-lead. This manufacture has been aban- 
doned, and will not probably be resumed. 

Jlnriihlciide. — Besides being a common constituent of 
gneiss, numerous varieties of this rock occur in bowlders 
and rocky strata, among which are the following : Ampliibole 
(basaltic hornblende) is found in bowlders in crystals, firmly 
imbedded in trap and greenstone. TiemaJltc is found in 
bowlders of white limestone, and occasionally in small 
quantities in Antwerp and in Wilna, near Natural Bridge. 
D'mlhuje is rarely found in bowlders of chloritic slate. Pur- 
(/(isi/e, in beautiful green crystals, occurs in white limestone 
at numerous localities near Ox Bow, and in a neigliborhood 
known as New Connecticut, in Antwerp, near the O.k Bow. 
It is commonly found with apatite, crystallized fcl(ls|iar, and 
sphene. Tlie crystals are small, but usually well defined, 
and sometimes occur in radiating dusters. Aniimillios and 
aslitsliis arc found in minute quantities in bowlders of ser- 
pentine. The latter also occurs half a mile from Theresa 
village. Besides these varieties, hornblende is found in 
bowlders, coarsely crystalline, slaty, and compact, and of 
the latter a variety containing grains of garnet is extremely 
tough. This mineral does not of itself occur in rocky 
masses in our county, and the source from whence these 
bowlders are derived must be distant. 

JJooase, in small brown crystals, occurs occasionally on 
the banks of Vrooman lake, near Ox Bow. It has been 
found in larger crystals, in bowlders, in Antwerp. 

Iron J'l/iiles (sulphuret of iron) occurs in the iron mines 
of Antwei-p, in Wilna, Theresa, Alexandria, and, more 
rarely, in thin veins and grains in Trenton limestone. Its 
most interesting form is where it is found replacing the 
svibstance of organic remains, which, when first removed, 
possess the lustre and color of brass, but soon decompose in 
the air. From the character of our geology, this mineral 
can scarcely be expected to occur in profitable quantities 
for the manufacture of copperas, alum, or soda ash, in the 
county. It has been found in veins of spar, in Trenton 
limestone, in nodules with a radiating fibrous texture. 
Tliis is the mundlc of Cornish miners. 

Lahradorite (opalescent feldspar) is occasionally found in 
bowlders, but less commonly than in St. Lawrence county. 

Lliiwni'le. — Bog iron ores are common in swamps in 
Wilna, and adjacent to the river above, where they have 
been extensively used in making iron. "They occur in the 
form of an e;irthy loam, coarse granules, and solid mas.ses, 
the latter often containing the forms of roots and leaves, 
which have had their substance replaced by this ore. 
Ochre occurs in Champion and other town,'-, in small quan- 
tities. 

Maqnctite.. — Magnetic iron ore, in crystalline blades, dis- 
seminated in gneiss, has been observed in the town of Alex- 
andria in sufficient abundance to lead to the belief that 
it might be wrought with profit. It is a common ingre- 



dient in that rock, and its disintegration affords the black 
magnetic writing-sand frequently met with on the banks 
of rivers and lakes. When abundant, this is one of the 
most valuable ores of iron. The primitive region of Alex- 
andria and Wilna may perhaps be found to contain it in 
profitable quantities. 

MtdmliiiK (green carbonate of copper) is found in small 
quantities, investing other minerals, at Muskclungc lake, 
Theresa. 

Millrritc (sulphuret of nickel) was first noticed by the 
author* (^Amerlcnn Journal of Science, 2d series, vol. ix., 
287 j, in 1848, at the Sterling iron mine, in Antwerp, oc- 
curring in delicate needle-shaped prisms, in cavities of iron 
ore, associated with spathic iron, chalcodite, and iron py- 
rites. This delicate and very rare mineral is crystallized in 
hexagonal prisms, the largest of which are one-sixtieth of 
an inch in diameter, and about half an inch long, usually 
radiating from a central point in tufts, like the down of the 
thistle, and it has the color and splendor of gold. 

Mimcoviti- (mica) occurs rarely in bowlders of granite. 

Niiplttliii. — While excavating the wheel-pits of the Jef- 
ferson cotton-mills at Watertown, the limestone was found 
in one place to contain in a cavity about a gill of a yellow- 
ish, oily fluid, which emitted a .strong bituminous odor, and 
burned freely. Other instances have been mentioned, but 
on uncertain authority, and in no case has an opportunity 
occurred of ap]ilying decisive tests. 

PIdogopili'. — This mica occurs frequently in the white 
limestone, but not in sufficient quantity or in jJates of a 
size that give it interest or value. It is found on an island 
in Jlill Sent lake in .small quantities, and at a few localities 
near Ox Bow. At Vrocmian lake a highly crystallized va- 
riety occurs, in which sharply-defined prisms and groups of 
crystals are found in great abundance. These crystals pre- 
sent, by transmitted light, a dove-brown color, but they are 
seldom found transparent of any considerable size. By 
some strange accident the town of Henderson has been 
often (|uotcd as a locality of mica. None can occur here, 
as it is entirely underlaid by Trenton limestone. The 
white limestone is .seldom found in quantity without con- 
taining this mineral. 

Fyroxene is common in our primitive rocks. On Grass 
lake, in Theresa, it is found white and crystallized, in groups. 
Near Ox Bow it has been found in small quantities, and 
near Natural Bridge in large black crystals, with sphene, 
etc. Coccollle occurs in the same vicinity, imbedded in 
Wollastonito, and rarely in bowlders. 

Qiiiirlz. — This abundant mineral, besides forming the 
greatest proportion of primary rock, and almost the sole 
material of sandstone, is rarely found crystallized. On But- 
terfield lake, and at several localities in Antwerp, it is fnund 
in cry.stals. At Natural Bridge chalcedony occurs in nodules 
in white limestone. Flint is a common associate of the 
Black river limestone. Agate in small quantities is found 
in Wilna, near Natural Bridge. Jasper and ba.sanite arc 
very rarely found as pebbles in the drift formations. 

Sritp'ili/f is rarely found in detached crystals, imbedded 
in white limestone, in Antwerp. Adjacent to, and perhaps 



V. I!. Hough. 



20 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



within, the town of Wilna, near Natural Bridge, the variety 
Knttallite, in fused crystals of a pearly gray color, occurs 
with pyroxene and sphene. It is sometimes massive, and 
admits of cleavage. A mineral named lereni/e by Professor 
Emmons,* and by him attributed to Antwerp, is since con- 
sidered but a variety of scapolite. Wc are not aware that it 
has been found by any one but himself It was said to be 
a.ssociated with calcite and foliated graphite in a vein of 
white limestone. 

8er2^eiitiae is of frequent occurrence in nodules, in white 
limestone, in Antwerp, but it is far less abundant than in 
St. Lawrence count}-. It is various shades of green, and 
its weathered surface becomes white. It has not hitherto 
been found in this county of .suflBcient quantity and quality 
to be of economical value, and it is chiefly interesting from 
the crystalline form which it sometimes assumes. It is said 
to thus occurf two miles southwest of Ox Bow, but we 
have not been able to learn the preci.se locality. A mineral 
allied to this, and named by Professor Emmons Renxselacr- 
{/e,^ but by later authors considered steatitic pseudomorph, 
occurs in great abundance in Antwerp and Theresa, where 
it assumes colors varying from white, through gray, to 
black, and a texture from finely granular to coarsely crys- 
talline and cleavable. It has been made into inkstands and 
other ornaments, and from the ease with which it may be 
wrought, and the facility with which it receives a polish, it 
has been thought that it would prove available as au orna- 
mental marble. An extensive locality of the jet black and 
fine-grained variety occurs on Butterfield lake, and a com- 
pany was a few years since about to be formed for working 
it, but the projector having been accidentally drowned, 
nothing further was done. It is doubtful whether, from 
its softness, this mineral could be turned to a valuable 
account as a marble. It is seldom that there occurs so 
wide a range of color and texture as in this mineral. It 
sometimes is crystallized in forms imitative of .scapolite, ser- 
pentine, etc.§ It was denominated by Professor Beck 
steatitic pi/mrene, from its hardness being like one, and its 
cleavage and crystallization like the other. 

IRON ORE. 

Specidnr lion. — The red oxide of iron constitutes the 
principal ore of this metal in Antwerp, Philadelphia, and 
Theresa, and may be said to be the principal ore of north- 
ern New York. It is invariably associated with a brittle, 
variegated mineral, which has been named dyxijntrihilc,\\ 
but which recent analyses^ indicate to be a rock of indefi- 
nite composition, closely related to agalmatolite, and vary- 
ing much in its propnrtions of alumina, magnesia, lime, a!id 
the alkalies. In the geological report of Professor Emmons** 
it is named serpentine. In some form or other this mineral 
is associated with the ore in every locality where the latter 
has been noticed in this county, as if it were a necessary 

• Assembly Doc, 1837, No. 161, p. 154. 
t Hi-ck"8 .Minunilugy of N. Y., p. 274. * 

+ .\s.scm. 18:i7, No. Ifil, p. 134. 
J Beck's Mill. N. Y., 277, p. 2U7. 

11 Hcport of the American Assueiutimi for llic .V.li uMci'iiicnt of 
Sell nee, vol. iv. ]). 31 1. 
\ Amcrienn Journul of Sci< nee, 2tl ^er,. xvi. p, ,'il). 
*» Ocology 2il District, p. 371!, c'.e. 



associate, and sometimes in such quantities as to displace 
the ore, to the serious loss of the miners, who have to re- 
move large masses of it. Besides this nondescript mineral 
specular ore is associated with calcite, spathic iron, chalco- 
dite, quartz, Millerite, and, more rarely, heavy spar. In 
richness it varies from ten to fifty per cent, in the large 
way, and it is seldom found to work well in the furnace, 
requiring a mixture of bog ores or limestone, or of ores of 
dift'erent quality, to reduce with the greatest advantage. 
In Theresa this ore was procured during the working of 
the furnace near Redwood in considerable quantity. It has 
been found on an island in Muskelunge lake, with heavy 
spar, and green and blue malachite, but too much mingled 
with iron pyrites to be useful. 

In the edge of Philadelphia, adjoining Theresa, and on 
farms owned by Loren Fuller and Abial Shurtliff, there 
occurs a body of specular iron ore between the gneiss and 
Potsdam sandstone, which has been used to the extent of 
several hundred tons at Carthage, Antwerp, Redwood, and 
Sterlingville. When wrought alone, it makes an iron 
known to founders as cold short, and from its mixture with 
lime is found to be very useful as a flux in assisting in the 
reduction of other ores. It is associated with calcite in 
botryoidal concretions, rarely with crystals of sulphate of 
barytes, and abundantly with the serpentine-looking min- 
eral. These mines have been' traced a considerable distance, 
but have been only partially wrought, the first operations 
having commenced about 1838. It is now principally used 
as a flux to the ore of the Sterling mine. 

The mines which have been wrought with most profit in 
northern New York are the Kearney mine, in the extreme 
.southwest corner of Gouvcrneur, and the mines of George 
Parish, adjacent, in llossie.f'j' In this same range, about a 
quarter of a mile from the county line, in Antwerp, and but 
a short distance from the line of the Potsdam and Water- 
town railroad, there was discovered, in 1837, a deposit of 
iron ore, which has been wrought by Mr. Parish with much 
profit. It is the only mine of the specular ore in northern 
New York in which the excavations have been continued 
beyond the light of day, rendering lamps necessary. As 
the ore descends obliquely, the overhanging uiasses of rock 
are supported by huge masses of ore left as pillars at suit- 
able intervals. The mine has been drained by an adit, and 
the thickness of the stratum at right angles to its plane 
varies from six to thirty feet. Several attempts have been 
made to reach the ore by sinking shafts, but hitherto with- 
out success, and it is now raised by being drawn up au in- 
clined plane by a rude horse-power. The ore. has proved 
of an excellent quality, and has been exclusively used at 
the Rossic iron-works. Adjacent to, atid forming a part 
of this, is the Thompson mine, on the farm of Hiram 
Kcene, where ore was observed before it had been detected 
on the adjoining premises. Not being covered b^' a min- 
eral reserve, this mine became the property of Mr. Keene, 
who sold his right to other parties, and it subseciuently be- 
came a subject of litigation in the county courts under the 
belief that it was worthless. 

In 184'J about one thousand tons had been taken from 



■f'f llit;lory of .St. Lawrence urul I-'r:iiiklin CHuntics, ]i. 683. 



HISTORY OF JKFFERSON COUxNTY, NEW YORK. 



21 



it. The mine dip.s at an angle of about forty-five degrees 
below the sandstone. The ore is of a good quality, and has 
been worked both in furnaces and forges. The mo.st exten- 
sive iron mine now worked in the county i.s called the Ster- 
ling mine, from its owner, James Sterling, in tlie same range 
and geological relation as the last. It was discovered about 
183G, and mining operations were soon after commenced, 
and have been since continued with but little interruption, 
principally for supplying the furnaces at Stcrlingville and 
near Antwerp. Subsei|uently, it was taken to Loui.sburg, 
and these three furnaces are now principally supplied by 
this mine. It furnishes a greater variety of minerals of 
scientific interest than any other in this section of the State. 
We have not been able to procure reliable statistics of the 
amount of <ire produced by this mine. Half a mile far- 
ther south there was opened by Mr. I'arish the While ore bed 
on the premises of Mr. Guy White, in August, 1848. It 
has since been wrought for the furnace of Messrs. Skinner 
and Bli.sh, at Wegatchie. No mineral associates of interest 
liave been observed liere. About a mile from the village 
of Antwerp, and in a relation corresponding with the 
others, there has been opened within the last year* still 
another mine, on the land of Mr. Ward, but it has not been 
sufficiently explored to aiford a knowledge of its extent or 
value. There are thus seven or eight mines in a range, in- 
cluding those in Philadelphia, apparently coeval in age and 
produced by a common cause, and it is in the highest de- 
gree probable that there will hereafter bo opened other 
mines in this region of equal if not superior interest. 
About two miles from Ox Bow, in Antwerp, and near the 
plank-road to Evan.s' mills, occurs the W(!eks ore bed, be- 
longing to Mr. Pari.sb. It has been j)riiicipally u.sed at 
Rossie as a flux, and is considered of but little richness by 
itself. It has no mineral a.^sociates of interest, is of a dull 
red color and .slaty texture, resembling the ore of Phila- 
delphia.f 

Sjiliiiie (scilecio-calcaroous oxide of titanium) is found 
ill white limestone with pargasite, in Antwerp, near Ox 
Bow. It also occurs in large, finely-formed crystals, near 
Natural Bridge. In Diana, near the county line, occurs 
one of the finest localities of this mineral known. It has 
been defined as Ledererite, but is considered but a variety 
of this mineral. 

Spinel, of a pale red color, and crystals sometimes half 
an inch in diameter, has been observed at Vroonian lake, 
near Ox Bow, and four miles from that place towards The- 
resa. It is accompanied with chondrodite in small quanti- 
ties. This mineral resembles, in many respects, the ruby 
and sapphire. 

Tide is sometimes noticed in bowlders in small quantities. 

Tijiirmidiiie is occasionally found in gneiss in Antwerp 
and There.sa, and is found occasionally in bowlders ; but the 
finest locality in northern New York exists on Bald island, 
about three miles from Alexandria bay, where it exists in 
huge striated prisms, in such (|uantities as to convey the 
belief that it would lead to coal, and induced the com- 
mencement of mining operations under circumstances that 



* Written alxiut 1S53. 

t For aiMitiimiil information of these mines .<ee history of town. 



the slightest acquaintance with geology would have dis- 
countenanced. 

Wad (earthy manganesej has been noticed in swamps, in 
Watertown and elsewhere. 

Wo/hislonilc (tabular spar) occurs with augite and coc- 
colite. at Natural Bridge. Delicate fibrous varieties have 
been found in bowlders in Wiliia. 

METEOROLOOICAL. 

The only observations made in this county were by the 
academy in Belleville, in jmrsuance of the requisition of 
the regents of the university, during the nine years between 
1830 and 1844. They gave the following results: Mean 
temperature, first half, 44.74 ; mean temperature, second 
half, 4G.(;4 ; highest degree observed (July 10, 1834, and 
August 5, 1830), 98° ; lowest degree observed (December 
IG, 1835), 35° ; extreme range in nine years, 133° ; mean 
monthly range, 74.40 ; greatest monthly range, in March ; 
least monthly range, in July; dryest month, March; wet- 
test month, September. Total fall of rain and snowj in 
nine years, 22 feet 11.99 inches. Mean direction of winds, 
S. 59°()5 W. ; per cent, of this direction, 26; days, mean 
direction, 7.98. 

This station is situated in the valley of North Sandy 
creek ; the surrounding country is undulating, with no 
high hills, and is but little sheltered from the winds of the 
lake, which probably influence its temperature and other 
features of its climate. 

THE MEMORABLE TORNADO 

of September 20, 1845, which swept through the great 
forest of St. Lawrence, Franklin, and Clinton counties, 
originated in the town of Antwerp, but did not begin to do 
much execution till it entered the town of FowIer.§ On 
the 9th of September previous, a tornado of less extent, 
having a parallel course, pa.ssed over Lewis county. The 
great tornado was attended by an earthquake ou the north 
shore of Lake Ontario. 



CHAPTER IL 



PRE-HISTORIC. 



The Mouiul-liuilJers — .\boriginoa — Indian Relics — Mounds and Rc- 
nmius — Aboriginal Names. 

In common with various portions of the United States 
territory, Jeff"erson County contains many evidences of its 
occupation by an ancient race, but where it originated or 
whence it came, and in what manner it finally disappeared, 
are questions apparently unsolvable by the present genera- 
tion. That this jicojile spread over a large portion of the 
country east of the Mississippi river is certain, for their 
remains are found in various forms from Lake Superior to 
Arkansas, and from New England to Missouri. That they 
were a homogeneous and permanently located people is 
quite probable, as their extensive system of mounds and 

i Reduced to water. 

J Sec History of St. La>¥rence and Franklin counties, p. G9S. — 
Ilouf'h. 1853. 



HISTORY OF JEFFKUSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



earthworks indicate. The central and most densely popu- 
lated region occupied by tlicin ai>i)eai-s to have been the 
upper valley of the Mississippi from Meuipliis to the north 
line of Illinois, and the valley of the Ohio throughout its 
whole extent. 

Their largest work seems to have been the immense 
mound at Cahokia, near St. Louis, in the State of Illinois, 
said to be seven hundred by five hundred feet in dimensions, 
and having, when first seen by Europeans, a height of ninety 
feet; and their most extensive system of fortifications at 
Marietta, Ohio, where they cover a tract from two to three 
miles in length by a half-mile in breadth. 

When the country was first settled by Europeans, the 
Miiigwe and Lenape, or Iroquois and Delaware, Indians 
had traditions of an ancient race which their forefathers 
conf(uered and drove out of all the country lying east of the 
Mississippi (which they called Nama Sepee, or river of 
sturgeon) " many moons ago." 

It is conjectured by some writers that this race wa.s iden- 
tical with the Aztec and Toltec races of Mexico and Cen- 
tral America, and that the Fimos and other peculiar natives 
of New Mexico and Arizona are the degenerate fragments of 
this once powerful and numerous people. 

The following remarks, with descriptions of all the promi- 
nent works known to exist in the county, together with 
accounts of various discoveries of skeletons, improvements, 
etc., etc., are from Dr. Hough's History, and are believed 
to be very full and accurate : 

" A passing tribute to the memory of a race who have 
left but few traces of their sojourn in the territory now em- 
braced in Jefferson County, may not be deemed inappro- 
priate before entering into the details that make up our 
authentic history. There are probably few who have not 
dwelt with peculiar interest upon the glimpses we catch 
through the mists of the past of whole tribes of men that 
have vanished from the earth, leaving no heirs or represen- 
tatives to inherit the richer blessings of our age ; of nations 
whose part in the great drama of human life must always 
be the theme of conjecture ; whose sages are forgotten, and 
whose warriors sleep unhonored in the dim obscurity of 
oblivion. Few are the monuments we may interrogate, and 
doubtful the interpretation of the enigmas which the .scat- 
tered traces of their existence offer, nor can these furnish 
the ba.sis of a well-founded conjecture of the people, or the 
period, or in some instances the object, with which they 
were related. At most, we can but offer a few fuels, and 
leave the field of conjecture open to those who may have 
more ample means of comparison, and the leisure and talent 
to devote to this deeply-interesting fielil of irifpiiry. The 
general inference which has been reached by those whose 
researches have been especially devoted to this study, is 
that none of the remains of art in this s(^ction of the State 
can ]iretend to the anti(|uity that belongs to the mound- 
builders of the Ohio valley ; that they indicate at most but 
a .slight attainment in civilization ; that they denote no 
further object than self-defense, or simple sustenance ; and 
that they evince no general plans, no organized system, 
beyond what the necessities of the moment suggested. 
Further than this wc know nothing. The inelosurcs here- 
after described exhibit that similarilv that leads us to 



believe them the work of the same race, for a common 
object, — protection against a contemporary foe ; thus show- 
ing that wars are, if not inherent in human nature, at least 
coeval with the first diiwnings of civilization. 

" In the town of Le Ray, a short distance below the 
village of Black River, and on the road to Watertown, was 
formerly the trace of a trench inclosure. The work was 
irregularly semicircular, inclosing about one and a quarter 
acres of ground, and a short distance from the bank of 
Black river, the side towards which w;is open, the ends of 
the embankment extending a short distance down the slope, 
and curving inward ' as if to prevent the flank from being 
turned by an enemy.'* A portion of the bank and ditch 
outside may still be traced in the road, but the greater part 
has long been leveled b}' cultivation. In the fields adjacent 
are the traces of hearths, numerous fragments of rude pot- 
tery, bones of animals, and stone chisels.^ Human bones 
have also been found in the vicinity. Although the banks 
have been mostly leveled, yet their locality may be traced 
without much difiiculty. 

" About a mile north of this is another and larger one, 
which, like the first, contains in and around it the usual 
Indian relics. It occupies a plain but little elevated above 
a flat that was once flowed by a beaver dam, making a shal- 
low pond several acres in extent. The remains of the dam 
may still be traced on West creek, which has its source 
not far distant. 

" Two trench inclosures formerly existed near Sanford's 
Corners, in Le Ray, but no trace of the original works re- 
mains. When first »een, the bank, measured from the 
bottom of the ditch, was six feet high. An unusual amount 
of relics have been afforded by the adjacent fields, and 
several human skeletons, all buried in the sitting posture, 
have been exhumed. Like most others, they were built 
near the banks of a stream of water, and had at irregular 
intervals gateways or p;is,sagcs. The ground within and 
around was formerly a pine forest, ■which extended many 
miles in the direction of Carthage. 

" On both sides of Perch lake and on Linnel's island in 
an adjacent swamp, there were, when the country was first 
explored, a great number of mounds or barrows, supposed 
by some to be burial-places. They present much uniformity 
in appearance, being circular, from two to four rods across, 
from two to four feet high, and uniformly having a depres- 
sion in the centre, as if a vault had formerly existed there, 
which has since fallen in. When dug into, they are said 
to contain burnt stone, charred corn, broken pottery, etc. ; 
but no opportunity was afforded to the author to examine 
their structure. Most of them have been plowed down, 
but a few are said to remain on the west side of the I'ereli 
lake in their primitive state. In lIoun.sfield, on the shore 
of Black River bay, between Muskelunge creek and Storrs' 
harbor, is said to have existed formerly a trench inclosure 
of the ordinary form. We have not learned whether it is 
wholly or in part preserved, nor is its extent known. Some 
of the largest trees of the forest grew upon and within the 

» AboriKiniil Monumcnls of New York, by E. G. Squicr. Smith- 
sonian C'lmlriliutions, vol. ii. art. vi. p. 2.'i. pi. ■■!. 

t Scu Tliinl .\nniml Ui'|>ort of Regents of the L'nivLTsity on iho 
Couilition 111' llu' .Slate Cabinet, p. 101. 



HISTOHV OF JEFFKKSON COUNTY, NEW YOKK. 



23 



bank. In Watertown, on lot No. 29, about two and a half 
miles southwest from the villasie, may still be seen in an 
open wood, and in a fine .state of ine.sorvation, the outline 
of a work eonsisting of a bank thrown up from a surround- 
ing ditch, and evidently intended as a defensive work. It 
is on the summit of a gradually slopin<^ terrace of Trenton 
limestone, and conimand.s a delightful pro.spect. Elms three 
feet in diameter are found growing upon the bank, and the 
decaying remains of otliers .still larger, within and upon it, 
carry back the date of its construction to an ante-Coluujhian 
period. In the same range and lot, on premises owned by 
Anson Hungerford, E.sq., and about forty rods east, there 
was formerly another inclosure, with gateways, the position 
and e.vtcnt of which cannot now be ascort;iincd, as the bank 
has long since been leveled by cultivation. The one first 
mentioned is semicircular, the open side facing upon the 
bank.* 

" Half a mile east of Burrville, on lot No. 31 , was forinmly 
a defensive work, consisting of a mound and ditch, running 
across a point between two streams near their junction, and 
forming, by the aid of the natural banks, a triangular in- 
closure. The plow has long ago filled the ditch and leveled 
the bank, leaving no trace of the work. The soil has 
aftbrded a great abundance and variety of relics, and the 
vicinity indicates that it had been occupied as an Indian 
village. Within the inclosure is a bowlder of gneiss, worn 
smooth and concave in places by the grinding of stone im- 
plements. On a point of land opposite the author found 
an iron ball weighing eight ounces,"}" and others have been 
picked up in the vicinity, indicating that the place must 
have been passed, at least, by those who knew the use of 
small ordnance; probably the French, on some of their ex- 
peditions against the Iroqiiois.'l Mr. Squier, in his work on 
the ancient monuments of New York, mentions the trace 
of an Indian village a mile northeast of this. 

" Near Appling post-office, on the land of D. Talcott, in 
Adams, near the line of Watertown, is still to be .seen the 
trace of a work of great extent and interest. It is on the 
brow of the upper terrace of Trenton limestone, overlook- 
ing a vast extent of country to the west and north. The 
bank has an average height of three and ba.se of ten feet, 
with an external ditch of corresponding dimensions, and 
there were about seven gateways or interruptions in the work, 
which had an elliptical form, one side bordering upon a 
beaver pond, and bounded by an abrupt bank, about thirty 
feet high. Upon and within the work, trees of'an enor- 
mous size are growing, and the decaying fragments of otliers 
carry back the origin of the work several hundred years. 
A great number of small pits, or caches, occur where pro- 
visions were stored for concealment ; as shown by quantities 
of parched corn. Several skeletons have been exhumed 
here, which had been buried in a sitting posture, and its 
relics are the same as those above mentioned. 

" Near the northwest corner of Rodman, on lot No. 2, 
on the farm of Jared Freeman, was foi-merly an interesting 

» Smithsonian Contributions to Knowlcilgo. vol. ii. art. vi. ]>. 20, 
fig. 2, pi. 2. See also N. Y. Senate Document No. 30, 1851, p. 105, 
)>latc 7. 

•f Probably grape-shot. 

J Senate Document, ISol, No. .'iO, p. 105, nhere :i plan is given. 



work, of which no trace rcmain8§ except a bowlder of gneiss, 
worn smooth by grinding. Before the place had been cul- 
tivated, it is said to have shown an oval, double bank, with 
an intervening crescent-shaped space, and a short bank run- 
ning down a gentle slope to a small stream, one of the 
.sources of Stony Creek, that flows near. Several hundred 
bushels of burnt corn were turned out over an area one rod 
by eight, showing that this must have been an immense 
magazine of food. On the farm of Jacob Heath, on lot 
No. 25, near the west line of Hodman, and on the north 
bank of North Sandy creek, a short di.stancc above the con- 
fluence of the two main branches of that stream, there 
formerly existed an inclosure of the same class. It included 
about three acres, was overgrown with luavy timber, and 
furnished within and without, when plowed, a great quant ity 
and variety of terra-cotta, in fragments, but no metallic 
relics. Under the roots of a large ina]ile was dug up the 
bones of a man of great stature, and i'urnished with entire 
rows of double teeth. 

" On the farm of Wells TSenton, half a mile from Adams 
village, was an inclosure similar to the others, and afl"orditig 
the usual variety of relics; and another trace of an ancient 
work of a similar character is mentioned in Adams, two 
miles north of the village. 

" On the farm of Peter Durfey, near Bellville, in Ellis- 
burg, is still another, which, from the description given by 
those who have exauiinod it, does not differ in age or general 
appearance from others, having gateways at irregular inter- 
vals, and being guarded on one side by a natural defense. 

" The present cemetery, a little above Ellis village, pre- 
sents the trace of a work that was crescent-shaped, and, by 
the aid of the natural bank on which it was built, formed 
an irregular inclosure of about two acres. On the south 
bank of South Sandy creek, throe miles from its mouth, 
was a similar work, defended on one side by an abrupt 
bank, and now entirely leveled by tillage. A considerable 
numl)er of places occur in Ellisburg, which must have been 
inhabited by the aborigines. The fertility of the soil, ex- 
cellence of water, and vicinity to valuable salmon fisheries 
and extensive hunting-grounds, must have afforded many 
attractions to the savages. Probably several traces of an- 
cient works in this section of the country may have been 
levelled by tillage, without exciting suspicion of their nature. 
Besides these, one is mentioned 'as having occurred near 
Tylervillc, and another in Hounsfield, two miles from 
Brownville. 

" One of the mo.st conclusive evidences of ancient military 
occupation and conflict occurs in Rutland, near the resi- 
dence of Abner Tamblin, one mile from the western line of 
the town, and two miles from the river. It is on the sum- 
mit of the Trenton limestone terrace, which forms a bold, 
escarpment, extending down the river and passing acro.ss the 
southern part of Watertown. There here occuis a slight 
embankiuent and ditch irregularly oval, with several gate- 
ways ; and along the ditch, in several places, have been 
found great numbers of skeletons, almost entirely of males, 
and lying in great confusion, as if they had been slain 
in defendiii" it. Among these bones were those of a man 



? Senate Document, 1851, No. 30, p. 105, where a plan is given. 



24 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



of colossal size, and, Itlce nine-tenths of the others, furnished 
with a row of douJile teeth in each jaw. This singular pe- 
culiarity, with that of broad, flat jaws, retreating forehead, 
and great prominence of the occiput, which was common to 
most of these skulls, may hereafter afford some clue to their 
history. There is .said to have been found at this place, by 
excavating, hearths or fire-places, with bones of animals, 
broken pottery, and implements of stone, at two different 
levels, separated by an accumulation of earth and vegetable 
mould from one to two feet thick, as if the place had been 
twice occupied. So great has been the length of time since 
these bones have boon covered, that they fall to pieces very 
soon after being exposed to the air. Charred corn, bones, 
and relics occur at both levels, but more abundantly at the 
lower. At numerous places not exhibiting traces of forti- 
fications arc found fire-places, accumulations of chips, of flint, 
and broken pottery, as if these points had been occupied as 
dwellings. In several places hone-pits have been found, 
where human remains in great numbers have been accumu- 
lated. One is mentioned as occurring near Brownville vil- 
lage,* where, in a space of ten or twelve feet square and four 
deep, a great number of skeletons were thrown. Another 
deposit of bones occurs in Ellisburg, nearly opposite an 
ancient work on South Sandy creek, near a house now 
occupied by J. W. Ellis, where, in digging a cellar in 1818, 
bones in great numbers were found. In 1812 there was 
found in Rutland, three miles from Watcrtown, under a 
pile of stones about three feet high, which rested on a cir- 
cular, flat stone, a pit four f(«t .square and two deep, filled 
with the bones of men and animals, thrown together in great 
confusion. f These exhibit marks of teeth, as if they had 
been gnawed by animals. This, with the charcoal and 
charred corn in the vicinity, has been thought to indicate 
ancient massacre and pillage, in which an Indian village 
was destroyed and the bones of the slain afterwards collected 
and buried by friends. It was estimated that thirty or forty 
skeletons were buried here, besides parts of animals that 
may have been killed for food. A custom is said to have 
prevailed among some Indian tribes of collecting and bury- 
ing at stated intervals the bones of their dead, and some of 
these depositories may have thus originated. The pottery 
found around these localities was of the coarsest and rudest 
character, externally smooth, except where marked by lines 
and dots in fantastic and ever-varying combinations of fig- 
ures, and internally rough from the admixture of coarse sand 
and gravel. There was no glazing known to these primitive 
potters, who possessed, nevertheless, a certain degree of taste 
and skill, and sometimes attempted, on their pipes and jars, 
an imitation of the human face and fantastic images of ser- 
pents and wild animals. 

" Rarely, metallic relics of undoubted antiquity are found. 
A chisel of coppjr before us is of this class ; and the metal 
from which this, and other relics of this kind were made, 
was doubtless procured from Lake Superior. A fragment 
of a sword-blade, around which the wood of a tree had 
grown, was found by the first settlers of Ellisburg. Mus- 
kets, balls, hatchets, knives, and other implements of metal, 



^ Sinithsoninn Contributiona, ii., part vi. p. 25. 

t Third Kcprjit of Regents on Ciibinet, 1850, p. 102. 



have been at various times turned out by the plow ; but 
none of the articles of undoubted European origin can claim 
an antiquity prior to the French and Indian wars.J 

" There was found several years since, in the sand, at a 
deep cutting of the railroad, near the poor-house, an oval 
ball, about three inches long, which for some time was used 
by children as a plaything. From its lightness and hard- 
ness, it excited curiosity, and it was cut open, when it was 
found to contain a strip of parchment and another ball ; 
this latter also contained another ball and strip of parch- 
ment, in all three. One of these is preserved, and is three- 
fourths by eleven and three-eighths inches, containing, 
written on one side, four lines of Hebrew characters, with- 
out vowel points, quoted from Deuteronomy xi. 13 to 21 
inclusive. The case containing these was apparently made 
of hide, and it had been doubtless used as an amulet by 
some traveling Jew, or had been procured by the Indians 
as a charm, at a period not prior to the French era of our 
history. This section of the State, at the earliest period of 
authentic history, was occupied by the Oneidas and Onoii- 
dagas, as a hunting-ground ; and one or two trails were 
perceptible when surveyed in 179G. Occasionally the St. 
Regis Indians would find their way into our territory, but 
oftener the Massctsaugas from the north shore of the lake. 
The Oneidas considered them as intruders, and the latter 
seldom allowed themselves to fall in their way, from which 
reason the visits of the natives were stealthy and unfre- 
quent, and nothing would fill the foreign Indians with ap- 
prehensions sooner than being told that the Oneidas were 
in the neighborhood. After the war nothing was seen or 
heard from them. Of our aboriginal names of places in 
our country but few are preserved. Mr. L. H. Morgan has 
given on a map, accompanying his work entitled ' The 
League of the Iroquois,' the following, as they are known 
in the Seneca dialect : ^ 

" Lake Ontario, Neagha. Tccarneodi. 

" Sandy ereek, Tekadaogahe. 

" Black river, Kahnahgo. 

" Sackct's harbor, Gnhnagojetwaraalote. 

" Wolf island, DenwokedacanaHda. 

" St. Lawrence, Gmiowngeh. Gahunda. 

" Indian river, Oje.qnack. 

" On an ancient French map in Yale College library, 
Carlton island is designated Cahihouonage ; a town at the 
mouth of Black river, Otihanagne. The St. Regis Indians 
name Black river Nikalilonhiikown, or Big river. In Mr. 
Squicr's work on the ' Antiquities of the State,' it is 
called Kamargo ; French creek is by the St. Regis called 
Atenharaktoehtiire, the place where the fence or wall fell 
down. The Ox Bow of Oswegatcliie river they name 
Onontohen, a hill with the same river on both sides." 

J It is possible that they date baok to the year 1B15, when Cham- 
plain led nn nriny, eoniposml of a few French soliliers anil ii griiit 
number of Huron- Alyinuiitin Indian.", on an expedition against the 

Iftiqitoin, 



HISTORY OF JKFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



25 



CHAPTER IIT. 

CHAMPLAIN AND FRONTENAC. 

North America — Early Discoveries — Frenuh Occupation — Samuel Dc 
Champlain — Wars with the Iroqiioip — Troubles with the Englii^b 
Colonists — Count Frontcnac and other Governors of Canada — 
Fortifications — Carlton Island. 

The first Euroi)eati, so far as known, who visited the 
region now included in Jefferson County, was Samuel De 
Champlain, justly called the "Father of New Franco." 
The visit occurred in the autumn of 1015, when Cham- 
plain, at the head of an army composed of a few French 
and a great number of Algompiin-Unroiis, crossed the 
lower end of Jjake Ontario in a fleet of canoes, and landed 
probably in what is known as " Hungry bay," south of the 
mouth of Black river. Hiding their canoes, the savage 
swarm proceeded by land around the southeastern ex- 
tremity of the lake, crossing the Onondaga river, and, after 
a march of several days, reached the Seneca towns lying 
towards the Genesee river. The expedition returned by 
the same route, and thus twice visited Jefferson Countj' 
within a few weeks. 

As the earliest posts and settlements of the French were 
commenced on the lower St. Lawrence, and thence grad- 
ually spread inland and up the valley of the great river, a 
condensed account of the early voyages and explorations is 
deemed appropriate in this connection, as necessary to a 
correct understanding of the causes which eventually led 
Champlain into this region. 

Although the French were not permanent occupants of 
what is now northern Now York, yet thej' made the ear- 
liest visits (1609, 1G15) to the country, and gave the world 
its first knowledge concerning the regions adjacent to Lakes 
Champlain and Ontario. 

But for the bigotry of the times, which, in Chaniplain's 
day, forbade the Huguenots settling in New France, the 
subsequent history of the present United States of America 
might have been radically different; and, instead of English 
occupation, the whole vast region, from the inhospitable 
wilds of the north to the Mexican gulf, might very proba- 
bly have been at this day inhabited by descendants of the 
hardy Protestants of France. 

Certain French writers claim that as early as 1488 one 
Cousin, a navigator of the city of Dieppe, on the English 
Channel, visited the shores of the American continent, 
being forced by adverse winds and currents from the 
African coast. He is also said to have discovered a great 
river. If this statement is true, it was most probably the 
coast of South America that ho visited. 

On board his ship was one Pinzon, who became mutinous, 
and upon complaint being entered by his commander on 
the return of the sliip to Dieppe, he was dismissed from 
the service. 

It is said that he went to Spain, where he met the great 
discoverer, Columbus, to whom he related the particulars 
of Cousin's voyage, and, four years later, accompanied him 
on his first voyage to America, which at length furnished 
tangible evidence of the existence of a great continent iti 
the Western ocean, and made his name renowned throughout 
the world.* 

* See Pioneers of France in the New AVorld. hv Parkman. 



The Normans, Bretons, and Ba.squc8, those hardy sailors 
of the north and west of France and Spain, were early 
visitors to the Grand Banks of Newfoundland. It is even 
claimed that they were pursuing the cod-fishery previous to 
1407. 

There is strong evidence that this fishery began as early 
as 1504, and the fact is well established that in 1517 fifty 
Castilian, French, and Portuguese vessels were employed in 
the businas-s. 

" In 150G one Denis, of Ilonfleur, explored the Gulf of 
St. Lawrence, and, two years later, Aubert, of Dieppe, fol- 
lowed in his track ; and in 1518 the Baron de Lory made 
an abortive attempt at settlement on Sable I.sland, where 
the cattle left by him remained and multiplied.' ■!■ 

John Verrazzano, a Florentine, visited the coast of 
America in 1524. He sailed along the shores, from where 
Wilmington, North Carolina, now stands, as far as New- 
foundland, from whence he returned to France. His ac- 
count of the voyage was the first reliable information the 
European nations obtained of the coast of the present 
United States. 

The voyages of Columbus, Ponce de Leon, Cabot, and 
Verrazzano created an intense interest among the nations of 
Europe, and explorations now followed in rapid succession. 
The Spaniards monopolized the southern portions of the 
continent as far north as northern Florida ; the English 
occupied the region lying between the Bay of Fundy and 
the Spanish possessions ; while the French, perforce, were 
obliged to content themselves with Nova Scotia, which they 
named Acadia, the Gulf of St. Lawrence, with its islands 
and adjacent countries, and the far-reaching valley of the 
river St. Lawrence. The next important voyage, following 
Verrazzano, was made by Jacques Cartier, a prominent cit- 
izen of St. Malo, in France, which port he left on the 20th 
of April, 1534, bound on a voyage of discovery to the 
Western ocean. 

He visited the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Bay of 
Chaleurs, the island of Newfoundland, and sailed up the 
river as far as the island of Anticosti ; but the threaten- 
ing storms of autumn drove him from the inhospitable 
shores, and he returned to France, having made only a 
reconnaissance. 

His discoveries wore deemed of such importance that he 
was commissioned anew, and on the lUth of May, 1535, 
again set sail with three small vessels for the New World. 
Encountering a furious tempest, which it happily weathered, 
the scattered fleet a.s.sembled at the Straits of Belle Lsle. 
Cartier named the broad-spreading waters the Bay of St. 
Lawrence, which name subseiiuently attached to the river 
also. 

Following up the majestic stream, he east anchor in the 
channel between the island of Orleans and the northern 
shore, being probably the first European vessels and people 
which the natives of that region had ever .seen. The river 
was known to the Indians by the name oi Ilocheliga. On 
the spot where Quebec now stands a cluster of wigwams 
comprised the Indian town of Stada-co-nn, in which re- 
sided an important chief, or king, called Don-na-coita, who 



t Parkuian. 



26 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



treated the adventurers with a courtesy far bej-ond their 
deserts, for tlie crafty Cartier, when afterwards making 
preparations to return to Europe, enticed the unsuspecting 
potentate, and a number of liis chiefs and warriors, on 
board his vessel, when they were secured and taken to 
France. 

Cartier explored the river as far as Hochdaga, an Indian 
town which stood on the site of the present commercial 
city of Montreal (Mount Royal), where he arrived October 
2, 1535, seventy-six years before Chauiplain began the 
foundations of the present city. 

The Indian capital was fortified by a triple row of pali- 
sades, or heavy stockades, formed of the trunks of trees, 
and strongly braced together. 

A similar system of fortifications seems to have been in 
use among all the Ah/onquiii nations. 

The place was surrounded by extensive fields of maize, 
ripening in the autumn sun, and the city was populous 
with tawny inhabitants. The high mountain overlooking 
Montreal Cartier vi-sited, acctmipanied by troops of natives, 
and, enchanted by the magnificent prospect from its breezy 
.summit, he named it " Mount Royal," from which the 
present name is derived. 

Returning down the river, Cartier hauled his ships up 
the little river St. Charles, in front of a small palisaded 
work which those who had remained behind had con- 
structed, and here the whole force jiassed the winter, suf- 
fering untold hardships from cold and the scurvy, which 
carried off twenty-six of their number before spring. This 
terrible disease was said to have been cuied by a decoction 
of spruce-bark ; a remedy given them by the Indians. 
AVith the return of spring, Cartier re.solved to abandon his 
settlement and return to France. With his captive chiefs 
he set sail, and ou July 16, 1536, once more cast anchor 
under the guns of St. Malo. 

The wars in which France was then involved swallowed 
up all minor considerations, and there was little encourage- 
ment at court for those who were interested in the New 
World. 

But a champion eventually came forward in the person 
of Jean Francois de la Roque. Sieur de Roberval, a nobleman 
of Picardy, who had succeeded in interesting the kin" suffi- 
ciently to procure his assistance in fitting out a squadron of 
five vessels. I'pon Roberval the king conferred the high- 
sounding but empty titles of " Lord of Norembega, Viceroy 
and Lieutcnant-tjeneral iti Canada, Ilochelaga, Saguenay, 
Newfoundland, Belle Isle, Corpunt, Labrador, the Great 
Bay, and Baccaloos,"* and liirnished liim a handsome sum 
of money from the royal treasury, willi which the five 
vessels were prucured and equijiiied. 

Of this expedition Jac((ues Cartier was made cajitain- 
general. Its objects, as .set forth in his commission, were 
" discovery, .settlement, and the conversion of the Indians." 

Volunteers for tlie purpose of colonizing New France, as 
the country had been named by Cartier, not coming forward 
in sufficient nundjors, he was authorized to select from the 
public i)risons a sufficient number of criminals to man his 
vessels and strengthen his colony. The anticipated profits 

* This word is said to ho tlip linsquc nninc fcir cod. 



of the adventure were to be divided into three equal parts, 
of which the king was to receive one-third, the adventurers 
another third, and the balance was to be reserved to cover 
necessary expenses. 

Duu-iia-co-iin and his diiefs were claimed to have been 
converted to the " true fiiith" and baptized, but most of 
them had died within a year or two thcreal'ter. 

On May 23, 1541, Cartier once more set sail from St. 
Malo, leaving Roberval to follow with additional supplies 
and emigrants as soon as they could be collected. 

In due lime he arrived in the St. Lawrence, where the 
.savages met him and eagcily inquired for their chief and 
warriors. (;artier dissembled, and replied that L>oit-ii<i-c(j-ii(i 
was dead, but that the rest had married and were living like 
lords. 

The Indians pretended to be satisfied, but from that day 
they looked with distrust upon the French. 

Three and a half leagues above the site of Quebec, Cartier 
erected two forts, one on the high promontory called Cap 
Rouge (Red Cap), and the other at its ba.se near the river. 
This double fortification he named, in honor of the king, 
Charlesbourg Royal, and placed the Vicomte de Beanpr6 
in ccimniand, while he with two boats proceeded up the 
river to explore the rapids above IJodielaga. Late in the 
autumn he returned, and found the garrison of Charlesbourg, 
with the gloom of a Canadian winter staring them in the 
face, in anything but a happy mood. 

Roberval, so long expected, had not arrived, and for the 
second time Cartier was obliged to content himself as best 
he might with a sojourn during another period of frost and 
snow. 

That his winter experience was anything but satisfactory, 
is evinced by the fact that as early in the spritig as the ice 
would permit he broke up the settlement, embarked, and 
steered down the St. liawrence. 

In the mean time Roberval had met with vexatious delays, 
and it was not until April 16, 1542, that he set sail, with 
three .ships and two hundred colonists, for New France. 
On the 8th of June he entered the harbor of St. John, 
Newfoundland, where he found seventeen fishing vessels 
lying at anchor. 

Soon aflcr the returning squadron of Cartier ran into the 
harbor, and when Roberval learned that the settlement on 
the St. Lawrence had been abandoned he was extremely indig- 
nant, and ordered Cartier to return. But the latter, disgusted 
with the experience of two winters in the bleak country, 
was in no mood to return to the scene of his suft'erings, and 
weighing anchor in the night, he put to sea, and returned 
to France. This voyage ended the active life of Cartier, 
whose remaining days were pa.ssed (piietly at his .seigniorial 
mansion of Limoilou."|' 

The viceroy, Roberval, nothing daunted by this desertion, 
pushed on through the straits of Belli^ Isle to the Isle of 
Demons, or " Les Isle de la Demoiselle," lying north of 
Newfoundland, with which a curious legend of love, fidelitj-, 
and sufhring is connected, as related by Tbevet, a French 
writer, who was an intimate friend of Roberval and Car- 
tier. 

I Thii- struL'tiiri' is said to be ylill !<(aiuliiig. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



27 



Marguerite, the lioroiiie of the tale, was the niece of 
lluberval. * 

Sailing up tlic river, Roberval came to anchor under the 
heights of Cap Rouge. Here he erected new fortifications, 
mills, workshops, and dwellings, for a permanent colony. 
The little colony passed the ensuing winter in their dreary 
abode. 

Famine and sickness decimated them, and a mutiny broke 
out among them, but it was (juickly extinguished by the 
iron hand of Roberval, who hanged and shot several of the 
malcontents, and banished others. The rule of the viceroy 
was so severe that it is said even the Indians shed tears at 
his cruelty. 

There is no definite account of the fate of this colony, 
but it was certainly broken up not long afterwards. 

For many years subsequently, no attempt was made to 
plant permanent colonies on the St. Lawrence. The cod 
fishery was, however, continued with unabated vigor by the 
hardy sailors of the French provinces. It is said that in 
1578 there were as many as three hundred and fifty fishing 
vessels at Newfoundland, one hundred and fifty of them 
being French. 

"In 1G07 there was an old French fisherman at Can- 
seau, who had voyaged to these seas for forty-two consecu- 
tive years. '""(" 

The next attempt to colonize New France was made by 
the Marquis de la Roche, a Catholic nobleman of Brittany, 
who was granted a monopoly of the Canadian fur trade, and 
a profusion of high-sounding but empty titles. 

Gathering a throng of thieves and desperadoes from the 
public prisons, he embarked in a small vessel, and sailed for 
America. Landing forty convicts upon Sable Island, off 
the coast of Nova Scotia, he sailed on an exploring voyage 
among the neighboring coasts and i.^lands, but was driven out 
to sea by a furious storm, and finally returned to Franco, 
leaving the convicts to their fate. 

Building huts from the fragments of an old wreck, they 
hunted the wild cattle, descended from those left b)' De 
Lory, eighty years before, made themselves garments from 
seal skins, and waited for the return of La Roche. Year 
after year passed, and still no succor. They quarreled and 
fought among themselves, and strife and disease, in the 
course of a few years, reduced thinr numbers to twelve half- 
starved wretches, who were finally rescued, and returned to 
their native land. 

Succeeding La Roche came one Pontgrave, a merchant 
of St. Malo, who as.sociated himself with a Captain Chauvin, 
of the marines, who had influence and acquaintance at 
court. At Tadoussac, at the mouth of the Saguenay, they 
established a trading station, under the tremendous preci- 
pices which overhang that most remarkable river. This 
colony also proved a failure, for, in the spring, after passing 
the first winter, several of the sixteen men left at the place 
w^ere dead, and the remainder scattered :imong the neigh- 
boring Indians, subsisting upon charity. 

CHAMPL.VIN. 

In the closing years of the sixteenth century a new era 



■^- See Purkiniin's Piimcers of Franco in tlio New World, p. 203. 
t Purkiuan. 



dawned upon France. Henry the Fourth, " the bear-hunt- 
ing prince of the Pyrenees," had become monarch of 
France. Under his vigorous rule France, which had long 
been the prey of blood-thirsty factions, was consolidated, 
foreign enemies were driven from her soil, and art, industry, 
and commerce s])rang to renewed life. 

About 1598, a character, which afterwards, for nearly 
thirty yeai-s, stood in the van of the pioneers and rulers of 
the New World, came upon the scene, Samuel de Champ- 
lain, of Saintonge, or St. Angc. " Champlain was born in 
1567, at the small seaport of Brouage, on the Bay of Bi,s- 
cay. He had risen to the rank of captain in the royal 
navy, but during the recent wars had served in the land 
forces in Brittany, where he fought for the king, under the 
banners of D'Auniont de St. Lac aLid Brissac. His purse 
was small, his merit great, and Henry the Fourth, out of 
his own slender resources, had given him a pension to 
maintain him near his pei-son. But rest was penance to 
him. The war in Brittany was over. The rebellious Duke 
de 51ercoeur was reduced to obedience, and the royal army 
di.sbanded. Champlain, his occupation gone, conceived a 
design con.sonant with his adventurous nature. He would 
visit the West Indies, and bring back to the king a report 
of those regions of mystery whence Spanish jealousy ex- 
cluded fiireignei-s, and where every intruding Frenchman 
was threatened with death." 

His West Indian adventure occupied him two years and 
a half, during which he visited the princi[)al ports of the 
i.slands, made jihins and sketches of them, and then, landing 
at Vera Cruz, made a visit to the city of Mexico. From 
thence ho went on a visit to Panama, where he conceived 
a plan for a ship-canal across the isthmus, by which, he 
says, " the voyage to the South Sea would be shortened 
more than fifteen hundred leagues." 

He kept a curious journal of his travels, which he illus- 
trated, «fter the manner of the times, with his own hand. 
This manuscript is preserved at Dieppe. 

From 1G03 to IGDS, (^hamplain was busily engaged with 
De Chastes, Pontgrave, De Monts, Poutrincourt, D'Orville, 
Beaumont, Sourin, La Mottc, Boulay, and Fougei-ay in 
planting transient colonics in Nova Scotia (called by the 
French Acadie), New Brunswick, and contiguous regions, 
known to the French under the name Norembega ; and in 
exploring the bays, inlets, and islands of the coast, from 
the mouth of the St. Lawrence to Long Island. 

De !Monts had obtained a fresh monopoly of the fur 
trade in the St. Lawrence, and in the spring of l(j08 fitted 
out two ships, of which he gave the command, — one to 
Pontgrave and the other to Champlain. The former was 
to trade with the natives, while the latter had the harder 
task a.ssigned him of planting a permanent settlement and 
exploring the country. Pontgrave. with a cargo of goods 
destined for Tadoussac, sailed from Ilonfleur, April 5, 1608, 
and Champlain, with men, arms, and stores for a colony, 
followed on the l.ith. 

Pontgrave reached the river before Champlain, and, turn- 
ing the rocky point at the mouth of the Saguenay, then 
called by the French " Puiiite de Tons h Diabks" from 
the fury of its winds and currents, found a Basque fur- 
trader anchored in the stream. In response to Pontgrave's 



28 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



suninions, demanding a cessation of the traffic in his ex- 
clusive domain, the angry fur-traders, not having the fear 
of King Henry before their eyes, fired on him with lieavy 
guns and musketry, wounded liim and two of iiis men, and 
killed a tliird ; and then boarded bis vessel and carried 
away bis arms and ammunition, jiromising to return them 
when they were done trading. 

On the 3d of June, Champlain arrived, and found matters 
as above described. Fearful now of the vengeance of the 
French commander, the Ba.-<|ues made haste to restore 
everything and make the best terms they could. A peace 
was signed on board their vessel, and, abandoning their 
traffic and furs together, the belligerent strangers betook 
themselves to catching whales. 

Peace being restored, Champlain held on his way up the 
river, and, selecting the present site of the city of Quebec,* 
began the first permanent settlement in what is now British 
America. It jjrobably occupied the site of the present 
market-place of the lower town. 

Not long after the commencement of the settlement, a 
plot was laid by a few of Cliani]ijain's men to assassinate 
him and deliver Quebec into the bands of the Basques ; 
but it was revealed by one who had overheard it, the ring- 
leaders were captured, one of them hung, and the others 
sent to France, where they expiated their crimes in the 
galleys. 

I'ontgrave departed for France in October, leaving Cham- 
plain to pass a Canadian winter as best he might. The in- 
evitable scurvy broke out in the colony, and, before spring, 
carried oft" all but eight of the Jieople, while all through the 
dreary months famished Indians hung around the little 
stockade, begging for something to keep them alive. 

In the spring of 1G09, Poutgrave, with more ships and 
supplies, arrived at Tadoussac, whither Champlain hastened 
to tiikc counsel with him ; and it was arranged that Pont- 
grave should take charge of Quebec, while Champkin pro- 
ceeded to prosecute his long-cherished scheme of discoveries. 

INDIAN NATIONS. 

The savage nations inhabiting the valley of the St. Law- 
rence, at the lime of Champlain's settlement at Quebec, 
were all members of the grciit Algonquin fiuuily. A tribe 
or nation called the Montdgiutix occupied the region in the 
imniodiate neighborhood of Quebec; south of them were 
the Ahenakis tribes of northern New England ; above 
Hoclieligii, on the Ottawa, were the Ilurous, afterwards 
called ]\]i/(iiit{iils ; while to the southward of Lake Ontario 
were located the fierce conquerors of the ancient Allcgeni, 
the future scourge of New France, and the terrible destroy- 
ers of all the surrounding nations, — the powerful Lorjiiois, 
or Five Natiuns. 

It would seem that Champlain, at some time doling the 
year lti08, had entered into an alliance with the Algniiquln 
tribes of Canada, wherein he agreed to help them in their 
constant wars with the Jroquois. Tiiis alliance in after- 
years cost France immense treasure and thousands of lives, 

* Thin nnmc haa n duubtful origin. In the AUjouqu!n tongue it is 
said by Chiirlevoi.x to bo Qtntieit, or Qitijitiev^ signifying a narrowing 
or contracting. The MirimitM culled it Kihcc or Ktbit/n^, The //•«- 
ijuui» called it tSlil<itiroiia and tlic t/uyon» Al'nita-re-tjtlt:e. 



and it was not until General Sullivan's terrible chastise- 
ment of these fierce warriors, during the Revolution, that 
they ceased to Ije formidable. 

The Hnron and Algonquin nations had agreed to meet 
Champlain in the spring with a strong war-party, and to- 
gether they were to make a campaign against the Jroqiciis. 
But, uj) to the middle of May, they had not appeared, and 
Champlain, impatient of further delay, started forward, ac- 
companied by a band of the Mitn/iign<iis Indians. A short 
distance up the river he found his allies encamped on the 
shore, and together they descended to Quebec, for the fame 
of the white man's architecture had penetrated the wilder- 
ness, and the savages were anxious to look upon the strangers 
in their own abode. Arriving at Quebec, they indulged in 
a grand feast and dance, and saw and heard with astonish- 
ment the terrible fire-arms of the French. 

Embarking in a small shallop, Champlain, with eleven 
men of Pontgrave's party, clad in armor, and armed with 
the arquebuse (a clumsy weapon, fired with a matchlock), 
and accompanied by his du-ky forest allies, proceeded up 
the turbulent stream to the mouth of the river, since known 
under the various appellations of Riviere lies Iroquois, Rich- 
elieu, Si. John, Chinnhly, St. Lovls, and Sonl. Reaching 
the falls of this stream, he sent back his shallop with the 
greater part of his French, and pu.-^hed (jii with canoes into 
the forest. Counting his forces above the rapids, he found 
there were only twenty-four canoes and sixty Indians. 

Moving according to strict military rule, with flankers 
thrown out, and having an advance- and rear-guard, the 
little war-party cautiously moved southwuird. Entering 
the widening sheet of water now known as Lake Cham- 
plain, they became more wary, and only moved during the 
night, for they were nearing the bounds of a dangerous 
country. 

On the morning of July 29 the party encamped on the 
western shore, not far from where the French, under Mont- 
calm, long afterwards, built Fort Carillon, captured by Gen- 
eral Amherst in 1759, and rebuilt and rechristened Crown 
Point. 

This visit of Champlain was in all likelihood the first 
made by a European to the State of New York. Upon 
embarking in the evening they met a war-party of Iroquois, 
when both parties went on shore and fortified tliemselves 
during the night. On the morning ol' July 3(1 a battle was 
fought, in which the Iroquois were defeated, with the as- 
sistance of the fire arms of the three Frenchmen of the 
party. 

Satisfied with their victory, the Indians returned to the 
St. Lawrence, where the Huron.'! and A/gonqulns parted 
company for the west, while Champlain and his companion, 
with the Motiliilgnals, returned to Quebec. This was the 
first encounter of white men with the " Romans of Amer- 
ica," and in aller-years the iidiabitants of Canada bitterly 
repented in blood and aslas the improvident step taken by 
Champlain. 

In the autumn of 1(309, Champlain and Pontgrav6 re- 
turned to France, leaving Chauvin in Cdinmand of (Quebec. 

In the spring of IGIO they both returned to New 
France, in the interests of De Monts, who had been made 
governor of Hdchelle. They fciund the St. Lawrence and 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



29 



the Saguenay swarming with the boata of fur-traders, and 
a fleet of sliips lay at Tadoussac. 

Proccoding up the river, they met a great army of 
Unions, Algiiiiquiiis, and Montiiffiiais at the moutli of the 
Richelieu river. Shortly after there wa.-i a terrible en- 
counter in the forest near by with a baud of the Iioquoi's, 
in which the latter were beaten with great slaughter, by 
the assistance of the French and thoir wonderful fire arms, 
though Chaujplain iu his curious journal gives the glory to 
his God. A savage scene of torture followed, and then the 
camp broke up, and tlie Indians, with a crowd of prisoners, 
reserved for more cruel torture by the women and children, 
returned to their villages. 

It was not long after this affair that Chaniplain heard of 
tlie as,sassination of Henry the Fciurth, which rendered his 
return to France necessary. Placing one Du Pare in com- 
mand, he bade adieu once more to his wheat-fields and gar- 
dens at Quebec, and set sail for his native land. The 
following spring he was again ready for fresh adventures, 
and on May 13, IGll, arrived at Tadoussac, where the 
mountains were still white with snow. Repairing to the 
site of Montreal, he began, probably in June, the founda- 
tions of what has since grown to be the most important city 
in British America. For many years it w;is only a trading- 
post, and it was not until 1G42 that permanent buildings 
were erected, and the place began to assume the appearance 
of a town. 

Chaniplain commenced his improvements on the jilace 
now partly occupied by the hospital of the Gray Nuns. 
He named the spot " Place Royale." 

The boats of the traders from below swarmed in the 
wake of Clianiplain's vessel, and his new settlement was 
overrun with them. Hundreds of Indians from the Ot- 
tawa, and regions to the north and west, assembled for 
purposes of trade, but the rough and in.soleut crowd of 
traders awed them, and they withdrew to a point above the 
rapids of St. Louis, where thoy begged Chaniplain to come 
and trade with them, but not to allow the crowd of traders 
to follow. From the Indian camp, on his return, an in- 
trepid savage carried Chaniplain safely over the rajiids in 
his canoe. 

Not long after Champluiu again vi-sited France, and had 
an interview with his patron, De Monts, who, deeply en- 
grossed in the cares of his office, gave up the management 
of his affairs in New France entirely to Chamiilain. On 
his way from Rochelle to Paris, Champlain was severely 
injured by a fall of his horse, but, recovering, he resumed 
bis journey. Under his personal solicitation a j'oung prince 
of the blood, Charles of Bourbon, Conite de Soissons, as- 
sumed the protectorate of New France, with the title of 
lieutenant-general and vice-regal powers. These powers he 
in turn conferred upon 'Champlain, giving him entire con- 
trol of the fur trade, and unlimited rights of exploration 
and settlement. 

Scarcely, however, had the articles been signed when the 
Comte de Soissops sickened and died, to the great joy of 
the Norman and Breton traders, who fondly believed the 
monopoly of the fur trade broken. But their joy was of 
short duration, for Henry of Bourbon, Prince of Conde, and 
first Prince of the Blood, assumed the protectorship. 



Two great objects filled the mind of Champlain, — to find 
a route to the Indies and to convert the savages to Chris- 
tianity, lie as.«ociated with himself the refractory traders 
of St. Malo and Rouen, and tried to come to terms with 
those of other cities; but the men of Rochelle, who were 
zealous Protestant.s, chose rather to take the chances of 
illicit trade, and declined his offer. 

Cliam|)lain did not again visit Canada until the spring of 
1013. On May 27 of that year, in company with four 
Frenchmen (one of whom, Nicholas de Vignau, claimed to 
have made a journey to Hudson's bay while sojourning with 
the Indians), he leR the island of St. Helen, <ipposite Mon- 
treal, in two canoes bound up the Ottawa. They penetrated 
as far as the sheet of wat<'r now known as Lake Coulange, 
which is a broadening of the Ottawa, where, finding that 
De Vignau was an impostor, Champlain ended his journey. 
In this wild region dwelt the ancestors of the modern Oltawa 
Indians. Returning to Montreal, he embarked the same 
autumn and returned once more to France. 

Champlain now interested himself more especially with 
the spiritual affairs of his colony, and resolved to turn his 
attention to the conversion of the natives, and to this great 
end he made arrangements to introduce representatives of 
the Catholic church into his dominions. 

Near his native town was located a convent of RecoUet 
Friars, a branch of the Franciscan order, founded early in 
the thirteenth century, by Saint Francis of Assisi. They 
were mendicants, vowed to perpetual beggary. Four of 
these friars were named by a convocation of the States Gen- 
eral, then assembled at Paris, for the missions of New 
France, — Denis Jamet, Jean Dolbeau, Joseph Ic Caron, 
and Pacific du Plessis. 

'■They packed their church ornaments," says Champlain, 
" and we our luggage." Embarking at Honfleur, they 
reached Quebec the la.st of May, 1G15. These were the 
first representatives of the church who visited the St. Law- 
rence valley. Choosing the site for a convent, they erected 
an altar and celebrated the first mass ever said in Canada. 
Dolbeau officiated, New France knelt around him, and the 
guns of the ships responded to the ceremonies. 

The friars divided the vast regions of New France among 
them, assigning to Le Caron the Huron country', and to 
Dolbeau that of the Moiitugmtis, while Jamet and Du 
Plessis remained at Quebec. The former two at once set 
forth upon their missions, and the others proceeded to build 
a convent. 

Champlain had entered into an agreement with the various 
Ahjiiiiqiiin tribes and nations of New France to aid them in 
their wars against the formidable Iroquois, and a grand 
council of the principal chiefs and warriors assembled at 
Montreal, when it was stipulated that the confederated 
nations should furnish two thousand five hundred warriors 
for an expedition into the country of the Five Nations, and 
Chaniplain was to join them with ;ls large a force of French 
as could be collected. Descending to Quebec to make prep- 
arations, he returned as soon as possible, and found the 
whole encampment broken up. Impatient at Champlain's 
delay, the Indians had set out for their villages, and with 
them had gone Father Joseph Le Caron and twelve French 
soldiers well armed. 



30 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YOllK. 



Cliamplain, with two Cannes, tt'ii Indians, Bruli', his in- 
terpreter, and one other Frenchman, pushed on aher tliem. 
Following the Ottawa, they ascended to the mouth of the 
Mattawan, which latter stream thej' ascended more than 
forty miles, when they cros.sed a portage and launclied their 
canoes upon the waters of Lake Nipissing. Spending two 
days here with a band of the AJgitnquin race, called the 
J'^'ipinsiiiys, Clianijilain again enibarked, and followed the 
French river to its entrance into J/cc Douce, the great fresh- 
water sea of the lliirtjits. Coasting along the eastern border 
of the broad expanse of Lake Huron, now known as 
Georgian hay, for more than a liiindred miles, the party 
debarked at the inlet known as Thunder bay, which forms 
the southern extremity of Georgian bay, a little west of the 
present harbor of Penetanguishine. 

From thence they passed on to the Iliirun town of 
Olouacha, which they found very strongly fortified. Here, 
within an area of sixty or seventy miles, dwelt the Jliiroii 
nation. Tiieir numbers were variously estimated by dif- 
ferent writers at from ten thousand to thirty thou.sand. 
Contiguous to them, on the south and east, dwelt the 
" Neutral Nation," and in western New York and north- 
western Pennsylvania dwelt the Amlnsh'es and Eries, two 
powerful kindred tribes or nations of the great Ah/oiiqiiin 
family, both afterwards, about 1(349, destroyed by the Iro- 
quois. The destruction or subjugation of these people and 
the Ilminis involved also that of all the Catholic misjiions 
among them, and the teriible privations and sufferings and 
horrible deaths of many of them were among the most 
dreadful of any age or country. 

From Otoxificha Champlain journeyed to the towns of 
Oirmtiron, Tonnyniiiiichdhi, Tiquinonqiwltnye. and C<ir- 
hnffotihu. The last-mentioned place was fortified with a 
triple row of palisades thirty-five feet high, and filled with a 
multitude of warriors. Here he found Lo Caron living in 
a bark lodge built by the Indians, where he had erected a 
simple altar. On August 12, 1G15, was celebrated the first 
ma.ss in the country of the Iliironx. 

Wearying of the monotonous life of the Indian towns 
and the continuous feasting, Champlain and a few of his 
ccmipanions visited five otlier villages within three days, all 
of which were palisaded like the larger towns. He was de- 
lighted with the country, for it was full of game and wild 
fruits, and abounded in excellent timber and good water. 

On the 17th of August they reached the capital city of 
the Ifiiroiis, called Gi-hm-gue, situated in the present 
township of Orilla, three leagues west of the Severn river, 
the outlet of Lake Simcoe. The capital was the chief 
ieiiil(::iotis, and was full of the gathering warriors. 

The Erks had promised to join the IJni-oim with five 
hundred of their best warriors. 

After f(,'asting and dancing for three days, the motley 
host set forth with their canot« and scanty baggage. At 
the outlet of Lake Simcoe they stopped, and laid in a sup- 
ply of fi.sh, and thence proceeded on their way towards 
their destination. From the fishing-ground Brule, the in- 
terpreter, at his own re(|ucst, pushed on with a few warriors 
to hasten the arrival of the five hundred warriors promised 
by the Elks. \l was now the 8lh of Sei)tember, and al- 
ready the early frost had made its appearance. The 



crowded fleet of canoes made its way along Lake Simcoe, 
up the river Talbot, through Balsam lake, and thence down 
the chain of lakes which form the sources of the river 
Trent. On the banks of this last-named stream they 
stopped and had a grand deer-hunt, and laid in a store of 
meat for the coming campaign. The Indians built a long 
line of fence, converging towards a point in the river, and 
several hundred warriors drove the animals in. The sport 
was Wonderfully relished by Champlain and his men. 

Issuing from the mouth of the Trent, the fleet boldly 
pushed out into the heaving waters of Lake Ontario.* It 
is altogether probable that the fleet pa.<sed to the north of 
Amherst island, from whence the distance to the south- 
western extremity of Wolf island would be less than ten 
miles. This broad reach of open water safely passed, and 
the fleet could coast near the shore, past Cape Vincent and 
Peninsula point, and thence southeasterly across the open- 
ing of the present Black River bay, lying between Sacket's 
Harbor and Stony island, then without a name, but .subse- 
quently known to the English as " Hungry bay.""|' It is 
not certainly known where this Indian army landed, but 
the strong probabilities are in favor of Henderson bay, at 
its southern extremity, which is perfectly land-locked, and 
a most convenient place for secreting the great fleet of 
canoes which the army must have re(iuired in their passage. 
Champlain only indirectly states the number of the Indians 
at two thousand five hundred ; but there is no doubt it was 
a very large force, for the savages well knew it would be 
worse than useless to venture into the "tiger's den" with 
less than an overwhelming force. Beyond peradventurc 
the landing-place was either in Henderson or Ellisburg ; 
and thus, two hundred and sixty years ago, — five years be- 
fore the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth, — a French officer of 
high rank, with a dozen comrades of his own nation, and a 
great army of natives from the wilds of the Ottawa and 
Lake Huron, visited the region now included in Jefferson 
County. It is more than probable that Champlain and his 
few French followers were the first Europeans that ever 
visited the county. 

This expedition probably passed through Jefferson County 
about the middle of September. From the landing-place 
they moved by land in a course parallel to the trend of the 
lake until they passed its southeastern angle, when they 
turned towards the southwest, crossed the Onondaga river, 
as the Oswego river was then called, and, marching cau- 
tiously four days' journey westward, fell upon a Seneca 
town, probably near the outlet of Canandaigua lake. Se- 
vere fighting ensued in front of the town, which was 
defended by an immensely strong stockade, in four parallel 
lines, and prepared with every available implement of In- 
dian warfare for a stubborn defense. 

After an unsuccessful attack, during which movable 
towers, after the manner of the feudal ages, were used by 



* Tlio namo of tliis lake comes from (he .Mtjonqnin word Enluwir- 
uii'iHn, or Oittnurfnimiii, tlie Hiirim niimc for the Smiernit. Tlio Frenoh 
ininicd it Luc St. Lnniit. The Seneca nnmc in Ihe InnptniH languago 
was llu-nttn-nc-hu.tnit. 

t Tile origin of this name is iinI<nown, luil it is suggested that it 
may have como from ttie French designation Ari Ftiri.inc, given to t!io 
country either on Black river or Salmon river. 



HISTORY OF JEFFKRSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



31 



the besiegers, they withdrew from the contest and waited 
for five days for their Erie allies, who failing to conic, the 
army, in spite of Chauiplain's renionstrances, drew off and 
made a rapid retreat, hotly pursued by the enemy. 

The assailants had seventeen men wounilcd, and Cham- 
plain liimseif W!is twice struck by the arrows of the Iioquois. 
The wounded, including Champlain, were carried fnnu the 
field in baskets slung on the shoulders of the warriors. 

After a tedious march througii the forest the retreating 
army reached the rendezvous in Jefferson County, and, 
launching their canoes, recrossed Lake Ontario and 
speedily returned to their own country. The Indians had 
promised an escort for Champlain on his return to Quebec; 
but the unsuccessful issue of the campaign had considerably 
reduced their ardor, and the prowess of tlieir white allies 
being somewhat lessened in their estimation, they were not 
as ready to accommodate as in the beginning of the move- 
ment. The escort was not furnished, and the wonndod 
Champlain was obliged to accompany the lliinms to their 
villages, where he passed the winter as the guest of a chief 
named Dnratitdl, who kindly offered him the u.se of his 
lodge. 

During the winter the Indians went on a great deer-hunt 
among the lakes and streams lying to the nortli of Lake 
Ontario, and Champlain accompanied tlicni. At one time 
he lost his way in the forest and wandered several days be- 
fore he found the camp, and his chief wnuld never after- 
wards allow him to go out in the forest alone. The hunt 
lasted thirty-eight days, during which they killed one hun- 
dred and twenty deer. The party was nineteen days re- 
turning with their game to their villages. 

Upon his return from the hunt, Clianiplaiii visited Le 
• Caron, at CnrahiKjnuha, where he found him praying, 
preaching, making catechisms, and learning the llnniii 
tongue. 

The two adventurers, the soldier and the friar, made a 
journey of exploration together, during wliich they visited 
a people called the Tobacco nation, a powerful tribe, akin 
to, and soon after incorporated with, the IJiirons. Their 
country was situated south of the Great Georgian bay. 

They also visited a tribe called by Champlain the C/ieveiix 
Jielrves, who wore very little or no clothing, but wt^re very 
cleanly in their habits. 

In the early spring, Champlain, now exceeding anxious 
for the welfare of his colonies, left his hospitable entertainers 
and returned via Lake Huron, Ijake Nipissing, and the 
Ottawa river to Montreal and Quebec. On his way he set- 
tled a dangerous and threatening feud between the Hindus 
and Ali/onqiiins. Le Carun had preceded him, and when 
Champlain, accompanied by Diiranlol, arrived at Quebec, 
he found all the friars together chanting hymns in their 
chapel. There w;is great rejoicing over the return of the 
wanderers, for they had long been given up as dead by the 
colonists. The chief, Duruii/ol, afler a short sojourn, re- 
turned to his country, well pleased with what he had seen. 
Champlain now set himself to work strengthening the 
fortifications of Quebec, and endeavoring to organize some 
system among the motley crow of merchants, traders. Hugue- 
nots, and Catholics, in all ainounting to imt more than sixty 
or seventy, who constituted the citizens of Quebec. 



The interpreter, Brule, who had been sent forward of 
the great expedition of the previous fall, to hurry up the 
five hundred Erics, crossed Lake Ontario, probably near its 
western end, visited the Eries, and accompanied their con- 
tingent to the enemy's country, when, finding the Iliirons 
had left, they soon returned to their own country. Brule 
afterwards liad many adventures among the savages. At 
one time he was captured by the Iroquois, and very roughly 
handled, but finally returned to his countrymen after an 
absence of tliree years. 

Cham])lain u.sed every effort to build up a prosperous 
colony at Quebec, and visited France annually to forward 
its interests and encourage emigration. In 1620 he brought 
his wife to the colony, where she remained four years. 
She was a beautiful woman and full of religious zeal, 
and during her st^ny worked among the savages with un- 
tiring assiduity. In the summer of 1G22 the long smoth- 
ered wrath of the Inxjitois broke forth and their war-parties 
fell savagely u])on the inhabitants of Canada. They had 
two routes by which they approached the Canadian settle- 
ments : one by way of the Mohawk and Lake Champlain 
valleys, the other by way of the old route througii Jeffer- 
son County and down the St. Lawrence ; and no doubt 
many a daubed and befeathered band of these terrible 
dwellers in the wilderness passed and repiussed through the 
territory now occupied by the thrifty people of Jefferson 
County. They penetrated even to the gates of Quebec, 
driving the frightened inhabitants within its strong fortifi- 
cations, and spreading death and desolation wherever they 
appeared. 

Important changes now occurred in the condition and 
government of the colony. The viceroy, Montmorency, 
was succeeded by the Due de Ventadour, who was wholly 
under the control of the Jesuits, which powerful order 
soon supplanted the Franciscans, and thenceforth controlled 
the spiritual aflaii-s of the colony. 

The advent of this famous order was about the years 
1G25-2G, and its first representatives to arrive in New 
France were Charles Lalemant, Enemond Ma.sse, and Jean 
de Brcbeuf But the colony of Quebec increased slowly. 
Twenty years after it was founded it could scarcely be con- 
sidered as more than a missionary and trading station. 

In lt)28 there were four principal trading points in the 
valley of the St. Lawrence, to wit : Quebec, Trois Rivieres, 
Jlontreal, and Tadous.sac ; the latter, at the mouth of the 
Saguenay, being the mo.st important. The fur trade was 
really the only business carried on, and this was so extensive 
that in 1628 it was estimated to amount to twenty thou- 
sand beaver skins alone, besides large numbers of the skins 
of other animals. 

The Black river region of Jefferson and Lewis counties 
w;is a wonderful resort for the beaver,* and no doubt the 
venturesome courier ties Lois, and other agents of the fur- 
traders, annually visited the country. The mouth of the 
Riviire de la Famine, as the Black river is supposed to 
liave been called, was exceedingly easy of access from the 
St. Lawrence, and where now stands the busy manufactur- 



* It WB3 called Ciintoihiuil by the Frcncli couipauy whu began set- 
tlements at the Long falls iu 179-1. 



32 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



inj: city of Watertown, in all probability rose the cabin of 
the fur-rrader ami thj bark lodge of the swarthy Indian. 

Under the Cardinal Richelieu, a company, called '• The 
Hundred Associates," was formed, with the great cardinal 
at its head. All other grants and monopolies were set aside, 
and about 1C"27 the whole of New France became subject 
to this association. They were granted a perpetual monop- 
oly of the fur trade, and of all otlier conuuerce for fifteen 
years. The trade of the colony was declared free for the 
same period from all duties and injports. As an evidence 
of his good will, the king, Louis XIII., furnished the 
company with two ships-of-war completely armed and 
equipped. The company, on their part, bound themselves 
to settle, during the year 1628, two or three hundred arti- 
sans, and before 1643 to increase the number to four thou- 
sand persons of both sexes, whom tliey were to support for 
three years, and furnish lands for settlement and mainte- 
nance. Every selllt:r must he a Fieiichmiin ond (t LhtliuUc. 

The capital stock was three hundred tliout^and livres. 
Champlain was a member of the association. 

ENGLISH OCCUP-\TI0N. 
In April, 1628, four armed vessels, with a fleet of trans- 
ports, under command of Roquemont, sailed from Dieppe 
for the St. Lawrence. At the same time an English S(|uad- 
ron, under command of Sir David Kirk, a Calvinist refugee 
of Dieppe, who had taken service under the English, also 
sailed on the same destination. War had broken out be- 
tween the two governments and trouble awaited the Cana- 
dian colonies, who were already on the verge of .starvation. 
The Huguenots were forbidden the privilege of settling in 
New France, and they gladly entered the service of Eng- 
land, and thus became enemies of the Catholic settlers on 
the St. Lawrence. 

The Engli.sh squadron first arrived in the river, and 
Kirk sent a polite summons to Cluimphiin to surrender, 
which was promptly declined, and the squadron disappeared 
down the St. Lawrence without making any demonstration 
against Quebec. 

On his way down the river he encountered the vessels of 
Roquemont, which he cut to pieces, and captured the con- 
voy of supplies. Long and an.xiuusly the dwellers of Quebec 
watched along the horizon for the expected fleet, but it 
came not, and the weary months of cold and snow that suc- 
ceeded reduced the place to the last extremity ; and when 
in .July, 1620, Sir David Kirk again appeared and de- 
manded the surrender, the common people at least hailed 
him as a deliverer. Upon a second summons, Champlain, 
now reduced to the starvation point, readily surrendered, 
and for the first time, on the 2Ulh of July, 1620, the 
English colors floated over Quebec. 

Champlain and the Jesuits were taken to England, 
whence the chief soon returned to France. 

In July, 1632, just three years after its surrender to 
Kirk, Quebec was in turn given up to a French scpiadron 
under the command of Emery de Caen, in accordance with 
the terms of the treaty of peace between the two nations. 

Thomas Kirk, a brother of Sir David, who was in com- 
mand, struck his colors, embarked his followers, and returned 
to England. 



In the spring of 1633, Champlain arrived, with a new 
commission from Cardinal Richelieu, and again assumed 
command of Quebec for the company of the " Hundred 
Associates." 

The Jesuits had returned, and once more the banner of 
France and of absolutism floated over the forests of the St. 
Lawrence. 

Champlain continued in command, taking up his perma- 
nent residence at Quebec, where he remained in the dis- 
charge of his duties until Christmas, 1635, when death 
took him from the scenes of his long and laborious career. 
In him New France lost her greatest benefactor, her wisest 
statesman, her most indomitable explorer, and her bravest 
soldier. 

Champlain was emphatically the " Father of New 
France," in whose service he spent twenty-seven years of 
his life, during which he encountered every peril of the 
sea, every danger of the wilderness, laid the foundations of 
two of the greatest cities of Canada, and planted broad and 
deep the germs which have since developed into a flourishing 
empire. 

It is reasonably certain that he was the first European 
who visited the region now comprised within the limits of 
Jefferson County. In that day the immense region south 
of the St. Lawrence and the great lakes was a wilderness, 
with only three or four settlements along the Atlantic coast. 
Where uoic spread the broad domains of twenty-seven sov- 
ereign States, inhabited by more than thirty millions of 
people, tlien stretched a vast region of forest and prairie, 
covered with myriads of noble game, and domineered over 
by a scanty population of wild savages, continually at war 
with one another. 

By the middle of the seventeenth century, the relative ' 
conditions of the colonies of France and England had ma- 
terially changed. The former still clung to, and were thinly 
scattered along, the St. Lawrence, while the English colo- 
nists had advanced slowly, but surely, along the Merrimac, 
the Connecticut, the Hudson, and the James, planting, as 
they proceeded, the germs of those flouri.-^hing colonies that, 
a little more than a century later, became strong enough to 
throw off' the oppressive rule of the mother country, and 
consolidate into that remarkable confederation which has 
thus far triumphed over every foreign enemy, and emerged 
victorious from the greatest civil commotion recorded in 
history. 

Its institutions are still on trial, and though the possi- 
bility of maintaining a republic, pure and simple, is not yet 
fully demonstrated, yet a government " by flie people" it 
may be in a modified form, has become an established 
entity, and must eventually take the place of those cruder 
and more absolute forms of theocracy and monarchy, upon 
whose walls is plainly written " Mene, mene, ielccl nji/tursiit .'" 

l.\ S.UA.E. 

The next adventurer who set foot upon the lands within 
the bounds of Jefferson County was possibly Robert Cave- 
lier de la Salle, who came to Canada in the spring of 1667, 
where he engaged in the fur trade. In the year 1609, it is 
claimed by some writers. La Salle crossed over from Lake 
Erie to the head-waters of the Allegheny, or s-ouie one of 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



33 



the streams which flow into the Ohio, and descended to the 
latter stroani, whitli lie explored as far as the falls at Louis- 
ville, and thence returned by land to Calaraijiii (Fort Fron- 
tenac) via of the eastern end of Lake Ontario ; this would 
probably carry him through Jeffeif on County. If true, he 
probably passed throufrh this region in the spring of 1670. 
It is also possible that he passed through the county during 
his wonderful journey from his fort on the Illinois to Fron- 
tenac, in the winter of 1079-80. 

The Iroquois had remained hostile to the French since 
Champlain's first expedition against them in 1609, and it 
had long been evident that a strong fortification was needed 
at the foot of Lake Ontario, both as a protection to the 
traders and a menace to the Indians. The constriictidn of 
a fortification had been repeatedly recommended, and finally, 
in June, 1673, Frontenac, the governor of Canada, took 
possession of the spot whore Kingston now stands, with an 
imposing force, and in the presence of .sixty Iroquois chiefs, 
who had come on a peace mission. Fort Cataraqiii was 
commenced. It was a strong palisaded work, and mounted 
several light guns. 

In 1675, La Salle was invested with the seigniory of 
this fort, and received a grant of the adjacent lands, extend- 
ing four leagues on the river front and half a league in 
depth, together with several of the neighboring islands. 
He was al.so raised to the rank of the untitled nobles. In 
1676 and 1677 he rebuilt the fort entirely of stone, and 
rechristened it, in honor of the governor, " Fort Froiiletiuc." 

For the purpose of trading on the lake, and with the 
view of eventually using them in exploring expeditions. 
La Salle also constructed four small, docked vessels, and 
launched them at Frontenac. These were the first Euro- 
pean-built water craft, on Lake Ontario. 

Among those who were stationed at Frontenac was the 
Franciscan Recollet Friar, Louis Hennepin, afterwards 
famous as the companion of La Salle, and for his discov- 
eries on the Mi.ssi.=sippi river. He superintended the 
building of a chapel for the use of himself and his col- 
league, Buisset, planted a huge cross in the fort, and. 
instructed the Iroquois inhabitants of the place, which lat- 
ter consisted of converts to Christianity who had left their 
native country and become residents in Canada. Hennepin 
also made journeys in the neighboring waters in a canoe, 
and in the winter of 1677-78, in company with a .soldier 
of the fort, crossed the northeastern extremity of Lake On- 
tario on snow-shoes, and made a winter-journey along the 
country lying eastward of the lake to the capital of the 
Iroquois Confederacy. They afterwards visited the Oueidos 
and Mohawks, and after a short sojourn retraced their steps 
to Frontenac, having twice passed through the present 
county of JeflFcrson. 

On November 18, 1678, La Motte and Hennepin, ac- 
companied by sixteen men, went on board one of La Salle's 
small ves.<els. of about ten tons' capacity, and sailed for 
Niagara, which place they reached on l)ccember 6, after 
encountering many hardships. The next day he climbed 
the heights on the Canadian side of the river, and pushing 
his way over the snow-covered country discovered the great 
fall, of which he gave a very minute description, in the 
main correct, with the exception that he vastly over-esti- 



mated the height of the fall, which he placed at five hun- 
dred feet, and afterwards raised to six hundred. He was 
probably the first white man to look upon the stupendous 
cataract, though it was known to exist in Champlain's day. 
In 1682 Frontenac was recalled from Canada, and Le 
Febvre de la Barre was appointed in his place as governor, 
with Mcules as intendant, in the place of Duchesneau. 

These personages arrived at Quebec in the month of 
August. Trouble was brewing with the Iroquois, and La 
Barre used every effort to conciliate them. Frontenac, 
just previous to his removal, had held a council with a 
deputation from the Confederacy, when a sort of quasi 
agreement was entered into by the respective parties ; but 
when La Barre assumed the reins of government he found 
matters in a critical situation. He blustered and made 
braggadocio speeches, and threatened a terrible vengeance 
upon the Indians if they did not stop plundering the 
French traders and murdering their allies. But the 
haughty savages treated the governor as of little account, 
and, no doubt urged on by Dongan, the Englisli governor 
of the colony of New Yoik, and the Dutch traders at Fort 
Orange (Albany), continued their reprisals until there was 
every prospect of war. La Barre repeatedly wrote for more 
troops, and made every preparation within his power for an 
expedition into the Iroquois country, in which he wrote 
the king that he would '■ perish at its head or destroy his 
enemies." 

In the mean time every effort was made to bring about a 
peaceful solution of the difliculties, and to this end La 
Barre sent Charles Le Moync, a veteran pioneer of Mont- 
real, whom the Indians had known for twenty years, as 
envoy to the Ouondayns. He also employed the good of- 
fices of the Jesuit, Jean de Lamberville, who had long 
lived in the capacity of a missionary among them. During 
these conciliatory propositions La Bane continued to col- 
lect troops and stores at Frontenac, and built a number of 
vessels, ostensibly for use against the Iroquois, but really, 
as his enemies claimed, for the purpose of trading and sell- 
ing brandy to the Indians. 

The new governor proved hostile to La Salle's operations, 
and placed every obstacle in his way in order to break up 
his trading-posts, and eventually monopolize the fur trade 
for himself and his friends. He even went so far as to 
give the Iroquois full liberty to attack La Salle wherever 
they should find him ; and in the spring of 1683 he sent 
the Chevalier de Baugis with canoes and men to take pos- 
session of La Salle's fort, St. Louis, on the Illinois river. 

He also sent seven canoes and fourteen men, with a large 
quantity of goods, to trade with the tribes of the Illinois 
and Mississippi. A war-party of Senecns and Cayugns 
invaded the Illinois country in February, 1684, attacked 
Baugis in La Salle's fort, and captured and plundered the 
governor's seven canoe-loads of goods, making no discrimi- 
nation between him and La Salle. When La Barre heard 
of these proceedings he was furious. He plainly foresaw 
the destruction of all the northwestern tribes, the ruin of 
his fur trade, and its eventual transfer to the English and 
Dutch at Albany and New York, unless something was 
done immediately. 

Under the influence of De Lamberville, and the numer- 



34 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



ous presents sent them by La Barre, the Oiwndagas were 
anxious to serve as negotiators between the French and the 
Seneciis, to which tiie latter finally consented. 

In tlie mean time the English were not idle, and to win 
over the haughty Iroquois to their interests, Governor 
Dongan sent out one Arnold A'iele, a Dutch interpreter, as 
envoy to Onondaga, the Confederate capital. 

But Viele committed a great blunder at the first. He 
informed the Onomhigax, at his first interview, that the 
English were mastere of their country, that the Indians 
were subjects of Great Britain, and that they must hold no 
councils nor make no treaties with the French without per- 
mission. And here appears a celebrated character upon 
the scene. He was a famous Onondaga orator, and though 
not a hereditary chief, yet having great influence among 
them by reason of his eloquence. 

His Indian name was Otrionnti, and he was familiarly 
known as " Big ^louth," or " Big Throat." His French 
cognomen was La Grande Giiela, which the historian, La 
Hontan, Latinized, and called Grangula, and the Scotchman, 
Colden, transformed into Ga-ran-gu-la, by which appellation 
he has generally been known. The pride of tlie renowned 
orator, as a representative of the great Confederation, was 
deeply touched. " You say that we are subjects of the 
King of England and the Duke of Y'ork ; but we say that 
we are brothers. We must take care of ourselves. The 
coat-of-arnis which you liave fastened to that post cannot 
defend us against Ononlio. AVe tell you that we bind a 
covenant chain to our arm and to his. We shall take the 
Senecas by one band and Ononlio by the other, and their 
hatchet and his sword shall be thrown into deep water."* 

Big Mouth proudly as.scrted the independence of his 
tribe, and told the warriors to close their ears to the words 
of the Dutchman, who spoke as if he were drunk. Before 
the council broke up it was resolved that Big jMouth, with 
an cmba.ssy of chiefs and old men, should go with Le 
Moyne and meet La Barre. 

While these tran.sactions were taking place at Onondaga 
the French governor had completed his preliminary ar- 
rangements, and taken the initial step for a campaign 
against the Senecus, whom, he wrot« the king, it was his 
purpose to exterminate. On the lOth of July he set out 
from (Quebec with about two hundred men, and jiroceeded 
to Montreal, where, according to his own account, his force 
was increased to seven hundred Canadians, one hundred 
and thirty regulars, and two hundred mi.ssion Indians. 
The army was expected to cross Lake Ontario and rendez- 
vous at Niagara, where Greysolon Du Lbut, the leader of 
the famous courier des hois of the northwest, and La Du- 
rantaye, were to meet him with large reinforcements of 
rangers and Indians. 

After a long stay at Montreal the army embarked at La 
Chine, crossed Luke St. Louis, and commenced the ascent 
of the upper St. Ijawrence. Baron La Hontan, who was 
then a subaltern officer in one of the companies of regulars, 
accompanied the cx]iedition, of which he wrote an interest- 
ing acccuiit. After a tedious passage the army passed the 
Thousand Islands and came to a halt in the harbor under 

* Colilcn, Fift! \ntitiim, 1727. 



the walls of Fort Frontenac. Here it went into camp on 
low ground, where a malarial fever soon broke out among 
them, carried off a large number, and disabled many more. 
The governor himself was brought by it to the brink of 
the grave, according to La Hontan. 

Discouraged by sickness and the conse(iuent weakening 
of his army. La Barre came down from his lofty and 
threatening position, and determined to make peace even at 
the price of heavy concessions to the belligerent Stnecas, 
and, with this object in view, sent Le Moyne to persuade 
the savages to meet him on their own side of the lake and 
treat for peace. 

Gathering up such of his men as were able to move, he 
crossed the lake to the mouth of " Rivifere la Famine," 
and prepared to meet the Indian deputies. The fever fol- 
lowed the troops from Frontenac, provisions failed, and La 
Barre was beginning to despair of accompli.shing anything 
either by diplomacy or force of arms, when, on September 
3, Le Moyne appeared at La Famine, accompanied by Big 
Mouth and thirteen other deputies. La Barre set a great 
feast of bread, wine, and fish before them, and on the morn- 
ing of the 4th the council began .f 

The governor had sent away all his sick and disabled men 
previous to the arrival of the deputation, and represented 
to them that he had left his army at Frontenac, and brought 
with him only an escort. But the Onondngas were not so 
easily deceived. Having among them one who understood 
a little French, they contrived by listening among the tents 
in the evening to find out the true situation of afiaire. 

COUNCIL OF 1684. 

The following description of this remarkable meeting 
and the speeches of La Barre and Big Mouth we take from 
Parkman's " Frontenac and New France," just issued from 
the press. 

" The council was held in an open .spot near the French 
encampment. La Barre was seated in an arm-chair. The 
Jesuit Bruyas stood by him as interpreter, and the officers 
were ranged on his right and left. The Indians sat on the 
ground in a row opposite the governor, and two lines of sol- 
diers, forming two sides of a square, closed the intervening 
spaces. Among the officers was La ILuitan, a spectator of 
the whole proceeding. lie may be called a man in advance 
of his time; for he had the cau.stic, skeptical, and mocking 
spirit which a century later marked the approach of the 
great revolution, but which was not a characteristic of the 
reign of Louis XIV. He usually told the truth when he 
had no motive to do otherwise, and yet was capable at times 
of ])rodigious mendacity. There is no rea.son to believe 
that he indulged in it on this occasion, and his account of 
what he now saw and luaid may probably be taken as sub- 
stantially correct. According to him, La Barre opened the 
council as follows : 

" ' The king, my master, being informed that the Five 
Nations of the Ir'iquois have long acted in a manner ad- 

t The precise locality of this council is not known. It is supposed 
to h»vc been in the vicinity of the uioulli of lihick river, iinil might 
have been in Lyons, liiownsville, llounslielil, Ilemierson, or Ellis- 
burg. From a letter written by llie coinniis^ary of the expedition it 
would seem to have been in the latter town, near the inar.^^luv. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



35 



verse to peace, has ordered iiic to come with an escort to 
tliis place, and to send Akoucssan (liC Moyiie) to Oiiuii- 
daga to invite the inincipal chiefs to meet me. It is the 
wish of this great iiing tliat you and I .should smoke tlie 
calumet of peace togetlier, provided that you promise in 
the name of the JtJoIiauls, Oveidas, Oiiondnr/ds, Cnynga^, 
and ScHcois, to give entire sati-sfaction and indemnity to 
his subjects, and do nothing in future wliicli may occasion 
rupture.' 

" Then he recounted the offenses of the Iioqiiois. Firet, 
they had maltreated and robbed French traders in tlie 
country of the lUiiwln. ' Wherefore,' said tlie governor, 
' I am ordered to demand reparation, and, in ease of refusal, 
to declare war against you. 

" ' Next, the warriors of the Five Nations have introduced 
the English into the lakes which belong to the king, my 
master, and among the tribes who arc his children, in order 
to destroy the trade of his siibjects, and seduce these people 
from the obedience they owe him. I am willing to forget 
this; but, should it happen again, I am expressly ordered 
to declare war against you. 

" ' Thirdly, the warriors of the Five Nations have made 
sundry barbarous inroads into the country of tlie Illinois 
and Mliiiiiis, seizing, binding, and leading into captivity an 
infinite number of these savages in time of peace. They 
are the children of my king, and are not to remain your 
slaves. They must at once be set free and sent home. If 
you refuse to do this, I am expressly ordered to declare war 
against you.' 

" La Barre concluded by assuring Big Mouth, as repre- 
senting the Five Nations of the hoqitats, that the French 
would leave them in peace if they made atonement for the 
past and promised good conduct for the future ; but that 
if they did not heed his words their villages should be 
burned and they themselves destroyed. He added, tlmugh 
he knew the contrary, that the governor of New York 
would join him in a war against them. 

" During the delivery of this martial harangue Big Mouth 
sat silent and attentive, his eyes fixed on the bowl of his 
pipe. When the interpreter had ceased he rose, walked 
gravely two or three times around the lines of the as.sembly, 
then stopped before the governor, looked steadily at him, 
stretched his tawny arm, opened his capacious jaws, and 
uttered himself as follows : 

" ' Onontio,* I honor you, and all the warriors who are 
with me honor you. Your interpreter has ended his speech 
and now I begin mine. Listen to my words. 

" ' Onontio, when you left Quebec you must have thought 
that the heat of the sun had burned the forests that make 
our country inaccessible to the French, or that the lake had 
overflowed them, so that we could not escape from our vil- 
lages. You must have thought so, Onontio ; and curiosity 
to see such a fire or such a flood must have brought you 
to this place. Now your eyes arc opened ; for I and my 
warriors have come to tell you that the Siiiecas, Gii/iigus, 
Ononihigiis, Oiien/as, and Mohanhf, are all alive. I thank 
you, in their name, for bringing back the calumet of peace, 
which they gave to your predecessors ; and I give you joy 

® The n:imc l\v which the Indians c.illeil the gnve;nor of Cimuda. 



that you have not dug up the hatchet which has been so 
often red with the blood of your countrymen. 

" ' Li.stcn, Onontio. I am not a.sleep ; my eyes are open ; 
and, by the sun that gives me light, I see a great captain, 
at the head of a band of soldiers, who talks like a man in 
a dream. He says that he is come to smoke the pipe of 
peace with the Oiioitdiigas, but I see that he came to knock 
them in the head, if .so many of his Frenchmen were not 
too weak to fight. I see Onontio raving in a camp of sick 
men, whose lives the Great Spirit has saved by smiting them 
with disease. Our women had snatched war-clubs, and our 
children and old men seized bows and arrows to attack your 
camp, if our warriors had not restrained them when your 
messenger, Ah-didsxaii, appeared in our village.' 

" He next justified the pillage of French traders, on the 
ground, very doubtliil in this case, that they were carrying 
arms to the llliiwls, enemies of the confederacy ; and he 
flatly refused to make reparation, telling La Barre that even 
the old men of his tribe had no fear of the French. He 
also avowed, boldly, that the Iroquois had conducted English 
traders to the lakes. 

" ' We are born free,' he exclaimed ; ' We depend neither 
on Onontio or Corlearf We have the right to go whither- 
soever we please, to take with us whomever we please, 
and buy and sell of whomever we please. If your allies 
are your slaves, or your children, treat them like .slaves or 
children, and forbid them to deal with anybody but your 
Frenchmen. 

" ' We have knocked the Illinois on the head, because 
they cut down the tree of peace, and hunted the beaver on 
our lands. We have done less than the Englii<h and the 
French, who have seized upon the lands of many tribes, 
driven them away, and built towns, villages, and forts in 
their country. 

"'Listen, Onontio. My voice is the voice of the Five 
Tribes of the Iroquois. When they buried the hatchet at 
Catarnqui (Fort Frontenac), in presence of your predeces- 
sor, they planted the tree of peace in the middle of the fort, 
that it might be a post of traders and not of soldiers. Take 
care that all the soldiers you have brought with you, shut 
up in so small a fort, do not choke this tree of peace. I 
assure you in the name of the Five Tribes that our war- 
riors will dance the dance of the calumet under its branches, 
and that they will sit quiet ou their mats and never dig up 
the hatchet till their brothers, Onontio and Corlear, sepa- 
rately or together, make ready to attack the country that 
the Great Spirit has given to our ancestors.' 

" The session presently closed, and La Barre withdrew to 
his tent, where, according to La Hontan, he vented his 
feelings in invective, till reminded that good manners were 
not to be expected from an Iroquois. 

" Big Mouth, on his part, entertained some of the French 
at a feast, which he opened in person by a dance. There 
was another session in the afternoon, and terms of peace 
were settled in the evening. The tree of peace was planted 
anew ; La Barre promised not to attack the Senecas, and 
Big Mouth, in spite of his former declaration, consented 



I Corlear was the nainp given by the Indians to the English and 
Dut<.h governors of New York. 



36 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



that they should make amends for the pillage of the traders. 
On the other hand, he declared that they would fight the 
J/liiiois to the death ; and La Barre dared not utter a word 
in behalf of his allie.s. 

" The Onondaga next demanded that the council-fire 
should be removed from Fort Froiitenac to Jia Famine, in 
the Iroquois country. This point was yielded without re- 
sistance ; and La Barre promised to decamp, and set out 
for home on the following morning. 

" Such was the futile and miserable end of the grand ex- 
pedition. Even the promise to pay for the plundered goods 
was contemptuously broken. The honor rested with the 
Iroquois. They had spurned the French, rejielled the 
claims of the English, and by act and word asserted their 
independence of both." 

It is a great pity that the precise location of this treaty- 
ground cannot now be determined. That it was within the 
limits of Jefferson County is altogether probable ; and the 
spot, if known, would well deserve a monument. 

But such matters have been badly neglected in America, 
and in many instances the living generation knows little or 
nothing of the history of the one preceding. 

La Barre's shortcomings were understood throughout the 
colonies, and discontent was everywhere apparent. The 
peace of La Famine was everywhere looked upon as merely 
a hollow truce, and the dangers of war were in no wise 
lessened, but, at the utmost, only postponed for a few 
months. 

The intendant, Meules, lost no time in placing before the 
king a statement of the condition of the country, and the 
next returning ship from France brought the following from 
the king. 

" Monsieur De L.\ Barre, — Having been informed 
that your years do not permit you to support the fatigues 
inseparable from your oflBce of governor and lieutenant- 
general in Canada, T send you this letter to aeiniaint you 
that I have selected Monsieur de Denonville to serve in 
your place ; and my intention is that, on his arrival, after 
resigning to him the command, with all instructions con- 
cerning it, you embark for your return to France. 

" Louis." 

Upon the arrival of the JLirquis de Denonville, he found 
the affairs of the colony in anything but a pro.spL-rous con- 
dition. The Indians of the northwest were in mortal fear 
lest the Iroquois should fall upon them ; the fur trade was 
languishing, and business generally prostrate. 

The rival interests of France and England were strug- 
gling for supremacy in America, and each was using every 
eifort to retain the influence and traffic of the Indians. 

A sharp correspondence took place between Denonville 
and Dongan, the English governor of the colony of New 
York, but nothing came of it, unless it was the further em- 
bittering (if the colonists on both sides, and hastening that 
chronic condition of things which sooner or later niust 
culminate in open war. 

The Engli.sh liad established a colony at Hudson's bay 
for the purpose of carrying on the fur trade with the north- 
ern Indians; and a rival French company had been formed 



in Canada, called the " Compagnie dti Nord" and it was 
finally resolved by the latt«r to expel the English company. 
Denonville sanctioned the scheme, and though the two 
nations were at peace, he sent the Chevalier de Troyes from 
Montreal, with about a hundred Canadians, to execute it. 

This adventurous company ascended the Ottawa, and, 
traversing the wilderness, arrived in the neighborhood of 
the English posts in the spring of 1686. AVith unparal- 
leled audacit}', they attacked and captured the four strong 
posts owned by the Iludson's Bay Company, including the 
shipping which was in the region. Immediately after this 
ex]iloit, De Troyes, leaving one of his subordinates in com- 
mand, returned, and reported his success to Denonville. 

In the mean time, the regular force in Canada had been 
increased to sixteen hundred men, and Denonville resolved 
to fall upon the Seittco nation, and exterminate them. The 
king had sent him one hundred and sixty-eight thou.«and 
livres in money and supplies, and he was in good condition 
to make a successful campaign, which he hoped would set- 
tle the question of Iroquois supremacy, and firmly establish 
the fur trade of the northwest in the hands of the French. 

In the spring of 1687 he assembled his army, consisting 
of regulars, Canadian militia, and Indians, to the number 
of more than two thousand, at Frontenac, preparatory to 
crossing Lake Ontario, for the grand rendezvous at Iron- 
dequoit bav, and on the 4lh of July he embarked his army 
in four hundred bateaux and canoes, and, crossing the out- 
let of Lake Ontario, proceeded along the shore towards the 
appointed rciidexrous. About the 10th, after a tempestuous 
pas.sage, the fleet came in sight of the headlands of Iron- 
de(|uoit bay, and far oft' on the western horizon the army 
descried a multitude of canoes advancing to meet them. 
Tonti had come from Fort St. Louis, in Illinois, with six- 
teen French and two hundred Indians; while La Durantaye 
and Du Lhut, with one hundred and eighty courier des Lois 
and four hundred Indians, had come from Michi/imnckindc 
and the straits of Detroit, to assist in humbling the terrible 
Iroquois. 

Altogether, Indians and French, Denonville found him- 
self at the head of nearly three thousand warriors. 

" All were gathered on the low point which separates 
Iroiidequoit bay from Lake Ontario. ' Never,' says an eye- 
witness, had Canada seen such a sight ; and never, perhaps, 
will she see such a sight again. Here was the camp of the 
regulars, from France, with the general's headquarters ; the 
camp of the four battalions of Canadian militia, commanded 
by the noblesse of the country ; the camp of the Christian 
Indians ; and, farther on, a swarm of savages of every 
nation. Their feathers were different, and so were their 
manners, their weapons, their decorations, and their dances. 
They sang and whooped and harangued in every accent and 
tongue. Most of them wore nothing but horns on their 
heads, and the tails of beasts behind their backs. Their 
faces were painted red or green, with black or white spots; 
their ears and noses were bung with ornaments of iron ; 
and their naked bodies were daubed with figures of various 
sorts of animals."* 

This motley but formidable army advanced in order of 

* Piirknuiii's Kriintt'unc and Ni'w France. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



37 



battle towards the Seneca towns, twenty-two miles to the 
southeast of the bay. They reached the ]ilaco on the .second 
day, and, after a sharp fiirht with a few hundred Seneats, 
took possession of the ground wliere the largest town had 
stood, but which had been fired and abandoned by the 
enemy. The army destroyed all the provisions, and cut 
down immen.se fields of corn, killed great numbers of hogs, 
and laid the country waste for the space of twelve days, 
when it was faced to the north, and returned to the rendez- 
vous' with the loss of five or si.\ men killed, and about 
twenty Wdundcd. The loss of the Seiiecus was stated at 
about forty killed and sixty wounded. 

From Irondequoit bay the army proceeded to Niagara, 
where a strong stockade was built on the spot occupied by 
La Salle's fort, nine years previously. Leaving a hundred 
men under the Chevalier de Troyes, as a garrison, the rest 
of the great army returned to Montreal. 

The succeeding year, ]5ig Mouth, accompanied by six 
Oiiontlaga, Cayiign, and Omitla chiefs, and escorted, it is 
said, by no less than twelve hundred warriors, made a visit 
to Canada, in all probability going by way of La Famine 
or Black River bay, and thence down the St. Lawrence. 

With this powerful body of warriors to back his einbas.sy, 
Big Moutli spoke as became the ambassador of a mighty 
people. lie told the governor that the Indians well knew 
the weakness of the French, and had formed a jilan for 
burning all the houses and barns, and destroying all the 
cattle, after which, they would fall upon the starving in- 
habitants in their forts, and destroy them altogether. The 
crafty old orator pretended that but fur his .s])ccial inter- 
ference, this plan would have been put in execution. 

A declaration of neutrality was drawn up and signed by 
Big Mouth, in which he agreed that within a certain time 
deputies from the whole confederacy should come to Mon- 
treal and conclude a general peace. 

But the Hiirnns were afraid lest they should not be in- 
cluded in the negotiations, and their most celebrated chief, 
Kdii-dla-Tonk, or the Rat, was determined that no treaty 
should be signed which did not include the tribes of the 
lakes in its provisious. He accordingly gathered a party 
of about forty warriors, and came down the lakes to harass 
the Iroquois. 

On his way ho stopped at Fort Fmntcnac, where he 
was tcild tiiat a treaty of peace was then in jirocess 
of arrangement, to which deputies from the Iiotjiiois were 
no doubt at that moment on the way, and that lie had 
better go home. To this he only replied, " If is will." 
Secretly determining that no half-way treaty should be con- 
summated, he laid his plans accordingly. l.icarning that 
the Iroquois embassy were coming overland via La Famine, 
he hastily crossed the lower end of the lake and put his 
men in ambuscade to intercept them. The loe;dity was no 
doubt somewhere on Black llivcr bay. This was in tiie 
summer of 1GS3. 

The wily chief had not long to wait, for an advance 
band of messengers, who were precursors of the embassy, 
soon approached the landing-place. At their head was a 
famous chief named Tegantsorens, with whom came three 
other chiefs and a number of warriors. Scarcely had they 
landed when they received a volle3' from the Iliiroiis, which 



killed one of the chiefs and wounded all the rest. The 
balance of the party were taken prisoners, and the cunning 
Rat told them that this affair was brought about by the 
susraestion of Denunvillc, who had fold him that a war- 
partv was to come that way. When the envoys a.ssured 
him that they came in the interests of peace, he pretended 
to be thunderstruck at the perfidy of the governor. " Go, 
my brothers, " he exclaimed, " go home to your people. 
Though there is war between us, I give you your liberty. 
Onontio has made me do so black a deed that I shall never 
be happy again till your five tribes take a just vengeance 
upon him."* 

Giving them a supply of guns, powder, and ball, he sent 
them on their way plea.sed with his considerate treatment, 
but terribly exasperated at what they deemed the treachery 
of the governor. 

llecrossing the lake, Komliaronk proceeded alone to 
Fort Frontenac, and, as he left the gate to rejoin his party, 
he coolly said, ''I have killed the peace; we shall see how 
the governor will get out of this business, "'j' 

This transaction put an immediate end to the negotiations, 
though the Iroqiioin pretended to believe Denonville's ex- 
planation, and offered to continue the conference. 

But the smothered fires of vengeance in the bosoms of 
the /yv<fyHo/s warriors could not long be restrained. An 
army of fifteen hundred men was raised so (juietly that even 
the English knew nothing of it, and on the night between 
the 4th and 5th of August, 1089, in the midst of a furious 
hail-storm, they pas.sed over the river, and landed at La 
Chine, La Salle's old colony, and at once commenced the 
horrid work of butchering the inhabitants and destroying 
everything on the island outside the strong fortifications. 
It was the most frightful massacre recorded in the history 
of Canada. Nearly the entire island was pillaged and its 
property destroyed. Afler staying a long time without 
being molested seriously, the savages departed, carrying 
more than a hundred prisoners, destined to torture and 
death, and leaving the charred remains of several hundred 
more among the smoking ruins. Terribly had the Iroquois 
been avenged. 

FRONTENAC AGAIN. 

Late in the autumn of IGS'J, Count Frontenac, who had 
been appointed to succeed Denonville, arrived in Canada, 
and found the country in terror and alarm at the fearful 
raid of the Iroquois. 

The upper lake tribes were on the point of abandoning 
the French and going over to the P]nglish and the Imquois, 
and the country was in the utmost peril. 

But the vigorous steps taken by Frontenac changed the 
aspect of affairs. He sent a strong party to the aid of 
Micliilimackinac, and in February, ItiOn, three war-parties 
made attacks on Schenectady, in New Yoi'k, Salmon Falls, 
in New Hampshire, and Pcmma<|uid, in Maine, all of which 
were captured and destroyed. 

In the summer of 1G90, the English colonies planned 
two great expeditions against Canada. One, a naval expe- 
dition, under Sir William Phips, governor of M.i.ssachusetts, 
against Quebec, and the other a land expedition, under Win- 



I'arkinaD. 



■\ Parkman. 



38 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



throp, to proceed, by way of Albany and Lake Champlain, 
against Montreal. Both expeditions were failures ; the one 
against Quebec because of Fronteiiac's ample preparations, 
and the other through dissensions among the leaders. 

During these years of strife and bloodshed it is quite 
probable that raiding-parties often passed through Jefferson 
County, and many a weary prisoner has slept on the banks 
of ]Jlack river, or been barbarously tortured to death beneath 
the forest shades along its banks. 

In 1696, Frontenac resolved on another expedition 
against the Iroquois, and as a jireparatory step he repaired 
and rcoccupied Fort Frontenac, which had been abandoned 
by his predecessor. This done, he mustered a force of about 
twenty-two hundred men, French, Canadians, and Indians, 
and moved up the river from Montreal on the 4th of July. 
He reached Frontenac on the 19th, and on the 26th crossed 
his army over Lake Ontario. Tiie account does not state 
whether the force landed in Jefferson County, but it is at 
least probable, as they crossed the lake in bateaux and In- 
dian canoes, and were two days ia reaching the mouth of 
the Onondaga or Oswego river, and it is not likely that they 
were on the open lake through the night. 

The probabilities favor the supposition that the flotilla, 
leaving Frontenac in the morning, made the Galloo islands 
or some point, perhaps (^Pointe de la Traverse), on the 
mainland in or near Hungry bay, where they landed and 
camped overnight. 

This great expedition was partially successful, in that it 
reached and took possession of the Iroquois capital at Onon- 
daga, south of the present city of Syracuse, and a detach- 
ment under the Marquis de Vaudreuii, of seven hundred 
men, captured ami destroyed the Oneidn towns. The army 
also destroyed all the growing crops, and laid a large tract 
of the country waste ; but the main bodies of the warriors, 
with their families and effects, retreated into the forests to 
the south. 

Returning from this expedition, the army undoubtedly 
camped again in Jefferson County, as on the advance. 

lu 1697 the treaty of Ryswick was signed between the 
English and French, and fur a time the forest warfare ceased 
in the New World between the colonies of the respective 
nations. 

Count Frontenac died at Quebec, November 28, 1698, 
at the age of seventy-eight. He was no doubt one of the 
ablest of the long line of noblemen whom France sent to 
govern Canada. 

Do Collieres succeeded Frontenac as governor, and in 
1701 made a formal treaty with all the Indian tiations at 
Montreal, at which figured consi)icuously the celebrated 
Captain Joneaireand Koii(liiudi)lc,m the /da?, the great chief 
of the IIiiroiiK. the latter of whom died in the night, after 
having made a great speech to the assembled multitudes. 

From this date the Iroquois seem to have gradually be- 
come less formidable both to the French and the contiguous 
Indian nations; and their importance gradually lessened 
until the great expedition by General Sullivan, in 1779, com- 
jiletely humbled them ami reduced them to final submission. 
The following extracts from a letter written by Father 
Charlevoix, a prominent Jesuit, to the Duchess de Lesdi- 
guircs, whili; o:i a voyage from Fnintcnac across Lake On- 



tario, are interesting, as showing what knowledge Europeans 
then had of this region :* 

"Bay of Famink, 16th May. 1721. 

" M.VDAME, — Here am I, detained by a contrary wind, 
which may continue a long time, and keep me more than a 
day, in one of the worst places in the world. I therefore 
attempt to keep oft euiiui by writing to you. There are 
passing here constantly great armies of pigeons, which we 
name turtles ; if one of them would take charge of my 
letters you might know perhaps the news, before I can get 
away ; but the savages have no aversion to dressing these 
birds for food, as do the Arabs and many other peo]ile. 

"I embarked on the 14tli, at precisely the same hour 
that I had arrived at the town of Catarocoui. I had but 
six leagues to go to reach the Isle (lux Chevreiiils, where 
there is a fine port, which can receive large barques ; but 
my Canadians had not visited their canoe, of which the 
sun had melted the pitch in many places, so that it let in 
water at all points, and we were compelled to lose nearly 
two hours for repairs, in one of the islands at the outlet of 
Lake Ontario. We sailed thence at ten o'clock in the 
morning, without being able to reach Isle aux Chevreuils, 
and were forced to spend the night very unpleasantly. 

" I noticed here, for the first time, the vines in the woods. 
There are also small lizards, that climb to the tops of the 
trees. I have not made this remark because they are only 
observed in these places, for I am told they occur as far as 
Mexico. 

" The vines have a very large stock, and bear many 
grapes ; but the berries are very small, not much larger 
than a pea, and for this reason it is not worth cultivating. 
When ripe they are eaten by the bears, who seek them on 
the highest trees. As for the birds, they would soon per- 
form the vintage of the whole forest. 

" I left yesterday at an early hour, and at eleven in the 
morning stopped at the Galloo Islands, three leagues from 
Deer Island, in forty-three and a half degrees of latitude. I 
re-embarked a little after noon, and accomplished a voj-age 
of a league and a half, to reach Foiute dc la Traverse. If 
I had coasted along the mainland to this place, from where 
I passed the night, I should have had more than forty 
leagues to make, and should have been obliged to take this 
course had not the lake been calm ; for when it is agitated 
the waves are as great as on the open sea. It is not even 
possible to coast along when the wind is blowing off sliore. 
From the point of Galloo Islands we can see to the westf 
the river Chouguen, otherwise called the river Onoiitague, 
which is distant fourteen leagues. 

" As the lake was traiii|uil, with no appearance of foul 
weather, and a gentle breeze fiom the east was blowing, 
that barely filled our sail, I resolved to steer direct for this 
river, with the view of saving fifteen or twenty leagues of 
circuit. My attendants, more experienced than I, deemed 
the attempt hazardous, but from complaisance yielded to 
my advice. 



« Translated from the French by Dr. F. B. Hough, 185.1. 

■\ Eviilenlly the reverend falher bad lost his hearing.^, because 
from Point Traverse the Onumlajn river bears soulhivest by south, 
and distant about thirty miles. A direct nest line would carry one 
nenrlv lliu whole leiijilb nf tin- lake. . 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



39 



" The beauty of the country, which was pas^^illl; on my 
left, did not tempt me any more than the sahnon and quan- 
tities of other excellent fisli wliich tliey take in six fine 
rivers, which are two or three leagues from one another. 
We steered off. then, large, and in four hours found our- 
selves in a place we repented, for the wind arose suddenly, 
and we heartily wished ourselves near the shore. We 
turned towards the nearest, from which we were still three 
leagues di.stant, and had much difficulty in reaching it. At 
length, at seven o'clock in the evening, we landed in the 
Boy of Famine, thus named from the Marquis de la Barre, 
the governor-general of New France, nearly losing all his 
army by hunger and sickness in going to war with the 
Iroquois. 

" It was high time that we landed, for the wind was very 
strong, and the waves so great, that we should not have 
dared to pass the Seine in Paris, opposite the Louvre, at 
such a time. In .short, this place is very proper to destroy 
an army, which could only depend upon the chase and upon 
fishing for subsistence ; besides which the air appeare very 
unwholesome. But nothing is finer than the forests, which 
cover all the shores of the lake. 

" The white- and red-oaks tower almost to the clouds. 
There is also a tree of the largest class, of which the wood 
is hard but brittle, much resembling that of the palm-tree, 
and of which the leaves have five angles of the ordi- 
nary size, of a fine gi-een above and whitish beneath. 
They give it the name of Cutoiuiier* because, in a little 
case not larger than an India chestnut, there is a kind of 
cotton, but which is good for nothing. 

" III walking upon the shore of the lake, I noticed that it 
has sensibly receded here. It is noticed that in the space 
of half a league in breadth, the land is much more low and 
sandy than beyond. I have also noticed in this lake, and 
they assure me the same occurs in all the others, almost 
continually a kind of ebb and flow. The rocks which are 
near the bank are covered and exposed several times within 
a quarter of an hour, although the surface of the lake is 
very calm, and there is no wind. After some reflection, I 
imagined that this must come from springs, which exist at 
the bottom of the lake, and from the shock of currents of 
rivers which enter from all sides and which cause the 
intermittent movements. 

" But, can you believe, madame, that at this sea.son, and 
at the forty-third degree of latitude, there are still no leaves 
on the trees, although we somotinics have as much heat as 
you have in July ? This, doubtless, is because the earth 
has been covered with snow for many months, and has not 
yet been sufficiently warmed to open the pores of the roots 
and cause the sap to vise. As for the rest, the Great and 
Little Famine scarcely deserve the name of rivcre ; they are 
mere brooks, especially the latter, yet they abound in fish. 
There are here eagles of prodigious size. My people de- 
stroyed the nest of one that made a cart-load of sticks, and 
had two young unfledged eagles, which were as large as the 
largest turkey-hens. They ate them and found them very 
good. . . . 

" I returned to Catarocoiii. where, the night that I spent 

* Evidently the Pfatanun Ovcideittaiin, or Sycamore. 



there, I was a witness to a very curious spectacle. About 
ten o'clock at night, as I was about to retire, I heard a cry, 
which, they told me, was the war-crj', and soon after I saw 
a band of Missisagues enter the fort, singing. For some 
years these savages have been constantly engaged in the war 
which the Iroquois have carried on with the CJierokees, a 
numerous people who inhabit a fine country south of Lake 
Erie, and from that time their young men have had an 
uncontrollable itching for war. 

" Three or four of these braves, equipped as if for a mas- 
(|uer:ide, with faces painted so as to inspire horror, and fol- 
lowed by all the savages who dwell around the fort, after 
having gone through all the cabins, singing their war- songs 
to the sound of Chickihoe (a kind of gourd, containing little 
pebbles), came to do the same thing in the apartments of 
the fort, in honor of the commandant and the officers. 

" I acknowledge to you, madame, that this ceremony has 
in it .something that inspires horror, when seen for the first 
time, and I have never before felt so sensibly as then that 
I was among barbarians. 

" Their songs are always dismal and gloomy, but here 
they were to the last degree horrid, occasioned perhaps only 
by the darkness of night and the apjiaratus of their festival, 
for such it is with the Indians. This invitation was to the 
IroijHois, wlio, finding the war with the Chcrokees becoming 
tedious, re(juired deliberation, and every one returned 
home. 

" It seems, madame, that in these songs they invoke the 
god of war, whom the JJiirons call ' Arcskoui," and the 
Iroqvois ' Agrcskoue.' I do not know what name the 
Algoiiqnins give him ; but it is not a little remarkable that 
the Greek word --(."r^? (J)cs), which is Mors, and the god 
of war in all those countries which follow the theology of 
Homer, should be the root from whence several terms which 
relate to war in the Huron and Iroquois languages seem to 
be derived. Aregouen signifies to make war, and is thus 
conjugated : Jaregn, I make war ; Sarego, you make war ; 
Arcgo, he makes war. Moreover, Areskoui is not only the 
Mars of these people, he is also the sovereign of the gods, 
or, as they say, of the Great Spirit, the creator and master 
of the world, the genius who governs all things. But it is 
principally in military expeditions that they invoke him, as 
if the attribute that does him most honor was that of the 
god of armies. His name is the war-cry before combat 
and in the heat of engagement ; in marching they often 
repeat it, as if for mutual encouragement and to imploie 
his as.sistance." 

CARLTON ISLAND. 

This island, in a historical point of view, is probably the 
most interesting locality in the county. The date of its first 
occupation is uncertain. Its superficial area is about thir- 
teen hundred acres, and its extreme length a little less than 
three miles. It was originally covered with timber, but a 
large portion of it is now cleared and tilled. The surface 
is gently undulating and the .soil very fertile. 

The rock formation, like that of all this region, is 
Trenton limestone. The highest points are from fifty to 
sixty feet above the river, and the rock escarpment along 
the water is in many places perpendicular. At the head of 



40 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUiNTY, NEW YORK. 



the island are two beautiful land-locked bays or coves, with 
a depth of water sufficient to accommodate large vessels; 
and beyond is a low peninsula occupied by a farm-house 
and garden, and on the extreme northern point of the pen- 
insula is an acre of land, with boat-houses, club-house, etc., 
belonging to a company of young men from some of the 
cities of central New York, who make the place a favorite 
resort during the summer months. Apples, pears, and 
other fruits common to this region flourish luxuriantly. 

The great point of interest is the ancient fortification on 
the high bluff overlooking the river, and which, at the 
time of its completion, was a first-class work. It is probable 
that the French occupied the island at a very early date, 
perhaps as early as 1673, the date of the erection of Fort 
Catariiqiii at Kingston ; and they no doubt erected works 
to protect the harbor. 

At the time of Charlevoix's visit to Canada, in 1721, it 
is spoken of as a point of some importance under the name 
of Me aux Clucieiii/s, or Deer island, though the Jesuit's 



over the waters of the north bay. In addition to this 
natural defense there was an artificial wall of stone, and 
most probably a stockade along the brow, though the latter 
is entirely gone and the former in ruins. Excavations at 
the base of the first shoulder of the cliff would seem to 
indicate magazines or store-rooms, though the main maga- 
zine was located a little north of the centre of the work. 
The length of the gorge-wall is about eight hundred feet. 
The front, looking towards the mainland of the island, was 
defended by a somewhat irregular line of earthworks, With 
a solid parapet, having three unequal faces, with a strong 
bastion on each face, calculated fur four guns, and there 
were guns mounted at intervals between the bastions. The 
ditch was excavated by blasting, or otherwise, through the 
rock to a depth of six feet, and having a general width of 
about twenty feet, though opposite the re-entrant angles of 
the bastions it was about double that width. 

A zigzag wall, built of stone taken from the ditch, ran 
along the front parallel to and distant from the outer wall 



rROM THE J)!TCH::^:^,-!^y 



Fmrf€mnm 




letter, given on another page, is so ambiguous in its geog- 
raphy that it is difficult to determine whether he refers to 
this island or the one now known as Grenadier island. 
The great fortification was most probably constructed by 
the Engli.sh at some period subsequent to the destruction 
of Fort Frontciiac by Colonel Bradstreet in 1758, as there 
is no special mention made of any important works here in 
the French archives. General Amherst oonstnicted the 
heavy works at Crown Point, on Lake Chanijilain, in 1759 
-CO, and as this is a similar work, it may have been built 
about the same time. It is barely po.ssible that it dates 
only to the commencement of the American Revulution, 
but the probabilities are that it is much older. 

It stands immediately on the brow of the high bluff 
overlooking the little j)eninsula and the two harbors below, 
and effectually commands both the channels of the St. 
Lawrence lying south of Wolf island. The gorge, or rear 
wall, was mostly formed by the high cliff at its base, which, 
Ibr about one-half its length, bangs nearly perpendicular 



of the ditch about thirty feet, and the glacis was formed of 
the debris of the ditcli filled in biyoml, making the approach 
of an enemy exceedingly difficult ; the whole glacis and 
ditch being under direct fire from the guns of the parapet. 
The scarp and counterscarp were perpendicular. The ([uar- 
ters appear to have been built along three sides of a paral- 
lelogram, and a low wall of loose stone inclosed the space 
between on the .south and east sides of the quadrangle. 
Originally there were about fifteen buildings within the 
work, as indicated by the immense chimneys, seven only of 
which remain standing. These chimneys were very solidly 
constructed of hammered stone, and were about six feet 
squai:e at the base and twenty feet high. Most if not all 
the chimneys were constructed with two fire-places, on 
opposite faces, and double flues. 

An immense well, ten feet in diameter, and sunk to a 
level with the water, was blasted in the rock a few feet 
from the gorKc-wall. It is at this time filled with rubbish 
to within twenty-five or thirty feet of the top. There were 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



41 



two main sallyports or gateways, one near each extremity, 
on the north and south, and connecting with roads leading 
down to tlic landing ; the road on the south heing a well- 
constructed one with an easy grade, running diagonally 
down the steep bluff to the isthmus connecting the penin- 
sula with the main hoily of the island ; the other running 
down the northern slope of the hill to a little plain below, 
where were probably store-houses and temporary barracks. 
The lime-kiln used in manufacturing the lime with which 
the chimneys were constructed was on this plain near the 
water's edge. The fort, including the ditch, probably 
covered an area of from eight to ten acres, and could 
accommodate a garrison of five hundred men. 

It was according to tlie system of \'auban, and must 
have cost an immense sum. 

The cemetery was on the plain oast of the works, but 
very little remains of the headstones at the present day. 

The relics found in and around the works consi.st of but- 
tons, coins, tomahawks, flints, etc. ; all indicate an English 
or French origin. Mr. Ilorr, of Cape Vincent, has in his 
possession a fine specimen of a tomahawk fnunil in or near 
the fort. 

The island and fortification were no doubt oceujiied by 
the English during the Revolutionary war, and ;is late as 
1799 a detachment from the Kingston garrison was sta- 
tioned here. 

On the breaking out of the War of 1812 the island was 
captured by Abner Hubbard, a Revolutionary soldier, who, 
with a man and boy to help him, took po.sses.sion of the 
works, which were held by threes invalid men and two 
women. The stores were soon after removed to the main- 
land, and the buildings burned. The works were never 
repaired or occupied by the United States Government. 

The following extract from Dr. Hough's " H istory of Jef- 
ferson County" would indicate that the French were at lea.st 
making preparations to erect strong works upon this island 
in the fall of 1758, but were probably prevented from car- 
rying out the design by the virtual surrender of Canada in 
the following year; 

" A manuscriiit is preserved among the Paris documents 
in the archives of the State at Albany that throws some 
light upon the subject, if it does not solve the mystery en- 
tirely. From this it appears that, in November, 1758, the 
Marquis de Vaudreuil, governor of Canada, had drawn up 
a paper on the defenses of that country, which was then at 
war with the English, that was submitted to the Marquis 
de Montcalm for his revision, and met with his entire ap- 
proval. He proposed to send fifteen hundred men to de- 
f'-nd the approaches of Canada on the side of Lake Ontario, 
by the ereclion of a post to be selected at the head of the 
St. Lawrence, and laid out after the plans of M. de Font- 
leroy, who was to be sent for that purpose. The station thus 
chosen and fortified would at the same time become the 
head of the frontier, and entrepot for every military opera- 
tion in that quarter, instead of Frontenac or the bay of 
Kiahoin^, which can never be regarded as such, as the Eng- 
lish might enter the St. Lawrence without exposing them- 
selves or giving any knowledge of their passage. He pro- 
j)Osed to build xebecs instead of barks, as better fitted for 
the navigation of the lake and the transportation of sup- 
. 4 



plies. The place was to ba made susceptible of defense by 
an army, and to have magazines for stores and barracks for 
the lodgment of troops in the winter. A quantity of sup- 
plies was to be sent to Lu Presentation,* consisting of tools 
and implements of all kinds neces.sary to be used against 
Oswego or in the erection of the works. Levasseur and 
Pellegrin, experienced shipwrights, were to be sent up from 
Quebec to advise upon all the details connected with the 
plan of establishing upon the lake an adequate s^'stem of 
defense. Canada |)rcsented at that lime three frontiers,— 
the St. Lawrence, from the Atlantic, Lake Champlain, and 
the west, — each of which claimed a share of attention. It 
was intended that the proposed work should be adequate, 
with those lower down, for the defense of the latter, and it 
was designed to put in command an active, disinterested, 
and capable man to accelerate the work and rendi^r the op- 
erations complete. Such a man the Chevalier de Lery was 
considered to be, and he was accordingly named as the per- 
son to have chief command and direction of the work." 

There is no documentary evidence that this arrangement 
was carried out; but for the fall of Quebec and the collapse 
of the French power in America there is little doubt but 
the plan herein outlined would have been carried to a suc- 
cessful conclusion. It is not altogether improbable that 
the ground-plan was laid out and work commenced, and 
afterwards adopted and completed by the English. 

The following extract from a work entitled " Memoircs 
sur le Canada" shows that the French had a fortified post 
at or near the mouth of Sandy creek towards the last of 
the war of I'T)')-!)!): 

"Meanwhile M. de Vaudreuil, not content with having 
destroyed the munitions of the eneni}' and disconcerting 
their projects upon the lake and their u|iper outposts, re- 
solved to capture C/ioiif/nen,^^ to the end that the colony 
might bo tranquillized on this side and himself left ea.sy on 
the defensive until succors might arrive from France. He 
sent in this direction a detachment of eight hundred men, 
to hold the enemy in check and watch their movements, 
under the command of Sieur de Villiers, captain of the 
marine, and brother of M. de Junionville. This oflScer 
was brave and prudent, capable of executing the most per- 
ilous enterprise, and had always given proof of courage. 
He took possession near a river named Aiix Snliles, where 
he built a small fort of upright stakes on a point where 
the river falls into Lake Ontario. The approach was diffi- 
cult, and concealed from view by bushes, which surrounded 
it, so that one could see but a short distance when on foot. 
He often appeared before the enemy, pillaged their muni- 
tions, and compelled them to take the greatest ])recaution 
in .sending to Cliomjnen their provisions and troops."'^ 

In July, 1758, General Abercrombie made his unsuc- 
cessful attack, with an army of sixteen thousand men, upon 
Ticonderoga, which was defended by the Manpiis de Mont- 
calm. After the withdrawal of the army. Colonel Brad- 
street was detached, at his own request, with a force of 
about three thousand men, to attempt the capture of Fort 

» Ogdcnsburg. t Oswego. 

X In Aujust, 1756. Montcalm hiiil a rcnitrzinm or post on Hender- 
son bay, previously establislicil by De Villiers; here were cbe magn- 
zincs of supplies for tbe expedition against O.-wcgo. 



42 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Froiitonac. in wliicli lie was cnitnontly successCul, tlio place 
being held only by a small garrison, and a great (juaiitity 
of stores and ammunition, heavy guns and small arms, and 
nine armed vessels on the lake fell into the hands of the 
victors, who destroj'ed the works erected by Frontenac and 
La Salle, and rejoined the main army, with very little loss. 
Whether he passed by water from Oswego or marched by 
land to Cape Vincent does not appear, but he probably fol- 
lowed the former route. Nothing of importance in the 
hi.story of the county suKsequently transpired until the 
French settlement in 1704. 



CHAPTER IV. 

HISTORY OP LAND TITLES. 

Tbe Oneida Territory — Treaty with the Oneitlas — Peter Penet — Ma- 
comb's Purchase — Deeds, Transfers, and .Sales — The Chassauis 
Purclinse — Chassnnis Tract Surveys — French SetHeincnt — tirent 
Tract Xo. IV. — Tiie Antwerp Company's Purchase — Purchase of 
Count Survilliers — .Joseph Bonaparte — Lantls South of lilack River 
— Wright's Remarks on llie Eleven Towns — Title of the Islands. 

In Dr. Hough's excellent history of this county, pub- 
lished in 1854, there is an exhaustive article upon the 
various land titles connected with the northern portion of 
New York, and as it is entirely authentic, having been com- 
piled from official documents, we reproduce it, with the 
doctor's revision and annotations to the present time : 

From time immemorial down to a few years after the 
close of the Revolution the title of lands in this section of 
the State was shared in doubtful supremacy by savages and 
other denizens of the forest. At the earliest period of 
authentic history the Jroqiiois eonfcdcracy, and the Oneldii 
nation in particular, were acknowledgixl to be the owners of 
the greater portion of our territory, which, according to 
Gautinoiity, a chief of tlio Osicri/filc/iie tribe, extended as 
far north as a line running from the mouth of French creek 
to Split rock, on Lake Champlain, while the Oswegutcldcs 
claimed the land north as far down the St. I^awrcncc as Cat 
island (Louisville), whore a moiiunient had been erected by 
Sir John Johnson.* The Oiieidax, according to a map and 
survey by Arent Jlarselis, at the request of John Duncan, 
and by order of the surveyor-general, claimed " from the 
' Line of Propeity' reversed, and continued from the Canada 
creek till it comes to a certain mountain called KsoiaJe, or 
the Ice mountain, under which mountain that Canada creek, 
opposite to the old Fort nendriek, heads; from thence run- 
ning westerly to an old foit which stood on tlie creek, called 
Weteriiiffhra Guentere, and which empties into the river 
St. Lawrence about twelv(; miles below Carlton or Buck's 
island, and whicli fort the Omidas took from tiieir enemies 
a long time ago ; from thence running southerly to a rift 
upon the Onondaga river, called Oyiiiileuiiyin, or Ayitiijitn- 
leiiciii/cn (a place remarkable for eel.s), about live miles from 
where the river empties out of the Oneida lake.""}" Marsclis 



• Special mcseago of Ouvoroor Lewis, Asscm. Journnl, 1801-5, p. 

49. The rolntivo claims of the dilTereut tribes to this tract arc sit 
I'orlli in this message. 

•f The origiifal survey bill and loap aie llled in the Statu engineer's 
olBcc, 



was doubtless the first surveyor in the county, and there is 
preserved a traverse of Hungry bay made by him in Sep- 
tember, 1789, which begtin " at a monument or red-painted 
post set up by the Indians as a division-line between the 
Oiioiitlayn and Oiieitla nation ;" from which it would seem 
that the former claimed some right on the eastern shore of 
Lake Ontario. 

TKEATY WITH THE ONEIDAS. 

To extinguish these claims a treaty was held at Fort 
Stanwis, October 22, 1784, with the Six Nations, by which 
all the country east of a line drawn from Johnson's landing- 
place on the Lake Ontario, and keeping four miles cast of 
the carrying-path between that lake and Lake Erie to the 
mouth of Tc/toseroroit, or Buffalo creek, and thence south 
to the north line of Pennsylvania, and down the Ohio, was 
ceded to the United States. The Oneidas were represented 
at this treaty by two chiefs This tribe, by a definite treaty 
held in September, 1788, conveyed the greater part of their 
lands to the State by the following instrument, the original 
of which is preserved in the secretary's office ; it is on a 
sheet of parchment about two feet square, with thirty-five 
seals of the parties, and appended to it is a string of warn- ' 
pum, made of six rows of cylindrical white and blue beads, 
strung upon deer-skin cords. This belt is about two inches 
wide and nearly two feet long. 

"At a treaty held at Fort Schuyler, formerly called Fort Stanwix, 
in the State of New York, by His E.\cellency George Clinion, governor 
of the said State, and William Floyd, Kxra L'llommedieu, Richard 
Varick, Samuel Jones, Egbert Bcns(tn, and Peter Gausevoort, Junior 
(commissioners, authorized for that purpose by nud on behalf of the 
people of the State of New York), with the tribe or nation of Indians 
called the Oneitttiti. It is on the 22d ilay of September, 17S8, cove- 
nanted and concluded as follows : Firvt, the OncithtH do cede and 
grant all their lands to the people of the State of New York forever. 
Secfnnlhjj of the said ceded lands, the following tract, to wit: Begin- 
ning at the Wood creek, opposite to the mouih of the Canada creek, 
and where the line ttf property comes to the said Wood creek, and 
runs thence southerly to the northwest corner of the tract, to bo 
granted to John Francis Pearehe, thence along the westerly bounds 
of the said tract to the southwest corner thereof, thence to the north- 
west corner of the tract granted to James Dean, thence along the 
westerly bounds thereof to the southwest corner of the last mentioned 
tract, thence due south until it intersects a due west line from the 
head of the TU-uadnhti , or Unadilla river, thence from the said point 
of intersection due west until the Deep Spring bears due north, 
thence due north to the Deep Spring, thence the nearest course to 
the Cancserage creek, and thence along the said creek, the Oneida 
lake, and the Wood creek to the place of beginning, shall be reserved 
for the following uses, that is to say : The lands lying to the north- 
ward of a line ]utrallel to the southern lino of the said reserved lands, 
and four miles distant from the said southern line, the Oiivnitii* shall 
hold to themselves and their posterity forever, for their own use antl 
cultivation, but not to be sold, leased, or in any other manner aliened 
or disposed of to others. The OnciftuM nniy from time to lime for- 
ever make leases of the lands between the said parallel line (being 
the residue of the said reserved lands) to such persons, and on such 
rents reserved, as they shall deem proper: but no lease shall be for a 
longer term than twenty-one years from the making thereof, and no 
new lease shall be made until the former lease of the same lands shall 
have expired. The rents shall be to the use of the Oueiti.iM and tiieir 
posterity forever. And tlio people of the State of New York shall, 
from lime to tjme, make provision by law to con:pel the leasees lo pay 
the rent, and in every other respect enable the iiiieidiiH and their pos- 
terity to have the full benelit of their right so to make leases, and lo 
prevent frauds on them respecting the same. And the Oiicittns, and 
their posterity forever, shall enjoy the free right of hunting io every 
part of the said ceded lanils, and of lishiug in all the waters within 
the same, and especially there shall forever remain ungrantod by the 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNT V, NEW YORK. 



43 



people of the State of New York ouc-hnlf mile square &t the distAnce 
of every six mile? of the hinds along the nurtht'rn bounds of the 
Oneida lake, one-half mile in breadth of the hinds on each side of 
Fish creek,* and a convenient piece of land at the fishing place in 
the Onnndnga river, about three miles from whore it issues out of the 
Oneida lake, and to remain as well for the Oneidna and their poster- 
ity as for the inhabitants of said State to laud and encamp on ; but, 
notwithstanding any reservation to the Oneidat, the jteople of the 
State may erect puldie works and edifices as they shall think proper 
at such place or phu-es, at or near the confluence of Wood creek and 
the Oneida lake, a^ they shall elect, and may lake or appropriate for 
such works or buildings lands to the extent of one square mile at 
each place. And further, notwithstanding any reservation of lands 
to the OiieitiitH for their own usi*. the New England Indians (now set- 
tled at Brotherton, under the Reverend Samson Occum), and their 
posterity forever, and the Stockbridge Indians, and their posterity 
forever, and to enjoy the settlements on the lands heretofore gi\on 
to them by the OitcuhiH for that purpose, — that is to say, a tract of 
two miles in brearlth and three miles In length for the New Enghind 
Indians, and a tract of six miles square for the Stockbridge Indians. 
Thirdhf, in consideration of the said cession and grant, tlic people of 
the State of New York do at this treaty pay to the Oneiiiits two thou- 
8:ind dollars in money, two thousand dollars in clothing and other 
go<ids, and one thousand dollars in provisions, and also five hundred 
dollars in money, to be paid towards building a grist-mill and a saw- 
mill at their village {the receipts of which ninneys, clothing, goods, and 
provisions the Oneitint do now acknowledge) ; and the people of the 
State ofNew York shall annually pay to the O'ich/'m. and their posterity 
forever, on the first day of June in every year, at Fort Schuyler, afore- 
said, six hundred dollars in silver; but, if the OtmiduH or their pos- 
terity shall at any time hereafter elect that the wh<ile or any part of 
the said six hundred dollars sliall be paid in clothing or provisions, 
and give six weeks' previous notice thereof to the governor of the said 
State for the time being, then so much of the annual payment shall 
for that time be in clothing or provisions as the Oneidat and their 
posterity shall elect, and at the price which the same shall cost the 
people of the State of New York at Fort Schuyler, aforesaid ; and as 
a further consideration to the OitridaM, the people of the State of New 
York shall grant to the said John Francis Pearche a tract of land: 
Beginning in the line of property, at a certain eedar-tree, near the 
road leading to Oneida, and runs from the said ecdar-trec southerly 
along the line of property two miles; then westerl3' at right angles to 
the said line of property two miles; then northerly at right angles to 
the last course two miles ; and thence to the place of beginning ; which 
the said John Francis Pearche hath consented to accept from the 
Onridas in satisfaction for an injury done to him by one of their 
nation. And, further, the lands intended by the Oneidnn for John T. 
Kirkland and for George W. Kirkland being now appropriated to 
the use of the Oneidtii, the people of the State of New York shall 
therefore, by a gi"ant of other lands, make compensation to the said 
John T. Kirkland and Oeorge W. Kirkland. And, further, that the 
people of the State of New York shall, as a benevolence from the 
Oiicidtis to Peter Penet, and in return for services rendered by him 
to their nation, grant to the same Peter Pentt. of the said ceded lands, 
lying to the northward of the Oneida lake, a tract of land ten miles 
square, wherever he shall elect the same. Ft*intfi/t/, the people of the 
State of New York may, in such manner as they shall deem proper, 
prevent any person, except the Onvidtm, from residing or settling on 
the land so to be held by the Oucidns and their posterity for their 
own use and cultivation; and if any person shall, without the coo- 
sent of the people of the Stale of New York, come to reside or settle 
on the said lands or on any other of the lands so ceded as aforesaid, 
except the lands whereof the Oncidtts may make leases, as aforesaid, the 
Oi eidun and their posterity shall forthwith give notice of such intru- 
sions to the governor of the said State for the time being. And, 
further, the Onfiidan and their posterity forever shall, at the request 
uf the governor of the said State, be aiding to the people of the State 
of New York in the removing of all such intruders, and in apprc- 



* This reservation gave rise to many apprehensions on the part of 
the purchasers, as it was supposed to extenil infn the Boylstun tract, 
i[i Lewis county. The author is not aw.ire h<iw this affair was set- 
tled. The reservation ^T<iuld. it is sail, have covered forty thousand 
aeres, if it extended to the source of that strenm. The patent to 
M vcomb made no reservations in this point, so that the difficulty lay 
between the State and the Indians. 



hcnding not only such intniders, but also felons and all other offend- 
ers, who may happen to be on the said ceded land, to the end that 
such intruders, felons, and other oflTenders may be brought to justice. 

"In testimony whereof, as well the sachems, chief warriors, and 
others of the said Oncidmif in behalf of their tribe, or nation, as the 
said governor and other commissioners of the people of the State of 
New York, have hereunto interchangeably set their hands and affixed 
their seals, the day an 1 year first above written. 

Odagiiskciite, Kavaciiwraga, Pktkr UrsigrETTK, Toyoiiac- 

WEA.VOA, SnONnronLECO, aliaH ASTIIONV, TllACIINI VONCO. TKKKANh- 

YAiiKox, OTSKTonor, Onevaniia, ofiua Bkech-Tkke, Thagiitagii- 

Gtj-ISEA, GACIISAWKnA, TllOTG WE AGIISII A I.E, OjISTAI.AI.E, o/iVm HaX- 
QrAnRr,TnAGIINKGIITOLI.S<i/('i«IlKNnitIrK, KA.VAGIlSALI(.Gil,TllAGil- 
SWKANGALOLIS, ah'aM PaUM'S, A(; W KI.ENTOXGWAS, dh'ua DoMINK 

pKTEn, Kaiiikktotan; TKVornnNiiiAi.K, Koswagai.ot Jonegii- 
Fi.isriEA, nti'iH Daniel, Alawistonis, n^'rMBi-ACKSMiTii, Sagovontiia, 
Kaskongiiguea, Kanawgai-kt, TnANivEANnAGAYON, Kkanvoko, 
aliim David, IlANNAn Sodoi.k, Ho.nonwavele. 

"Gkoiigk Clintov, Ru'ii'n Vaiiick, Peter (Jaxsevoout, Jh., Wm. 
FLOvn, Saml'ei. Jones, Skenonponga, E/ra L'HoiiMEniEtr, Eijuert 
Benson." 

At a treaty held at Koii-on-daimm, New York, Novetn- 
ber 11, 1794, the United States confirmed this treaty ni" 
the Oiif'iihis. 

PETER PENET.t 

In this connection we give a short account of the opera- 
tions of Peter Penet at various periods, which, auionir other 
matters, exphiins how the Oueid'is came to present him the 
ten uiiles square reservation in Jefferson County, and also 
gives the reader considerable insight into the character of 
the adventurer : 

The history of our Indian tribes is diversified by many plans and 
projects in which schemes of ambition and profit were disguised 
under the plausible appearnuce of measures for the public goud. The 
ignorance and credulity of the aboriginal race, vain of personal orna- 
ment, easily won by presents, and grateful for favors, presented an 
inviting opportunity for crafty and selfish men. The early and 
ea nest competition of the French and English colonists for the trade 
and friendship of the natives of North America should have made 
them quite familiar with these artifices; yet we find long afterwards, 
and among a tribe thnt had for nearly two centuries been familiar 
with Euriipeans, a successful attempt at imposition by a plausible 
stranger for purposes of gain or ambition. We refer to the schemes 
of Peter Penet, a Frenchman, among the Oueidua soon after the close 
of the Hevolution. 

Peter Penet, a merchant of Nantes, France, appears to have first 
arrived in America, December lO, 1775. lie came with his partner, 
De Plaisne, from Capo Francois, having letters and credentials of 
character, iintl proposed to undertake to supply arms and munitions 
to the colonies or to congress through their business connections in 
France. Having received orders for a large number of cannon and 
small arms, Mr, Penet left America in March, 1770, for Fnincc. lie 
was intrusted with letters to our agents abroad. Ue returned to 
Philadelphia without fulfilling his contract. 

About two years later we find Mr. Penet petitioning congress for 
encouragement in the establishiueut of an armory ; and January 2, 
1770, the committee to whom the petition of Messrs. Penet and Cou- 
loux proposing to estaldish a manufactory of firearms had been 
referred made a favorable report. 

They proposed to contract for one hundred thousand muskets and 
bayonets, at tweoty-six and a half livres each in specie, of which 
twenty thousand were to be delivered in two and a half years, and 
the rest in seven years. This arrangement was never carried into 
effect, probably from the inability of Penet to meet his part of the 
engagement. Peoet is next heard from operating upon the confi- 
dence of the governors of New York and Pennsylvania, by offering 
for sale some new discoveries, — a cheap metal for sheathing ships and 
a mastic for preserving iron from rust, — but in neither instance did 
he succeed in his negotiation. 

f Kindly furnished by Dr. Hough. 



44 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



At aliout this porioil Pimt was cin|ilovc<l by the State of Virginia 
to borrow money in France. We bave met wilb no statement uf the 
success uf this effort. The next trace we fiuil of this adventurer is in 
ITS."!, whin his niinie appears in the Albany county clerk's office 
records as a purchaser of "a certain messuage and lot (in his actual 
possession now being) in the city of Schenectady." In 1787 we find 
him mentioned as a tr-ader with the Omiil'm in their village near 
Oneida lake, and among a portion of these people he acquired a great 
ascendency, lie originated a jilan of govcrnnjent for the tribe, and, 
having established himself as chief of llio tribe, he pretended upon 
one occasion to have dreamed that the Indians had given him a tract 
of land ten miles square lying upon the north shore of Oneida lake. 

iMr. I'cnet was one of the witnesses of the Onondaga treaty signed 
at Fort Schuyler on the 12th of September, 178S. At this treaty the 
Oiieidnt agreed to cede all land north of Oneida lake and Wood 
creek, excepting certain reservations along the banks for fishing pur- 
poses, upon consideration "that the commissioners would .agree to 
make a compensation to Mr. Penct out of it for his benevolence and 
services to them." The land chosen by Mr. Penet, through his attor- 
ney and agent, was located upon the St. Lawrence river at the pres- 
sent village of Clayton. The square is included in the present towns 
of Clayton and fjrieans, and was of course excepted from the great 
sale to Macomb in I 791. The land commissioners ordered a survey 
of the tract on August .'', 1789, and a return was made in November 
ot that year. Pi net, by an instrument dated January 23, 1789, 
having made Mr. Duncan his attorney, the latter, on the lUth day of 
November of that year, received a patent for the tract. On July 13, 
1790, Duncan conveyed to James Watson and James Greenleaf, of 
New York, for the nominal sum of five shillings. We cannot here 
trace the chain of title by which it was confirmed to actual settlers. 
The greater part, after diverse trusts and conveyances, came into the 
hands of the la!e Jidin La Farge, formerly of Havre, France, but sub- 
sequently a prominent c.a|iitalist of New York city. For many years 
after the settlement of the surrounding lands there was no resident 
agent, and at length it came to be regarded as the common property 
of whoever might choose to settle upon it. This belief attracted a 
large crowd of irresponsible squatters, who cut timber, cleared lands, 
and made potash, without regard for title other than that given 
by actual oceujiation. Thus arose difficulties of no common magni- 
tude in the quiet assumption of title by those holding the legal right 
to the soil. But Mr. La Farge proved equal to the occasion, and did 
not hesitate to employ the legal remedies suited to his needs, and he 
at length succeeded in compelling the settlers to acknowledge and 
icspect hi^ title. A man less scrupulous or less artful would have 
certainly failed in his undertiiking. 

Of the subsequent history of Peter Penet little is known, excepting 
that he visited the island of St. Domingo, and there represented to 
the people that he was the owner of all the land lying north of Oneida 
lake in the State of New York. He exhibited maps, upon which a 
large fortified city was represented upon the northern bank of the 
lake, and induced large numbers to invest in land. During the 
winter of 1791 several of these unfortunate persons were met by 
members of the Cnslorland Company in the city of New Y'ork. 
They are spoken of in the journal kept by that company as disheart- 
ened, and many of them so poor as to be unable to return to their 
homes. One is said to have committed suicide. 



MACOMB S PCUCIIASE. 

The office of land couiiiiissioncrs was created in 178G, 
and they were clothed with discretionary powers in selling 
tilt; utiapjiropriated lands of the State. The manner in 
which they exercised this trust has liccn made the subject 
of severe censure. On .lime 22, 1791, Alexander Macomb, 
of the city of New Y'oik, acting as the agent of a company 
said to consist of liiiiisclf, Daniel McCurinick, and William 
Constable, all of New York, applied for the purchase of a 
tract of land since known ua Macomb's Purchase,* 



• Full details of this purchase, with a copy of his applications, 
may be found ip the History of St. Lawrence and Franklin Coun- 
ties, p. 252, c( «c'/., by Pr. Uough. 



embracing the greater part of Franklin, the whole of St 
Lawrence, excepting the " ten towns " and Ma.s.sena, the 
whole of Jefferson (excepting Penel's square and Tibbet"s 
point ), the whole of Lewis, and a part of Oswego counties. 
This proposition included the islands in Lake Ontario and 
the St. Lawrence, fronting the tract, and excepted five per 
cent, for roads, and all lakes of greater area than one thou- 
sand acres. The proposed price was eight pence per acre. 
Oiie-.sixth part was payable in one year, and the residue in 
five equal annual installments. If one-sixth were secured 
by satisfactory bonds, and paid, and another sixth in like 
manner secured, Macomb was to receive a patent for a sixth 
part, in a square, in one of the corners of the tract, and the 
same rule was to be observed throughout, until the whole 
was paid. Carlton, or Buck's, island and the Long Sault 
island were expressly reserved to the State. This proposi- 
tion was accepted, and the surveyor-general was directed to 
survey the tract at the expense of Macomb. On Janu- 
ary 10, 1792, he lepiirtod that the conditions had been 
complied with, and that day a pateiit| was issued to 
Macomb for one million nine hundred and twenty thousand 
acres, reserving eight hundred acres to be located by the 
surveyor-general. J This included the whole of the tract 
not in the jiresent counties of Franklin and St. Lawrence, 
an uncertainty existing in relation to the islands in the St. 
Lawrence ; these were patented after the national boundary 
had been determined, and to other parties. The reserva- 
tion stipulated to Penet was confirmed by the following 
proceedings of the land commissioners : 

" At a meeting of the commissioners of the land-office of the State 
of New York, held at the secretary's office in the city of New York 
on Saturday, the eighth day of August, 1789. Present, his Excel- 
lency George Clinton, Esq., governor: Lewis A. Scott, Esq., secie- 
tary : Richard ■\'arick, Esq., attorney-general : and Gerardus Baneker, 
treasurer. 

" HfiHith-eit J That the surveyor-general be directed to laj* out for 
Peter Penet, and at his exjiense, the lands ceded by the Oiteidft nation 
to the people of this State, by their dee^i of cession dated the twenty- 
second day of September last, lying lo the northward of Oneida lake, 
a tract of ten miles square, wherever he shall elect the same ; and 
further, that he lay out for John Francis Pearehe, and at bis cx- 
jiense, a tract of land stipulated by the said deed of cession to be 
granted to him," etc., referring to a tract two miles square in Oneida 
county.? 

On November 19, 1789, the following action was taken : 

*■ The surveyor general, agreeable to an order of this board of (he 
8th of August last, having made a return of survey for Peter Penet, 
of a tract of ten miles square, as elected by Johu Duncan, his agent 
(of the lands ceded by the Onckhi nation of Indians to the people of 
this State, by their deed of cession, dated the twenty-second day of 
Seiitcmber, 1788), lying to the northward of Oiieiila lake, as by the 
said return of survey filed in the secretary's office will more fully 
appear. And the said John Duncan having as agent aforesaid made 
application to the board for letters patent for the same, 

'• Jiestifvtif, therefore, that the secretary do prepare letters patent to 
the said Peter Penet for the said tract of ten miles square accord- 
ingly, and lay them before the board for their approbation. "[| 



t Secretary Office Patents, b. 23, p. 160. 

I This was selected on Tibbct's point in Cape Vincent, at the out- 
let of the lake, which was patented to Captain Johu Tibbels, of Troy, 
and never formed a |>art of Macomb's purchase. It embraced but 
six hundred acres, as surveyed by John Campbell in the fall of 
1799. 

J Land Office Minutes, vol. ii.»p. oG. 

II lb., p. 80. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



45 



SIMON DESJARDINES. 

Peter Pcnet, by an instrument dated Jan. 23, 1789,* 
made John Duncan his attorney, and the latter received, 
Nov. 19, 1789, a patentf for a tract ten miles square, 
which on July 13, 1790, he conveyed;); for the nominal 
sum of five shilling.^ to James Watson and James Green- 
leaf, of New York. Feb. 2G, 179'), Watson released^ to 
Greeuleaf his half of the tract for .£1000 ; the latter having, 
Sept. 4, 1797, conveyed by deed the 64,000 acres to Simon 
Desjardincsll fur £19,400.Tf 

De.^jardincs conveyed to Nicholas Olive, of New York, 
Jan. 29, 179G, and the latter to Herman Lc Roy, William 
Bayard, and James SlcEvers, 4 1,000 acres of this tract, 
in trust as joint tenants lor certain heirs, of whom Mallett 
Prevost was entitled to 8000 acres ; John Lewis Grenus to 
12,000 acres; Henry Finguorlin, Jr., 8000 acres. At the 
time of this conveyance Olive helil these lands in trust, and 
16,000 acres in his own right. A deed of partition be- 
tween the proprietors was executed May 17, 1802,** ac- 
cording to a division by ballot, as follows: N. Olive, 
16,000; J. L. Grenus, 12,000; II. Finguerlin, Jr., 8000; 
A. M. Prevost, 8000 acres, making 44,000 acres, which 
with 8000 to Louis Le Guen, and 12,000 to John Wilkes 
pn^viously conveyed by ()live,ff made 61,000 acres on the 
whole tract. After the deed of partition, and on June 11, 
1802, the proprietors released to one another the quantity 
allotted to each, as follows: John Wilkes and Louis Le 
Guen, to liO Roy, Bayard, and iMcEvers, of 44,000 acres; 
L., B., & M., and Louis Le Guen, to John Wilkes of 12,- 
000; and L., B., & M., and J. Wilkes to L. Le Guen of 
8000 aercs.++ 

Nicholas Olive, in his will, made his wife and Ilenr}' 
Cheriot his executors, and his widow afterwards married 
Simon Louis Pierre. Manjuis do C'ubieres, of Paris, who 
with his wife did, May 9, 1818, appoint L., B., and M. to 
convey to Provost. Grenus, and Finguerlin their several 
shares. The latter. May 20, 1817, directed L., B., and 
JM. to convey to Joseph Russell and John La Farge. Le 
Roy and Bayard deeded to John Henry and Edmund 
Wilkes 16,000 acres, Sept. 23, 1818, and the latter to 
John La Forge, April 14, 1823,§§ having received May 9, 
1818, from the Marquis do Cnbieres and wife, a power of 
attorneyllll for the purpose. Le Roy and Bayard conveyed 
12,0(10 acres Nov. 23, 1818,'and to Ru.sscll and La Farge 



• Sco. office deeds 22, p. 277. J Not recorded. 

t lb. piiteiits 21, p. -107. i See. office deeds 38, p. ;i50. 

II Sec. office deeds .18. p. :i44. 

^ The Caslorlaiul Jouinul of diite August .'iO, 179t, gives the fol- 
lowing account of the origin of Desjiirdiues' connection with this 
title : Mr. Olive and his associates having dcteruiiQcd to purchase 
Penet Square, the purcliasc was uiade in my name, as having the 
riglU to hold lands, and ttiese gentli-incn promise M. Pharou.\ and 
myself a tenth part of the hcuetits for tlie attention that we give them 
in this business. 8imo.v De^iaudi.ves. 

■ «> JcB'. Co. deeds, rec. Dec. H, 1S21. 

ft Olive conveyed, Oct. 15, 1800, SUOO acres to Henry Cheriot (sec. 
deeds 38, p. .•!47), and C. to John Wilkes the same, Oct. 16, ISOO (ih. 
p. 4;i2). 

XX .Iclferson Co. deeds, rec. June 18, 182j. 

JJ Jeff, deeds, rec. June 2:i, 1821. 

nil lb., rec. Oct. 2;!, 181S. 



8000 acres, Sept. 23, 1818.^ Joseph Russell released his 
half of these 8000 acres Dec. 12, 1818.^1 John Wilkes to 
Charles Wilkes Jan. 1, 1818,*** sold 8000 acres, and the 
latter the same to La Farge, June 3, 1825.*** By these 
conveyances Mr. La Farge became the owner of the greater 
part of Penet Square ; but he allowed the lands to be .sold 
for taxes, and his claims were subsequently confirmed by a 
comptroller's deed from Win. L. Marcy, Alay 13, 1828. 

On Nov. 2.'i, 1819, Francis Depau bought fifteen lots 
(21 to 25, 41 to 45, 56 to 60), for 8l2,Ol)(l,ttt excepting 
parts sold to Samuel Rugglos. In our account of Orleans ■ 
will be given a detail of the incgulaiitii'S growing out of 
occupation without title, and the ciinHii;tiiig claims which 
continued many years, and produced much difficulty. 

The whole of Macomb's contract WiLS estimated to con- 
tain, after deducting five per cent., 3,(!70,715 acres, and 
was divided into five tracts. Tract No. 1 contained 821,819 
acres, and is wholly in Franklin county. No. 2 embraced 
553,020 acres, or the present towns of Parishville, Colton, 
Hopkinton, Lawrence, Brasher, and a small part of Mas- 
sena, iti St. Lawrence county. No. 3, the remainder of St. 
Lawrence county south and west of the ten towns, or 
458,222 acres. No. 4 contained 450,950 acres in Jeffer- 
son County, it being, with the exception of Penet's Square 
and Tibbet's Point, all of that county north of a line drawn 
from the .southwest corner of St. Lawrence county, north 
87° west, to Lake Ontario. No. 5 (2(;,25l) acres) and No. 
6 (74,400 acres) furnied the rest of the purcliase ; the di- 
vision line between which numbers w;ls never surveyed. 
Soon after perfecting his title to a portion of his tract, Ma- 
comb employed William Constable (who is .said to have 
been, with Daniel McCormick, the principal proprietor) ;is 
his agent to sell lands in Europe; and, on June 6, 1792, 
he released, and October 3, 1792, conveyed to him the 
whole of tracts 4, 5, and 6, for £50,000. |];J Macomb had 
become involved in speculations, by which he lost his prop- 
erty, and was lodged in jail ;§§§ and his name does not subse- 
quently appear in the tran.sfers of land. He had been a 
fur-trader in Detroit, afterwards became a merchant and 
capitalist in New York, and was the father of the late 
General Macomb, of the war of 1812. 

THE CIIASSANIS PUIICUASK. 

The first direct measure taken for the actual settlement 
of the section of the State embraced in Jefferson County 
was in 1792. On August 31, William Constable, then in 
Europe, executed a deed to Peter Chassaiiis, of Paris, for 
630,000 acres south of Great Lot No. 4, which now con- 
stitutes a part of Jefferson and Lewis counties. A tract in 
Leyden, previously conveyed to Patrick Colquhoun and 
William Intnan, was excepted. Chassauis acted as the 
" agent for the a.ssociated purchasers of lands iu Jlontgom- 
ery county," and the lands were to be by him held in trust 
for the use of the said William Constable, and disposed of 
by sections of one hundred acres each, at the rate of eight 

«[«{ lb. rec. Oct. 5. 1819. 

s-s-s Jeff. Co. rec. June 18, 182J. ftt Jen'. Co. deeds, N. 605. 

XXX Secretary's Office, Deeds 24, pp. ."illO and TM, August 2, 17il2. 
§^^ See History of St. Lawrence and Fr.anlilin Countie?, (). 212. 
llou.'l), 1854. 



46 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



livros Tournois* per acre ; in wliitli said conveyance it is 
declared tliat tlie said Chassanis siiould account for the 
proceeds of the sales to Constable, according to the terms 
of an agreement between them, excepting one-tenth thereof. 
The State reservations for roads, etc., were stipulated. A 
deed fur 025,000 acres having been made from Constable 
to Chassanis, and delivered as an escrow to Rene Lambot, 
to take effect on the paj-mcnt of £52,000, it was agreed 
that the price for tliis land should be one shilling per acre. 
Constable bound himself to procure a perfect title, to be 
authenticated and deposited with the Consul-General of 
France, in Philadelphia ; and Chassanis agreed that the 
moneys received by Lambot should be remitted to Ran.som, 
Moreland & Ilamuierslcy, in London, as received, subject 
to Constable's order, on presenting the certificate of Charles 
Te.Kier, consul, of his having procured a clear title. If the 
sales .shall not have amounted to £02,750, the balance 
should be paid in six, nine, and twelve months, in bills 
upon London. Constable granted, for one month, the right 
of pre-emption to Tract No. 4, at the rate of one shilling 
sterling, payable in three, six, and nine months from the 
date of the deed, as above. 

The plan of the association contemplated by this com- 
pany is set forth in the following document, which we 
translate from an original copy, printed in Paris in 1792, 
ill the po.ssessiou of William C. Pierrepoiit, who has kindly 
permitted it to be used for this work. It is very probable 
that the stonny period of the French revolution that soon 
followed prevented its execution : 

" A.SS0CI.\TION/./r Ihe pnichuac nml nellleineiil o/60n,000 arrfm,/ land 
ijrmittd hji the State iif A'ew Yurh, nnd aitmited within that Sttile lie- 
Iweeii the Md dcij. and Hlh deg. u/lulitndr, upon Ijoke Oiilan'n, and 3o 
Ua</ne9 ffniit the city and part of AWantj, where vegii-h land from 
Enrapc. 

" .Miiny ile'Bils suggcstrd by the confideriition of the internal and 
e.\tornal advantages of this vast and rich domain, of which wc have 
direct knowledge, has led to a plan of dcvclojiing its resources and of 
presenting the ."peculation to Kuropeans. It is to be noticed that this 
tract presents, in its fertility, all the wealth of agriculture : by the fine 
distribution of its waters, the facilities for an extended commerce; by 
its location in the immediate vicinity of a dense population, security 
to its inhabitants; and hy the laws of a people independent and rich 
with their own capital, all Iho benefits of liberty without its drawbacks. 
These incontestable facts, developed without art and declared in a 
public notice, may be easily proved by simple inspection of the geog- 
raphy and a general acquaintance of the State of New York. Be- 
lieving that the value of this vast domain would be enhanced by the 
activity of cultivation and setilcinent, the proprietors have united in 
attempting the formation of a family in some way united by common 
interests and common wants, and, to promote the success of Ibis meas- 
ure, they hero offer an account of the origin and plan of their associ- 
ation. To maintain this essential unity of interests, the projectors 
have devised a plan that renders each member directly interested in 
the properly, ami require that a division shall be made by lot that 
thall give at once a title to lilly acres individually, and to filly in a 
portion that shall remain common and iindivideil until a li.vcd period; 
and, that these subdivisions may operate in a reaily iiiid economical 
manner, they have adopted a form of cerlificatc [/«/m< d' Avtian] to 
the bearer as best combining the desired features and advantages of 
being evidences of the first title of purchase and the undivided por- 
tion, and of partaking of the nature of an authentic title. In conse- 
quence, they have purchased this estate, and agreed thai it should be 
done in the name of Sieur Chassanis, in whom they have united their 
contidence, and whom they have authorijed to sign the certificates. 
lie is to receive the funds to be credited to each as titles of property, 

' Equal to $l..'jO 



and furnish declarations to those who desire. Subsequent to the pur- 
chase, the parties interested have established the following rules, 
which shall be the common law of the holders of cerlificates as insep- 
arable from the title resulting. These rules are divided into two 
sections, the one including the articles essential to title, and the un- 
alterable law of the propriett'rs, the other embracing the provisional 
rules anil regulations of the common interest. 

" Skctiox 1. Article 1. The flOll.UOO acres of land, which Peter 
Cha.isanis has purchased of Win. Constable {in which are reserved five 
acres in each HlO), shall be subdi\'ided into tlOOO portions, including 
the fractional portions. 

** Art. 2. A direct title shall be given ujion application by (he 
holders of certificates, in their own name. 

" Art. 3. These certificates shall bo of the following form : 

'* Title af the aHHttciatian ttf the New Yta'k ctnnpain/ in the pnrehanc of 
000,000 acrCH af land in Manlf/ninerif crtnnti/. Slate af \cic Yark : 

" ' The bearer of this certificate has paid the sum of eiijht hnndrcd 
' liereHf which renders him the owner of a hundred acres in six hun- 
' dred thousand acres which have been sold to us as representatives of 
' ihe company of Proprietors [Companie dcs .Actionnairen] according 
' to the present contract, which requires us to pass the necessary 

* titles of this portion of the estate in favor of the holder of this cer- 

* tificatc whenever he may wish lo receive it in his own name. The 
'jtresent certificate is for an integral part and a fraction of the pur- 

* chase above mentioned, by virtue of which the bearer is entitled to 
'all the rights of this association, of which the articles and rules are 
Mixed by the terms of agreement annexed to this common title. 

'* ' This certificate bears the number . In evidence of which 

* it has been signed by myself, countersigned by the commissioners of 
' the company, and inspected by M. Lambut, notary. 

•' ' Pari: thia af .' 

*' These shall remain deposited in the hnnds of M. Lambot, notary, 
at Paris, who shall make the distribution alter the inspection and 
signature, of which we shall speak hereafter. The jirice of a certifi- 
cate shall remain fixed at SOO livres, which shall be paid into the hands 
of M. Lambot. Of this sum one-tenth part shall be placed at the dis- 
posal of the trusties to defray the expenses of the concern, such as 
jiurchasing of tools, materials, provisions, the opening of roads, neces- 
sary fi.xtures, surveys, anil explorations. The nine other tenths shall 
belong to the seller, who shall convey, after the transfer has been duly 
made by William Constable, in America, a title with all the formal- 
ities required by the usages of the country. This reinittiince shall be 
made by the depository, directing the sums received to Messrs. Ran- 
som, Moreland & Hammcrsley, bankers, in London, in drafts upon 
that city, which shall be sent as received, without waiting the return 
of titles, but till that time that the said Wm, Constable shall not draw 
from the hands of the said bankers in London. 

"Art. b. The 600,000 acres shall be divided into 12,000 lots, of 50 
acres each, of which six thousand shall be divided and set apart in 
the beginning for individual properties, and six other thousand shall 
belong to the company, who shall ultimately lake measures for in- 
creasing its value, and for a division after the manner hereinafter 
mentioned. 

"Art. 6. Each holder of certificates shall have one separate lot, and 
one in common and undivided stot;k. 

'* Art. 7. The 30,000 acres additional, resulting from the reserva- 
tions in the above tract, shall be divided as follows: two thousand 
acres in the formation of a city, in the interior of the tract, on the 
banks of the great river that traverses the concession. — 2000. 

•* Two thousand acres besides, to the founding of a second city, 
ujion the banks of I^ake Ontario, at the mouth of the river upon 
which Ihe first city shall lu' built lo serve for a port and entrepot of 
coniinercc. — 2000. 

"Six thousand acres shall be divided among artisans, who shall be 
distributed in the settlements, such as masons, carpenters, locksmiths, 
and joiners, to be charged to them alter seven years, by paying a 
rent of livelve sous per acre. — 6000. 

"The twenty thousand acres remaining shall be expended in the 
construction of roods and bridges, or disposed of as the society may 
direct.— 20,000. 

"Art. 8. The location of Ihe two cities shall be divided into 11,000 
lots, of which 2000 shall be reserved for markets, and edifices, such 
as churches, schools, and other public establishments, and for poor 
artisans, who shall be desirous of locating there. The 12,000 remain- 
ing lots shall be divided into two classes, the one of separate and the 



HISTORY OF JKFFERSOX COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



47 



other of undivided ownership. One lut of each class shall belong to 
each owner of certificntcs. 

" Art, 9. The choice of divide<l lots, in the country as well as in the 
cities, shall belong to the holders of certificates, in the or<Ier of the 
dates of the presentation of their titles, hy themselves or their author- 
ized agents to the trustees of the coinjiaii}'. 

'^ Art. 10. The trustees of the coiupany shall make upon the spot, 
before the terra of seven years, a report of the property remaining in 
eoniniou, and its condition ; of the improvements of which it is sus- 
ceptible, and an estimate of its value. After this report there shall 
be made a division into COOO lots, which shall be designated on a plan. 
The trustees shall advertise three mouths in advance of drawing, 
which shall be done in a general assembly, by those only who shall 
have declared a fortnight before the drawing, that they wished to 
take part in the same. Those who do not make this declaration, shall 
bo deemed to have chosen the continuation anil non-division of the 
common property. 

*' Art. 11. The holders of certificates, who remain in uionnion, shall 
regulate in a general assembly their particuhir interests, as well for 
the care of lands which remain with them as for selling them, as they 
may decide. 

*' Art. 12. After the drawing, the society shall no longer e.vist, 
except among such as do not take part in it; the certificates shall be 
furnished to those entitled, eont-aining :i title and adjudication of their 
lots. 

" Art. 13. The afl'airs of the comjiany shall be managed by trustees, 
living in Paris, three in number, and by at least two other trustees, 
residing upon the tract. These diiferent trustees shall bo in regular 
correspondence, and shall bo chosen by an absolute majority of the 
general assembly. These meetings shall be held in Paris, and every 
owner may attend and assist by himself or by pro.\y. Each share 
shall entitle to one vote, yet no person shall have more than five votes, 
whatever the number of shares he may possess. 

** Art. 14. All the articles aforesaid, are essential to the cvistenee of 
certificates, and can be modified only in a general assembly, convened 
uil hoc. and by a majority of two-thirds. 

*'Skctio.\ II. (jocentmritt. Artirle 1. Witliin one month, there 
shall bo held a meeting of the subscribers, at tlie rooms of the said 
Sieur Chassanis, at Paris, No. 20, Hue de In JimHinnne, for the election 
of trustees. 

"Art. 2. The trustees, residing in Paris, shall have the charge of 
proving the certificates, with the depository, and of personally exam- 
ining each, to guard against errors ; the notary shall also compare 
them as received, and paid, after which they shall be signed by the 
said Sleur Chassanis, to be delivered to the shareholders. Conse- 
(juently no certificate shall be issued uutil after these inspections antl 
signatures, and the subscribers shall in the mean time only receive a 
provisional receipt of deposit. 

•• An. 3. To guard against all errors in distriltutiim. the certificates 
shall bo registered by their numbers, by Sieur Chassanis, upon their 
presentation by the holders, and the record kept in his oflice, and 
without this entry, of which notice shall be written upon the certifi- 
cate by the said Sieur Chassanis, or by the one whom the trustees 
shall appoint for the purpose, no bolder of certificates shall be ad- 
mitted to the meetings, nor have right to take his chance in the 
selection of his location. 

"Art. i. The trustees, designated for removal to America, shall be 
the bearers of the instructions, and of the general powers of the as- 
sembly ; shall survey the land, decide upon the location of the two 
cities, and there prepare for the company, within three months from 
their arrival, a report of their exaibinations and labors, with a de- 
tailed plan of the common property. 

"Art. 5. Trustees shall be chosen from among the holders of cer- 
tificates. 

"Art. 6. The trustees shall decide the location of the fifty acres 
which shall belong originally to each certificate, after which the 
holders shall have the right of choice. 

** Art. 7. The locations shall be marked upon the two registers, in 
the hands of the trustees in America, who shall retain one and trans- 
mit the other annually to the general as.-cmbly in France. 

" .Irt. 8. The titles directed to be delivered to the holders of cer- 
tificates, who make known their wish, shall contain a declaration by 
Sieur Chassanis, that in his general purchase, there belongs a certain 
portion (o * * * as his own, in accordance with a common title, and 
a social regulation of which he is a party : this declaration shall bear 



the number of the certificate, which shall remain attached, under pain 
of forfeiture of the action, even though the certificate had been pre- 
viously canceled, and this title shall not be complete till after the 
registration of the trustees to whom it shall be presented. 

"Art. 9. The trustees in America shall be clothed with a similar 
power by Sieur Chassanis, for granting like titles to those who require 
it. This power shall be granted after a model of the declaration, for 
the purpose of securing uniformity of registry, 

•' Art. 10. All decisions and acts of the company done in France, as 
relates to trustees, have no need of public formality when they are 
legalized by the minister or other public functionary of the United 
States, residing in France. 

** Art. 11. There shall be delivered, npr>n demand, a duplicate of 
title to the holders of certificates, containing a copy of the original, 
and in it shall be mentioned that it is a duplicate." 

CHASSANIS Ttt.^CT-SUaVEYS. 

The agreement of Constable and Clias.saiii.s, of August 
30, 1792, was canceled, and the tract reconveyed March 
25, 1793, in consequence of the amount falling .short, upon 
survey, far beyond the expectation of all parties. On April 
12, 1793, Constable conveyed 210,000 acres, by deed, for 
£25,000, to Cha.ssani.s, since known as T/ie Chussdiiis 
Ti-uct, Castt/ilaiul, or The Ficiich Cuinpaiiy's Land, 
bounded north by No. IV. of Macomb's purchase, south 
and west by Black river, and east by a line running north, 
nine miles, froiu a point near the High falls, and thence 
northeasterly on such a course as might include 210,000 
acres. 

On April 11, 1797, Chassanis appointed Rodolph Tillier, 
"member of the sovereign counsel of Berne," his attorney, 
" to direct and administer the properties and affairs con- 
cerning Castorland, to follow all which relates to the sur- 
veying and subdividing of this domain, as well as to its 
improvement, clearing, and ainolioration ; to make the use- 
ful establishments ; make all bargains with settlers, artists, 
and workmen ; make all payments and receipts ; give and 
take receipts ; pa.ss all title of property, to the profit of 
those who will have acquired lands forming part of Castor- 
land ; to put, or have them put in possession of the said 
lands ; sell of these hinds to the amount of ten thousand 
acres, cither paid down for, or on credit, but in small par- 
cels of a hundred or two hundred acres at most." In case 
of death, NichoUis Olive was to succeed him. On February 
18, 1797, a new agreement w;is made bstween Constable 
and Tillier, conveying the Castorland tract to Chassanis, 
after the survey of William Cij>;kburn & Son, of Pough- 
ke^psie, in 1799, and giving with greater detail the bounds 
of the tract. The former conveyances made the north and 
east bank of the river the boundary, but in this the centre 
of the channel Wius agreed upon. On March 6, 1800, 
Constable deeded to Chassanis, for one dollar, a tract of 
30,000 acres in the eastern corner of tract No. IX., which 
was afcarwards subdivided into twenty-sjven lots, and con- 
veyed to James Le Ray. Cockburn's survey divided the 
purchase into six very unequal tracts, formed by the inter- 
section of the principal lines and the river. Tiie tract was 
subdivided by Charles C. Rrodhead and assistants,- in 
1794. John Cantine, Philip R. Freys. Peter Pharoux, 
and Renoni Newman were among his surveyors. In di- 
viding the tract, the line running north from the High falls 
was assumed as the cardinal line, from which ranges were 
counted east and west. An east and west Hue, crossing the 



48 



lIISTOilY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



othor nine miles from the falls, was fixed as a second car- 
dinal, from which rang&s were reckoned north and south. 
The ranges extended to nineteen east, fifty-one west, twenty- 
seven north, and about nine south ; and the lots included 
450 acres c:ich, except those on the margin. These were 
again subdivided into nine square lots, of fifty acres each, 
which were numbered from 1 to 4828. This system of 
numbering has .since been observed in designating the loca- 
tion of lands. 

Mr. Brodhead was a native of Pennsylvania, and had 
held the rank of captain in the Revolution. He was em- 
ployed by Tillier, through the influence of Edward Liv- 
ingston and Dr. Oliver, and while performing the survey 
encountered many hardships. An obituary notice, pub- 
lished soon after his death, which occurred within the last 
year, at Utica, contains the following: 

** In running tbe great lines of division his party hail ctosslmI the 
Black river several times, the men and instruments being ferried 
across. On one occasion, when they had a}»pr()acbed the river, having 
jonrneyed through the woods without noting their route by the com- 
pass, they arrived at a part of the bank which they recognized, and 
knew to he a safe place of passing. Making a raft of logs, they 
started from the hank and began to pole across. When in the midst 
of the current their poles failed to reach the bottom, and, simultaneous 
with this discovery, the noise of the waters beltiw them revealed the 
horrid fact that they had mistaken their ferrying place, and were at 
the head and rapidly approaching the Great falls of the river, the 
passage of which thrcntened nil but certain death. Instantly Mr. 6. 
ordered every man who could swim to make for the shore, and he pre- 
pared to swim for his own life. But the piteous appeals of Mr. 
Pharoux, a young Frenchman of the party, who could not swim, 
arrested him. and he dcterinineij to remain with him to assist him, if 
possible, in the awful passage of the falls. Hastily directing his men 
to g^a^p firmly to the logs of the raft, giving similar directions to Mr. 
Pharou.v, he then laid himself down by the side of his friend. Tbe 
raft passed the dreadful falls and was dashed to pieces. Mr. Pha- 
rou.x, with several of the whites and Indians, was drowned, and Mr. 
Brodhead himself thrown into an eddy near tbe shore, whence he was 
drawn senseless by an Indian of the party. "^ 

The surveyors were in their instructions directed to note 
" all kinds of timber, wild meadows, useful plants, wild 
fruit trees, hills, swamps, creeks, and objects of interest 
generally." The south line of tract No. IV. was run by 
John Campbell and others, in August, 1794. At a very 
early period, a settlement wa.s begun by Tillier and others 
near the High falls, east of the river, and several families 
were settled. Several extensive sales were made by Chas- 
sanis and Tillier to Frenchmen of the better class, who 
h.id held property and titles in France before the revolu- 
tion. De-sjaidine & Co. bought 3002 acres on Point Pen- 
insula; Odier & Bousquet, 1500 acres on Pillar Point; 
Nicholas Olive (December 17, 1807t), a tract of 4050 
acres north of Black river and bay; Henry Boutin, 1000 
acres around the pleasant village of Carthage, J C. C. 
Brodhead, 400 acres in the present town of Wilna, and 

* The body of this joang man was afterwards found nn a small 
island at the mouth of the river to which his name was given. Mr. 
J. liC Ray caused to be prepared a marble tablet to be inserted in the 
rocks here, with the following inseri{>tiiin : 

"To the memory of PETKI! PlIAHorX, this Island is Conse- 
crated." 

t Ranges X. 27, W. 42, l.i, and part of 11, since called the Olive 
tract. Sec. Office Rec, July 16, 1S13, C. to Tillier. 

X April 2. i:il.S, jno .icrcs for £10(10, and December IS, 1798, 500 
acres. Oneida Deeds, A. 2, p. 132. 



others. Among these were a conveyance dated March 31, 
1801, of 1817 half-acres, in scattered lots, to twenty or 
thirty French people, many of them widows of persons who 
had acquired an interest in the New York company. On 
May 1, 17'J8, James Le Ray purchased 10,000 acres in 
Castorland, and February 15, 1801, all his lands not pre- 
viously sold. Chassanis in his early sales had reserved 
about 600 acres (\\. 20 W. 24 and 25 N.) between the 
present villages of Brownville and Dexter, for the city of 
Basle. The appendix of a work § printed in Paris in 1801 
contains a letter relating to this company which must have 
been written by one familiar with the country. The work, 
from which we translate, purports to have been made from 
an English manuscript cast ashore on the coast of Den- 
mark from the wreck of the .ship " Morning Star," and from 
its romantic style it scarcely merits notice in history. The 
letter is dated September 4, 1800, and is as follows: 

ACCOUNT OF THE FRE.NCU SF.TTLF.MF.NT. 

'' This northern part of the State of New York, which contains the 
three great districts known as Richland, Katarokouy, and Castor- 
land, is bounilcd on the north by the river St. Lawrence, on the west 
by the Ontario, on the east by the counties of Washington and Clin- 
ton, and Lake Charaplain. and on the south by the new cantons of 
Oswego, Onondaga, and Herkimer, and is traversed nearly its entire 
length by Black river, which has forty-five to fifty miles of naviga- 
tion to its falls, situated n short distance from its mouth, in the bay 
of Xiahoure, on Lake (Ontario. This river receives in its course many 
considerable streams and creeks, abounding in hydraulic privileges. 
This region is very favorably situated for access. On the one side it 
communicates with Canada by the St. Lawrence, with tbe English 
establishments upon the right hank of the river, as well as those from 
Kingston, in the bay of Katarokouy, on the other with Lake Ontario, 
by the bays of Xiahoure and Cat Fish, and lastly with the Mohawk 
country, by a route just opened by Richland, Rome, and Castorville. 
They have surveyed another from the chief place (Castorville?), on 
the first navigable waters of the Oswegatchec, at the confluence of 
which with the .^t. Lawrence. Major Ford has founded a considerable 
establishment. Long Lake, the waters of which are nearly parallel 
with the (rreat river, oflers another route to those who wish to go to 
Fordsbourg and Lower Canada. With the e.xceptiou of the moun- 
tains, the soil is deep and fertile, as may be judged by the height and 
variety of the trees that comjinse the forest. The country which 
borders the river from our Katarokouy to the line which separates us 
from Canada (the 4.'ith parallel), abounds in oak, a timber the more 
precious, as it is rare and valuable at Montreal and Quebec. In other 
sections we see a mi.xture of elms, buttouwood. sugar-mnple, btltter- 
nut, hickory, beech, water ash. and basswood. We also find hemlock, 
white pine, and difTereut kinds of spruce, wild cherry, and reil and 
white cedar. From the boughs of the sprut^e is made that beer so 
praised by Captain Cook, and known to be tbe best of anti-scorbutics. 
The sugar-maple is so common in some sections as to form a third of 
the trees. Not only do we derive from thence all the sugar we need, 
but vinegar also, of an excellent quality. As is the case in all 
northern countries, this is filled with woody marshes and natural 
meadows, in which pasturage is had in summer, and forage for win- 
ter. AVe find in many places limestone, clay, and ore of iron, very 
ductile, but we arc still too young to think of building a furnace or 
large forges. It will not be so in ten years; it is probable we shall 
then be in a condition to furnish to the inhabitants of Upper Canada, 
who, not having contracts to assure theui the possession of their 
lands, cannot think of engaging in such enterprises. We already 
begin to cultivate corn, wheat, flax, and even hemp, since it had been 
observed to what height it grows on land formerly flowed by beaver 
dams; but it being only the fourth year ()f our settlement, the details 
of our progress cannot be very interesting. 



g Voyage dans la haute Pcnnsylvanie, ot dans I'f tat de New York, 
par un nicmbre adoptif dc la nation Oneida. Traduit et publi6 par 
I'autcur dcs Letlres d'un Cultivalcur Americain, .'J vols. 12mo. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



49 



" An event, as unfortunate as unexpected, has much hindered the 
proiipciit^r of this colony. The death of a young ninn of muuh (alent, 
whum the Castorland company had sent frum Paris, to render a wild, 
and hitlierto unknown country, fit to favor the reunion of a new-born 
society, to divide the hinds, open roads, begin the first labort), build 
bridges and mills, and invent machine?, where man is so rare. A 
victim of his zeal in taking thu level of a bend of the river, he per- 
ished in trying to cross above the great falls. His comrades, go un- 
fortunate as not to be able to assist him, have collected the details of 
this disastrous event in a paper, which I have been unable to read 
without emotions, and which I send. 

" Our rivers aboun<l in fish, and our brooks in trout. I have seen 
two men take seventy-two in a day. Of all the colonies of beavers, 
which inhabited this country and raised so many dams, only a few 
scattering families remain. We have destroyed these coniuiunities!, 
images of happiness, in whose midst reigned the most perfect order, 
peace, and wisdom, foresight aud industry. Wolves, more cunning 
and warlike tlian the former, live at our expense, and, as yet, escape 
our deadly lead. It is the same with the original elk. It is only seen 
in this part of the State, for our hunters will soon make it disappear, 
for, you know, that wherever man establishes himself the tyrant muf^t 
reign alone. Among the birds, we have the pheasant, drumming 
partridge, wild pigeon, different kinds of ducks, geese, wild turkey, 
etc. Our chief place, situated on the banks of the pretty Beaver 
river, and from thence so appropriately named CnHturvUfe,-' begins to 
grow. It is slill only, as you may justly lliink. but a cluster of 
primitive dwellings, but still it contains several families of mechanics, 
of which new colonies have so frequent need. Several stores, situated 
in favorable places, begin to have business. The Canadians, on tlic 
right bank of the river, come thither to buy the goods which they 
need, as well as sugar and rum, which, from the duties being less at 
our ports than at Quebec, arc cheaper with us than with them. ' The 
vicinity of these French settlements are very useful to us, in many 
respects. Cattle are cheaper than with us, as well as manual labor. 
Such are the causes of communication between the inhabitants of the 
two sides, that it is impossible for the English government to prevent 
it. 

''Our colonists are, like others, a mixture of many nations; we 
have some families of Scotch and Irish, but the greater number come 
from the northern States, which, as you know, is the * oj^chm huinani 
yeiierh' of this continent. Many of (he settlers have already made 
consideralilc improvements. One of these families from Philadelphia, 
besides a hundred acres well inclosed, has begun a manufacture of 
potash, where the ashes of the neighborhood are leached ; another of 
the Quaker sect has settled on the route to Kingston, where he has 
already built a saw mill, and a considerable manufactory of maple- 
sugar, where he made last year about sixteen quintals. The head of 
this family is a model of intelligence and industry ; the goods which 
he brought easily procured him much labor at a good rate. He paid 
twelve dollars per acre for clearing his lands, and half the ashes :f 
besides this he furnishetl to the potash-makers the great iron chal- 
drons aud hand labor, and retains half of the salts, the value of 
which, with the first crop of wheat, pays and more all the expenses 
of clearing, fencing, and harvesting. The average yield per acre 
being twenty-four to twenty-eight bushels, and the price of wheat 
six to eight shillings, it is easy to sie that there is still a margin to 
cover accidents, and that the second crop is clear profit. Among 
these families we have some, who, driven from their country by fear 
and tyranny, have sought in this an asj'lum of peace and liberiy, 
rather than wealth, and at least of security and of swtet repose. One 
of these, established on the banks of Rose creek, came frojn St. Do- 
mingo, where he owned a considerable plantation, and has evinced a 
degree of perseverance worthy of admiration. One of the proprie- 
torsj has a daughter, as interesting by her figure as by her industry, 
who adds at the same time to the economy of the household the 
charms or rather the happiness of their life. Another yet is an offi- 
cer of cultivated mind, sprightly, and original; who, born in the 
burning climate of India, finds here his health is strengthened. He 
superintends the clearing of a tract of twelve hundred acres, which 

*' In Lewis county. 

f An acre commonly yields two hundred bushels of ashes, which 
are worth eight ceuts the bushel. 

J St. Mitchel. Ilts daughter married i^Iarsellc, and afterwards De 
Zo telle. 



two sisters, French ladies, have intrusted to him, and to which he has 
given the name uf Shieia' Orore. He has already cleared more than 
one hundred acres, erected a durable house, and inclosed a garden, 
in which he labors with assiduity, truly edifying. He has two Cana- 
dians, of whom their ancestors were originally fiom the same province 
with himself. Far from his country, the most trifling events become 
at times a cause of fellow feeling, of which those who have never felt 
it can have no idea. As for cattle, those raised that only bring nine 
dollars a pair at the end of the year, are worth seventy dollars when 
they are four years old. Fat cattle, which commonly weigh seven to 
nine hundred pounds, sell at the rate of five dolhirs per hundred. 
Swine, living almost always in the woods, the settler can have as 
many as he can fatten in the fall. It should not be omitted to give 
them, from time to time, an ear of corn each, to attach them to the 
clearing, and prevent them from becoming wild, for then there is no 
mastering their wills, for they, pining for their wanilering life, will 
not fattiu on whatever is given them. Butter is as dear with us as 
in old settlcfl countries, and sells for a shilling a poun<l. AVe have 
no fear, as some think, that the vicinity of the Canadian establish- 
ments will witlulraw our settlers. The lands in Canada are all in the 
hands of Government or the Seigneurs. Both give gratuitously, I 
admit, but they give no titles,^ from whence numerous difficulties 
arise in selling and transferring. Besides they are burdened with a 
considerable quit rent, the fees of transfer and removal, of escheats 
to the domain in default of heirs, of bfiii(iiit^,]\ tithes, or reservations 
for religion, and reserves of mines, and oak timber, restrictions un- 
known in the United Stales, where the lands are franchises and frte- 
hohis. It is therefore probable that sensible settlers will always 
prefer to so pncarious an advantage a sure possession which can be 
transferred without fees or formalities. 

" This country being bounded by the St. Lawrence and the Ontario, 
its population will increase more rapidly thon that where men can 
spread themselves nd iufinitvin, as in certain di^t^icts of Pennsylvania, 
upon the Ohio, Wabash, etc. What is here called the American 
Katarokouy, or Tracts I., II., III., and IV. of Macomb's great pur- 
chase, will always be the last stage, the Ultium T/iule, of this part of 
the State of Xew York, and we ourselves, the last but one round of 
the ladder. On this account, lands which in 1792 were valued at 
from two to three dollars per acre, have now become from three to 
four dollars. 

"The banks of our great river are not tie only ones where our 
j)Opulation tends. Alrea<ly those of Swan's creek begin to fill up. 
Were it not for the death of Mr. P. we should have been much more 
advanced, for it was necessarj* to await the arrival of another engi- 
neer to complete the great surveys and subdivisions. Our winters 
are cold, but less than those of New Hampshire, and the sn<)ws of 
^this climate are beneficial in preventing the fiost from injuring our 
grass and wheat. It is truly wonderful to see with what rapidity 
vegetation is developed a few days after the snows are uielied. I 
have placed your habitation not far from the great falls, but far 
enough distant not to be incommoded b^- the noise, or rather uproar, 
which they make in falling three different stages. The picturesque 
view of the chain of rocks over which the waters plunge ; their tumul- 
tuous commotion : the natural meadows in the vicinity : the noble 
forests which bound the Ijorizon ; the establishments on the opposite 
bank ; the passage of travelers who arrive at the ferry I have formed ; 
all contribute to render the location very interesting; and it will 
become more so when cultivation, industry, and time shall have 
embcllif'hed this district, still so rustic and wild, and so far from 
resembling the groves of Thessalia. The house is solid and commo- 
dious, the garden and farm-yards well inclosed. 

"I have j>laeed a French family over the store and am well pleased 
with them. I think, however, they will return to France, where the 
new government has at length banished injustice, violence, and crime, 
and replaced them by the reign of reason, clemency, and law. The 
fishery of the great lake (Ontario), iu which I am concerned, furnishes 
mo an abundance of shad,f salmon, and herring, and niore than I want. 
What more can I say? I want nothing but hands. You who live in 
a country where there are so many useless hands, and whose labors 
arc so little productive there, why don't you send us some hundreds 

§ This applies only to Lower Canada. 

Ij The right of obliging a vassal to bake in one's oven and grind at 
bis mill. 

^ White Fish? F. B. H. 



50 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



of those men ? The void they would occasion would i)e imperceptible : 
here they would fill spaces that need to be animated and enlivened by 
their presence. What conquest would they not aeliievc in ten years ! 
and what a difference in their lot ! Soon they would become free- 
holders and rcspeelable heads of families. The other ilay a young 
Frenchman, my neighbor, seven miles distant, and established some 
ye.irs upon the bank of the river, said to me ; ' If it is happy to enjoy 
repose, the fruit of one's labors, and of case after having escaped the 
perils of the revolution, h<»w much more so to have a partner of these 
enjoyments? I am expecting a friencl, a brother; it is one of those 
blessings which nature alone can bestow. What pleasure shall I not 
enjoy in pointing out to him the traces of my first labors, and in 
making iiiin count the successive ejuichs of their progress and the 
stages of my ]>rosperity ! but above all to prove to him that his 
memory has been ever present to me. The objects which surround 
me, I will tell him, arc witnesses to the truth of this : this hill upon 
the right, covered with sombre pines, is designared upon my map under 
the name of HippnliitH A h>tt»ci;, the creek which traverses my meadow 
under that of hmhcra' Creek, the old oak which I have lelt standing 
at the forks of the two roads, one of which leads to my house and 
the other to the river, Union Creek, and the place of ray house fllunm- 
intf Slope, Soon he will arrive from St. Domingo, where Toussaint 
L'Ouvcrture has allowed him to collect some wreck of our fortune.' " 

SURVEY OF GRE.\T TRACT NO. IV. 

On March 27, 1800, Tillier was succeeded in the agency 
by Gouverneur Morris, who appointed Richard Coxc, Nov. 
13, 18U1, his attorney. Feb. 5, 1802, Chassanis executed 
a trust conveyance for §1 to James D. Le Ray, of 220,500 
acres, as surveyed by Wui..Cockburn and Son, and by other 
instruments for nominal sums.* The lands were mostly 
sold to actual settlers b)' Mr. Le Ray, as agent or principal, 
but the details would be unintelligible without a map. 
Chas.sanis died in Paris Nov. 28, 1803. David B. Ogden, 
G. Morris,"}" and many others were at an early period con- 
cerned in those titles. 

Macomb's Tract No. IV. was surveyed by C. C. Brod- 
head in 1790, assisted by Jonas Smith, Timothy Wheeler, 
Joshua Northrop, Elias Marvin, John Young, Isaac Le 
Fever, Jacob Chamber.-', Elijah Blake, Samuel Tupper, 
Eliakim Hammond, and Abraham B. Smode, each with a 
few men as assistants, and the whole having a general camp 
or rendezvous at Hungry bay, on the north side of Pillar 
point, at a place called Peck's cove, near where the Chas- 
sanis line crosses the bay. The early settlers here found 
huts standing, and the remains of an old oven arc still 
visible. The journals of these surveyors show that they 
suffered much from sickness. Some of their supplies were 
derived from Canada, but the ino.st from the Jlohawk .settle- 
lucnts. A few troops were stationed on Carlton island, and 
thither some of their sick were sent. This tract, excepting 
the cast corner conveyed to Chassanis, was divided into 
lOOO lots of 440 acres each (excepting those around the 
border), which were numbered continuously. Evert Van 
Allen had been employed in 171)5 in surveying the bound- 
aries of tract No. IV. 

TIIK .\NTWEUI' CO.Mr.VNy's I'LUCIIASE. 

A proposition was entertained from Lord Pultney, in 
]7'J2, for the purcha.se of a million of acres of Bhick river 
land, at a ([iiarter of a dollar per acre, of wliieh .£5000 
were to be paid down, /t20,((0(( in one, and the same in two 
years, and the remainder as soon as the surveys were made. 



Oneida Dee Is, 9, 517 to 525. 



t Jeff. K., 253. 



Constable was to guaranty against claims from the native 
Indians, and all other parties, and to give immediate pos- 
session. The location was to be determined by Col. Wm. 
Stephens Smith, of New York. This bargain failed, and 
Pultney afterwards became largely' concerned in lands in 
the Genesee country. Oct. 3, 1792, Jane, the wife of A. 
Macomb, released her right to the lands previou.sly con- 
veyed. April 12, 1793, Constable .sold in London, with the 
consent of Chassanis, who had previously held a pre-emption 
claim, to Charles Michael De Wolf, of the city of Antwerp, 
tract No. IV., for 300, OOU florins, money of exchange,^; 
and in June following, of the same year, Do Wolf succeeded 
in negotiating his purchase at a great advance, viz. : for 
680,000 florins, to a company of large and small capitalists 
of the city of Antwerp, who sub.scribed to the stock in 
shares of 1000 florins each, and organized under the name 
of the Antwerp Company. The stock was divided into 
680 shares. Like most other operations of foreigners in a 
distant country, this company eventually proved unsuccess- 
ful, and a less to the stockholders. Gouverueur Morris be- 
came their fir.st agent in Atnerica, and on Jan. 2, 1800, a 
deed of half the tract, or 220,000 acres, passed to him from 
Constable on account of the company, for $48,889, and on 
the day following, the other half of equal extent, for $46,- 
315.12, to James Dunatianus La Ray de Chaumont. Tract 
No. IV. was found, by Van Allen's survey, to contain 450,- 
000 acres, including the State reservations. A fortner deed 
from Constable to Do Wolf was canceled upon the new 
one's being made. The division line between Morris' and 
Le Ray's conveyances commenced at the northeast corner 
of Penet's .stjuare, and ran on a line parallel with the county 
line, to the south line of No. IV. Morris took all north- 
east of this, and Lc Ray the remainder. August 15, 1802, 
a new division line was agreed upon, commencing near the 
southeast corner of 'Penet's square, running thence to the 
south corner of lot 512, thence to the west corner of the 
present town of Antwerp, and along the southwest line of 
that town to the south corner of lot 337, and thence to the 
south line of No. IV. A tract of 30,000 acres in the east 
corner of No. IV. was not included in these conveyances, 
havit)g been sold to Chassanis. In 1809, Jlorris retired 
from the business, his expeiLses and commissions absorbing 
26,840 acres of land. Dec. 23, 1804, he had sold for 
§62,000 to Lewis R. Morris 49,280 acres in the present 
town of Antwerp. Mr. Morris subsetiuently conveyed 
forty-one lots to Silvinus Hoard, in the western part of 
Antwerp, adjoining Theresa, and since known as the Cooper 
tract. Abraham Cooper, from Trenton, New York, became 
interestod in this tract in 1817. The remainder of Antwerp, 
excepting three ranges of lots on the southeast side, was 
purclnLsed of Morris, by David Parish, in 1808. The tract 
amounted to 29,033 acres, and lias been settled under agents 
of the Parish estate. Moss Kent succeeded as agent of 
the Antwerp company, and June 15, 1809, the remainder 
of their unsold lands, 143,440 acres,!} were conveyed to 
him. He was soon succeeded by Mr. Le Ray, and Sept. 17, 



X Equal to *125,.'!56. 

J Comprising .1 ranges of lot.s (e.\. 772) ou cast side of Antwerp, and 
nil the company's land in Diana. Jcflerson Deeds, rec. Nov. I, 181)1). 



HISTORY OF JP:FFEIIS0N COUNTY, NE^V YORK. 



51 



1810, the company sold to him for 145,000 florins, money 
of exchange, all their interests in lands in America. Tlic 
land.s with Moss Kent were re-conveyed to Le Ray, June 
24, 1817, except 3250 acres st)ld to \Vm. H. Harrison and 
T. L. Ogden, in Lewis county, Dec. 16, 1811. 

Mr. Le Ray is said to have been the owner of one liun- 
dred and twenty-six shares in the Antwerp company, and 
G. Morris of twenty-six. The former having acf|uircd a 
title to No. IV., and the Chassanis tract, removed to Le 
Raysvillc, where he opened a land-office and proceeded to 
sell land to actual settlers to a very large extent. He also 
effected with several Knropeaiis sales of considerahlc tracts, 
among whom were to Louis Augustin De Caulaincourt, due 
de Vincence, October 8, 1805, a tract of 4840 acres near 
Millen's bay, being eleven lots, which were convoyed Janu- 
ary 28, 1825, to Peter Francis Real, known as Count Real, 
chief of police under Napoleon ; to Emanuel Count De 
Grouchy, to General Desfurncaux, and to others considera- 
ble tracts. Several citizens of New York became after- 
wards concerned in these tracts on their own account or as 
agents, and extensive conveyances were made ; but as many 
of these were trusts not expressed, and referred to consid- 
erations not explained in the instruments of conveyance, or 
on record, an intelligent history of them cannot be at this 
time obtiiined, with sufficient conciseness for publication, 
should they be deemed of sufficient general interest. 
Among the lands conveyed were the following : 

To William and Gerarilus Post, .Tunc .3, 1825, for $17,000, 11,880 
acres (with 3503 acres e.tccpted) in the present towns of Wilna and 
Diana; fioOO acres were conveyed by one, and the executors of the otiier 
of these, to T. S. Hammond, of Carthage, Oct. 2, 18:i7, by two deeds 
for 518,000. To Herman Le Koy and William Bnyard, for $50,000, 
Feb. 9, 1820, the interest of J. Le Ray in numerous contracts to set- 
tlors on Great Tract No. lA'. 

To Francis Pepaii, for $23,280, and SI5,OiiO by two con\'eyances, a 
large tract in Alexandria, adjoining St. Lawrence county, now held 
by L. J. (loodale, of Watertown. 

To Cornelia .Tuhel, Oct. 'J, 1821, numerous lots; and to many others, 
which, without a map, would be uuinleliigible. 

l'URCH.\SE OF COUNT SURVILLIEllS.* 

In 1818, Joseph Bonaparte, 'who in the United States 
assumed the title of Count de Survilliers, was induced to 
enter into a bargain with Le Ray, by whidi he agreed to 
receive in trust, with a warranty, the conveyance of 150,(100 
acres of land, including 74,624 acres of the Antwerp Com- 
pany lands, to be taken in the most remote and unsettled 
portions, and at the same time Mr. Le Ray received certjiin 
diamonds and real estate, the whole rated at S120,000, and 
to be refunded in 1830, unless he should agree to accept 
before that time the title of a part of these lands. A trust- 
deed, with covenant and warranty, was accordingly pa.'ised 
Dec. 21, 1818, to Peter S. Duponceau, the confidentiiil 
agent of the count, for 150,200 acres, with the exception 
of such tracts, not exceeding 32,260 acres, as might have 
been conveyed or contracted to actual settlers. This deed 
included the greater part of Diana, two tiers of lots from 

* This personage, who held successively the thrones of Kapler and 
Spain, was born in the island of Corsica in 176S. being the next older 
brother o( Xai)o]eon I. His residence in this country was as an exile, 
anl he nturne 1 to Europe as soon as political events permitted. 



the southeast side of Antwerp, tlie whole of Wilna and 
Philadelphia, a small piece south of Black river, where it 
makes a node across the Chassanis line into No. IV., a tract 
of four lots wide and seven long from Le Ray, and nine 
lots from the easterly range in Theresa. It was recorded with 
a defeasance appended, in which it is declared a security for 
$120,000, as above stateil, and it provided for an auction 
sale of lands to meet this obligation.f Diamonds having 
fallen to half their former price, the fact was made a subject 
of complaint ; and, in 1820, the count agreed to accept 
26,840 acres for the nominal sum of $40,200. These lands 
lay in the most remote portion of Xo. IV., and Mr. Lo Raj', 
in a letter to one of the Antwerp Company, dated April 9, 
1821, complimented the count upon his taste in selecting a 
" tract abounding in picturesipie landscapes, whose remote 
and extensive forests, affording retreat to game, would en- 
alile him to establish a great hunting-ground ; qualities of 
soil, and fitness for settlers were only .secondary considera- 
tions. . . . He regrets, notwithstanding, that thus far he 
has been unable to find among the 26,000 acres of land a 
plateau of 20U acres of land to build his house upon, but 
he intends keeping up his researches this summer." The 
count subse(|uently commenced an est;iblishment near the 
present village of Alpina, in Diana, where a small clearing 
was made, but this was soon abandoned. 

JOSEPH BON.\PARTE. 
The following is the petition that procured the act of nat- 
uralization of Count Survilliers. It is preserved in French 
and Kiiglish, in the As.sembly papers, vol. xii., pp. 37- 
41, secretary's office : ■ 

'* Tu the Jlonnruhle, the Leijiitlaftire rif the State of NeK York : 

" Joseph Bonaparte, Count de Survilliers, respectfully represents : 
That he arrived in the State of New York about ten years since, and 
having the desire to bring his family and fortune to the said State, 
he made engagements with some proprietors for the purchase of one 
hundred thousand acres of land ; he paid the value of saiil lands, but 
could not obtain a title for them, as the existing laws were opposed 
to it. He had, therefore, to be contented with a simple mortgage. 
Availing himself of a law jiromulgated at the same time by a neigh- 
boring State, in favor of aliens, he fixed his residence there, on lands 
which he was authorized to hold, leaving New York after h.aving re- 
mained there more than twelve months. At this time, he is obliged 
by ]u'culiar circumstances, either to sell his mortgage, or to become 
the ])roi)rietor of the land, and persisting in his desire to acquire 
property in the State of New York, and lo spend there a part of the 
year, which he thinks cannot fail to be beneficial to the numerous 
settlers already established on these lands, and increase their num- 
ber, upon the considerati*>n that a neighboring government rapidly 
increases its population by the encouragement given to aliens, and 
not being of the number of those who would wish to abandon this 
land of hospitality, where the best rights of man prevail, but never- 
theless bound to his own country by duties which misfortune renders 
more sacreil, and being unable, as many others have done, he avails 
himself of the law which offers him the honorable and precious title 
of an .\merican citizen: and presuming that he will fincl in the State 
of New York the same condescension and kindness he has met with 
in other Slates of the Union, the subscriber prays the legislature will 
grant to him the right to possess and bold lands in the Slate of New 

York. 

(Signed) "Joseph Bonaparte, 

" C'tuiit tie Sti-riUierH." 

October 29, 1823, Le Ray conveyed to William 11. Har- 
rison, in trust for the Antwerp company, for fifty thousand 

t Lewis County Records. 



52 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



dollars, two ranges of lots in Antwerp, next to Lewis 
county, subject to the mortgage to Duponeeau, with a large 
amount of lands in Lewis county. Meanwhile an act wa.s 
procured, Novemher 27, 1824, allowing Charles Joseph 
Xavier KnyfF, Charles Jo.seph Geelliand Delafaille, Jean 
Joseph Reinier, Osy, Pierre Joseph De Caters, and Jean 
Joseph Pinson, as trustees of the Antwerp company, to take 
and hold lands, and to them Harrison conveyed the above 
tracts. Duponeeau and Bonaparte subse<|ueutly released a 
large tract and took a title of eighty-one thousand one hun- 
dred and eighty acres. The history of these transactions 
may be traced in the recorded conveyances.* James Le 
Ray, December 31, 1823, conveyed to his son Vincent all 
his lands in Jefferson County, and by a similar conveyance 
bis lands in Lewis county, for the benefit of his credi- 
tors. 

Duponeeau executed, July 16, 1825, to Jo.seph Bona- 
parte (who by an act of March 31, 1825, had been em- 
powered to hold landsj, a deed of all the rights he had 
ac<}uircd in the above conveyances. Bonaparte, by an in- 
strument dated July 14, 1832, made Joseph Rapliineau 
his attorney, to deed lands contracted by Joseph Buyer, his 
land-agent. In June, 1835, he sold to John La Farge, for 
eighty thousand dollars, all the interest of Count Survil- 
liers in huids in this and Lewis counties. 

It has been said with much probability, that Count Sur- 
villiers hastened to dispose of this estate, that he might be 
the better prepared to take advantage of any fortune which 
the revolutions of Europe might turn up ; and the political 
aspect of the continent at that time apparently favored the 
hopes of the Bonaparte family, who have but recentlyf re- 
gained the sceptre of France. The count first urged the 
sale upon Judge Boyer, his agent, and came within a few 
thousand doUai-s of closing a bargain. ^Mr. La Farge is 
said to have cleared a large profit in this purchase. 

In October, 1824, the Antwerp company appointed J. N. 
Rottiers, their agent, to receive and convey lands, and he 
was directed, by parties interested in claims, to commence a 
pro.seeution against Le Ray, which was done. The extreme 
depression in the price of land and cessation of sales which 
followed the completion of the Erie canal and the opening 
of the western states to emigration, operated disastrously 
to all parties who had based their plans upon expectation of 
receipts from land sales ; and although tlie estates of Mr. Le 
Ray were both extensive and valuable, he could not at that 
time encounter the combination of circumstances which bore 
so heavily upon all landholders throughout the northern 
counties, and he found himself compelled to a])ply for the 
benefit of the insolvent act, and to surrender his estates to 
liis son, in trust for his creditors. As a justification of his 
course, he published for distribution among his foreign 
creditors a slatcment,| in which he vindicated in a satisfac- 
tory manner the course he had ado])ted, and set forth the 
kind and quantity of property at his di.sposal to meet his 
liabilities. He had at that time the fdlluwing land.s in this 
State : 



' Jeff. Deed.", rcc. November 7, l.fJ.^. f "*-^l- 

J .\ute do Trnn^mission, par M. Le Rny dc ChainiH'nt. n srm tils 
de ses |iro|irit't<'-s, etc., Jto. l'ari.«, p|). 711. 



In Franklin county 30,758 acres, valued at $22,500 

" .St. Liiivroncc county.... 73,947 " " 106,000 

" Jefferson " ....143,500 " " 574,000 

" Lewis " ....100,000 " " 133,000 

or his Jefferson lands, one-eighth were .subject to con- 
tracts of settlers, upon which were three grist-mills, three 
saw-mills, and various clearings, with buildings. At Le 
Raysville, were a grist-mill, store-houses, etc., valued at 
twenty-six tliousand dollars, and in Pennsylvania, Otsego 
county, and in France other properties of large amount. 
In closing up this business, a large amount of land was con- 
firmed to Vincent Le Ray, and the settlement of the affairs 
was so managed as to satisfy in full the claims of Ameri- 
can creditors. Our account of these transactions has been 
necessarily brief and imperfect, yet the attention we have 
given it has convinced us that there is nothing in the matter 
but that will bear the closest examination. 

■ A considerable amount of the Antwerp company's lands, 
remaining in scattered parcels, was sold in 1828 by the 
agent to John La Farge, but this sale was subsequently set 
aside by the court of chancery, § and Feb. 15, 1836, 24,230 
acres, being most of the remaining lands of the company, 
and situated in Theresa, Antwerp, Alexandria, and Orleans, 
were sold to Samuel Stocking, of Utica, and Norris M. 
Woodruff, of Watertown, for one dollar per acre. Wm. H. 
Harrison acted in the latter sale as the agent of the com- 
pany, and the tract has been nearly all sold off by Jason 
Clark, Esq., of Plessis, agent of the proprietors. 

Mr. La Farge, July 28, 1846, sold to Clias. L. Faverger, 
for $48,513, a tract embracing the two eastern ranges of 
lots in Antwerp, and one hundred and twenty-two lots in 
Diana, excepting parts previously conveyed, amounting to 
48,513 acres, and a great portion has since been sold in 
large and small tracts to .settlers. There is at this time 
(1854) but a comparatively small part of great tract No. 
IV. in this county, but that is under cultivation, and held 
as freeholds by the occupants. Dr. John Binsse, of Pa- 
melia, is the present agent of La Farge. 

LANDS SOUTH OF BL.\CK RIVER. 

Wm. Constable, Dec. 18, 1702, conveyed to Samuel 
Ward, for .£1U0,0U0, 1,280,000 acres, it being the whole of 
Macomb's purchase, in Nos. V. and VI., out of which was 
excepted 25,000 acres sold to Wm. Inman, Samuel Ward, 
Dec. 20, 1792, convoyed to Thomas Boylston (of Boston) 
for £20,000, a tract commencing at the extreme southern 
angle of Lewis county, as now bounded ; running thence 
to the mouth of Salmon river, and along the lake to Black 
river, and up that stream to the north bounds of the present 
town of Lcyden, and thence to the place of beginning. The 
course of Black river was then supposed to be nearly direct, 
from the High Falls to the lake', and this tract w.is believed to 
contain about 400,000 acres, but when surveyed around by 
Wm. Cockburn & Son, 1794, it was found to include 817,- 
155 acres! Ward also sold 210,000 acres to John Julius 
Angerstein, a wealthy uunrhant of Lnndon, which the lat- 
ter afterwards sold to Gov. .Inliii llrown, of Providence, R. 
I., and which has since been commonly called Brown's Tract, 

I Paige's Chancery Ki-porls, i., p. 571, where n rchearal i« declined. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



53 



and is yet (185t) mostly a wilderness. He also sold 
50,00(( and 25,000 acres to Win. Innian, who afterwards 
figured largelj' in the titles of Lewis county ;* witli the 
exception of G85,(tU0 acres thus conveyed to Boylston, 
Angerstein, and Inman, he reconveyed, Feb. 27, 1793, the 
renuiindcr to Toiistable. 

On May 21 , 17!)4, Buylston gave a deed of tru.st of eleven 
townships to George Lee, George Irving, and Thomas 
Latham, assignees of the firm of Lane, Son, and Fra.sor, of 
London, and they conveyed them to John Johnson Phyn, 
of that place (June 2, 1794), in whom, by sundry convey- 
ances and assurances in the law, the title became vested. 
April 10, 1795, Phyn appointed Wm. Constable his attor- 
ney to sell and convey any or all of the Boylston tract, 
who accordingly sold, July 15, 1795, to Nicholas Low, Wm. 
Henderson, Richard Harrison, and Josiah Ogden Hoffman, 
a tract of ;:i(ftl,()O0 acres, since known as the Black Rim- 
Tract. This purchase comprised Hounstield, Watertown, 
Rutland, Champion, Denmark, Henderson, Adams, Rod- 
man, Pinckney, Harrisbnrg, ami Lowville. On April 1, 
179G, Phyn confirmed this title. The tract was lound by 
measurement to contain 290,376 acres, to make up which 
deficiency, Constable, in 1796, conveyed town No. 2 
(Worth), excepting 948 acres in the southeast corner, which 
he reserved to himself. On the last-mentioned date, Phyn 
convey'ed to Constable 401,000 acres, being the remainder 
of the Boylston tract. The present town of Lorraine is in 
this conveyance. 

William Constable gave to his brother James a power of 
attorney to sell lands, March 16, 1798; and, to secure the 
confidence of Europeans and others in the validity of his 
title, he procured from Alexander Hamilton, Richard Har- 
rison, J. 0. Hoffman (attorney-general of the State), Dan- 
iel McKinnen, and other eminent lawyers a certificate that 
they had examined his conveyances and believed them per- 
fect. 

March 22, 1797, Constable conveyed to Marvel Ellis, of 
Troy, the town of Ellisburg, in accordance with an agree- 
ment dated April 11, 179G, except three thousand acres, 
conveyed March 17, 1797, to Robert Brown and Thomas 
Eddy, in the southwest corner of the town. This tract 
was long without a resident agent, and, from being settled 
by S(|uatters, it accpiired the unhallowed name of No 
God. 

In June, 1804, Brown and Eddy sold half of the tract 
to George Scriba, and the latter to William Boll. The re- 
mainder Wiis exchanged for a farm in New Jersey, by Lord 
Bolingbroke. Ellis' purchase, according to Medad Mitch- 
ell's survey of August, 1795, was 51,840 acres, but by a 
subsequent survey of B. Wright it covered 52,834 acres. 
A part of No. 10 (Sandy Creek) was conveyed Nov. 10, 
179G, to Mrs. H. M. Colden, for the Earl of Selkirk. 
ElHs, on the day of his purchase, mortgaged it for the pay- 
ment, and in 1801 he became insolvent. In January, 
1802, Constable filed a bill in chancery against Ellis and 
his creditors to foreclose for ecjuity of redein]ilion. On 
May 22, 1803, William Con.«table died, and his executors, 
James Constable, John McVickar, and Hezekiah B. Pierre- 

* Inman was tlie father of Henry Inman, the celebrnteJ arlist. 



pent, were advised that the title was perfected by the 
answer to the bill in chancery, but, to put all questions 
forever at rest, they deemed it advisable to proceed to fore- 
close. It was accordingly advertised, and sold, under the 
direction of Thomas Cooper, master in chancery, at the 
Tontine coffee-house. New York, March 1, 1804, to Dan- 
iel McCormick. March 2 the executors of Constable con- 
veyed the town to McCormick, and on the 3d the latter re- 
conveyed to the executors. April 20, 1819, a deed of re- 
lease from the heirs of William Constable was executed to 
II. B. Pierrepont. from whcmi the title of the unsold por- 
tions passed to his son, William C, who has in like manner 
acquired the title of Lorraine from Constable. 

The eleven towns were divided by ballot between the 
company, Aug. 5, 1796, Harrison & Hoffman receiving 
numbers 1, 4, 5, 8, and 10, or Ilounsfield, Champion, 
Denmark, Rodman, and Harrisburg, and 1283 acres of 
Constable's, No. 2 (Worth), which had been added to 
make up the amount purchased, and was used in "making 
change; " Low received 2. 7, and 11, or Watertown, Adams, 
and Lowville, with 1576 acres of the present town of 
Worth ; and Henderson 3, 6, and 9, or Rutland, Hender- 
son, and Pinckney, with 649 acres in Worth. 

These proprietors disposed of their towns as follows: No. 

I was sold, the north half to Henry Champion and Lemuel 
Storrs, June 30, 1797, and the .south part (15,913 acres) 
to Peter Kemble and Ezra Iloun.-field, fur §4000, JIarch 
10, 1801, who have sold the most to actual eettlers, through 
the agency of E. Camp. The sales of the north part will 
be given in our account of that town. Numbers 2, 7, and 

II were sold by S. Stow, M. S. Jliller, and I. W. Bostwick, 
of Lowville, agents for Low. No. 3 was first partly con- 
veyed to actual settlers by A.sher Miller and Abel French, 
when the remaining interest of Henderson was conveyed to 
Dr. Isaac Bronson, of Greenfield, Connecticut, who gave 
its agency to his brother, Ethel Bronson, with whom it 
continued till his death, when it w;is transferred to George 
White, who completed the settlements with settlers. No. 
4 was sold to Champion and Storrs (with the north half of 
1), and by N. Hubbard and A. Lathrop. agents, it was sold 
to settlers. No. 6 began to .•icttlc under the same agents as 
3. In 1806, Jesse Hopkins was ajipointed agent, and con- 
tinued about fifteen years. Certain lots aniountin<; to 5716 
acres were sold to Isaac Bronson, June 10, 1807, for 
$10,003.44, and settled by the agents of the latter. No. 8 
was settled for the proprietors by I. W. Bostwick, agent 
at Lowville. Harrison and Iloflnian continued tenants in 
common of 5, 8, and 10 until May 1, 1805. In July, 
1809, an instrument was executed, securing certain inter- 
ests of Hoffman to Thomas L Ogden and Abijah Ham- 
mond, and January 5, 1810, Hoffman conveyed to Harri- 
son his interest in these towns. 

The gi-eater part of township 2 (Worth) fell to the share 
of Harrison and Hoffman. It was laid out by Medad 
Mitchell in 1095; and Dec. 23, 1797, these proprietors 
made a partition, and Harrison conveyed the north half to 
Hoffman, who, July 16, 1798. made a conveyance to Daniel 
McCormick and Charles Smith, in trust, to sell and convey 
and to keep the money till certain debts were paid. Several 
subsequent transfcre were made, which we have not deemed 



54 



HISTOKY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YOliK. 



of sufficient public interest to trace. The title to the south 
part remained with Harrison for many years. 

Wright's remarks on the eleven towns. 

The boundaries of the Eleven Toions were surveyed by 
Benjamin Wright in April and May, 1796, and from his 
field-book, the original of which, received from Robert 
McDowell, Esq., is before us, the following interesting 
memoranda are quoted. These notes enabled the purchasers 
to estimate the relative value of the several townships, and 
formed the first accurate data possessed in relation to the 
country south of Black river. The remarks on tlie towns 
iQ Lewis county are omitted : 

1. [Hcmnsficld.] This township is poorly watered nhjng the southerly 
line, but is very fine soil of land, and quite level. There is only one 
ewamp, which is near the three-mile stake [south side], and is a 
dead, marshy spot of thirty chains in width, and appears to extend 
north and south on the line for some distance. The timb^ is, near 
the lake, oak, hickory, chestnut, and some beech, maple, ash, birch, 
and ironwood. On the east line of this town there arc many small 
streams of very fine water. The land is descending westerly, and a 
very fine soil, except a large swamp near the four-mile tree, which is 
some marshy, and timbered with ash, hemlock, etc. There is some " 
exceedinj^ly good pine timber on this line. Theother timber is beech, 
maple, bass, elm, ash, ironwood, birch, etc. Pretty level, some gentle 
ascents and descents. Along the river there is an excellent body of 
pine timber of fine quality. The land along the river is handsome, 
but not more than four or five inches to a rocky, flat solid stone, 
which has large vacancies or seams, where you may find cracks in the 
rocks of ten feet to the bottom, and not more than four inches wide. 
Along (he bay, there is a pretty good country, except some marshes, 
where the streams come in. The shore in nmny places along the bay, 
is a perpendicular rock of twenty-five or thirty feet, and a very bold, 
deep shore, some flat, and almost all is very stony. Some marshes 
ahing the lake, near to the peninsula, and some small streams, which 
make a meadow or marsh, where they enter the hike. Contains 26,04S 
acres. 

2. [Watertown.] Along the river there is some pretty gnud land, 
and some that is broken and rocky. The river is amazing rapid, and 
rocky; some fulls along the river which may be made good mill-scats, 
and some excellent pine timber along the river. On the east line is 
a fine country. Near the three-mile tree is a swamp of very fine aeh 
timber, which will make excellent meadow. There are some steep 
ascents and descents, which are all excellent soil. Timber— beech, 
maple, bass, elm, ash, birch, and some pine and ironwood ; near the 
river some oak and walnut. On the south line is maple, bass, ash, 
beech, birch, and elm. A very fine soil and pretty well watered with 
email streams, and some large ones. The west line is of a good 
quality. There arc some fine mill-seats in this town, which on the 
map arc marked "falls" and "rapids." To speak generally, I think 
this to be an excellent town:>hip, and scarce any poor land in it. Will 
settle very fu.st if laid in li>ts, and sold to settlers. Contains 2C,S04 
acres. 

3. [Rutland.] Along the river very rocky, and some good land ; 
very few streams emptying into the river. There is a fine mill stream 
and various mill-seuts, near the Black river, whore it falls into the 
river, a fall of six feet, very curious, indeed, for mills. Along the 
river there are two falls of fourteen and six feet, which, together with 
the rapi<ls that extend for a number of miles, make up a great fall in 
the river. The ca.^t line is a very fine country, and hiindsomely tim- 
bered with maple, beech, bass, ash, hutlernut. elm. pine, and hemlock. 
On the south lino there is a pretty good eounlry. timbered with maple, 
beech, bass, ash, elm, birch, and hcailoek. Along the line fin the west 
side is a very good tract of land, well timbered. This town nppears 
to be exceeding good ; all ihe waters are clear and good, and are formed 
altogether from springs which arise on the lan<l. The town in general 
is most excellent coil, well watered with largo and small streams, anil 
I think would an.-iwer any person's expectation for settling. Contains 
27Mi acres. 

4. [Chanipinn.] The west line of this town is in general excellent 



I land, and has no steep ascents and descents of consequence, but gentle 
slopes interspersed with small streams of excellent water. There are 
some fine mill streams, which have good mill-seats. A fall on a con- 
siderable stream of water, which runs northerly, and falls into Black 
river, is a most excellent mill-scat. The country is timbered with 
maple, beech, basswood, birch, ash, elm, butternut, and some hemlocks. 
Along the river there is a good country a small distance from the 
river, timbered with maple, beesh, bass, ash, elm, and butternut, pine, 
and hemlock. The Long falls may be made good mill-seats. This 
township is exceedingly good soil, beautifully timliered, watered ex- 
ceeding well and with excellent v^ater; some limestone along the river, 
and some few ledges of other kinds of stone, of excellent quality for 
building. I have not traversed the interior part of this town, but 
from every appearance it is an excellent township. It has almost 
every good quality that can be fixed in one township of land. Con- 
tains 2o,708 acres. 

6. [Henderson.] The south land of this town is exceedingly good 
land, and is timbered with maple, beech, bass, ash, elm, oak, and 
hickory; near the mile tree on the south line, there is a swanij) of 
cedar, and some pine, ush, etc. The oast line is timbered with maple, 
beech, bass, elm, ash, l>irch, etc., very fine soil, and j)retty level, .some 
swamps, but all good, and will make excellent meadow, and are tilled 
with valuable timber. The north line is a pretty level country, some 
gentle ascents and descents, and some oak, chestnut, hickory, ash, 
beech, maple, and pine on it. Along the Uungry bay there is a very 
handsome beach, and fine land the whole distance around, until you 
pass a peninsula, when the shore is a perpendicular rock, of from 
30 to 80 and, in some places nearly ]00 feet. The land does not 
appear to be very good near these rocks, and no streams whatever. 
A cedar swamp lies along on the top of the bank for a considerable 
distance. After you are at Stony Point you will find the lake-shore of 
flat rocks, and the appearance of the country to be pretty good; some 
marshes and some cold hemlock land. Where the shore is not rocky, 
there are very large stones. The largest stream in this town is Stony 
creek, which has a pond about three miles up, of 400 acres, and a 
dead cranberry marsh around the pond. There are some fine mill- 
seats on Stony creek, below the pond, but none above. The marsh 
around the pund is very poor and very miry. To speak generally 
this is a pretty good town; has a good harbor. On the southwest 
part is Stony Creek bay. 

7. [Adams.] This is a ver^' good town^^hip. On (he south line, it 
is a very fine country, and very handsomely timbered wiih maple, 
beech, bass, ash, elm, birch, and butterriul. Along the east line there 
is pine timber, and all the soil is fine ; the timber in general is maple, 
elm, bass, ash, beech, birch, ironwood, ami butternut. It is a pretty 
level country, some undulations, and some excellent swale land. On 
the north line there is very fine soil, and handsome timber of maple, 
bass, ash, beech, birch, elm, butternut, and ironwood. The prin- 
cipal streams are Stony creek and the north branch of Big Sandy 
creek. This branch is a large stream of one chain eighty links width 
in general, and has some very tine interval, and is almost all flat rock 
bottom. There are some appearances of mill-seats on tliis branch, 
and, I suppose, good ones, but I have seen nothing of that kind. 
Some fine springs of water are scattered over the town, and are of 
good quality. To speak generally, the town has every good quality. 
Mill-seats, springs of excellent water, pine, timber, limestone, clay, 
maple, beech, bass, ash, butternut, birch, ironwood, pine, oak, and 
cht'slnut timber, gentle ascents and descents, fine soil, black mould, 
and loam in general. 

8. [Rodman.] The iiurth Hue of this town is a very fine soil, and 
in general pretty level; some hills and gentle ascents, all of which 
are very fine. It is timbered with maple, bass, ash, elm, beech, 
birch, butternut, and hemlock, which are near the banks of the 
streams. There is some pine on this line, but not a jilenty. On the 
east line there is a pretty good country, excepting it is much cut to 
pieces with the streams, all of which make large gulfs from forty to 
one hundred and fifty feet deep. On the south line is a pretty good 
country, finely watered with streams. The timber in general is maple, 
beech, bass, elm, hemlock, spruce, ash, birch, soft maple, and iron- 
wood. On the west tine there is tine laud, which is timbered as the 
rest. The north branch of Big Sandy creek passes through near the 
northwest part, and makes very fine intervals along its course. This 
is a fine mill stream, and has a suflieicnt quiintity of water for all 
seasons. There arc also other streams, which run through this town, 
on which are tine mil'-seats. Some pine timber, but not in abundance. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUxNTY, iNEW YORK. 



55 



These notes close with the following comparison of the 
liidbiiblc relative value of the several towns; 

Nil?. 1. 2, .'). 0, 7 arf very litllc to choose in point of quality ; 6 is 
best situated, but 7 is inogt excellent; 5 would be called best i)y those 
New England people, on account of the luxuriance of the soil on Deer 
creek; 2 is an exceeding good town, but is not so good as 7 ; 8 and 
9 are very good towns; 10, the north part is exceedingly good; II, 
the west part is cxcelUnt ; 7 has the preference for quality anU situa- 
tion together, and fi for situation only of the whole ; No. 1 is well sit- 
uated, but I fear has not good mill-seats on it; 8 has excelUnt niill- 
se.Tts, and It also, but is some broken ; 10 is bad in the south line, and 
9 also is cold .and lieuilocky. 

TITLE OF THE ISLANDS. 

The islands in the St. Lawrence and lake were included 
in the original contract* of Slaeonib with the State, June 
22, 1791, but, from tlio uncertainty of the boundary, they 
were not patented till long after. Tlie claim of Macomb 
passed to Daniel McCormick, and was recognized by the 
commissioners of the Land Office, January 28, 1814, when 
they directed the surveyor-general to survey such islands 
as were clearly within the limits of the State at the ex- 
pense of the owner, and a release of dam;tge was to be 
granted should the lands so laid out hereafter be included 
in Canada, upon the running of the boundary. McCormick 
sold his interest to D. A. and T. L. Ogden, which was also 
sanctioned by the commissioners, M;iy 14, 1817. For run- 
ning the boundary agreed upon by the treaty of Ghent, 
General Peter B. Porter was appointed commissioner, and 
Samuel Hawkins agent for the United States, and John 
Ogilvie commissioner on the part of Great Britain, who 
met at St. Regis, and, after carefully ascertaining the line 
of 45° north lat., by a series of astronomical observations, 
proceeded thence in two parties, one to Lake Chaniplain 
and the other up the river. Li ISIS the latter had reached 
Ogden's island, and in 1819 their labor was completed. 
Patents were issued for the islands as follows : 

All the islands in the State, between a line drawn at 
right angles to the river, from the village of Jlorristown, 
and a meridian drawn through the western point of Grind- 
stone island, to Eiish;i Camp, February 15, 1823. These 
islands contained 15,402.9 acres, of which Grindstone 
island contained 5291, Wellesley i.sland SOUS, and Indian 
Hut island 3G9 acres, with .several smaller ones without 
names. Patents were also issued to Camp on the same 
diiy to Stony island, 1536 acres; Calf island, 34.8 acres; 
Little Galloo i.sland, 48.8 acres; the most of Galloo island, 
2216.2 acres; and Willow i.sland, half an acre. A patent 
to the United States, for 30.75 and 5 acres on Galloo 
island, was issued December 11, 1819, and to Melanch- 
thon L. Woolsey, November- 3, 1823, for Gull's island, 6.5 
acres, and Snake island, 1.4 acres. Cherry island, iu Chau- 
mont bay, 108.4 acres; Grenadier island, 1290 acres, and 
Fo.x island, 257.5 acres, were patented to Hezekiah B. 
Pierrepont and others October 1, 1824. 500 acres on the 
western part of Carlton island were p:itented to Charles 
Smyth, October 2, 1828."f' A partition deed was executed 
between Pierrepont and Joshua Waddiiigtoii and Thomas 
L. Ogden, November 10, 1S24, by wliii;h the former re- 



ceived Grenadier and Cherry islands. They were sold Feb- 
ruary 19, 1825, for seven thousand dollars, to William and 
Geriirdus Post, of New York. These islands had been oc 
cupied many years by s<|uatters, who with great reluctance 
yielded possession. Incidents, connected with surveys and 
titles, will be given in our account of the several towns, 
and, in their place, sketches of several of the characters 
who figured in these transactions. 

The jurisdiction of a p:irt of Galloo island was ceded by 
the legislature to the United States for a lighthouse, by an 
act of April 21, 1818; that of Tibbets point (about three 
acres), January 25, 1827 ; that of Horse island, April 26, 
1831 ; and a part of Carlton island, June 21, 1853. In 
these cessions the State retains concurrent civil and criminal 
jurisdiction. 



CHAPTER V. 



CASTORLAND.: 



* Land Office Minutes, vol. ii. p. 192. 

"f See our account of Cape Vincent. 



Early French Sittlcmenls— Chassanis— lirunel — Journal of French 
Explorers in 17U3— Notes from the " t'astorland .Journal," 179J — 
First Mill at Carthage, 1795— Death of M. Pharoux— Earliest Set- 
tlements in the various Towns. 

On the 31st of August, 1792, William Constable, then 
in Paris, sold to Peter Chassanis, of that city, 630,000 
acres of land south of great tract Number IV., and be- 
tween the Black river and a line near the 44° N. latitude. 
Cha.ssanis iti this purcha.se acted as agent for an association, 
and the lands were to be by him held in trust for Constable 
until paid for. The State reservations for roads, etc., were 
stipulated, and a deed for 625.000 acres h:iving been made 
out, was delivered to Rene Lambot, as an escrow to take 
effect on the payment of £52,0(10. 

The puichasers immedi:itely set to work to perfect a 
scheme of settlement, and in October, 1792, issued a pam- 
phlet embodying a programme of colonization, under the 
auspices of a company organized under the laws of France, 
by the name of Ln Compagnie dc New York. Like many 
transcendental schemes of modern times, it appeared very 
beautiful upon paper, and the untried experiment promised 
every advantage which a.ssociated capital and active indus- 
try could claim, or the most ardent hope promi.sc. Simon 
Desjardincs and Peter Pharoux were chosen from among 
the shareholders as commissioners in America. They lost 
no time in executing their mission, and leaving France 
July 7, 1793, arrived in just two months in New York, 
with the design of proceeding upon the tract to explore its 
boundaries, and take possession in the name of the com- 
pany. At Albany they met one of their countrymen, a 
political exile, who, although but twenty-four years of age, 
had already become known by his ingenious mechanical 
ccnstiuctions, and who bus since justly claimed to rank 
with Franklin, Brindley, Herschel, and Watt, by the bril- 
liancy of his inventive genius and his magnificent monu- 
ments of constructive art. This person was Mark Isanibart 
Brunei, since celebrated as the fouuder of the machine- 
shops of the Royal Navy Y;ird at Portsmouth, England, 



t For additional information, sic " History of Land Titles." unit. 



56 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



the builder of manrnificent railroad structures in England, 
and the engineer of the Thames tunnel. Brunei was pre- 
pared for any adventure, and accepted with eagerness the 
offer made him by the commissioners, not only of receiving 
him into their company, but of appointing him their cap- 
tain on this remote and diflBcult sen'ice. These three 
Frenchmen hired four natives of the country, making a 
party of seven men. They spent two months in the au- 
tumn of 179:i upon this service. In the spring of 1794 
they returned, and commenced .improvement's upon tlieir 
tract. 

A journal wa.s kept by the party, which was carried by 
them to Paris. This journal, the most interesting portions 
of which relate to their labors at the High Falls and at 
Carthage, was found by Mr. William Appleton in a second- 
hand bookstore, in Paris, and purcluised by him for a tri- 
fling sum. A copy of the journal was placed by Mr. John 
Appleton in the library of the Massachusetts Historical 
Society, which has since been translated by Dr. F. B. 
Hough, of Lowville, New York, who expects to publish 
the same at some future time.* 

The following is an extract from the journal kept by one 
of this party in the fall of 1793, beginning during the 
voyage on Lake Ontario en route from Oswego to the 
mouth of Black river : 

« » e "To a.void parsing the niijht in the open lake an'l to gain 
the shore, wc. at a quarter before five, steered X. X. E. nearly in the 
direction of the upper highland, which we 'took to be that of Steu- 
ben.f according to ihc opinion of M. de Z-^ny, and directed our 
course towards a point which appeared to be the mouth of a creek, 
rowing hard until about seven o'clock. Luckily, the bright moon 
supplied the light of day ; but, when near the land, we saw a heavy 
eurf, which we feared would throw us upon a desolate shore and pre- 
vent us from finding the .<iuppo$ed opening. We therefore resolved 
to keep along the coa.-^t till we found a place where the waves were 
le^s rough and a landing-{>lace more certain. After going a full mile 
wc availed ourselves of a place, not as shallow as the rest, to run the 
breakers and throw ourselves upon the shore of fine white sand ; and, 
there being no trees, we thought it must be the mouth of a creek. 
We sprang into the water to push the bateau up the bank beyond 
the reach of the waves. Having with some difficulty placed it in a 
safe place, we kindled a fire and went to explore the coast, while our 
men pitched the tent and gathered drift-wood for fuel. Wc had to 
climb a sand-hill, which appeared entirely formed b^' the winds, and, 
00 reaching the top, wc were surprised to see on the other side a con- 
siderable sheet of water, and be.tond this the woods upon the true 
bank of the lake. The sand-hill was even steeper in the rear than 
towards *he lake, and appeared like those that form bayous along the 
sea-coast. It extended further than we could see towards the north, 
and south. We returned to the landing, and, having dried our cloth- 
ing before a fire of red cedar, which shed a most agreeable perfume, 
took fuppcr, and then resolved i)y the bright moonlight to follow the 
sand-hills in search of the mouth of Great or Little Sandy creeks, 
which the maps located near this place. But, nftcr going a lung dis- 
tance, we found nothing but the same banks of sand and the same 
sheet of water behind them. 

" /'nWay, Octither IS, 17'J3. — While our effects were being rcladcn 
and the bateau launched wc again sought to find the creeks marked 
on the map, and M. Desjardlncs, on going northward, came to the 
mouth of Little Sandy creek, which is only an opening in the sand- 

* This tract of country the French company named Cnttorland 
(Ibe name having reference to the abundance of beaver) ; and a town 
nameil Ctntt>ncillr, calculated to be the chief town of the colony, was 
laid out on the Beaver river, a few mites from its junction with Black 
river. 

■f These elevated plateaus were the upper limestone terraces of 
JeflTeraon County. 



hills where the water within finds ap exit to the lake. It is not 
twenty tolses wide, and very shallow. We saw in the sand tracks of 
animals an 1 even of men. M. Pharoux, who went southward, saw 
only a continuation of the sand-hills, and, on climbing one, saw on 
the other side the water within and an Indian with his wife in a bark 
canoe; there were two dogs on the bank crying after them. Upon 
making signs to the Indian he came to the shore, but to the questions 
addressed to him in English and French he answered only in his own 
language. — which M. Pharoux could not understand, — at the same 
time pointing towards the njrth with his finger. We embarked at 
seven o'clock, ant, with a s )uth wind, coasted along to gain Point 
Traverse. At eight we observed an opening which we took to be 
that of the Great Sandy creek. The sand which forms the shore is 
very white quartz, and suitable for foundry-mouldings, the scouring 
of utensils, or the sharpening of cutlery. At half-past nine we 
sheered off from a puiut, and some breakers which indicated a reef of 
rocks, and steered northwest. The shore here changes its aspect, 
and instead of steep saml-hills the bank is low and finely timbered. 
The wind having arisen the waves also increased, and the bateau 
made rapid progress with the sail alone. The pilot, on nearing the 
dangerous passage, took so heavy a draught of rum that he knew not 
what he did, and steered directly towards the breakers. Upon this, 
M. Brunei seized both the helm and the pilot, when the major fell 
drunk at the bottom of the boat. M. Pharoux and Desjardines then 
tood each a corner of the sail^to hold it firm to the wind or relax 
it in moments of danger — to the great dismay of the men, who would 
have run the risk of being thrown upon the shore rather than of en- 
countering the open lake: yet this was our only safety, and the boat 
was sufficiently sound. M. Brunei sleered so skillfully that we did 
not ship a single wave ; but our main safety depended upon the mast, 
which bent with the force of the wind. One of our men was so fright- 
ened at the condition of affairs that he opened his knife to cut the 
halliards of the sail, but luckily was seen by M. Brunei, who, with- 
out letting go of the helm, gave hlra such a rap on the head with a 
hatchet that the fear of present danger overcame that of more distant 
peril, and he returned to duty. Had he succeeded we would have been 
lost, as there would have been no means of steerage, and we would 
have been dashed upon the rocks without a chance of safety. Our 
third boatman behaved a liltle better, as he was in the bow and the 
sail cut off his view of the danger, lie aided by watching for reefs 
and in notifying us of what he saw before him. llaving passed the 
reef of rocks we observed a small bay, at the head of which is a 
stream called by the English, 'Stony creek,' and on the French maps 
La Jiiciere de VAsHiuupiiuii. The wind being quite fresh we soon 
gained Point Traverse, but prudence would not allow us to turn too 
soon on account of the breakers. We continued on a mile in this 
course, and passed midway in the channel between the point and the 
Galloo islands. We had scarcely passed this treacherous point when 
the water became smooth, being sheltered from the winds by islands 
and the high land uf the point. We soon landed in a cove formed by 
the shore, half a mile within Point Traverse. We landed at noon> 
built a fire to dry our clothing, and drew our pilot from the boat 
where he lay asleep. He was surprised to find himself again on land 
and alive. Having thoroughly dried we begun business. Point 
Traverse being the beginning of the great bay called by the EngUsh 
* Hungry bay;* by the French, ' /t»ile tic AVf/.TMo/*;' and by the In- 
dians, * Xaioui-e.' M.M. Pharoux, Desjar lineS, and Brunei proceeded 
to locate the point 'A' on the map with compass, by taking the 
bearings of the Galloo (Galuup?) islands and the shores of the bay. 
Point Traverse is quite elcva'ed, and is composed of heavy masses of 
rock iu horizontal strata. From the point the shore is nearly direct 
for a long dtst.ince and of the saute appearance, resembling an im- 
mense wall, and quite high in some places. From the steepest part 
large masses of rock have fallen, and from among these evergreens 
have grown. The top of the bank bears also trees of the same kind ; 
and at the base of these natural walls the waves have worn cavities, 
leaving an infinite number of irregular pillars upon which the rock 
above seems to bo supported. 1 

" Left at half-past one. The shore is steep as far as to point ' B,'^ 
and covered with evergreen-trees, the water being everywhere of 
good depth, allowing barks to como near the shore. We steered 

J Point de la Traverse was evidently Stony point, or the one next 
north in the western part of Henderson. 

^ The map referred to is n »l given in the jimrnal. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



57 



towards the point* ofthe pcnineula *C," which was covered with 
trees; but it seemed to us that the interior had been cleared, from 
the dry trees, and the sinaU Dumt>er that we saw. The isthmus of 
this ]icninsula was entirely bare of timber, and appeared only a 
beach of sand, across which the Canadian? usually drew their eanoes 
to avuid the risk and labor of passing; around the shure. This 
nArrow place hides from view a part of the shure of the hay. Fur- 
ther on it appeared that the clearings wore caused by the violence uf 
the win Is, which had uprooted the trees. We doubled the point ' C 
with the wind northwest, and by the help of oars passed the points 
'K'and ' E,' landing at ' C ' and * E ' to take observations. We 
then walked along the beach, which was composed of a reddish 
granite, rounded, broken, and worn to the size of peas, forming a 
very pleasant view. We gathered on the shore some shcIU of fine 
color, of the mollusk kind. Having re-embarked, we rowed until 
half-past lour, and pass^ed some shoals covered with birds; but the 
sky becoming overcast we sought shelter at tlie point ' 0,' where we 
landed and pitched our tent. The shore from * K ' to ' E * is quite 
fteep, with coarse gravel at the base; but at * E * the landing is easy. 
The bottom of the shore is composed of hurizontal strata of lime- 
stone, and the outline here resembles a bowl. Our Innding-place 
being rather steep, and the wind increasing in the night, wc heard 
our bateau pounding upon the rocks, which led M. IJrunel and one 
of the men to gu and draw it into a little nuok which they found not 
far off. It was furtunate that we were awake, for by morning we 
should have found only the wreck of the Viatonu. 

*^ Sutitrdn^, October WK — We had promised ourselves to sleep this 
night on the banks of the Black river, but M. dc Z.'ny knew no 
more about the country than we did, and tlie maps were all so unre- 
liable that we resolved to follow the windings of the bay as the 
surest means of not passing it, while we could at the same time 
obtain an exact chart of the bay itself. 

** We did not leave until half-past seven, on account of the rain, 
and then steered for the point ' L.' Finding that there was no river 
at the head of the bay, we proceeded towards * M,' where the shore 
was rather steep, and from thence towards 'X,' with the same kind 
of shore and a good landing. We coivstcd along from this point 
southeast, an 1, having ptissed it, founi ourselves in a wide chao- 
n.l, like the entrance of a great river. After advancing a mile, the 
passage was still wide and deep, and the shores lined with marshes. 
It then diminished in depth and width till we had but three feet of 
water, with a muddy bottom, and it was so narrow that we were 
convinced it could not be the olijeet of our search. We, however, 
landed at an Indian hut, as they frequent this place to hunt and fish ; 
but wc reached the shore with difficulty through the marshes nnd 
mud. 

" Our explorers returned, having found nothing but some billets of 
wood and brands of a fire before a bark hut They had also found a 
brook at the head of the wide entrance, and heard the noise of a fall 
which it made a little way up. We had great need of patience, and, 
embarking again at half-past nine, we reached the point ' P ' at ten. 
Tlie kind of false entrance which the English call 'Muddy river' 
justifies this title. We landed, gut breakfast, and rested. At eleven 
we starteil again, an<i sailed rouml to point ' Q,' and then to ' R,* where 
we found ourselves in a little bay full of marshes and shoals, where 
we could scarcely enter. The rain now began to interrupt our ob- 
servations, ami the winds and waves increased so that it was neces- 
sary to find shelter. 

'• From this point we could see ou our course the point of the false 
bay, and an Indian's hut, shaped like a tent, with two canoes on the 
beach. The shore here formed a wide bay. bounded with limestone 
and loose masses of granite, and where the soil was washed by the 
waves it was full of thin, flat stones, of a calcareous variety. There 
was a sand-bar on which we struck, and M. de Zeny, observing that 
the weather was threatening, did not wish to run the risks by turning 
the point *S.* that lay before us; so he gave orders in English to his 
men lo run ashore, — a welcome command, which was executed before 
we could prevent it. We h.ad only time to leap into the water (o 
steady and check the bateau, so as to keep it from being filled by 
the waves, before it was landed. It was fortunate that our second 
shock, like the first, was upon fine sand, so that nothing was injured. 
While some wore busy with the bateau and the others were kindling 
a fire, M. Desjardincs, by going along the shore, found behind point 
*S' a little bay, where wc c»»uld haul out the bateau very easily. 
Still seeing a stretch of water on his right, he continued on, till he 

5 



found that the point ' T* was a peninsula, which only joined the main 
shore by a ton^^ue of gravel six feet wide, an I b(*yond this he found 
the mouth of Black river, disrinctly marked by its two banks receding 
in the dii^tance from th<' bay. He hastened to announce his discovery 
to MM. I'haroux and Brunei, and led them to the spot, but took 
eare To say nothing to M. de Zeny, whom they jiroposed to bring to 
the Black river on the morrow without notice, while he had all along 
been promising to lead us thither; but, in fact, he began to doubt 
where we were, or in what way we should go. Behind the beach 
where we lauded there was a marshy plain, and we returned to the 
boat through a wooded place. Our fire had drawn an Indian, his wife, 
and two children t-» visit us. They were all clothed in woolen 
blankets fastened with belts, and the father had a good gun, which 
he leaned against a tree a few paces from us. This family understood 
a few words of English, and in reply to questions in French, said 
that they were MUniHinjuen, a tribe living north of the lakes Ontario 
and Erie. We gave them some peas and lard, which they accepted, 
and after asking for tobacco, they left us showing signs of satisfaction. 

" The rest of the day was spent in making objiervations at ' S" and 
in fishing. Wc changed our clothing completely, and dried our 
effects. 

**,Suitdn^, Oi-toher 20. — Bad weather detained us till eight o'clock, 
when M. Brunei took the helm, and we steered to double the point 
' T,* which we passed by rowing, although with a strong head wind. 
At ten, the sky being still overcast, we landed upon our tract, at a 
high bank, and breakfasted. Here we informed M. de Zeny thnt we 
were on our own territory, and at the mouth of Black river. I^eft at 
eleven. The shore is composed of flat limestone, with bowldi-rs itf 
granite here and there, which appeareit to have been brought there 
by the storms of the lake or the current o( the river. The soil is thin 
on the banks, but further in it beconies deep, and bears a fine growth 
of timber. Sailing with a soutb-simthwest wind in a northeast 
course, at a quarter-past twelve the dark-colored water apprised us 
that we had met the current of the Black river, and following this as 
our guide, wc came to a place where the water was (juite shallow. 
The passage here enlarged, forming a large, almost circular basin, 
full of reeds and shoals, where we saw great numbers of cranes and 
ducks; but after passing the bar we found twenty feet of water in 
the channel, with a bottom of red sand sprinkled *Tith grains of iron, 
and presently the true entrance of the river came in view. We saw 
two small, high, rocky islets, forming three openings like the ancient 
ruins of a natural bridge, which formed a very striking view in con- 
trast with the obscurity of the woods, the dusky hue of the waters, 
and the romantic barriers of rock. We landed at one of these natu- 
ral piles, and climbed to the top to view the bay. the lake, and the 
river; and after enjoying this majestic prospect, we re-embarked to 
continue uj* the river. A little beyond we met with an island covered 
with the trees of this region, and saw the land on our left shaded by 
a young copse, while a little beyond the river becomes narrower. 
The banks are formed of beds of flat limestone with shells in the 
cleavage, and the bod of the river is paved with the same. Wo 
noticed on the left a channel which we took at first for a creek, but 
found to be one of the arms of the river, that forms a large island at 
this place, it being actually dry in some places and worn in the same 
rock. The bottom, along which we walked, is perfectly level. The 
vigorous vegetation indicated an excellent soil, and we measured a 
maple-tree more than twelve feet around. Opposite this island, ou 
the right, is a small stream. Further on the river is bordered with 
low grounds without rock, but the eliffs reappear beyond, and then 
appears a basin with a little plat of earth before the mouth of a dry 
creek, and an island cut in two by a fissure filleil ivith gravel, which 
becomes a channel in high water. Each side of this islet has a strong 
rapid, which we tried to pass on one side by drawing, but failetl, and 
finally, with much difficulty, succeeded on the other side in drawing 
our boat up into the basin above, nnd found there fifteen feet of 
water. At the head of the island we found a mass of trees and 
rocks, which by lodging there had probably caused the rapid. In 
the basin we saw another islet opposite the mouth of a creek, which 
had considerable water. This double basin formed a very agreeable 
spot. From this basin we entered the channel of the river, which a 
little way off hid itself between steep masses of rock, overhung with 
evergreens, forming a very gloomy pas;?age. As night came on, we 
encamped on a little intervale of about an acre, which wo found 
among the clifi's, and having secured the boat, arranged our tent, and 
caught some catfish and lake-bass, — an excellent fish, much resembling 



58 



HISTOKY OF JEFFKllSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



tho 8ca-has8. Finnlly, wc supped, nnd slept for the first timo on our 
own domains. ^ 

*'Mnndujf, October 21.— Left at eight and -.isccnded half a mile, sur- 
mouutinjc a difficult rapid, hut with plenty of water, and half a mile 
further found a very strong rapid, and after landing upon the rocks 
and trying in vain to drag the boat over it with ropes, gave up the 
attempt, lest the ropes should break and let the boat dash against the 
roL-ks, leaving us alune in the wilderness. We then mounted on foot, 
climbing from rock to rock in order to sec as much as we could of 
the river, which continued still deep, nnd walled in between great 
masses of limestone rock. This stone is of a bluish tint and excel- 
lent for buihling. anJ. although hard, it cleaves handsomely. We 
found some stones which gave indicatious of iron, and the sand itself 
is reddish, and filled with particles of iron, which tends to render the 
water still darker. We found some pyrites, brown within and black 
outside, which gave sparks with steel, and emitted a bituminous odor. 
We walked about a mile along the rocks with much difficulty, and 
came to an island, and a dry creek on the right, and saw many violent 
rapids, and finally a fall, which entirely barred our passage. 

"The rain now began to fall, which caused us to return to the boat 
at the last night's camp, where we arranged the tent more substan- 
tially, intending to make some sojourn at this place. We felled trees, 
unloaded the boat, and built a shelter as a magazine, and opened our 
casks of biscuit, which had become mouldy, to dry them by the fire, 
ns also our clothes and etfects. In this little nook in the rocks we 
were quite sheltered from high winds or the falling of trees, which 
the tempests overturned on the high lands around us. During the 
night the river arose about six feet, and we got up frequently to look 
after the boat, which, without this care, might have been swept away. 
** We caught several white-fish, and M. Brunei killed two American 
pheasants, which resembled the wood-hens of Europe. AVe also caught 
a kind of salamander, much larger than the European, being a foot 
long, including the tail. This amphibian had four paws, and a head 
much like that of a lizard, and fastened itself so firmly to the rock 
that our men could scarcely pull it off with the line, and thought they 
had taken a very large fish. We found in the vicinity some moose- 
wood, so called because the clan, which the Canadians call the ori- 
ginal, and the Americans the moose-deer, is very fond of it. It is a 
very pliant bush, mucilaginous like the mallows, and its bark will 
make cords of great strength, and impervious to water. We made 
one of it for our boat. The wood, which is very soft and spungy, 
made good floats for our lines from lack of bttter. 

" Tntmi'ii/, Oetnln.r 22. — A heavy rain in the morning, with hail, so 
that we could only go and reconnoitre in (he intervals of fair weather. 
The upper part of the soil is san ly, and the country was burned over 
some thirty years ago, so that the timber is all of about that age, except 
the maples and walnuts, which escaped the flames. The sand is fer- 
tile, and the hiunns is at least a foot deep in some places, so that it is 
capable of yielding as good crops as a soil more compact, while it is 
e.ksicr to cultivate. Beyond the evergreen-trees which thickly cover 
the banks, the land becomes better, and wo found groves of maple, 
interspersed with ash, walnut, etc., of great size; nnd, contrary to the 
usual order, the poorest soil was along the river-banks, where the rock 
not only comes to the surface, but is full of dangerous crevices, con- 
cealed by mosses and woody plants. 

'* From ten in the morning until one in the afternoon we were ex- 
ploring the basin that we traversed on Sunday, and the location of 
which appeared to us favorable for a city, if the bar would allow a 
passage for vessels, the depth of Black river — from seventeen to 
twenty feet — being sufficient to bring sloojis and schooners as far as 
the foot of the rapids of the upper basin. We took notice of all the 
advantages of this location, its quays cut from stones by the hand 
of nature, the surface entirely of rock, and raised a dozen teet above 
the water; and in the interval between the upper and lower ba-ins 
the city might receive from the upper the products of the mills on 
the falls and rapids, while from the lower they could bring the j>ro- 
duets of the lake, and send off their exports. The dryness of the 
soil jtromiscil salubrity, while the land rising in hills around the har- 
bor would display the city to aclvantage. On digging pits we found 
stone suitable for buibling and for lime; and clay is not distant for 
brick; but all those advantages arc ni>thing unless the passage is 
priicticable, because the coiiimcrcoof the lake re<|uircs keeled vessels, 
nnd if neoil be we must place it on the bay. or some of the natural 
coves, of which there are several. 

" HW««f/«y, October 23. — Early in the morning we decided that 



M. Pbaroux should start with one of the men, and some provisions, 
to follow up the Black river for a couple of days, in the hope of reach- 
ing the settlements of the Baron Steuben, which we believed to be 
thirty miles distant, or of finding some log houses, where the inhab- 
itants might give some information. In the mean time we were to 
examine the environs of our camp, and make preparations for return- 
ing. We accordingly made several excursions into the woods, while 
the men were busy in mending the boat, and in making a new mast 
and a large steering-paddle. M. Phamux left at seven o'clock, with 
Briton, one of the boatmen, loaded with three days' provisions, and 
nrnied with a gun, a hatchet, a flint and fleel, and blankets. At half- 
past seven he came to the great fall, as far up as we had been. and at 
eight he reached the head of the rapid. Beyon.l this, crossing a dry 
creek paved with flat rock, he went up the stream a quarter of an 
hour, and fouml the soil good, with young timber of lofty growth. 
The fall on the river was a succession of rapids. Saw a rapid pass- 
able by a boat, and a little above a fall, with the banks of rock from 
thirty-six to forty-two ft et above the water. At 8.20 another fall, and 
at 8.30 another, and then rapids. At 8.36 a fall of about ten feet, the 
bnnks here showing the debiix of great disturbances. At 8.45 a larger 
fall, in three sections, the middle one narrowed Vjy broken rocks, 
which broke up the current. At 9.0.5 a large and long fall. The gen- 
eral course of the river in ascending was eastward, but it is quite 
crooked in places. At 9.15 desctnded the rock in a convenient place, 
on the right of a fiill, where the sides arc less steep, the rock sloping 
umler the stream so as to give it greater swiftness, with a sheet, or cas- 
cade below. The gutters worn in the rock have also a cascade. The 
banks on our side are low, as nlso on the other, with masses of timber 
lodged by the waters. The easterly course has changed to the south- 
east. At 10.5 another fall, or violent rapid, with receding banks, and 
large masses of flat stone on the left, and a little further on the right 
the river turn? towards the southeast and then east. It then forms a 
succession of rapids, in the middle of which is a moss of rock. At 
10.40 the river was about fiity toises wide, southeast turning east, and 
a small rapid. A fine stony beach, and pleasant basin of still water; 
at 10.45 a small stream of running water, and beds of overhanging 
rock. The laud low, with a fine vegetation. At 10.50 another beach. 
The river turns southeast, with moose-wood on the banks, and large 
maples, ash, oak, ancl walnut trees. The river is wide and rapid. 
At 11 a hill, then a valley, and low grounds, and a large stream with 
flat, rocky bed. A little beyond the current is stronger, and trees 
fallen in numbers. 

'* At 11.25 the river fine and wide. Soil good, but better on the 
right. Course S.S.E. Banks straight, rocky, and a hundred toises 
apart. 

"At 11.40 a wide rapid. Course east. The still water forms a 
little cove on each side. At 11.50 a great rapid, with rocky islets 
in the middle, uprooted trees, and heaps of sand on the shore, where 
it is overflowed in freshets. At noon wc saw a great cascade in tho 
distance, broken rock, forming an island, through which the water 
flows. The smaller channel on the right,* a rocky cliff on the left, 
and narrowing of the river above, where it turns to the northeast. 
how ground on the right and high on the left. Two ravines, with 
bnnks, then another ravine, obstructed with masses of trees. At 12.50 
tho great cascade, of which the torrent is on tho left side, with a 
brunch on the right, and a large rocky island, covered with pines. 
Land low on the right, but sttep at the bottom of the fail, and high 
on the loft. The cascade forms a cloud of mist. At 1 we gained tho 
head of the fall, where the swift water announces the upper falls. At 
1.15 the river turns, i\nd the land is steep on our side. Course cast, 
turning southeast, the land forming a very high hill, and the vegeta- 
tion fine. At 1.25 the stream is parted by an island, with two falls 
at tho head. Tho rocks are much broken and fissured on our side. 
A little ab'ive, a grout fall of ten feet, with a little bar at the side of 
the island. At l..i4, the branches of the river very swift, and the 
course east, turning southeast. A large and fine island ; land good 
and low, with a fine vegetation. At the end of the island is another 
cascjide, stronger and higher on the right than on the leit. 

'* At 2 o'clock, about a hundred steps above another island, cov- 
ered with trees, the largest channel being on our side; soil good and 
low. Dined hero. Before reaching the other end of the island a long 
she* t of water. At 2.46 a large fall and rapid, with two flat masses 



« The falls at AVatcrtown. 



HISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



59 



of rock. At 3 a rapid fall ; course cast, nnd the point of the island 
not yet in sight. Observed another branch towards the north, and 
this meeting of the waters forms a j^rcat uproar and disturbanee. 
The land beyond this junction appears low, with no more rock. The 
other brunch has a northea^^t course, and what I took for a river is 
only a email branch of ISlack river. Soil good upon bolh sides and on 
the island, to which one nn<;ht p:i8s from rock to rock, across the 
little branch. Beyond this the river becomes smooth. At 3.46 turned 
along the branch, which has n course aluiost north. A light rapid be- 
yond the first island. The river is wide ami the lami on both sides 
low. with a fine vegttation. At half-paf*t five, the river still smooth. 
Made a fire. Took a light su|>pcrand slept iu my blanket. It froze 
during (he night. This place is very fine. 

" Thni-Hidiy, Ortoher 25. — Uesumcd labors at half-past seven, fol- 
lowing the left bank of Black river, which still continues about as 
wide us the Seine at Point lloyal, the water (lowing very quietly. 
The land is low and the soil gtjoil on both side-?. More rocks and 
strong vegetation. At 7.35 three large trees, cut with an axe, and in- 
dications of a fire lately made. Course of the river northeast. At 
7Aii a small island, with trees piled up by the current at the upper 
point. Another smaller island, the larger branch on our side. A dry 
creek aud good land along its course. At 8 a little island on the 
right. At 8.15 a wooded island on the right side, and at S.:iU a largo 
wooded island, the larger branch on the left. A little further, a dry 
ercek, with the adjoining hinds a little elevateil. It runs in at the 
wider branch. Course of the river more easterly. Ascended the 
creek, which has a northeasterly course, in a line of water and swamjis. 
At 8.55 the river narrows, and high lands are met. Heard the noise 
of another fall. The river flows over flat rock; course northeast. 
At 9.30 the channel narrows, with the same kind of banks of rock. 

•'Started at 9.55, after breakfast. At 10 a very strong rapid. 
Stony on the right and broken rock on the left. At lU.IO another 
rapid: turns east. At 10.20 a rocky bank and sheets of rock on the 
left, torn up by the torrent, which here bends towards the south, and 
then to thee.ist. At 10.25 another rapid, announcing a fall. At 10.35 
a large fall. Course northeast. Banks quite high. At 10.45 another 
fall on the left. For the space of 3U0 toises it is rapid, and other falls 
arc heard. I went no further than to get a view of the fall in the 
distance. I then directed my course towards the northwest, through 
the woods. The most of these lands are level, with some swamps. 
I observed trees cut with an axe. At the right of the great fall the 
land is more broken, with the banks- and roeks covered with evergreen- 
trees. Supped aud slept before a rousing fire, near the great falls, ^■ 
and about ten miles from camp. 

•' FfiUtiif, Ottohcr 20. — Started at half-past six with Briton. The 
road was terribly rough over the rocks and among the junipers and 
hemlocks. Arrived at the tent at half-past nine. We had begun to 
be uneasy about ()ur explorers, aud, finding ourselves together aud 
everything ready for a start, we tctok breakfast and set out at eleven. 
Passed again the basin suitable for the site of a city. Passed with 
difheulty the rapid which separates the two basins. The island is on 
our side. Arrived at the entrance, and the wintl proved so contrary 
that we were forced to lay by among the rocks of a little peninsula 
which the river there forms. It came on to rain heavily, and we re- 
gretted our nook among the rocks, where wo had been so well shel- 
tered. Pitched our tent among the red cedars. The rain having 
slackened, wo penetrated with some difficulty among the rocks and 
fallen trees till we came to the other side of the peninsula, where we 
found quite a large hollow, doubtless the remains of a bay, filled in 
by the dt'bris of the river and lake, piled into this nook by the north- 
west winds. There was also an enormous mass of trees, forming a 
barrier which closed up the valley, and they wore scattered along 
from the peninsula to another point, about a mile distant. M. Brunei 
crossed it in going to a tree on the other side. These fallen trees were 
covered with blaekbir<is. who appeared to have chosen this spot as a 
rendezvous and ]>oint of departure. We saw, from this place in the 
hay, some flocks of herons, white as snow, ranged iu a line along the 
shoals, and busily engaged in fishing. We also saw some sttuks, wild 
geese, and ducks of several kinds. This bay, being well stocked with 
fish and full of shoals, is attractive lo aijuatic birds. We returned 
along the beach to our camp, thus making the tour of our little penin- 
sula, and disc»)vering that the Black river, instead of entering directly 
into the bay, flows along the shore about a mile, kept in bounds by 

® At these falls Pharoux was afterwards drowned. 



shoals, and makes a carve in reaching the middle of the bay. In the 
bright sunlight the dark color of the river flowing through the bay 
enabled us to trace its course for some distance out. Meanwhile, 
since M. do Zeny was urging our return, we decided, instead of ex- 
ploring the passage, to improve the little time we had by steering 
across the shoals t<» reach the shore on our own territory. We had 
had since morning a dry, electrical fog, which, as M. de Zeny in- 
formed us, indicated frosty weather with certainty; and, if we did 
not wish tu winter in Canada, we must hasten to return, lest the ice 
should close the passage against our boat. Not knowing the country, 
we were cautious, and resolved to set out on our return to-morrow, 
with as little delay as possible." 

NOTES FROM TUE '* CASTORLAND JOURX.\L." 

The first account on record of the appearance of the 
Black river at Carthage is *^iven in the " Castorland Jour- 
nal, " under date of July "IX^ 1794: 

*' Muinftti/, Jii/t/ 21, 1794. — After finishing the translation of Mr. 
Webster's Field Book, I set out to visit the head of the falls, at 10,28, 
taking two men along, ami two days' provisions in the canoe. I ar- 
rived at the head of the falls at about twenty minutes past one. The 
river is here quite wide, but sotnewhat encroached upon by rocks of 
a reddish color on the right bank. The river above the head of the 
falls forms a great basin, which narrows at once at the place where 
the rocks first appear. The falls are, from first to last, only a kind of 
rapid, with a slope of about two feet [in a chain], with rock on bolh 
sides and iu the middle. At this place the current divides into two 
branches, aud forms an island in the middle. The falls then enlarge 
into a vast basin, sprinkled with an immense number of rucks and 
rocky islets, the soil of which is strong, and covered with evergreen- 
trees. The basin has a wide contour, with a direction, at first, towards 
the north, and then to the west. The whole appears to be inundated 
at time of high water, from above, and the overflowing waters find 
passages and form currents in low places, where the channels are 
now dry. The surface is very unequal, cut up and broken with 
granite rock, and covered with cedars and hemlocks. 

"I spent two hours in going around the basin, which has every- 
where rapids, aud then came to still water, un the borders of a great 
plain covereil with hemlocks. On a biink which rises above this plain 
we saw many traces of Indian habitations. The river has a north- 
northwest course from the foot of the falls, aud then bears to the 
north. At the place where the Indians had encamped we had a very 
fine view of the islands in the rapids, and the course of the still water 
below. The islands of the Ijong Falls are innumerable, and at a 
single point of view it is impossible to form a correct idea of the 
basin. . . . The rock in which it is worn is a reddish granite, 
striking fire with steel, and with strata highly inclined. A pocket- 
compass on being placed on them was attracted. 

"From the basin I walked along the river for about an hour; the 
water all the way still; but a little beyond I came to a fall of some 
two feet, which it would be possible to run down in a canoe. It is 
formed by a ridge of rock, that retains the water, and one might 
here pass by fording, following the line of rocks. The river here 
turns towards the north. Went still about half an hour's walk fur- 
ther to observe the direction, and found that it turns northwest, the 
water being still for quite a long distance. I judged from the ap- 
pearance of the highlands in the distance that we could not be far 
from the furtherest point I had reached the year before, and it may 
be that this is the still water I had seen above the lower rapids. 

"Set out for camp. Saw a good place to run the road in the 
hemlock plain ; but the soil is very poor. We had to cross several 
places that had been overflowed, and channels, now dry, which tne 
floods have worn. The wood is principally whit-- cedar. Arrived at 
night, much fatigued, at the head of the Long Falls, hut found 
neither tent nor fire prepared by little .Jacques, whom I had left for 
this service. I had great difiiculty in starting a fire. The weather 
was clear, and the north wind made the night very cold. I slept in 
an Indian hut. near which I found the skeleton of a beaver,'* 

The first map of the river at Carthage was drawn by 
Simon Desjardincs, who thus describes his adventures : 

" }\'cdnc9tiat/, Aut/utt 6. — Oil the Sttrvey. — Spent the day in drawing 
plans of the falls and rapids, passing across the rocks, the falls, aud 



60 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



the rnpid?: und nftcr slipping, am! tumbling into the water, my legs 
were blistered. The nperulion was continued until nightfall. Found, 
hut nut withiiut diflii'uU\. a place to recross (o our side, anil fullowt'd 
the road along Ihu (alls in the tlaik to reach eanip, when, happily, at 
midway, we met them coming to seek us, hy the light of fat pine 
torchc?. There only remains to draw the sides at some places, and 
the point of the island above. I couM hardly sleep, from fatigue, 
and the pain endured from my blistered legs." 

The French surve^'ors of 1794 encountered great trouble 
front imUiiiy, desertion, sickness, and death. Tlie following 
account of tiiese miseries is from the " Ciu^torlatid Journal :" 

" Wediietidfiif, Sept. 10. — Continued my route, and arrivid at ten 
o'clock at the camp above the Long Falls, where I found Mr. Frcy, 
the surveyors, and all the men but four, declaring their intention of 
abandoning u?, under the pretext of sickness or unwillingness to re- 
main. Mr. Cantinc's party had arrived, having left behind and 
abandoned three men sick with a bloody flux. I went at once to the 
place with Mr. Broadhcad, and we brought them in upon a kind of 
litter. The men and surveyors had for three days been doing nothing, 
and I charged Mr. Webster with both falsehood and idleness, as he 
bad done nothing since the 2Sth of August. I blamed bim for 
having left me ignorant of the alleged sickness of bis men, who bad, 
however, been well enough to devour their provisions in advance, 
and I required of Mr. Frey a certificate that his hired men had left 
before the completion of Ihiir work, which he signed in the presence 
of Mr. Broadbead, who also signed it as a witness. The result of this 
mutiny was that all the men, on the demand of Mr. Webster for three 
days' provisidns, left us together in the evening. I refused the canoe 
to Mr. Webster and paid him nothing, but agreed to settle with him 
on the return of M. Desjardines, and, for the«xpenses of his journey, 
came to an agreement that it should be decided by Mr. Dc Witt. I 
went with Mr. Frcy to the camp above the falls, to prevent them from 
taking the canoes and provisions from that pbice, and, after passing all 
the men over to the other side of the river, we returned at night by 
the light of a flambeau, made of hickory bark. At midway we met 
a light that Mr. Broadhead was bringing to direct our course. He 
informed us of the death of little Vanvcrkell, one of our men, who 
had died from the bloody flux, his comrades having given him, after 
the American fashion, rum, with an infusion of astringent roots. I 
regretted this the more as this young and excellent boy bud been as 
docile as the others were bad. We learned that Lindsay and M'arren 
were staying with the corpse, and watching with Ward, another man 
who was also sick with the flux. 

" TliHiHdityy Srjtt. 11. — Directed a grave to be dug for the corpse, 
and sent Mr. Frey with the canoe to bring it ; but, instead of return- 
ing, he sent one of his men to inform mc that he was going to bury 
the body on the spot, and take care of Ward, to bring him to camp. 

"M. G. Desjardines and I watched with Mr. Cantine. who is a 
little better. This disease, which was greatly aggravated by fear 
and by discouragement from desertions, is but little dangerous when 
the sick are treated rationally, and made to drink freely of ice-water, 
but it is fatal if they persist in clriiiking rum, and especially if they 
continue to cat salt pork, which is the principal, if not the only food 
they can get in the woods. 

" This disease every year takes ofl" a great many Americans in the 
new settlements, nnd it is regardcil as an epidemic on account of its 
fearful ravages. 

" Friduy, Svftteiiihcr 12. — Messrs. Frej' and Broadhead brought in 
the sick man Ward. Warren, one of our men, declares himself at- 
tacked. All the men remaining with us engage to stay until the end 
of our operations. Agreed with Mr, Frey that we should take the 
sick up to the High Falls, and that in the mean time three men should 
slay in camp, under the direction of M. G. Desjardines, and spend 
their time in washing and mending as well their own clothes as (hose 
that belonged to the men who went with us." 

The Castorland agents began the first uiill at Carthage 
late in the summer of 1795, and the following extracts 
from their jimnial will show tlu- early stops of their 
enterprise : 

".Vinif/'iy, Auyntt^. — . . . Started at seven o'clock, after rc-em- 
bnrking our things, which had been sheltered from the rain by our 
tent and two tarpaulins. The great new canoo takes in much water, 



nnd will need to be calked. Arrived at the Long Falls at eleven 
o'clock; landed our things, and arranged our tent, with the tarpau- 
lins on the upper side. In the mean time M. Pharoux and the first 
carpenter went to select a site for the mill. As the water was very 
low this year, and as we bail found all ihe little streams dry on our 
route, we apprehended that there would not be found water enough 
at the place we had selected, but wc found there more than enough, 
and the location is very fine. Below this there is another place very 
good for a corn-mill. The cost of sluices will be a small item, the 
rock cimiing up in very fragile masses, so that the excavation of the 
canal will be easy. 

" Alter dinner we continued t(j arrange our camp. Went fishing, 
and found ourselves quite as much at ease as we could expect to bo 
in the woods. 

" Mtmdny, Atii/iiift 10. — Sent back Cross and Robinson in the canoe 
to get provisions at the High Falls, and with them was sent a letter, 
informing M. Desjardines of our operations. Had some trees cut 
down and cleared a place for the lug-house at the mill. Placed and 
leveled the foundation logs of the house. The great number of large 
trees, the roughness of the ground, which is encumbered with rock, the 
want of cattle, and the scanty supply of help occasioned many delays. 
Nature has indicated the ])lace for a supply canal. We only want 
some powder and a couple of men who are accustomed to work in 
mines. The surface indicates that the rock will be easy to raise. 

** Tt(€Hdn}j, AiKjiiKt II. — Repaired the old oven below the fulls and 
baked in it. The waters at Meridian Rock are at the same level as 
last year. At the landing they are not quite as high as at the foot 
of the oven, so that we may here construct what will serve as a land- 
ing for all who may come from below. We have leveled an excelUnt 
spring, which may be easily brought to the mill-house. Our work- 
men have labored well, and all the beams are hewed. 

" Tkursdai/, August Vi. — They have entirely finished flooring the log 
house. In the evening M. Tassart arrived in the large canue, and 
brought us three letters that Mr. Broadhead bad sent : one from M. 
Pharoux's father, one from M. Tardif, master-mason in St. Domingo, 
who seeks employment from us, and the third from Mr. Constable. 
This letter promised us no more satisfaction from him than we had 
got from his agents and associates. An hour after tliis Cross arrived 
with the two Indians, bringing with biui the cattle, which had met 
with no accident. 

" Friday, AnynHt 14. — After breakfast they yoked the cattle to 
draw logs, and took advantage of so many men being together to 
raise the building. The cable and pulleys which we have received are 
not of much use. In the evening saw a water-snake . . . with its 
head out of water, holding a fish in its mouth. Saw also a largo 
green adder four feet long. In the afternoon, the fire of the clearing 
having gained around the log house, the time required in checking it 
prevented us from finishing it. It now wants but two courses of logs. 

*' Sdliirdfti/, AinjuHt \b. — After breakfast MM. Pharoux and Tas- 
sart with a sujiply of provisions set out iu a canoe for the High Falls. 
M. Pharoux wished to show on the way to M. Tassart the portion of 
land which commissioners had indicated to M. Olive for his -IltoO 
acres, as the most advantageous of the 2l>,000 acres from which ho 
was to select, according to his agreement. . . . Finished raising the 
log house, which will bo covered with bark by the Indians on the 
return of M. Pharoux. The two carpenters have worked upon the 
frame of the roof, while I have caused to be transported all tlie things 
at the camp to the log house, whore we are now settled. We all 
slept this night in our new camp. 

" Muiidiii/, Aiii/itHt 17. — Kmployed the men in cutting bushes and 
felling trees between the house and the river along the falls, and in 
helping the carpenters raise the last logs and joists. There are now 
only the rafters to jmt up. 

" \Vvihu:Hdtiy, Awjitxt I'J. — Tliey j)Iaeed the rafters on Ihe !(»g house, 
and made the oxen <lraw all the logs that would be needed for car- 
penter's wood, when they put fire to the rest of the clearing behind 
the log house. The carpenters sawed the optnings fur Ihe windows 
on the left side, and put in the frame. In the afternoon the other 
window-frame was placed. . . . 

** Thumdni/, AmjiiHt 20. — A heavy rain, ubioh quieted everything 
at the house. The fires kindled yesterday around the camp had, 
notwithstanding our vigilance, threatened danger, and wo had to 
water several times (he space formed to separate us from them. The 
fire ran underground from root to root, and could not have been 
reached unless by this rain, so that our men were well pleased with 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Gl 



it. After the rain ubated they went fishing, with the exception of 
the first eaqientcr and Robinson, who went to get the door of the log 
house, wliich liud not been brought from the camp at the binding, 
and which rhey put in its phice. Our men at last returned from their 
fishing, and were quite willing to take up the axe. After dinner the 
carpenter placed the logs and floor for the foundation of an oven. 
They made, with Allen, a hand-barrow to carry stones for the oven 
and the chimney, of which the he:irth Imd been begun yesterday. 
The courses of the hearth have been laid in a very good elay, thiit we 
fortunately foun<l near at hand. The stone is not so good, as it breaks 
easily, and does not resist the fire. M. Pharoux arrived at six in the 
evening, with the two Indians^ thoroughly wet, but in good health. 

" FiiUitif, Ati'funt 2\. — The first carpenter, with the help of Allen, 
laid up the stone at the back of our chimney, while the second car- 
penter and Robinson brought clay on a hund-barrow. Trueman 
brought stones. . , . After dinner the chimney was finished, and they 
began the oven. The two Indians, although much fatigued with row- 
ing in the rain, went to work last evening as soon as they arrived, 
without our having occasion to speak with them. To-day they have 
cut and placed the polos which arc to support the bark uf the roof. . . . 
'■ S'ttitrdat/f Atujnst 22. — Had them split and dress planks, to make 
a partition in our log house. The Indians have entirely covered it 
with large barks, fastened on with cords of basswood bark.^hich 
serves in place of ropes. The newly finished oven has been kept 
constantly warm and attended by Trueman. Peck has been attacked 
with the dysentery and is put on a regimen of ice-water. 

" Tneitfaif, AinjiiMt 26. — Cleared, trimmed, and set fire to clear out 
the road which is to be used in getting timber to the mill. Finished 
the closets, the two doors, and a floor over ours. The two Indians 
close<l with scraped bark the opening by the side of the ehimncy. 
They then brought chiy from the river and filled the joints between 
the logs. 

*^ WeduemUnj. An'juHt 2i\, — The Indians finished jtuttingin the strips 
of wood and plastering with clay the chinks of the log house. They 
then made a shelter of bark over the oven. The carpenters and 
Allen have hewed timber for the mill. . . . The clearing begins to 
enlarge. They made as many fires as they could along the line of 
the canal to break up the rock by the action of fire. 

^* Thursilni/, Aiiifimt 27. — Employed all the men in cutting down 
and sijuaring timber. The two carpenters, working on a strife, our 
work is more advanced. M. I'haroux has verifie<l the plan uf the 
falls which he made last year. 

'' Fiiiliiif, AtitjuHt 2^. — The same work as yesterday. Our first bar- 
rel of fi(»ur is consumed to-day. It ladled ten pers<»ns, on an average, 
eighteen days, which is about a pound and a quarter of bread a day 
to each. 

** Siittiitlat/, Aii^iutt 29. — Work the same. Ptill much emulation 
between the two parties. The old Indian being lame, we have em- 
ployed him in fishing, but he brought iu nothing but a litt!o white- 
fish. The river is not as well stocked with fish here as at the High 
Falls. 

" iSiimtat/j Aittfusf 30. — Our Indians have started in the little canoe 
to return to the High Falls, and from tbenee to their homes. Last night 
two of our workmen traded their own share of rum with them for 
their moccasins, and our Indians drank beyond measure, so that 
they waked us up in the middle of the night to demand of us some 
rum, oH"oring to pay us; but we refused them, as was necessary. 
They replied that they would go ofl' then in the morning. They 
"liave accordingly kept their word, although ashanieil of their fault 
and apjiarently sorry to leave us. We neither reproached them nor 
took any stcjis to detain them, and as ihey left us we gave them the 
jiarting hancl. After they had gone we scolded the men who had 
traded with them as being the cause of their drunkenness. These 
Indians had no other fault; but when once they had drank beyond 
reason they will always have more, and if drunkenness makes them 
commit some folly their proud and indejiendent spirits will not permit 
them to make amends. 

** Mimilixif, Aiiffiint Zl. — Allen, who was indisposed, has bcrn attai'Ued 
by the fever. M. Pharoux, in the letter that he gave to the Indians 
for Uaptiste, requested him to scud down, by Mr. Broadhead, ipecac 
and rhubarb. The same work of cutting and hewing timber. Found 
many young plum-trees, with red frnil. near the camp, above the 
falls. We propose to plant sorui- of them this fall at the High 
Falb^. 

" 7V((-*'Af(/. Siptmibrr }, — Allen is a little better, fhir oxen, about 



which we have been uneasy, returned of their own accord in the 
afternoon. . . . Work the same as yesterday. 

" y'/itiiM(intfj Sfpfemfjrr .3.— The weather being rainy, we ordered 
Peck and Robinson to bring into the log house the wood needed for 
kitchen-tables, oars, tool-handles, etc. . . . 

'* Fritliii/, September 4. — Fell timber, cut it into logs, and ranged 
the wood near the houne, in the place that is to be the yard. In the 
afternoon Dixon and Trueman cut ilown and sawed some oak, to be 
used in the machinery. . . . 

*' Satin-fitii/, S'ptt-tuhir b. — Cleared out the place of the yard near 
the house, so as to be able (o superintend the work more easily. 
Had the oxen draw a part of the square timber, which is piled in the 
new yard. Dixon worked on parts of the machinery, and made four 
ox-bows. 

*' Wcdneiniftt/, Septchiher 9. — Dixon made a large wooden horse for 
sawing, and did not need help in cutting down oak-trees. tStill look- 
ing for the oxen without success. Made a road to connect the one 
of last year with the new one. The river is much swollen. 

" T/nirmhty, Sfpteiiif/ef 10. — After dinner M. Pharoux set out for 
the High Falls with Allen, who is still sick, and who will go home. 
. . . Dixon made some posts for the mill, and then began a little 
sled to draw framing-timber more easily. Trueman, having brought 
back the oxen, drew some sticks to the yard. 

" Frlflni/, Stpttuiih''f'l\. — Had them draw the square timber to the 
yard. The carpenters finished the little sled, and then worked on 
the machinery of the mill. 

" Mondntf, Svplciiihrr \X. — Trueman went to find the cattle, and 
brought them in to finish drawing siiuare timber to the yard. The 
carpenter was employed on the little pieces of the mill. . . . M. 
Pharoux arrived at eight o'clock in the evening with five men. The 
waters are very high. 

'* Tiicid'iif, St'ptemher 15. — Caused some logs to be drawn to make 
a forge, and transported the provisions and tools. The forge is 
almost entirely raised. Cut down some pines to split for fioors. 

** WcdiicHdai/, Septeiitltef 1 fi. — A great rain, which prevented the 
workmen from splitting jilanks to cover the forge. Peck and 
Robinson tried in vain to peel some bark. M. Pharoux and Dixon 
improved some intervals and set stakes for the mill-race, which will 
pass in front of the house, to avoid a ditch that might be too long 
and expensive. Our men were employed in making wooden pins. 
Washed, oiled, and mended the forge bellows. Made scaffolding and 
other structures, so as to employ all hands on the roof. In the after- 
noon cut wood to make a coal-pit. Cleared out from the head of the 
projected canal some great pieces of dead wood which the river had 
thrown in. M. Pharoux took the level from the upjier part of the 
canal to the lower end. Cut some rafters to cover the smith's shop. 
At seven in the evening M. Tassart arrived with letters, and inform- 
ing us of the return of my brother at the High Falls. 

•* T/iitrttdfti/, Septemher 17. — We had the cattle draw up some largo 
pine blocks, to split into boards for covering the blacksmith-shop. 
The men were employed in cutting wood, some for the coal-pit, the 
rest along the line of the canal. At nine in the evening Mr. Broad- 
head at last arrived, with all his men in good health. 

" Sntnrdtit/, Sejitcmher 19. — At seven o'clock this morning Messrs. 
Pharoux, Broadhead, and company set out, happy and in good health. 
. . . We have covered a part of the forge with planks, and will finish 
the roof with plank split from white cedar. They worked on the coal- 
pit, which will be finished to-morrow. Had somesquare timber tirawn 
up, this being a pressing necessity, as the cattle must be sent back to 
the High Falls, where they are much needed for the wagons. 

" Sinidai/, September 20. — The river having risen considerably, I 
sent the carpenter with some ropes to the camp at the landing to se- 
cure our canoes in case of need. ... It rained incessantly. 

" Mondiii/, September 21. — The rain continuing, I had the bench 
and wooden horses brought in, so as to occupy the men under cover. 
. . . The weather having cleared up I sent two men to the coal-pit, 
and employed the rest in splitting planks. At three o'clock I noticed 
some persons on the other side of the river, whom I recognize I as 
belonging to M. Pharoux's party, and felt alarmed lest some accident 
had happened. Half an hour later my fears were realized, on the ar- 
rival of Messrs. Broadhead and Tassart, with one of their men, who in- 
formed me that, yesterday morning, as they were endeavoring to cross 
the river on a raft to the other side, they had been drawn into the falls 
by the violence of the current, niul that M. Pharoux and two men had 
p<-ri?hcd. The rest had been assisted by M. Tassart and his hired 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



man, who had furiunately refused tn cmtiark with them. They had 
built some fires, and searched along the shores, hoping to be able to 
assist their unfortunate comrades should thej be able to get ashore; 
but all their searches were in vain. The place selected for crossing 
was narrow, and consequently rapid, .ind Ihe great flood had still 
further incr<'a.«cd the velocity of the current, which prevented them 
from touching the button) with Ilieir poles, or of offering any resist- 
ance. M. Tassart bad gone down two miles below the fulls, where he 
had foun<l still water and a safe crossing-place; but the zeal of M. 
Pharou.x bad led bini lo disregard the representations of M. Tassart, 
and even the fears of the Indian, who had refused to cross with them. 
The dread of losing time in making tinotber raft, and the belief thjlt 
there was no danger, occasioned this irreparable loss that has befallen 
us. I had urged M. Pharoux to give up the journey, as Ihe season 
was so far advanced; but his an.xiety to procure at Kingston infor- 
mation as to provisions, men, etc., which we might depend upon next 
year, and above all his desire to verify for himself the operations on 
Pcnct Square and in Lower Castorland, drew him on to the end of his 
career. Mr. Broadhead had been wounded on the head by a piece of 
the raft as it went to pieces and was swallowed up in the falls. 
Money, instruments, provisions, all were lost, and his men lost all 
their effects. 

"This unfortunate event happened yesterday nioniiiig at half-past 
nine o'clock, and of the seven persons who were on the rait four only 
were saved. Our friends looked upon the danger with firmness. 
They wont down the first two rapids without breaking, and he did 
notecase encouraging his men till the moment when they were pre- 
cipitated over the third fall, which is more than fifteen feet high. 
Their raft went to pieces, and they disappeared in the cauldron 
below. Mr. Broadhead got ready to return to the place with two 
men to seek for the bodies of the victims of this sad catastrophe, and 
to render the last dues of a friend. We shall earnestly and constantly 
hope for their success in this enterprise, which would |irove the very 
greatest consolation to us in this foreign land. M. Tassart will start 
to-morrow to carry my letter, and one from Jlr. Broadhead to my 
brother, so that, should it be thought necessary, he can come down 
with some provisions to await the return of Mr. Broailhcad. We 
finished covering Ihe shop with planks, as well as the ends of the 
roof. The oxen drew firewood to the forge. We have made a 
wood-pile, which we have kindled and attended, so as to have some 
charcoal while waiting for the coal-pit. . . . 

" TiicMihii/, Scptemher 22. — M. Tassart set out with his man Robin- 
son and X. Hobley. One of Mr. Broadhead's hired men, finding him- 
self sick, joined them to return home. I gave M. Tassart the large 
canoe, as the most convenient for my brother to come down in with 
the provisions. In that case Baptiste will lake care of things at the 
establishment at Ihe High Falls. Mr. Broadhead, having no more 
instruments, could not continue his operations. After conferrini' with 
him, he decided not to go further than the bay, and to take only pro- 
visions enough for ten days, as this time would be sufficient to make 
the search. If they find the boily of our friend they will not bury il, 
but wrap it in barks lied with moose-wood, so that it may be brought 
here on a horse, when we will lake it up to the mouth of Independence 
creek, where he had chosen a site for his dwelling, ami there we will 
erect such monument as we may be able. While Mr. Broadhead is 
searching for the body with a man, the two others, with hooks and 
in a canoe, will drug the bottom of the river, to endeavor lo find either 
the bodies or the things that have been lost. They finished the black- 
smith's forge, so as lo make some hooks at once. Mr. Broadhead 
will have with him llilto, the Indian, and Peek and Warner, two of 
our men. . . . Notwilhslanding what Mr. Broadhead had told mo. I 
climbed many times upon the rocks, fancying lo myself that my friend 
had been able to save himself by gaining Ihe shore, and that he had 
come up to opposite our place; but all in vain. 

•• Wrilium/in/, Siplfmlicr 23.— Al half-past nine Mr. Broadhead set 
out with Ihe three men, some blankets, and other articles that they 
might want. They ilid not lake all their provisions, as the road 
which they had marked in going was very good, and in four hours 
a man can go from here to the fatal jd.ice where Ihey attempted to 
cross. Mr. Broadhead, on bis return, will procure new men lo con- 
tinue Ihe survey, and lo run Ihe road from here to Kingston by way 
of Penel's Square. I will lend him M. Pharoux's compass and a sur- 
veyor's chain, if ho docs not recover bis own. . . . 

" Thiirmliii/, Si-ptcmber 24.— Employe<l the oxen in drawing the 
wood cut for the mill. The blacksmith split some ash into thin strips 



to make a crate for carrying coal. I went to visit the coal pit, which 
is burning very well, notwithstanding Ihe bad weather. They have 
finished Ihe planks necessary for covering the coal-bouse. The In- 
dians had made sugar al the place where the pit is located, where 
there were many maple-trees cut into, and almost all the other young 
trees and dead wood had been cut by them lo boil their sugar with ; 
so that it will be very easy to establish a farm there; the soil, more- 
over, being of a good quality' and near a good meadow. . . . 

" FrnUfi/, Septembtr 2o. — The oxen drew carpenter's wood. Visited 
the coal-pit, which is quite advanced, and would have been done if it 
had not been necessary to use green wood. The blacksmith pretends 
that it will still require six or seven days. The English and Indians, 
during Ihe war of independence, coming from the Oswegalchie here, 
made the poi tagc and went up Ihe Black river to surprise Fort Stjin- 
wix. There occurred a skirmish on Ihe other side, between the 
Oiieiitiit and Ihe English, guided by other Indians, in which many of 
the OiieiddH were killed, and the rest were obliged lo fall back upon 
Fort Slanwix. The Indian, Hitio, pointed out to M. Pharoux the 
place where the combat took jdace on the banks of Black river. Made 
a large sled lo transport Ihe coal in the crate. 

^^ Saturday, Si-pfemhey 26. — Found this morning, along the river- 
hank, a kind of potato th.it is natural lo the country. Our Yankees 
told ifie that il was excellent when cookeil under the ashes. It is 
called the ground-nut. They are now scarcely formed, or green, and 
jire attached one after another on filaments, like a string of beads. I 
found their taste to be like the turnip, ami very insipid. At four 
o'clock in Ihe afternoon Robinson and Hobley returned with the little 
canoe, and brought letters from my brother, who informed me that 
he bad sent for provisions. He asked from me a report on the con- 
dition of Ihe labors, so as to be able to judge whether he ought to 
continue or suspenil the work at Ihe mill till next year. ... At 
eight in Ihe evening Kobinson returne<l with a letter from 3Ir. Broad- 
head, who hatl made a canoe, but had as yet found nothing, and re- 
quested me to send him some fresh provisions. 

'* Sinnhfi/, Scptctiiher 27. — Last ev( ning Warren, on bis return from 
Mr. Broadhead's camp, found nothing at Ihe landing-place opposite 
to us but the ro|ie that had held Ihe canoe, and which had probably 
hi en carried off by the water. . . . The steady rain to-day prevented 
us from sending any provisions, and also susj)ended all our oper- 
ations. 

" Maiiilat/, Sepiemher 28. — After breakfast I sent Hobley and Rob- 
inson to carry provisions to Mr. Broadhead, with my brother's letter 
and one from myself. I asked him to send hack Peck, who would be 
more useful as a carpenter here. They did not find the canoe again. 
The coal has been finished. Trueman did not bring up the oxen till 
nine o'clock, and did not find the cow. The search for the cattle 
made us lose precious time, and a well-trained dog would save us 
much care. The blacksmith having brought a basket of coal, put 
the two picks in order. ... In Ihe mean time I had some trees 
felle{l in Ihe direction of Ihe canal and on the site of the mill. The 
blacksmith made a trough for dipping, and forged some little pieces 
to fasten bis bellows, after which he arranged his hearth and twyre 
iron. 

" Tnefiiittt/, Srpieii'hvr 29. — Employed the men under cover on ac- 
count of Ihe bad weather. Had some phink taken up, and Ihe space 
paved with stone, to enlarge the hearth, and prevent danger from 
fire, as the Indians will be sure to come and lodge here in the winter 
while engaged in hunting. I visited the coal-pit, and we hope it will 
bo burned to-morrow. Peck and Hitto returned at half-past three, 
with a letter from Mr. Broadhead, announcing his intention to return 
to-morrow. . . . 

" Wediieatlaif, Septenihrr 3fl. — We had the first while frost. Mr. 
Broadhead returned, and complained to me that Peek had refused to 
go as far as the bay. He hatl recovered none of his effects, and ho 
informed me that besides this he had lost more than two hundrcil and 
sixty dfdlars in specie. I gave attention to his claims, and sent a 
statement to my brother, who will surely lay Ihem before the company 
for their favorable action. They have cut and squared two more 
pieces for the mill. The smith worked at his forge. Trueman. with 
the cattle, drew off Ihe rest of the burnt logs that encumbereil the 
place of the canal, and threw them into Ihe river. . . . 

" T/inrinlat/, Orhihrr 1. — Prepared my dispatches for my brother, 
and sent them by Mr. Broadhead, who returns lo the High Falls. This 
surveyor embarked at nine o'clock, in the little canoe, with the In- 
dian Hitto. Had some pieces of while oak sj)Iil for Ihe mill-wheels, 



HISTORY OF JKFFEKSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



G3 



and placed them on the joists so that thoy will dry more rapidly, (is 
well as the pins that I had arranj^ed on them. Our great canue of 
lastyear is entirely lost. . . . The reecnt flood of water carried it down 
the falls. The workmen arc employed in rooting up stumps on the 
line of the canal. . . . The smith made a heavy bar to aid in separa- 
ting the rouk. . . . 

'* fViWay, Ovtober 2. — In the highest part of the line traced for the 
canal, we fortunately found much sand and clay, which will fucilitHtc 
the excavation. The rocks which we found intermixed arc very easily 
removed. I have caused part of tlic large flat stones taken out to be 
piled by themselves, as thty will serve for building purposes another 
year. ... In the arternuun the blacksmith and bi.« brother brought 
coal, and re-covered the pit. They then aided the otlicr men in bring- 
ing earth from the trench between the rocks, to put along the river to 
make an embankment opposite the mill, to iuL'rcase its security against 
the ice. Finished the road from the house to the pit, which will also 
be a convenient way to bring up woo<i when cut. Have had the In- 
dian huts built near the coaI-i)it saved, to give our Indian brothers 
an example of respect for ]iroperty. 

*' Sntiiniai/f October 3. — Worked in digging the canal. The black- 
smith forged a mattock. The carpenter made a hand-barrow to 
carry ofl" the tlirt, from wnnt of a wheelbarrow. I had them carry 
the soft sand from the ditch between the two great rocks to the river- 
bunk, to priftect the flank of the canal. We examined and estimated 
the amount of rock that it will be necessary to blast, nml as the strata 
are inclined, they may be raised to advantage by the aid of imple- 
ments. I have had some iron wedges and levers forged. 

*' Minitiay, October 5. — Employed the men under cover, on account 
of the rain. The smith and his brother made chisels for piercing and 
mining the rocks. The two carpenters made mill-cogs, Eobinson 
and Warren made pins. The now barrel of flour had heated, and 
was very mouldy and solid. ... In the afternoon they cut some 
wood for the carpenters, who have blocked out the pins of the drum- 
wheel. 

** Tuesday, October 6. — Split and jjut to dry on the joists some new 
square pieces. Made mill-cogs, eto., but the bad weather retarded 
all our o]»orations. The laborers, crowded together in the log house, 
could not work as freely as they could in a large shed, on which ac- 
count wo have determined to make one another year, as at the High 
Falls. Work the same as yesterday. 

" Wediicstliii/f October 7. — Peck and Robinson got out some stumps 
and stones on the line of the canal. Trueman cut down and trimmed 
off the trees on the bank o( the river, at the entrance of the canal. 
As the water is high, I have improved this occ:iaion to clear away 
this part more easily. . . . 

*' ThnrHdny, Octobtr S. — Dug out the opening of the canal into the 
river, and had the earth and stones thrown out on the left und right 
to support the banks. The smith forged two jdeks and a hoe. Dixon 
worked on the wheel. 

*' Fridai/, OrUibcr U. — . , . The blacksmith forged some drills for 
piercing the rocks, and I bad one tried. In four hours* time two men 
were not able to make a hole more thiin a foot in depth. The ruck is 
harder to drill perpendicularly, because the beds are inclined, and 
we have to go against the grain of the stone. In the afternoon we 
charged this hole with powder to blast the rock, and it made a great 
blast. . . . The late rains have done much injury to our coal, the 
weather not having allowed us to get it in. Dixon and Ilobley drilled 
new holes, and the stone yields more easily to the chisels and drill. 
Trueman, Peck, and Robinson worked at the entrance to the canal. 
The elder Ilobley and Warren returned at night without the cattle. 
They brought back a bird a third larger than a domestic goose, with 
feet like a goose, a long bill without notches, and curved at the end. 
The lower part of the beak is of a safl"ron yellow. The wings had a 
spread of four feet. The plumage was of a blackish gray. Over the 
eyes there was a streak of bright yellow, like an eyebrow. They 
called this bird the connity. The fat was oily, flesh dark, liver large, 
like that of a goose, but not bitter, and the whole excellent for cook- 
ing. Opened the last barrel of flour, which is a little better than the 
previous one. 

"• Suturday, October 10. — Dixon and Peck went to cut some fine 
white oaks to make some very large planks. Warren and Ilobley 
having found the cattle, I hail them get the charcoal. They drilled 
some holes, which were charged with ]>owder and fired, with but little 
cff"ect. Two men have continued at work on the canal, which docs 
not advance notwithstanding the labor bestowed, ami 1 despair of 



being able to finish it this year. ... At six o'clock in the evening 
we were visited by an OHirrijntihU Indian and his two children. Ho 
had been three days on the way, and was going to hunt on the IJoyls- 
ton side. As he was going up in the morning I sent a letter by him 
to my brother. This Indian could speak a little French. 

''Sunday, October 1\. — Rest for our men. In the morning I had the 
spectacle of an Indian hunt, and of their management of bark cnnoes, 
in which they ascend the rapids with a wonderful facility. The In- 
dian and his oldest boy killi>d two bucks on a little islan I in front of 
our house. They had seen four of these animals struggling against 
the rapids, which had drawn them down the falls, and the other two 
escaped by going from i-dand to isbiml. The Indian, in return for 
our g'lod reception, j>resen"o;i us wiih half of a deer, and tlun went 
oft" after breakfast. 

" Monday, October 12. — Found mysi Ifshort of provisions, and, as I 
have received no news from my brother, I have decided to send to 
him three of our men to lessen the number of mouths, and to bring 
down provisions if we are to remain here, or two canoes if we are 
ordered to return. They set out at two o'clock. Had the charcoal 
drawn. Dixon and Peck fHleil and squared timber. Our supply of 
charcoal will not be sufficient for next year. Killed two snakes, 
striped yellow and black, with the belly white; these reptiles are not 
venomous. Noticed a beetle that was green, black, and bronze 
colored ; it carried on its belly a swarm of little ones as large as rape- 
seed, resembling little spiders, with long legs. 

" Tiietfdfiy, October 13. — Tlie cattle could not be found until ten 
o'clock. I thou continued to have the coal drawn in, and finally suc- 
ceeded in getting it all under cover before it rained. , . . 

" Thumduy, October \b. — ... A Storm that has uprooted many 
trees. I had previously caused one to be cut down that would have 
crushed the house in its fall. 

" Friday, October 16. — Continued our labors. Had still more trees 
cut down near us. The smith forged some axes. ... I am uneasy 
about the return of our men ; but Anally I saw them arrive at four 
o'clock, with some flour and the half of a pig. They had taken but 
ten hours to come down from the High Falls, although it had required 
two days to ascend the forty-five miles. They brought me my 
brother's letter. Observed some flocks of little birds, with, the back 
and upper side of the wings, like the throat, light brown, and belly 
white. They came from the north, and announced to us that the cold 
weather is at hand. They were about as large as sparrows. 

" Saturday, October 17. — The river is higher than it has been before 
this season. It comes a little into our canal. My brother had in- 
structed me to arrange all the timber before coming to rejoin him 
with my men and cattle. I therefore had the oxen got up to draw 
the pieces together and aid in piling them. The wood will be dry 
and better to use next year. I secured all the pieces. 

" The rain coming on, they made oars ami tool-handles. The smith 
has repaired some axes and forge I two pieces to fasten on our large 
canoe, to strengthen the two emls. ... In the evening it snowed. 

" Suiidoy, October 18. — The river is slill rising : hlled the upper part 
of the canal. We had a very brilliant aurora borealis lust night. 

" This morning the snow was two inches dee[) on the ground. Our 
men were alarmed at this bad weather, and our hired men went the 
more willingly to look for the cattle. I will send them by land, and 
the rest will go up the river by canoe. Our workmen brought me a 
thorn branch, with red fruit as large as a fine cherry, and very good 
to eat. The thorns are very long, and they would make a very good 
hedge. The flower is very fragrant. 

" Mouday, October^9. — Sent our men to hunt f»)r the cattle, but they 
were not able to find them. As our provisions are getting short, I 
have sent five men in the large canoe, with a letter to my brother 
inclosing an inventory of the things that I had placed in their charge. 
I asked that Baptiste should bring the dog to aiil in finding the trace 
of our cattle, which the overflow of the meadows had driven into the 
interior. . . . As the weather is barl, and all the low grounds are over- 
flowed, we have been prevented from looking for the cattle. This 
casualty has delayed our departure, which my brother believed was 
nearer, and, accordingly, he sent only the provisions necessary for a 
speedy return. I had some plum-tree plants embarked for the High 
Falls. 

" Tneidny, October 20. — Dixon made some cogs for wheels. True- 
man dug a little ditch to bring a spring down. I gave the proper 
slope for his canal, so that on the melting of the snows the waters that 
are brought in it cannot reach the co;il-house, at the foot of which 



6-1 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



this ditch woulil naturally pass. I then had it dug between the house 
and the mill rncc. It is seven days siuec we have seen our cuttle. In 
the afternoon the car}ienter and Truciunn cut down f^onie wliile oaks, 
and 8<piared tliein for the mill-race. 

" Tliursdai/, (hhibrr 22. — The arrival of the o.\ last evening led me 
to hope that the rest were not far distant, and I sent out Trueuian to 
search for them. At eight o'clock he came back with the horse, which 
I . . . gave the little corn I had left. The Ciilf returned without the 
cow. At five o'clock Mr. Mitchell arrived with a luiter from Mr. 
Broadlieail, followed directly after by our men. 

"J-'riJai/, Oilubci 23. — As soon as breakfast was over I sent off all the 
men to look for the cattle. They have piled up in the forge all the little 
pieces that have been prepared, the better to save them. Mr. Mitchell 
informs me that our road is twenty miles from the High Falls t" Cas- 
torville, and fifteen miles from Castorville to this place. There are 
only three creeks that it will be necessary to bridge, and it will be 
necessary to make two causeways across swamps of considerable size. 
The site designed by my brother for Castorville is very favorable ; 
the falls excellent for mills, and there are some springs of very good 
water. Our men have found three o.xeu and the cow. The fourth ox 
had not lieen brought in at night; Di.von found traces of the calf j 
but, since our provisions are low, we shall be obliged to give up the 
search, if it does not come in before morning. 1 was fortunate to 
discover by the sound of the bell that our horse had got loose and 
was going off. We had him caught anrl secured. 

" Siiliirilinj, Orlober 24. — Mr. Mitcliell and his party went away in 
the morning. Had some look in the rain for the calf while they 
were loading the canoes, but finally embarked all hands at eleven 
o'clock." 

Dcsjaidines wa.s succeeded by Rodolph Tillier, and no 
further records of aifairs at this point are to be obtained 
from the journal. 

The hmd at Carthage was subsequently sold to Henry 
Boutin, about 179S. 



OTDER EARLY SETTLEMENTS. 

Probably the oldest settlement in Jefferson County was 
made by the French, on Carlton island, but at what date 
it is impossible to say. Charlevoix, in 1721, speaks of the 
island as then oceujiiod b}' them. The Eiii^lish also occu- 
pied it from the date of the surrender of Canada, in 17G0, 
at least as late as the American Revolution. 

The earliest settlements in the various towns of the 
countj', as near a.s can be ascertained, were about as fol- 
lows: 

Atl'ims, 1798-99; A/exanJna, 1811 ; Aniwerj), 1803; 
BruicnviUe, 1799; Cupe Viiiciiit (mainland), 1801 ; C/<ii/- 
<0H, 1801 ; Champi'on, 1797; Elllshiirg, 1797; Hender- 
son, 1802; Houmfiehl, 1801; Le R<ii/, 1802; Lonu!,ie, 
1802 ; Lyme, 1801 ; Oiieam, about 1800 ; I'omcli,!, 1799 
-1802; rhlhi('hlj,h!u, about 1803-4; RvdmuK, 1801; 
Rutland, \~l9'd; y/zfccw;, about 1810 ; Wntcrtrnvn, 1800; 
U /"/»</, 1798; Worth, 1802. 

A full account of the settlements, with the names of set- 
tlers, and much interesting matter will be found in the his- 
tory of the respective towns and villages, in another por- 
tion of this work. 

A large proportion of the early settlers were from New 
England and the older counties of the State of New York, 
but there were many from other portions of the Union, 
together with quite a ntiniber from Fiance and Canada. 
The German and Iri.sh elements, .so ]ii'evaUiil in matiy sec- 
tions of the counttN', have never been nuuierous in Jeffer- 
son County, the great bulk of the poipulalion being of native 
American birth. 



CHAPTER VI. 

CIVIL ORGANIZATION. 

Capitulation (jf the r)utch — Colonial Charters of Liberties — Erection 
of Counties — Albany, Tryon, Montgomery, Herkimer, Oneida, Jef- 
ferson — Organization of Towns — Boundaries of Towns — The Courts 
— Board of t>upervisors — Court-Uouse and Jail — l*oor-IIouse and 
Asylums. 

In tracing the history of the habilitation of a county with 
the {lowers of local self-government, some account of the 
.source whence, or power by which, that sovereignty has pro- 
ceeded is necessary for a full understanding of the subject. 
The beginning, therefore, of such a history of Jefferson 
County is made at the transfer of the power of the Dutch 
colonists in New Amsterdam (New Y^ork), in 1GG4, to the 
English over the Dutch possessions in that region and sur- 
rounding country. 

The articles of eapitulatioti of the Dutch were drawn up 
and subscribed in the governor's Bowiry, August 27 (0. 
S.), 16tJ4. Of the twenty-three articles in the document, 
twenty of them were guaranties of the civil and political 
rights of the capitulators, — one guarantied freedom for the 
the exercise of their religious worship, one saved their mil- 
itary honor, and one looked to the regaining of their lost 
supremacy. 

This important State paper was signed by the following 
representatives of the contracting powers: 

For the Dutch. — John De Decker, Nich. Verleet, Sam. 
Megapolensis, Cornelius Stcenwick, Oloffe Stevens Van 
Kortlant, James Cousseau. For the English. — Robert 
Carr, Geo. Carteret, Jno. Winthrop, Sam. Willys, Thomas 
Clarke, John Piuchon. The governor assented to the arti- 
cles, and signed his assent, "Richard Nicolls."* 

This convention passed the authority and power of gov- 
ernment of the Dutch colonies in America to the king of 
Great Britain, who appointed his Royal Highness, the 
Duke of York, lord proprietor of the province, the name 
of which was changed from New Amsterdam to New York, 
the settlement on the Hudson river, called New Orange, 
receiving the name of Albany at the same time. The 
duke appointed a governor and council, and gave the colo- 
nists the right to elect representatives from among the free- 
holders of the colony and freemen of the corporations to 
meet as a general assembly, to make laws for the govern- 
ment of the province, subject to the approval of the gov- 
ernor and council, and the confirmation of the duke himself 
and the king. The first assembly, being the first legisla- 
tive body that ever assembled in what was afterwards the 
State of New York, met in October, 1G83, — Thomas Dungan 
being governor and M. Nicolls speaker of the assembly. 

The assembly, on the 2Gth of October, drew up a charter 
of liberties and privileges granted the colonists by his 
Royal Highness, wherein they stipulated so liberally in their 
own behalf, that although the charter was approved by the 
governor and council (October 30), it probably was repealed 
by the duke or crown, as no record of its confirmation has 
been discovered. However, the provisions in the same, 
not conflicting with the grant to the duke, were retained, 

» Smith's History of New York. 



HISTORY OF JEFFKRSON COUNTY, NKW YORK. 



65 



and llic goverDnient administered accordingly. The pre- 
amble and firet two clauses of the charter are as follows, 
verlxilim et llterniim :* 

" For the better establishing the Government of this 
province of New York, and thatt Justice and Right may 
boe equally done to all persons within the same: Jin- it en- 
acted by the Governor, Counceli and Representatives, now 
in Gen'all As.seiubly mett and assembled, and by the author- 
ity of the same — Thatt the Supreme Legislative Authority 
under His Majesty and Royall Highiic.s.se, James, Duke of 
Yorke, Albany &c, Lord Proprietor of the said province, 
shall forever bee and reside In a Governour, CounceJl and 
the people, mett in Gene'all A.ssembly. That the exer- 
cise of (he chiefc magistracy and administration of the 
government over the .said province, shall bo in the said 
Governour, assisted by the counceli, with whose advice and 
consent, or with att least four of them, hee is to rule and 
govern the .same according to the laws thereof." 

The assenibl}' was to be convened once in every three 
years, at lea.st, and "every freeholder in the province, and 
freeman in the corporations," had the right to vote for the 
representatives, a majority of which votes were to govern. 
This first a.ssembly was composed of si.xteen representatives; 
two of the counties into which the province was divided 
for the purpose of such representation, viz., Dukes and 
Cornwall, never sending any representatives, but were enti- 
tled to .send one each. 

On November 1, 1683, the assembly divided the prov- 
ince into twelve counties, naifielj', city and county of New 
York, Westchester, Ulster, Albany, "Dii /chesses,'' Orange, 
Richmond, King's, Queen's, Suffolk, Dukes, and Cornwall. 

Albany county, which included the territory now form- 
ing the area of Jefferson County, was bounded thus: "To 
conteync the towne of Albany, the Colony of Renslaerswyck, 
Sthonecteda, and all the villages, neighborhoods, and Chris- 
tian habitacons on the East side of Hudson's River from 
Roeleffe Jansen's Creeke, and on the west from Sawyer's 
Creeke to the Sarraaghtoga." 

This assembly proct>edcd to legislate for the colonists for 
a time, but its acts were never nitified and confirmed by 
the duke of York or the king, and therefore the second 
assembly, which met in 1G91, declared the legislation had 
under the first assembly, and the ordinances of the gov- 
ernors and council, null and void,"!" and proceeded to draw 
up another charter of liberties and privileges similar to the 
first one, and which was repealed by the Crown in Sep- 
tember, ItJUT. The assembly redividcil the province into 
the same number of and named counties, with the .^ame 
boundaries. 

This assembly was composed of twenty-one members, two 
of whom failed to attend, and two others, being Quakers, 
from Queen's county, refused to sicear to the oath of office, 
and were dismissed and two others elected, — one of whom, 
John Tradwell, was arrested by the undcr-sherifli' of the 
city of New York on his arrival to attend the assembly, 
which act was resented in vigorous terms by the assembly, 
which ordered the under-sherifiF arrested and brought be- 



* Smith's History of Now York. 
f Journal of Colonial .Assembly. 



fore that body for contempt, and ordered Tradwell to at- 
tend the service of the hou.se immediately. Upon the 
appearance of the member and officer the assembly went 
into an examination of the cause of Tradwell s commit- 
ment, when the developments were so unwholesome the 
assembly^ resolved they could not have him among them 
as a member, but ordered him discharged from his com- 
mitment on payment of costs, as his coming to the city 
on his majesty's writ privileged him from arrest. They 
ordered a new election in Queen's county, and John Rob- 
inson was returned and took his seat in the assembly. 

The government at this date was composed as follcjws : 
Henry Sloughter, Esq., governor and commander-in-chief; 
Joseph Dudley, Frederick Phillipse, Stephen Cortlandt, 
Chidley Brook, and Gabriel Monville, council; and the 
following-named as.semblymen : city and county of New 
York, James Graham (speaker), William ]Merrett, Jacobus 
Van Cortlaudt, Johannis Kipp ; city and county of Albany, 
Dirck Wessells and Levinus Van Schaick; Ulster and 
Dutchess, Heniicus Beekman, William Demiere; West- 
chester, John Pell; Richmond, Elias Duksberry, Joha 
Dally; Suffolk, Henry Pierson, Mathew Howell; Queen's, 
Daniel Whitehead. John Robinson; King's, Nicholas Still- 
well, John Poland; Manor of Rensselaer Wyck, Killian 
Van Rensselaer.]; 

Notwithstanding the repeal of the charter of liberties, 
the as.sembly remained intact, and continued to legislate 
for the government and benefit of the colonists until the 
Revolution, or at least until 1773, to which year the last- 
published journal of its proceedings reaches and includes. 
On March 12, 1772, the assembly erected a new county 
from a portion of Albany, and named it Tryon, in honor 
of the governor of the province at the time. On March 
24, 1772, the assembly divided Tryon county into five dis- 
tricts, the eastern one being called the Mohawk district, 
the southwestern one Kingsland, the northwestern one, 
north of the Mohawk, Gorman Flats, the centre one, north 
of the Mohawk, Stone Arabia, and the centre one, south 
of the Mohawk, was called Canajoharie district. The first 
election was to be held in May, 1772, on the first Tuesday 
of the mouth, whereat the freeholders were to elect one su- 
pervisor, two assessors, one collector, two overseers of the 
poor, two constables, two fonce-viewers, and one clerk in 
each di.strict, who were to have the same powers a-s the 
same officials had elsewhere in the province. The Mohawk 
district was bounded on the east by the west boundary of 
Schenectady district in Albany county, on the west by a 
north and south line drawn from the pass in the mountains 
called " Anthony's nose," continued to the north and south 
bounds of the county, on the south by the south boundary 
of the colony and the county of Albany, and on the north 
by the bounds of the province. Stone Arabia lay next 
west of the Mohawk district, north of the Mohawk river, 
the west line being a line drawn north from the Little 
falls of that river to the north bounds of the province, and 
Canajoharie district was the corre.«ponding one south of the 
Mohawk. (icrnian Flats was the ni>rthwestern district, 
bounded west and north by the boundary of the province 



J Journal of ihc Colonial Assembly. 



66 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



in those directions, and Kinirsknd, the southwestern one, 
was similarly bounded south and west. On March 8, 1773, 
the name of Stone Arabia was changed to Palatine, and 
German Flats and Kins<land exchanged names, each taking 
the other's. On tliis same day two market faire were 
ordered to be held in Johnstown yearly, and the repre- 
sentative in the assembly from Tryon county was allowed 
twelve shillings per day while in attendance on the same, 
and in going to and returning therefrom. February 6, 
1773, an act was passed aulluirizing the authorities of 
Tryon county to levy a tax sufficient to raise sixteen hun- 
dred pounds to complete a court-house and erect a jail at 
Johnstown, and offered bounties for the killing of wolves 
and panthers in the county. At the adoption of the first 
constitution of the State, April 20, 1777, the counties pre- 
viously named were recognized, except Dukes and Corn- 
wall, the territory included in which, having been previ- 
ously surrendered to Massachusetts colony, and three others 
formed previou.sly, viz., Charlotte (now Washington), and 
Cumberland and Gloucester (since ceded to Vermont). 
The convention framing the constitution gave Tyron 
county six of the seventy assemblymen of which the lower 
house of the legislature was to be composed, and divided 
the twenty-four senators in four classes, and the State into 
as many districts, the western one including the counties 
of Albany and Tryon, which were entitled to six of the 
senators. The delegates to this convention from Tryon 
county were William Harper, Isaac Paris, V. Veeder, John 
Moore, and Benjamin Newkirk. 

On April 2, 1784, Tryon county was subdivided into 
several counties, and its own name lost. Montgomery 
county was organized in that portion of the territory which 
included Jefferson's area ; and in 1788 the boundaries of 
the county were defined as follows : Bounded easterly by 
Ulster, Albany, Washington, and Clinton counties, south- 
erly by the State of Pennsylvania, and west and north by 
the bounds of the State in those directions. The county 
was, on March 17 of the la.st-iiamed year, divided into nine 
towns, of which Whitestown included within its limits all 
of the territory north, south, and west, to the bounds of the 
State. On March 3, 178'J, a bill was passed by the As- 
sembly to raise money in Montgomery county to liijuidate 
claims arising therein for the oj-ection of a court-house and 
jail at Wliitcstown. Montgomery then had seven a.ssem- 
blymen. On February 16, 17'J1, Herkimer county was 
erected from Montgomery county, including in its bound- 
aries the present Jefferson County. Courts were provided 
for the new sovereignty, provision made for erecting county 
buildings, and one assemblyman assigned to it. April 10, 
1792, the town of Whitestown was subdivided, and out of 
its territory the towns of Westminster, Steuben, Paris, 
Peru, and Mexico were framed. The latter and Steuben 
included, besides other territory, all of the present area 
of Jefferson County ; Mexico including the territory 
south, and Steuben that north, of Black river. The first 
town-meeting in Mexico was directed to be held at the 
house of Benjamin Moorhouse. On March 10, 1797, the 
town of Jjcyden w:is set off from Steuben, and the first 
town-meeting ordered to be held at the house of Andrew 
Edmunds. March 15, 1798, Oneida county, including 



also the present territory of Jefferson, was taken from Her- 
kimer and organized, a court-house ordered to be built at 
Rome, within one mile of old Fort Stanwix, and a jail pro- 
vided for in 1800. March 14, 1800, Watertown was taken 
from Mexico and erected into a separate town, and the first 
town-meeting directed to be held at Asher Miller's dwell- 
ing. The area of the town included what was known as 
townships 1, 2, and 3, in a tract belonging to Henr^' Cham- 
pion and others, and was bounded on the north by Black 
river, west by Hungry Bay, south by townships G, 7, 8, 
and 9 of the same tract, and east by township 4. The 
town of Champion was also organized at the same time, 
from Mexico, and included township 4, and part of town- 
ship 5, of same tract, and bounded north by Black river, 
east by Deer creek, west by township 3, and .south by 
townships 9 and 10, and the first town-meeting was to be 
held at the house of Joel Mix. On April 1, 1802, the 
town of Brownville was organized from territory included in 
Leyden, and was bounded as follows : " Beginning at the 
northwesterly corner of the town of Champion ; thence 
north 45° east to the southwest bounds of St. Lawrence 
county; thence northwesterly along the line of said county 
to the river St. Lawrence ; thence southwest up said river 
and Lake Ontario to the mouth of Black river ; thence 
easterly up Black river to beginning. " The first town- 
meeting was ordered to be held at the house of Jacob 
Brown, afterwards General Brown. The town of Adams 
was also organized on the same day from Mexico, being 
townships 7 and 8, bounded northeast by Watertown. The 
first town-meeting was ordered to be held at Eliphalet Ed- 
mons' dwelling. Rutland was also organized the same day 
from Watertown, being that part of the same designated as 
township 3, and David Coffeen had the honor of having 
the first town-meeting held in his house. February 22, 
1803, the town of Ellisburg was organized from a portion 
of the area of Mexico, and included in its boundaries the 
townships on the State nuip of the surveyor-general known 
as Ellisburg and township 6, the latter townslii]i being 
known as Henderson and Minos. The first town-meeting 
was held at the house of layman Ellis. March 24, 1804, 
the town of Harrison was organized from territory included 
in Adams, known as township 8, and Simeon Hunt accom- 
modated the electors of tlie new town with a place wherein 
to hold their first town-meeting. The name of the town 
was, April 6, 1808, changed to Rodman. On the same 
day the town of Malta was organized from Mexico, and 
the name changed to that which it now bears, — Lorraine. 
All of the above towns were organized as constituents of 
Oneida county, but the next important act was that of 

THE 0RG.\NI7..\TI0N OF .IKFFER.SON COUNTY, 

which was effected on the 28th day of March, 1805. 

Such had been the rajjidity of .settlement of the Black 
river valley within five or six years from its opening, that 
the necessity of a division of Oneida county, which included 
this valley within its boundaries, became apparent, and 
local interests began to operate to secure the advantages 
expected from the location of the jmblic buildings. Each 
section had its advocates. Nathan Sage, in Redfield, 
Walter Martin, in Martinsbur<r, Silas Slow and others in 



HISTORY OF JEFFKIISON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



67 



Lowville, Moss Kent, Noadiah Hubbard, and others in 
Champion, Henry Coff'een, in Watcrtown, and Jacob Brown, 
in Brownville, were each intent upon the project of a 
county-scat. Many were for having but one new county, 
in which ca.se Champion had the fairest prospects of success, 
and indeed such had been the chances, in tlie opinion of 
several prominent citizens, that they had located there. 
Among these were Moss Kent, a brother of Judge James 
Kent, Egbert Ten Eyek, etc. To obtain an expression of 
jmblic opinion on this subject, three delegates, chosen at 
town-ineetings, from each town interested in the question, 
met at tlio house of Freedom Wright, in Harrisburgh 
(Denmark), November 20, 1804. Many went with the 
intention of voting for one new county only, but strong 
local interests led to the attendance of those who so in- 
fluenced the voice of the delegation, that, witli but one 
exception, they decided for tico new counties, and the con- 
vention united upon recommending the names of the exec- 
utive officers of the Federal and State governments, then in 
office, from whence came the names of jKi-'FEUSON and 
Lewis, from Thomas Jrffcrson and Morgan Leicis^ both 
men of national celebrity. Application was accordingly 
made to the legislature, and on March 4, 1805, Mr. Wright, 
then in the assembly, from the committee to whom was 
referred the petitions and remonstrances from the inhabitants 
of the county of Oneida relative to a division thereof, 
reported " that they had examined the facts stated as to 
population and extent of territory in said county, and the 
inconvenience of attending county concerns, and find the 
same to be true." A division was deemed necessary, and 
leave was granted to bring in u bill, which was twice read 
the same day, and passed through the legislature without 
opposition.* 

Said act is as follows : 

"An Act kkkctinc Lp;wis and Jki-kkuson CorsTiKs, passei> 
March 28, 1803. 

" 1. lie it enacted hy the people of the State uf Sew Yurie, repre- 
teiited i» Senate and AHgemhh/^ That all that part of the county of 
Onouia contained within the following boiind!*, to wit, Beginning at 
the fjouthwcst corner of the town of Ellisliurg on the castcrlv shore 
of Lake Ontario, and running along the southerly line of said town ; 
thence along the eai^terly line thereof to the southwest corner of the 
town of Malta; thunce along the southerly line of said town of 
Malta, and continuing the same course to the coiner of townships 
number two, three, .«even, and eight; thence nortli along the east line 
of the town of Malta aforesaid to the northeast corner thereof; thence 
in a direct line to the corners of the towns of Kutlaml and Cham- 
pion : (hence ali>ng the line between the said town of Champion and 
the town of Harrisburgh, to Black river; thence in a direct line to 
the bounds of the county of St. Lawrence tu inter>cct the same at 
the corner of townships numbers seven and elevrn in Great Tract 
number three, of Macomb's purchase; thence along the westerly 
bounds of the said county- of St. Lawrence to the north boumls of 
this 8talo ; thence westerly and southerly along said bounds, including ' 
all the islands in the river St. Lawrence, in Lake Ontario, and in \ 
front thereof, and within this State, to tlie*]>lace of beginning, shall 
be, and hereby is erected into a separate counry, and shall be called 
and known by the name of Jf.ffkkson. 

'* 2. And he it further enacted, That all that ]»art cif the said county 
of Oneida contained within the following bounds, to wit, Beginning 
at the southeast corner of the county of Jefferson aforesaid : thence 
southerly along the westerly line of the town of Turin to the south- 

* Hough's History of Jefferson County. 



weet corner thereof; thence easterly along the south line of said town 

to the southeast corner thereof; thence north Bi,\ty-two degrees east 
along the southerly line of the tract of land known by the name of 
Macomb's purchase to the line of the county of Herkimer; thence 
north along the suid last-mentioned line to the bounds of the county 
of St. Lawrence; thence along the southwesterly line of said last- 
mentioned county to the line of the county of Jefferson; and thence 
along the southerly and easterly bounds thereof to the place of begin- 
ning, shall be. and hereby is erected into a separate county, and shall 
be called and known by the name of Lkwis. 

"3. And be it fnrther enacted, Thai all that part of township number 
nine which is comprisetl within the bounds of the said county of 
Jefferson shall be annexed to and become a part of the town of 
Harrison, in said county, and that all that part of t<uid township 
number nine comprised within the bounds of the said county of Lewis 
shall be annexed to and become a part of the town of Harrisburgh, 
in suid county. 

"■1. And be it fnrlher enact* d, That there shall be held in and for the 
said counties of Jefferson and Lewis respectively a court of common 
pleas and general sessions of the peace, and that there shall be two 
terms of the said courts in each of the said counties respectively in 
every year, to commence and end as follows, that is to say : the first 
term of the said court in said county of Jefferson shall begin on the 
second Tuesday of June of every year, and may continue to be held 
until the Saturday following, inclusive; and the second term of said 
court in the said county of Jefferson shall begin on the second Tues- 
day of December of every year, and may continue to he held until 
the Saturday following, inclusive." . . . (The courts were ordered 
to be held in Lewis county on the first Tuesdays of June and Decem- 
ber, with the same liniitatfons as to number of days of session.) 
"And the said courts of common pleas and general sessions of the 
peace shall have the same jurisdiction, powers, and authorities in the 
said counties respectively as the court of common pleas and general 
sessions of the peace in the other counties of the State have in their 
respective counties : Pnnided, attra^n, That nothing in this act con- 
tained shall be construed to affect any suit or action already com- 
menced, or that shall be commenced, before the first terms to be held 
in the respective counties of Jefferson and Lewis, so as to work a 
wrong or prejudice to any of the parties therein, or to affect any 
criminal or other proceedings on the part of tlie people of Uiis Stale ; 
but all such civil or criminal proceedings shall and may be prose- 
cuted to trial, judgment, and execution as if this act had not been 
pas^q^l ; And fnrther proridrd. That the first of ihe said courts in 
each of the said counties shall be held on the second Tuesday of 
December next. 

"5. And be it further enacted, That three commissioners shall be 
appointed by the council ()f appointment, who shall not he resident 
within the western district of this State, or interested in either of said 
counties of Jefferson or Lewis, for the purpose of designating the 
sites for the courthouses and gaols of the said counties respectively ; 
and to that end the said commissioners shall, as soon as may be, pre- 
vious to the first day of October next, repair to the said counties 
respectively, and. after exploring the same, ascertain and designate 
a fit ami proper place in each of said counties for erecting the said 
buildings : and that until such buildings shall be erected, and further 
legislative provision he made in the premises, the said courts of 
common pleas and general sessions of the peace shall be held at such 
place in each of the said counties nearest and most contiguous to the 
places designated as the sites for said buildings as the said commis- 
sioners, or any two of them, shall determine and fix upon ; and the said 
commissioners, or any two of them, are hereby required, as soon as 
they have designated the places for erecting the said buildings and 
determined upon the places for holding the saict courts, to make out 
and sign a certificate ceitifving the jdace designated for erecting the 
said buildings and places fixed on for holding courts in each of the 
said counties, and to transmit one of the said certificates to each of 
the clerks uf the respective counties, who are required to receive and 
file the same in their respective offices: and that the said commis- 
sioners shall be entitled to receive, each, the sum of four dollars per 
day for the time necessarily cmjiloved in executing the trusts reposed 
in them by this act, the one moiety thereof to be paid by each of the 
said counties. 

*' 6. And be it further enacted. That the freeholders ond inhabitants 
of the said counties respectively t-hall have and enjoy, within the same, 
all and every the same rights, powers, and privileges as (he free- 



68 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



bolders and inhabitants of any other cuiinty in tliis State are by law 
entitled to liave and eiijuy. 

•*7. -Ill'/ Ik It J'lirlher eniiclcil. That it shall and may be lawful for 
all court!), and officers of the said counties of Jefferson and Lewis, re- 
spectively, in all cases, civil and criminal, to confine their jirisoners 
in the gaol or gaols of the county of Oneida, until gaols shall be pro- 
vided in the same counties respectively, and the said counties paying 
each the charges of their own prisoners. 

"8. Ami be it further etmctrft, That in the distribution of repre- 
sentation in the assembly of this State, there shall be three members 
in the county of Oneida, and one in the counties of Jefferson, Lewis, 
and St. Lawrence, any law to the contrary notwithstanding. 

"y. Atifi he It further c»rtr/t'(/, That no circuit court, ()r courts of 
oyer and terminer, and general gaol delivery, shall be held in either 
of the said counties of Jefferson and Lewis until the same shall, in 
the opinion of the justices of the supreme court, become necessary. 

" 10. And he it further eiiuetetl, That the said counties of Jefferson 
and Lewis shall be considered as part of the western district of this 
State, and also as part of the fifteenth congressional district, and that 
as respects all proceedings under the act entitled 'an act relative to 
district atlornics,' the said counties shall be annexed to and become 
a part of the district now composed of the counties of Herkimer, 
Otsego, Oneida, and Chenango. 

** II. And he it fnrther enacted. That as soon as may be after the 
first M<)nday of April, in the year 1806, the supervisors of the said 
counties of Oneida, Jefferson, and Lewis, on notice being first given 
by the supervisors of the said counties of Jefferson and Lewis, or of 
cither of them, for that purpose shall meet together by themselves, 
or by committees appointed by their respective boards, and divide 
the money unapprojiriated, belonging to\he said county of <3neida, 
previous to the division thereof, agreeable to the last c(mnty tax- 
list. 

*'12. And he it fnrther enaeted, That the votes taken at the elec- 
tion in the said counties of Jelferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence shall 
be returned to the clerk of the county of Oneida, to be by him esti- 
mated and disposed of, as is directed by the statute regulating 
elections. 

"13. And be it further ennetcd, That nil that part of the town of 
Leyden remaining in the county (if Oneida shall be and remain a 
separate town, by the name of lioonsville, and the first town-meetin" 
■hall be held at the house of Joseph Denning; and all the remaining 
part of the town of Leyden which is comprised within the bounds of 
the county of Lewis shall be and remain a town by the name of'Ley- 
den, and the first town-meeting shall be held at the dwelling-house 
of Ilczckiah Talcott. 

" 14. And be it farther en(tcted, Tliut as soon as may be after the 
first town-meeting in each of said towns, the supervisors and over- 
seers of the poor of said towns of Leyden ami Boonsville shall, by 
notice to bo given for that purpose by the supervisors thereof, meet 
together, and apportion the money and poor of said town of Leyden, 
previous to the division thereof, according to the last tax-list, and 
that each of said towns shall thereafter respectively maintain their 
own poor." 

Dr. Ilongli further .says : " Tlie relative limits of Jeffer- 
son and Lewis counties have been three times ehaiiired. 
It will he noticed by reference that the present town of 
I'iiicknt'y, in Lewis county, orjranized February 12, 18U8, 
then a ])art of the town of Harri.son, in Jefferson, was then 
divided by a line that was a continuation of the west lines 
of townships 8 and 3, of Roylston's tract ; and that from 
the line between Chainpiuii ami llcniiiark, on Black river, 
the division ran .straij^ht to St. Lawrence county, where the 
line of townships 7 and 11, of tract III., touched the 
county line. On the organizarum of the town of Pinckney 
the whole of town.ship No. ',) was included in Lewis county. 
On April 5, 1810, the line east of the river, bc^'iiiiiing, as 
before, at the east corner of Champion, ran thence to the 
soitthwcst corner of a lot in 11 west and 21 north ranges, 
snl)divi.si()iis of No. 5 ; thence east, between 20 and 21, 
niiilbiMii ran ires, to the smilliwrst corner of a lut in 10 



west, 21 north range; thence north, between 10 and 11, 
to south line of lot No. 4 ; thence east to lots 808-9 ; 
thence along 808-9 to lot 857 ; thence to the .southeast 
corner of 857 and 809 to the northeast corner of 851 ; 
thence west, on line of lots 851 and 850, to southwest 
corner of 850 ; thence northeast, along line of lots, to St. 
Lawrence county. 

The present line between the two counties was estab- 
lished April 2, 1813, by which this county received con- 
siderable accessions from Lewis county, in the town of 
Wilna, organized then from the towns of Le Ray and 
Leyden. By an act of Jlarch 17, 1815, the several 
islands within the limits of this State, in the St. Lawrence 
and Lake Outario, lying in front of this county, were at- 
tached to it. By several acts the sovereignty of stnall 
tracts on Stony point. Horse island, Galloo island, Tib- 
bet's point, and Carlton island* has been ceded to the 
United States for the purpose of erecting lighthouses, the 
State retaining concurrent civil and criminal jurisdiction 
therein. 

The town of Henderson was organized from territory — 
township No. G — included in Ellisburg, February 17, 1806, 
and on the same day Hounstield was erected, and included 
township 1 on the surveyor's map, being a part of Water- 
town, and the first town-meeting was directed to be hold at 
the house of Joseph Landou. On the same day also Le 
Ray was formed from a part of Brownville, being that part 
of said town lying east of Peuet's Square ; and that line 
extended south to Black river and north to the St. Law- 
rence ; and the first town-meeting was held at the house 
of Abiel Shurtlefi'. The fir.st town-meeting in Henderson 
was held at the house of Reuben I'utnatn. Antwerp was 
taken from Le Ray, April 5, 1810 ; and Wilna, as before 
stated, from Le Ray and Leyden, April 2, 1813; Lyme 
from Brownville, March 0, 1818; I'amclia from Brown- 
ville, April 12, 1819; Alexandria from Brownville and 
Le Ray; Orleans from Brownville; and Philadelphia 
from Le Ray ; the last three on April 3, 1821. Clayton 
was taken from Orleans and Lyme, April 27, 1833, The- 
resa from Alexandria, Aj)iil 15, 1841 ; Worth from Lor- 
raine, April 12, 1848; and Cape Vincent from Lyme, 
April 10, 1849, which I'omjileted the roster of the toWJis of 
the county as they at j)resent are constituted, excepting the 
erection of the city of Watertown in 1809. 

Simeon Dc Witt, in his map of the Slate east of the 
pre-emption line, luiblished in 1802, adopted the following 
names to the towns in the county : 

Penet S(iuarc, now in Clayton and Orleans, pENET.f 

Great tract No. 4, Castohland. 

Purchase of the French company, Ciias;s,\nis. 

Black River tract No. 1, now Hounsfield, Hksiod. 
" " " 2, now Watertown, Lkuhorn. 

" " ." 3, now Rutland, iMiLAN. 

" " " 4, now Chain|iion, Howaud. 

" " " 6, now Henderson, IIknderson. 

" " " 7, now Adams, Alei'IH). 

" " " 8. now Rodman, Orpiieus. 



* No lighthouse has been erected on Carlton island as yet. 
■f A manuscript map of 1708 gives the name of I'cnet's Square as 
Uichland. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



69 



Town of Ellisburg, Minos. 

Boylston tract No. 1, now Lorraine, Atticus. 

" " No. 2, now Worth, Fenklon. 

But one of these, Henderson, lias since been preserved. 

THE COUIITS. 

The judicial system of the State of New York traces its 
genealogy directly from Magna Charta. When the 
mnilcd barons of England wrested from King John, at 
RuniiynuMle, a.d. 1215, that memorable document, they 
builded better than they knew. They forced from a 
despot rights of which he and his predecessors of the 
Norman line had despoiled the order of nobles, and, al- 
though the great charter recognized certain rights and 
exemptions inuring to the benefit of the tradesmen, crafts- 
men, and " villein.s" (serfs) of the realm, yet these were in- 
cluded in the charter, more for the selfish purpose of 
attaching these classes to the barons in the defense of their 
own chartered rights than for any real humanitarianism 
dwelling among the nobility. But the privileges thus 
gained, slight as they were, gave the lower classes a taste 
of the sweets of liberty. These classes, having obtained a 
foothold on the steps leading to the temple of Liberty, kept 
steadily pressing their advantage, until at length they stood 
within the sacred fane itself, free and equal before the law. 
And from this source — the great charter — has flowed the 
stream whereat millions, as well at home in that empire 
'• upon who.se dominions the sun never sets" as in lands 
then unknown, are quaffing generous draughts which are 
making, slowly perhaps, of one kin " all nations that dwell 
on the earth." 

The Charters of Liberties granted to the colani^ts of New 
York by the Duke of York in 1G83* and IGDl. and after- 
wards repealed by the cmwn in 1G97, contained several 
clauses almost identical with .some of the provisions of 
Magna Charta in point of phraseology, and really so in 
intent and ])urpose. For instance, the principle of the 
broadest humanity in that great charter is thus expressed : 
" We will not .sell, we will not defer or deny to any man 
justice or right ;" and the charters of liberties of the 
colony express the same thing substantially. Again, the 
great charter exempted from forced sale and distress for 
debt, or a jienalty, the tools of a craftsman, the goods of 
a merchant, and the " wainage" (cattle, plow, and wagon) 
of a '' villein ;" and the provision of the colonial charter 
corresponding to this, in its quaint phnuseology, reads, 
" Thatt a ffreeman shall not bee amerced for a small fault, 
butt after the manner of his fault; and for a great fault 
after the grealnesse thereof, saving to him his ftVeehold, 
and a husbandman, saving to him his wainage, and a mer- 
chant likewise saving to him his merchandize; and none 
of the said amerciaments shall bee assessed, butt by the 
oath of twelve honest and lawful men of the vicinage ; 
provided the faults and misdemeanors be not in contempt 
of courts of judicature."f 

By Magna Charta the right of dower was ]iut upon the 
foundation on wIiIlIi it rests today, and the colonial charter 



* Revised Laws of New York, ISIS. Appendix. 
f Bradfoni'8 ed. Colonial Laws of New York. 



has this provision : " No estate of a ffeme covert shall be 
sold or conveyed, butt by deed acknowledged by her in 
some court of record ; the woman being secretly exam- 
ined, if .she doth itt freely without threats or compulsion 
of her husband." The homestead rights of the wife, after 
the death of her husband, were also fully defined. Jury 
trials and a grand inquest for the presentment of criminals 
were provided for, and the courts instituted by it had no 
jurisdiction over the freehold without the owner's consent, 
except to satisfy debts by execution or otherwise. The 
following clauses in the colonial charter are also derived 
directly from its fatuous predecessor : " No ffreeman shall 
bee imprisoned or disseized of his ffrechold or libertye, or 
free customs, or bee outlawed or exiled, or any other wayes 
destroyed, nor shall be p.issed upon, adjudged or condemned 
butt by lawfull judgment of his peers, and by the laws of 
this province. No man of what condition or estate soever, 
shall be putt out of his lands or tenements, nor be taken 
nor imprisoned nor disinherited, nor bani.shed nor anywayes 
destroyed without being brought to answer by due course 
of law. All lands in this province shall be free from all 
fines and lycences upon alienacous, and from all heriotts, 
wardships, liverys. primier seizins, year, day, and wast 
escheats and forfeitures, upon the death of parents or an- 
cestors, naturall, casuall, and judiciall, and thatt forever, 
cases of High Treason only excepted. "| 

Notwithstanding the distinguished parentage of the ju- 
dicial system of New York, the English did not first intro- 
duce the courts into this colony, but rather the Dutch, who 
first settled at New Amsterdam, as they called New York. 
The cities or corporations of New York and Albany (then 
called New Orange) had tribunals known as the mayor and 
aldermen's courts, and the stout old Knickerbocker govern- 
ors themselves were judges and held adjudications. In 
their articles of capitulation (1(564) the Dutch stipulated 
that the public records should be preserved and the decisions 
of former courts respected, and that the inferior civil officers 
and magistrates should continue to execute their official 
duties until a new election, and then new ones should be 
chosen by themselves, the new incumbents to swear alle- 
giance to England. 

The first court of record of English creation in the colony 
we have note of was one established in 1074, culled the 
Court of Assizcs,§ which had both law and equity jurisdic- 
tion. Town courts and courts of sessions were also held by 
order of the governor. The Court of Assizes was aboli.shed 
in 1GS4. On October '2'J, 1G83, the General As.-iembly 
passed the first act regulating courts of justice, which act 
provided for the following tribunals: 

1. A court, composed of three persons commissioned for 
that purpose, to be held monthly throughout the year in 
each town on the first Wednesday of the month, to hear 
and determine small causes and cases of debt and trespa.ss 
to the value of forty shillings and under, without a jury, 
unless one was specially demanded by either party to the 
suit, and then to be .summoned and to serve at the expense 
of the party demanding the same. The persons compo.-5ii?g 



J Smith'a History of New Y'ork. 

g Notes to Revised Laws of New York, 1S13. 



70 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



the court were called coniiiiissioners, and one of them issued 
the summons to the part}- defendant, wliich must be person- 
ally served or left at his house four days before the sitting 
of the court. 

2. Courts of Sessions yearly and every year in each 
county, to hear, try, and determine all causes, civil or 
criminal, brmiirht therein, with a jury of twelve men of the 
county where the action accrued. The judges of this court 
were the justices of the peace of the respective counties, or 
any three of them. This court had an officer denominated 
" the clurk of the sessions, or chuk of the peace," and also 
" one marshall, or cryer." All processes issued out of the 
clerk's office and to the sheriff. For Albany county, this 
court was first to be held the first Tuesda3's in March, June, 
and September, at the town-hall, in the city of Albany. 

3. Annually in each county there were two terms to be 
held of a Court of Oyer and Terminer and General " Gaol" 
(as the old records spell it) Deliver)/, v/'ith civil and criminal 
jurisdiction on all matters in controversy, where the monetary 
consideration amounted to five pounds and upwards. This 
court had power to " try, hear, and determine all matters, 
causes, and cases, capitall, criminal!, and civill, and causes, 
tryalls at common law, in and to which said court all and 
every persons whatsoever shall or may, if they see meet, 
remove any action or suit, debts or damages laid in such 
actions or suits, being five pounds and upwards, or shall or 
may, by warrant, writ of error, or certiorari, remove out of 
any inferior court any judgment, informacon, or indictment 
there had and depending, and may correct errors in judg- 
ment, and reverse the same, if there be just cause for itt." 
A jury of twelve men were to be provided for all parties 
who called for the same. The first term of this court in 
Albany county was the second AVednosday in May, 1684. 

4. A Court of Chancery, with power to hear and deter- 
mine all matters of equity, and be esteemed and accounted 
the supreme court of the province. The a.ssembly provided 
for the appointment of a Chancellor to hold the court, with 
assistants to be appointed by the governor and council ; but 
the latter powers returned the bill with an amendment de- 
claring the governor and council to be the Court of Chan- 
cery, with power in the governor to depute a chancellor or 
assistant, etc. 

The right of appeal from aTiy of the courts of Oyer and 
Terminer, (ieneral (iaol Delivery, and High Court of Chan- 
cery to -'our Sovereign Lord the King," was reserved for 
any of his dutiful subjects, the value of whose disputes or 
matters in question amounted to one hundred pounds and 
more.* 

The acts of this assembly of 1683, during its various 
sessions, wore never approved by " His Royal Highness the 
Duke of York," and the a.ssembly which convened in 
1691 declared all the legislation of the former body null 
and void.f The a.sscmbly, however, provided for the main- 
tenance of courts in 1691 as a temporary act, extending 
their lease of power in 1698 and 1695, and in 1696 the 
Crown repealed the charter of 1691. The courts under the 
charter of 1691 were the Ju.stices' Courts in the towns, the 



** .-VpiiL'iKii.x to Kevi^^cd Liiwy of Xuw York, 1S13. 
t Journiil of Culoniul Asifcinbly. 



sessions of the Peace and Common Pletis in the counties, 
and a Supreme Court, the latter composed of one judge and 
six justices, and the city courts of New York and Albany. 
Appeals would lie to the Supreme Court from any inferior 
court in cases of error.;}; 

An ordinance of the governor (Earl Bellamont) and 
council in May, 1699, reconstructed the courts, ;is follows: 
Justices were given cognizance of cau.ses involving forty 
shillings, without the intervention of a jury, by taking a 
freeholder to their assistance to hear and determine the 
causes. The summons i.ssued to the constable and ran 
two days. A Court of Common Pleas was provided for 
each county, to begin the next day after the general ses- 
sions ended, which had jurisdiction of all cases at common 
law of any kind or nature soever. Appeals would lie in 
all matters of twenty pounds and upward, or where the 
action touched the title to the freehold. A Supreme Court 
of Judicature was provided for the whole colonj', to be held 
at New York, which had cognizance of all pleas, " civil, 
criminal, and mixed, as fully and amply, to all intents and 
purposes whatsoever, as the courts of King's Bench, Com- 
mon Pleas, and Exchequer within His Majesty's King- 
dom of England, have or ought to have." Original juris- 
diction was also given this court, in all civil cases of twenty 
pounds and upwards, or which brought in question the 
right of freehold ; and all suits in the inferior courts com- 
ing within its purvey could be transferred to the supreme 
court for trial. Process to i.s.sue under teste of the chief 
justice of the court, and a session of the same to be held 
at New Y'ork twice each year. One of the justices of the 
supreme court was to go the circuit annually, and, with 
two or more justices of the respective counties, hold ses- 
sions of the said court at Albany and the other counties of 
the province. The justices of the supreme court were to 
be appointed by the governor and council, with power to 
hold terms of five days in New Y''ork and two days only in 
the other counties. The judges of the several courts were 
empowered to regulate the pleadings and practice of their 
courts, and jury trials were preserved. By an ordinance 
of Governor Cornbury, issued April, 1704, the terms of 
this court were increased to four per annum, and from that 
time till the adoption of the Constitution by the people in 
1777, the supreme court rested upon and was held by the 
authority of those ordinances alone. 

On Sej>tember 2, 1701, the lieutenant-governor, John 
Nanfan, established by an ordinance a High Court of 
Chancery, declaring himself ex-ojjicio Chancellor; but, on 
June IIJ, 17(12, the governor, Lord Cornbury, suspended 
its functions until a fee-bill and rules of practice " could 
be arranged agreeable to e(|uity and justice," and the chief 
and second justices of the province were appointed to "con- 
sider and report the best method to render the court most 
useful and least burdensome" to parties litigant. The jus- 
tices having reported. Lord Cornbury accordingly, on No- 
vember 7, 1704, revived the court and the causes depending 
therein, and adopted the fee-bill and rules of practice pre- 
pared by the judges. On November 6, 173.'), the general 
assembly adopted a resolutioD declaring " that a Court of 

J Smith's History of Xew Vorlf. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



71 



Chancery id this province in the hands or under the exer- 
cise of a governor witliout consent in tiie General Assem- 
bly is contrary to law, unwarrantahlo, and of dangerous 
consequence to the liberties and properties of the people." * 
Several struggles were made by the Colonial Assembly to 
destroy this court, but witliout effect, and Smith observes, 
in his " History of New York," " of all our courts none 
has been more obnoxious to the people than this," — the 
Court of Chancery of the Culony. Tlie court remained, 
however, in the governor's iiands until the Revolution, when 
the constitution recognized it as a court and directed a 
Chancellor to be appointed for it. It was reorganiy-ed 
March IG, 1778, and continued by the constitution of 
1821, but abolished by that of 18 K!. In 1848 a code of 
practice for the courts was adopted, wherob}' the di.'^tinction 
between legal and equitable remedies was abolished, as well 
as the old and cumbersome forms of actions and pleadings 
in cases at common law, and a uniform course of proceeding 
in all ca.ses established. The code was revised in lS7ti, and 
amended in 1877, and took effect September 1 of the latter 
year. 

The charter of 1683 provided for the attestation of wills 
by two witnesses, and when so attested declared them com- 
petent to pass the title to land, if filed in the office of the 
secretary of the colony within forty days after the death of 
the testator. The charter of IG'Jl vested the governor 
with probate powers, and styled the tribunal the pnint/ntivf 
court, and in 1694 the assembly provided for the super- 
vising of intestacies, and regulating probates of wills and 
administration, — the widow, if any, to have the preference; 
if no willow, tlien administration to be referred to the pub- 
lic administrator, who was to educate the orphans, if anj', 
in the " Holy Protestant Religion, and see thoy were hon- 
estly maintained, according to the value of their estate," 
and their estate invested for them to be received by them 
on attaining their majority or marrying. Wills in remote 
counties were allowed to be proven before courts of Com- 
mon Picas, and certified to the Secretary's office in New 
York. Appeals would lie from tiie courts or justices to 
the governor. If the estate did not exceed fifty pounds in 
value the courts of Comimm Pleas could grant administra- 
tion. On March 24, 1772, the law of intestacies and pro- 
bate of wills was extended to Tryon county. The first 
constitution recognizes the Court of Probates, and at the 
first session of the Legislature, in 1778, the judge of that 
court was vested with the same powers that the governor 
of the colony had as judge of the prenigntice court. The 
judge of this court was appointed for the entire State, and 
granted letters of administration and probates of wills for 
his entire jurisdiction. Surrogates for tlie counties were 
provided for also by appointment of the council of appoint- 
ment. On February 20, 1787, the appointment of surro- 
gates was given to the governor, and they were given juris- 
diction of probate matters in their respective counties, the 
Court of Probates of the State pos.sessiMg appellate powers 
over the surrogatas. The old colonial law for the super- 
vising of estates was repealed. The office of surrogate was 
abolished by the constitution of 1S4G, and a County Judge 

* Journal of Asseiiil)ly, [age di-l. 



provided, who, besides holding the county court, has also 
probate jurisdiction. In counties of more than 40,000 
pojiulation a surrogate may be elected. 

In 1702 a Court of Exchequer was established in the 
colony, which had cognizance of sundry governmental claims 
against other parties. In 1786 the Legislature created a 
court under that title, which was to be held in the city of 
New York, by one of the justices of the Supreme Court, 
and had cognizance of all claims arising in favor of the 
State on fines, forfeitures, is,sucs, amerciaments, and debts. 
This court was re-established in 1813,f by the revised laws, 
but did not survive the constitution that pa-ssed away in 
1821, on the adoption of the new one. 

The constitution of 1777 recognized the following courts : 
Admiralty. Chancery, Supreme, Common Pleas, Oyer and 
Terminer and General Gaol Delivery, General Sessions of 
the Peace, the Court of Probates, City Courts, and Justices 
of the Peace ; and provided for a Court of Impeachment 
and Correction of Errors, under regulations to be established 
by the Legislature. The court consisted of the president 
of the Senate for the time being, the senators, chancellor, 
and the judges of the Supreme Court, or a majority of 
them. 

In 1786 the Legislature provided for Circuit Courts, to 
be held by the justices of the Supreme Court, in each county, 
cognizable of all causes tryable by the county at the common 
law. In 1SK5 special sessions of the peace, held by three 
justices in the towns, were provided for petty crimes and 
misdemeanors, where the defendant could not give bail to 
the general sessions of the county. The courts under the 
first constitution were continued by the second one, which 
latter was ratified by the people January 15 to 17, 1822. 

The constitution of 1846 recognized and continued the 
courts under the constitution of 1821, except those of 
Chancery and Common Pleas, and in addition created the 
Court of Appeals and the County Courts. The Court of 
Appetds had its origin in the powers of the original Court 
of Impeachment for " the correction of errors." These 
latter powers were abrogiited by the constitution of 1846, 
and the Court of Appeals created by See. 2 of Art. VI. 
of that instrument, which court occupies the place in the 
judicial system which the original court for the correction 
of errors ilid. It was, when first constituted, composed of 
eisiht judges, — four elected by the people of the State for 
eight years, and four selected from the class of justices of 
the Supreme Court having the shortest time to serve. On 
November 2, 186;i, the pcoi)le ratified an amendment to 
the constitution, prepared by the convention of 1867-68, 
whereby, among other changes in the judiciary efi"ccted 
thereby, the court of Appeals was reorganized as it now 
exists, being composed of a chief judge and six associate 
judges, who arc chosen by the people of the State for 
terms of fourteen years each. This court has power to re- 
view every actual determination made at a general term of 
the Supreme court, or by eitherof the Superior city courts, 
in certain cases and under certain limitations. The Supreme 
court has the same jurisdiction it originally had, with the 
exceptions, additions, and limitations created and imposed 

I Notes to act ill rcviscJ laws, lSi;t. 



72 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



by the constitution and statutes, and has appellate jurisdic- 
tion over all courts of original jurisdiction not otherwise 
specifically provided for. Appeals also will lie from certain 
limited judgments of the court itself to a general term 
of the same, which are held at least once a year in each of 
the four judicial departments of the State. Jefferson County 
being included in tire fourth, which is composed of the fifth, 
seventh, and eighth judicial districts, — Jefferson being in- 
cluded also in the fifth district. The general terms are held 
by one presiding and two associate justices, designated as 
term justices, but all of them of the Supreme bench. Any 
justice of the Supreme court may hold the Circuit courts, 
special terms of the Supreme court, or courts of Oyer and 
Terminer, the terms of which are appointed by the justices 
of the department, who also assign the particular justices 
to hold the courts in the respective counties. 

The County courts, created by the constitution of 1846, 
have jurisdiction of all actions of partition, dower, fore- 
closure, and specific performance, the action accruing in the 
respective county ; and to actions generally where the amount 
involved in controversy does not exceed $1000 in value, 
where the defendants are in the county at the commence- 
ment of the action. This court is held by the county 
judge, and who, associated with two justices of the peace, 
may hold courts of the Sessions of the Peace, with such 
criminal jurisdiction as may be provided by law. 

The constitutitm of 1777 continued in force such parts 
of the common law of England, and the statute law of 
England and Great Britain, and acts of the Colonial legis- 
lature of New York, as together formed the law of the 
colony April 19, 1775, subject to further amendment or 
repeal by the proper authority. The resolves of the Pro- 
vincial Congress of the colony, which existed from the 
early part of 1775 to 1777, as also the resolutions of the 
convention of tlie State, not inconsistent with the constitu- 
tion, were adopted as law. Anything in any of the above- 
quoted legislation repugnant to the constitution was abro- 
gated and rejected. The constitution also provides for the 
trial by jury and the naturalization of aliens. The consti- 
tution of 1821 still continued in force the common law of 
England, and the colonial laws not repealed or repugnant 
to the provisions of that instrument. Courts of the Ses- 
sions of the Peace were provided for the county of Albany, 
April 17, 1G!)1,* with three terms per year, and a court of 
Common Pleas, from which no appeal or habeas corpus 
would lie on matters under twenty pounds in controversy. 
The old Ju.stices of the Peace of the colony were to be 
"good and lawful men of the best reputation, and who be 
no maintainors of evil or barretors." 

In 1778 the Legislature declared that puper would an- 
swer in legal proceedings and documents in emergent cases, 
and it,s use wa.s held not to invalidate proceedings in the 
courts, notwithstanding the re<iuircment of cdlnm for such 
purposes previously. In 1708 paper was still further ad- 
vanced in respectability in the c<jurts, being declared lawful 
for use in the Supreme and Chancery courts for all purposes 
except for the processes of the courts, for which parch- 
ment continued to be used. The court of General Sessions 

* Juurniil of Assembly of colony. 



of the Peace under the first constitution had jurisdiction in 
all cases where the penalty was not confinement for life 
or the death penalty. In 1796 the criminal code was 
ameliorated, and State'sprisons first directed to be estab- 
lished. Previous to this, most of the offenses punishable 
by imprisonment for life were under the death penalty. 
The claim of "benefit of clergy" by criminals was abolished 
in New York February 21, 1788. In May, 1788, the 
statutes of England and Great Britain were abolished. 
The first fee-bill established by law was dated May 24, 
1709. The courts of Common Pleas, established by the 
ordinance of the colonial governor in 1699, was the begin- 
ning of the courts of General Sessions. Imprisonment for 
debt was abolished in New Y'ork April 26, 1831. 

In 1815 the jury list of Jefferson County was materially 
augmented by extending the right to serve as jurors to 
persons holding contracts for lands who had improved the 
lands to the value of one hundred and fifty dollars, or had 
personal property to that amount. Freeholders only had 
been lawful jurors previous to this time; but, owing to the 
fact that the bulk of the Jefferson County farmers held 
their farms only by contract, tlie burden came heavily 
upon the balance of the community, besides depriving the 
courts of a valuable class of jurors; hence the legislation 
above referred to. 

THK CODRT.S OF JEFFERSON COf.NTV. 

As will be seen by a reference to the act erecting Jeffer- 
son and Lewis counties, in the early part of this chapter, 
courts of Common Pleas and General Sessions of the Peace 
were directed to be held in Jefferson Co\inty, the first term 
to begin on the second Tuesday of June of each year. 
This act passed May 28, 1805, but there was no court 
held in the county, so far as the records show, until May, 
1807. The same act provided that no Circuit Court, or 
courts of Oyer and Terminer and General Gaol Delivery, 
were to be held in the said counties until the justices of the 
Supreme court deemed it necessary. A term of the gineral 
sessions was " held at the school-housej' next south of Jon- 
athan Cowan's mills, in Watertown, ' on the second Tues- 
day of May, 1807, with the following presence: Ilonorables 
Augustus Sacket, Joshua Bealls, and Perley Keyes, judges; 
Thomas White, associate justice; Egbert Ten Eyck, clerk. 
At this term of the court, Frederick Avery and William 
Andrews were each fined ten dollars for defaulting as grand 
jurors, but at the next term they came before the court and 
purged them.selvcs of their contempt by sufficient swearing. 
George Brown at.d Nathaniel Peck were discharged from 
their recognizance, no person appearing against them. 
Samuel Brown, Jr., was indicted for an a.ssault and bat- 
tery, pleaded guilty, and was fined ten dollars and costs. 
Charles Noles, for a similar indiscretion and open confes- 
sion, received absolution on payment of two dollars and a 
half and costs. John Brown, on a similar charge, stood 
his trial, and was found not guilty. Seven other recogni- 
zances were discharged for want of proseeutimi, and Apple- 
ton Skinner was fined ten dollars for default in attendance 
on the court as constable, but at the next term of the court 

f On tlu' site of the present I'niversalist church. 



HISTORY OF JKFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



he convinced their Honors it would be unjust to enforce 
the collection of the same, an<l it was remitted. 

The secoiiij term of the court wa.s held at the same place, 
on the second Tuesday of August, 1807, with the same 
presence except Judge Sacket. One Studley was convicted 
of grand larceny, the judgment of the court thereon ar- 
rested, and the case continued until the December term of 
the court. Amasa Fox was indicted for sending a chal- 
lenge to fight a duel, and Benjamin Allen was similarly 
dealt with for accepting the above challenge, and both 
parties recognized to the court of Oyer and Terminer. In 
that court the parties were discharged, no one appearing to 
prosecute. At the December term, ISO", of the General 
Sessions there were seven indictments fimnd. 

THE C(JURT OP COMMON PLE.-VS 

held its first term in 1807, beginning on the second Tues- 
day of May, and holding its sessions in the school-house 
before mentioned, near Cowan's mills. The court was held 
with the following presence : Hon. Augustus Sacket, first 
judge; Joshua Bealls and Perloy Keyes, judges; Thomas 
White. a.ssistant justice. The first trial was a case between 
James Mitchell and William A.shby. Mr. IIow appearing 
for F. Skinner, attorney for the plaintiff. The jury were 
Elijah Richmond, Gad Chapin, Zachariah Butterfield, 
Aaron Keyes, Cornelius Van Wornier, Leonard Bullock, 
Thomas Potter, Stoel Warner, Noadiah Hubbard, Wm. 
Sampson, Wm. Dockstadter, and Powell Hall, who gave 
their verdict for the plaintiff, and a.ssessed his damages at 
thirty-seven dollars and forty-eight cents, and his costs at 
six cents. J. W. Bostwick was the attorney for the de- 
fendant. Besides this suit, Mr. Bostwiek bad ten interlo- 
cutory judgments entered up, on an order for the clerk to 
assess the damages, on which report final judgment was 
rendered, aggregating S463.10. 8. C. Kennedy, another 
attorney, had judgment similarly entered, amounting to 
$226.41 , and on confession, $1033. B. Skinner took inter- 
locutory judgments, supplemented by a final decree, to the 
amount of §120, and E. Camp, by confession, to the amount 
of §272. In thecaseof Ebenezcr Giiffin r.s'. Richard Thomp- 
son, the sheriff having taken the body of the defendant on 
a capias for debt, he was ordered to produce the said corpus 
during the sitting of the court or .show cause why an 
attachment should not issue against him, and the defendant 
was ordered to plead in thirty days or judgment would be 
entered by default. There were seventy orders of this 
kind entered at this term of the court. Bostwick had 
t!iirty-one cases on the docket, Kennedy thirty-nine. Skin- 
ner twenty, Elisha Camp six, S. Whittksey f(mr, and J. 
Kirkland two. The second term of this court was held 
on the second Tuesday of August, 1807, with the same 
presence, excepting Judge Sacket. Evan Salisbury was 
declared a bankrupt, and Do Estaing Salisbury a]ipointed 
his assignee. Benjamin Bemis, an insolvent debtor, was 
discharged from his debts and imprisonment on account 
thereof at this term. Thomas Y. How, JIoss Kent, and 
Amos Benedict appeared before the court as attorneys at 
this term, and the court adopted the rules of the Supreme 
Court for the admission of attorneys and counsellors to prac- 
tice in the court, but abolisbcil ibe distinction between the 




two titles of a lawyer aforesaid. The court, moreover, 
required foreign attorneys to produce certificates of having 
studied law three years in some local law office in the State 
of New York. 

The third term of this court was held in December, 1807. 
At the Jul}' term, 1821, of this court, the first alien was 
naturalized in the Jefferson courts, the" same being Charles 
Morton, a subject of George IV., King of Great Britain. 
In October of the same year John Foot, also an English- 
man, declared his intentions to become a citizen of the 
United States, and in 1827 Isaac J. Ullmaiin, a native of 
Frankforton-the-Rliine, where he was born in 171*8, and 
from whence he emigrated in 1822, was admitted to citi- 
zensliii). lie afterwards removid to St. Jo.seph county, 
Michigan, where for many years he was a pmniimmt citizen, 
serving several terms in the legislature, and finally removing 
to Wiscon.sin, where he at present resides. 

The court of Common Pleas was abolished in 184G by 
the constitution then adopted, which provided county courts 
in its stead. 

The first term of the County Court of Jeflcrsoii County 
was held Augu.st 16, 1847, Judge Robert Lansing pre- 
siding. 

Tradition .says that after the formal adjournment, the 
first court (which was held, as before stated, in the school- 
house) became a scene of fun and frolic, which has since 
been seldom equaled. The greater part of the settlers were 
young or middle-aged men, and some were " fond of a social 
glass." The customs of the day did not discountenance 
practical joking, and athletic games were invariably the ac- 
companiment of all gatherings. Moreover, they had been 
just organized, and must have business for their courts, else 
what need of having courts? No one was exempt from 
the jurisdiction of the court ad iiilerim, and did any one 
try to evade jirocess, he was at once accu.sed of a crime 
more flagrant in the code of the tribunal than all others, 
"sneakism, " and forthwith arraigned before the " grave and 
reverend seigneurs" (?), where conviction was certain and 
prompt, and the penalty "a quarter," imposed for the bene- 
fit of the court and its supporters. Among other charges, 
one was preferred against Esq. H., of Rutland, a man of 
very sober and citndid character, who was charged with 
stealing. Conscious of innocence, he offered to be .searched, 
when a quantity of dough w;is Ibund in both pockets of his 
coat. Thus implicated by circumstances he could not ex- 
plain, he was fined. Another was accused of falling asleep, 
and fined a shilling for contempt, and to pay for his lodging ; 
another was fined a like sum for smoking in the court-room, 
and thus lowering the dignity of the jiroceedings. After 
paying the penalty, he resumed his pipe, and was again 
arraigned, but he pleaded a new statute of limitations, that 
the fine previously asses.sed was for a pipe-fiill, which he 
had not finished, and beside that, his comfort could not 
twice be put in jeopardy by the same tribunal. Tliese 
picas afforded a subject for diseu.ssion that elicited the re- 
search and ability of the lawyers present. As the avowed 
intention was to make business for all of the new officers, 
one person was stiipped and laid out on a board, loosely 
covered with cloth, and the coroner sent for, who at once 
proceeded to " sit upon the subject, when the board tipped 



u 



HISTORY OF JEl'FEKSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



up, and tlio corpus disappeared, in ]iiil}ir(>h'bt(i!, instantcr. 
Tlie shciiff found business by drajrging from bis conceal- 
ment one who had fled to a garret to escape the rigorous 
penalties of the mock court. He was taken before the 
tribunal, who decided upon the evidence adduced that his 
failing was a disease rather than a crniie, and ref|uircd for 
its eradication an eiu'iini. This carnival was continued the 
second day, and although the officers of the court affected 
to abstain from the frolic, yet judicial dignity offered no ex- 
emption, and all parties were compelled to join. Companies 
distinguished by personal jioculiaiities were paraded under 
cflBcers' selected for tlie prominence of these traits, as "long 
noses," etc., while the little, short men were organized into 
a party, and charged with the duty of " keeping the cats 
off'* 

This tradition is verified by the fact that the board of 
supervisors allowed at their meeting in October, 1807, two 
bills for damages done to the house of Samuel Whittlesey, 
in process of building, at the time of the first court. 

The fir.st term of the Cmirt of Oyer and Termimn- and 
General Guol Delivery was held in the county on June 17, 
1807, at the same .school-house near Cowan's mills, in 
Watertown, with the following presence: Hon. Smith 
Thompson, justice ; Augustus Sacket, Joshua Bealls, and 
Perlcy Keyes, judges; Lyman Ellis, associate justice; 
Egbert Ten Eyck, clerk; Nathan Williams, district attor- 
ney. The first case tried was one of the people against a 
prominent citizen of the county, indicted for rape ; but a 
jury composed of Moses Miller, Jonathan Treadway, Wil- 
liam Hadsell, Oliver Scott, Nathaniel Johnson, Caleb Ellis, 
Alanson Dresser, Alpheus Coleman, Abiah Jenkins, P. 
Kedway, Levi Butterfield, and J'ihii Hathaway, said their 
neighbor was not guilty, after hearing seven witnesses for 
the prosecution (three of them ladies) and twelve for the 
defense testify. The secoml trial was on an indirtnieuf for 
an assault and battery, the defendant being eonvieled of the 
assault only, and fined ten dollars. The third trial was that 
of Patrick McGinnis, on a charge of larceny, of which he 
was acquitted by twelve of his peers. The ne.xt term was 
held June 20, 1808, Chief-Justice Kent presiding, with 
Judges Clark, Sacket, and White, and Associate Justice 
Corlis Hinds. Resides other business transacted, seven 
constables were fined five dollars each, — for what cau.se the 
record docs not .show. The next term of the court, begun 
June 9, ISO'.t, was held at the court-house, Hon. Joseph C. 
Yates, justice, and Judges Clark, Bealls, and White, pres- 
ent, and Samuel Whittle.s(y, district attorney. Stephen 
Rawson was tried for, and convicted of, passing counterfeit 
money, Oliver Taylor was tried for the .same offen.se and 
ae(|uittcd, and James Goff, indicted for grand larceny, 
pleaded guilty. Tlie court sentenced Raw.soii to tlu' State's 
prison for fourteen year.-^, and (ioll for three and a half 
years, and fined Gershom Tuttle and Jabez Foster eight 
dollars each for nonappearance as grand jurors. At the 
June terra (1810) ol' the court there were four persons 
tried for making and passing counterfeit money, con- 
victed and .sentenced to State's prison as follows : one, for 
counterfeiting gold coin, iiir life ; two, for counterfeiting 

^ Uuugb, 



bank-notes, twelve years; and one, for passing counterfeit 
bank-notes, for ten years. One man was convicted of grand 
larceny and received three years, and another received like 
sentence for attini]jting to break jail. At the June term 
(1812) AVm. W. Van Ness, justice of the Supreme Court, 
presiding, John Jolinson Mann was convicted of forgery, 
and sentenced to the States jirison f(ir life. At the June 
term (1814) the grand jury found eight indictments for 
larceny, one for murder, one for rape, two for forgery, and 
two for assault and battery. The rapist was sentenced to 
State's prison for life, the stealers went to the same safe- 
keeping and the county jail for different periods of time. 
June IG, 1828, Henry I'^vans was convicted of murder, and 
sentenced to be hanged August 20. 

The first Circuit Court was held June 20, 1808, Chief- 
Justice Kent presiding, and also present Judges Sacket, 
Clark, and White, and Corlis Hinds, a.s.sociate justice. The 
first civil suit tried was that of Aaron Davis against Robert 
Stewart, impleaded with Barzillai Willey, and a jury gave 
a verdict in favor of the plaintiff, and assessed his damages 
at S130.S1. The next court was held June li), 1800, at 
which there were had five jury trials, resulting in awards of 
damages amounting to $10fil, and one non-suit. At the 
June term, 1811, there were eleven jury trials, resulting in 
the award of damages aggregating $4()50. At the June 
term, 1812, Gerrit Smith was a plaintiff with the Tall- 
ma<lges, and one David Wadhanjs and David Thon)pson, 
against Jonathan and Aaron Davis, defendants, wherein the 
plaintiffs recovered $302.81 in damages. 

At the first term of the Circuit Court the following 
attorneys appear of record before the court, viz., I. Bost- 
wick, S. C. Kennedy, B. Skinner, S. Whittlesey, Lyman 
Mun.son, Thomas Skinner, Ela Collins, and Micah Sterling. 
At the third term Egbert Ten Eyck, Amos Benedict. S. S. 
Breese (afterwards Judge of the Supreme Court of Illinois 
for nsany years), H. R. Storrs, and B. Skinner appeared. 

A special term of the Supreme Court was held in 
Watertown on the third Monday of December, 1847, Hon. 
William F. Allen, justice, presiding; and a general term of 
the same court was held July 4, 1848, Justices Gridley, 
Pratt, and Allen being present. At this term John T. 
Ncwcoinb and De Witt C. Priest were admitted to the bar. 

THE surrogate's COURT. 

Owing to the loss of the records and files of this court 
by fire juevious to 1830, tlie actual date of the first session 
of the same cannot be obtained, nor an abstract of its early 
business. The records of the court were kept at the (irivate 
offices of the surrogates who from time to lime jiri'sided 
ovrr the court, and in (juc of the destructive conflagrations 
which have laid waste the business jiortions of the city, 
the valuable documents intrusted to that tribunal previous 
to tlie year before named are irrecoverably lost. The seal 
of the surrogate consists of the words "Jefferson County 
Surrogate Seal" in a circle around the words "The End" 
in tlie centre. 

TIIK .U'DOKS 

who have held the foregoing-named courts of Jefferson 
County are as follows: 



HISTORY OF JKFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



75 



The courts of Common Pleas and Goiicral Sessions — 
first judges: Augustus Saeket, February 20, 1807 ; Moss 
Kent, February 26, 1810; Abel Cole, February 2(), 
1818; Egbert Ten Kyek, November 14, 1820; Calvin 
McKnight, January 2!), 1820; Tliomas C. Chittenden, 
February 28, 1840; Calvin Skinner, January 25, 1845. 

Judges under the first and second constitutions, with the 
year of their first appointment: 1805, Joshua Bealls, Perley 
Keyes ; 1806, Isaac Conklin, Augustus Saeket; 1809. 
Joseph Clark, Lyman Ellis, Thomas White ; 1811, John 
Durkec; 1812, Eliphalet Edmonds; 181:5, Ethel Bronson. 
John Brown, Joel Doolittle, Noadiah Hubbard. Jabez 
Foster, Clark Allen; 1814, Jesse Hopkins; 1S15, Abel 
Cole; 1818, William Robinson, Amasa Trowbridge, Elijah 
Fields, Jr.. Aaron Palmer, Calvin MiKnight; 182(t, Hart 
Massey, Samuel C. Kennedy; 1821, Hiram Steel, Ricb.ird 
Goodale, Joseph Hawkins; 1823, Egbert Ten Kyek, Zeno 
Allen, Alpheus S. Greene, Eiijihalet Edmonds, Joseph 
Hawkins; 1S24, Daniel Wardwell ; 1829, Benjamin 
Wright, Zeno Allen, John .Macombcr, George Brown; 
1834, the same were appuiiited ; 184(1, Hiram Carpenter, 
E. Ten Eyck, M. K. Stowe, E. G. Merrick; 1841, John 
Thunnan, Hiram Dewey; 1843, G. C. Sherman; 1845, 
Jason Clark; 1846, Tliomas Wait, Joseph Boyer. 

As.sistant justices (under the first constitution), 1805 : 
Thomas White, William Hunter, Lyman Ellis, Etlini 
Evans; 1807, Asa Brayton, Corlis Hinds; 1811, Abel 
Cole, William Huntingdon, James Henderson, Jr. ; 1813, 
Jesse Hopkins, Jonathan Davis, Wolcott Ilubbell, George 
White; 1814, William Baker; 1815, Conver.se Johnson, 
James Shurtlifl", Seth Peck, A.sa Smith, Elijah Fields, Jr., 
Amasa Trowbridge, Melvin .AIofTatt, Daniel Sterling ; 1818, 
Henry H. Sherwood, John S. Porter, John Macomber, 
Thomas Brayton. 

The Circuit JiuJges, under the constitution of 1821 
(appointed by the governor and senate), were Nathan Wil- 
liams, April 21, 1823; Hiram Denio, May 6, 1834; Philo 
Gridloy, July 16, 1838 ; S. Beardsley was appointed in 
1834, and J. II. Brotison it) 1838, but neither served. 

Under the present constitution the county judges were 
elected at first for four years, but, under the amendments 
of 1869, their terms are for .sis years. They hold the 
county courts. The first county judge was elected in 
June, 1847, the same being Robert Lansing. He was 
succeeded by William C. Thompson, in November, 1851. 
The succession has been as follows since Judge Thoniiison, 
who held the position until 1860: Charles D. Wright, 
1860-68; Azariah H. Sawyer, 1869-77, and the present 
incumbent. 

Justices of Sessions were provided also by the present 
constitution, who are also elective officers, being designated 
from among the justices of the peace, and have been as fol- 
lows : 1847, Samuel Boyden ; 1849-50, George Brown; 
1850, Dexter Wilder, A. S. Babcock; 1851, Dexter Wil- 
der, Medad Cook, Henry Lord; 1853, George A. Gates, 
Elcazer W. Lewis; 1854, William D. Lewis, Hosea B. 
Hayes ; 1855, Albert II. Davis and De Witt C. Priest ; 
1856, Jonathan Munsell and John Fassett ; 1857, John 
F. Latimer, Hosea B. Hayes; 1858, Bradford K. Hawcs, 
Geo. K. Cornwrll ; 1S59. Almond Bnell and Cornwell ; 



1860, Isaac S. Main, Hosea B. Hayes; ISGl, Henry 
Hitchcock and Hayes; 1862-65, Reuben II. Potter and 
Hayes; 1865, Potter and Geo. F. Bartlett; 1866, Bartlett 
andJ.Snell; 1867, Allen Nims. Horace M. Wilds; 1868- 
69, Carlton C. Moore and Wilds; 1870-71, (Jeo. F. Bart- 
lett and John Parker; 1872, Bartlett and Erwin F. Rams- 
dell ; 1873, Ilamsdell and Lysander H. Brown; 1874, 
Brown and Ezra D. Hilts; 1875, Hills and George E. 
Tucker; 1876, Brown and Hilts; 1877, Brown and John 
F. Cook. 

SiirniQdtcs (appointed previous to 1847, and elected 
since then) have been as follows: Benjamin Skinner, April 
13, 1805; John M. Cinfield, March 15, 1811; Eli.sha 
Camp, February 28, 1813 ; David. Perry, June 27, 1815 ; 
Lvman Mun.son, April 2, 1816; Benjamin Wright, Feb- 
ruary 26, 1820; L.Munsoii, February 13, 1821 ; B. Wright, 
March 27, 1827 ; John Clarke, February 28, 1840; Na- 
thaniel B. Wardwell. February 28, 1844, who held the ap- 
pointment till his death, February 15, 1847, when John 
Clarke was re-appointed. The first surrogate elected was 
Levi H. Brown, in June, 1847. The succession since then 
has been: James R. A. Perkins, November, 1851-59; 
Milton H. Mcrwin, 1860-63; D. M. Bennett, 1864-67; 
William W. Taggart,' 1868-77, and the present incum- 
bent. 

Local officer to discharge the duties of surrogate, called 
Specitil Sun-offdte. — Geo. W. Hungcrf'ord, 1849 ; Isaac 
Van Vleck, 1851-54; Milton H." Merwin, 1855-57; 
Lafayette J. Bigelow, 1858-60; Samuel D. Barr, 1861- 
63; A. H. Sawyer, 1864-65; W. W. Taggart, 1866-67; 
Ro.ss C. Scott, 1868-77, and present incumbent. 

Special C'lnuty Jutlges. — Tliom;is P. Saunders, 1849— 
55 ; David J. Wager, 1856-61 ; A. J. Brown, 1862-65 ; 
J. B. Emmcs, 1866-77, and pre.sent incumbent. 

The courts of justice wbieli exercise jurisdiction over the 
people of Jefterson County, within the bounds of the Fed- 
eral and State constitutions, at the present time, are as 
follows : 

The Supre.me Court of the United St.vtes. — 
Morri.son R. Waite, Ohio, chief justice, appointed 1874; 
Nathan Cliftord, Portland, Maine, associate justice, 1858 ; 
Ward Hunt, Utica, N. Y., associate justice, 1873 ; Wm. 
Strong, Philadelphia, Penn., as.sociate justice, 1870 ; Joseph 
P. Bradley, Newark, N. J., associateju.stice, 1870 ; Noah H. 
Swayne, Columbus, Ohio, associate justice, 1862 ; David 
Davis, Blooinington, III., associate justice, 1862 ; Samuel 
F. Miller, Keokuk, Iowa, associate justice, 1862 ; Stephen 
J. Field, San Francisco, Cal., associate justice, 1863; 
D. Wesley Middlet.,n, of Washington, clerk; William T. 
Otto, of Indiana, reporter; John G. Nicolay, of Illinois, 
marshal. The court holds one general term at Washing- 
ton, D. C., cummeneing on the second Monday in Oc- 
tober. 

The Circuit Court of the United States, for the 
second circuit (including New York, Vermont, and Con- 
necticut). — Judges: Ward Hunt, associate justice ; Alex- 
anders. Johnson, circuit judge; and the di.strict judge. 
Terms of this court are held for the Northern District of 
New York at Albany, 2d Tuesday in October ; Canandai- 
gua, 3d Tuesday in June; also adjourned term, for civil 



76 



IIISTOKY OF JEFFERSON COUxNTY, NEW YORK. 



business only, at Albany 3d Tuesday in January, and at 
TJtica 3d Tuesday in March. Cliarlos Mason, clerk Niirtlicrn 
Divi.sion, uftice at Utica. 

The District Court of the United States, for 
the Northern District of New York. — William J. Wallace, 
district judifc, Syracu,se ; Richard Crowley, district attorney, 
Lock port ; Winficld Robbins, clerk, Buffalo; Isaac F. 
Quiniby, marshal, Rochester. The terms of the court are 
held as follows: Albany, 3d Tuesday in January; Utica, 
3d Tuesday in March ; Rochester, 2d Tuesday in May ; 
Buffalo, 3d Tuesday in August ; Auburn, 3d Tuesday in 
November. Special terms are held by appointment at 
Oswego, Platt.sburgh. or Watertown ; and a special session 
in Admiralty at ]5utlalo«u Tuesday of each week. 

The Court of Appeals op New York. — Sanford 
E. Church, Albion, chief judge, term expires Dec. 31, 1884. 
Associate Judges, William F. Allen, Oswego, term expires 
Dec. 31, 1878; Charles A. Rapallo, New York city, term 
expires Dec. 31,1884; Charles Andrews, Syracuse, term 
expires Dec. 31, 1884; Charles J. Folgor, Geneva, term 
expires Dec. 31, 1884; Theodore Miller, Hudson, term ex- 
pires Dec. 31, 1886; Robert Earl, Herkimer, term expires 
Dec. 31, 18U0. Edwin 0. Perrin, clerk, Jamaica; F. 
Stanton Perrin, deputy clerk, Albany ; Hiram E. Sickels, 
reporter, Albany ; Amos Dodge, crier, Albany; iVndrew J. 
Chester, attendant, Albany ; Jeremiah Cooper, attendant, 
Lenox. 

The Sipre.me Court of New York. — The general 
terms of the Fourth Judicial department, holdcn by Joseph 
Mullin, presiding justice, Watertown ; John L. Talcott and 
James C. Smith, associate justices. 

The Circuit Courts and Courts op Oyer and 
Ter.miner, and Speci.\L Terms, held in Jefferson County, 
in the Fifth Judicial district, on the 1st Monday of April, 
and 2d Mondays in June and November, by justices of 
the Supreme Court, as assigned by the terra justices. The 
judges of the Fifth Judicial district arc as follows: Joseph 
Mullin, Watertown, term expires Dec. 31, 1881 ; George 
A. Hardin. Little Falls, term expires Dec. 31, 1885 ; Mil- 
ton H. Merwin, Utica, term expires Dec. 31, ISSS; James 
Noxon, Syracuse, term expires Dec. 31, 1888; Watson M. 
Rogers, di.strict attorney, Watertown, term expires Doc. .SI, 
1877; George Cole, clerk, Watertown, term expires Dec. 
31, 1879; Abner W. Peck, sheriff, Watertown, term ex- 
pires Dec. 31, 1878; Justin W. Weeks, crier, Watertown, 
from 18G(» to 1877. 

The County Court. — Judge, Azariah H. Sawyer, 
Watertown, term expires Dec. 31, 1877 ; Clerk, George W. 
Cole, Watertown, term expires Dec. 31, 1879; Sheriff, 
Abner W. Peck, Watertown, term expires Dec. 31, 1878; 
Special Judge, John B. Emuics, Carthage, term expires 
Dec. 31, 1877. 

TiiK CotiRT OF General Sessions. — Judge, Azariah 
H. Sawyer, Watertown, term expires Dec. 31, 1877 ; Jus- 
tices of the Ses.sions, Lysander H. Brown and John F. 
Cook, terms exjiire Dee. 31, 1877. 

The SuRRixtATE Court. — Surrogate, William W. Tag- 
gart, Watertown, term expires Dec. 31, 1877; Special 
Surrogate, Ross C. Scott, Watertown. term expires Dec. 
31, 1877. 



THE board op supervisors. 

The board of supervisors, as the fiscal nuinager of the 
county, has come down from tlu; " good old colony times, 
when we lived under the king," and dates its beginning in an 
act of the colonial assemfjly of New Yoik, passed in April, 
1G91.* By this act it was provided that the freeholders of 
the colony should elect two assessors and one supervisor in 
their respective towns ; the former to assess and establish 
the rates on each freeholder and iidiabitant, and deliver the 
list to the supervisor, who took it up to a general meeting 
of the supervisors of the county, who ordered the same col- 
lected by the constables or collectors of the several towns. 
The supervisors as a board also elected a county treasurer, 
who received and disbursed the funds for county charges. 
This act was repealed October 18, 1701, and courts of gen- 
eral or special sessions, held by the justices of the peace of 
the county, or any five of them, were created, to make the 
necessary levies of taxes and audit claims, and certify the 
same to two assessors and a collector in each town for col- 
lection pro rata. This court also appointed the county 
treasurer. On June 19, 1703, the supervisors were re- 
stored again and put in charge of the strong box of the 
treasuiy, and the courts of sessions relieved of the care of 
the financial interests of the county, and the supervisors 
required to meet as a board at the county town, annually, 
on the first Tuesday in October, and at such other times as 
they might deem proper for the transaction of their busi- 
ness. The board received back again, also, the power of 
appointment of county treasurer, who was allowed a six- 
pence on the pound for his fees, the collectors getting nine- 
pence for their fees of collection. The system of the 
supervisors has been continued under the several constitu- 
tions of the State to the present time. 

The first meeting of the board of supervisors of Jefferson 
County convened October 1, 180.5, in the school-house in 
Watertown, near Jonathan Cowan's mills, and was com- 
posed of the following supervisors : Noadiah Hubbard, of 
Champion; Clift French, of Rutland; Corlis Hinds, of 
Watertown ; John W. Collins, of Brownville ; Nicholas 
Salisbury, of Adams; Thomas White, of Harrison (now 
Rodman"); Lyman Ellis, of Ellisburg; and Asa Brown, of 
Malta (now Lorraine). They "resolved" Mr. Hubbard 
into the presidency of the board, and adjourned the meet- 
ing until three o'clock P.M., at the house of Abijah Put- 
nam, and met accordingly at the time and place ajipointed. 
They then proceeded to elect by ballot a clerk, Zelotes 
Harvey, and a county treasurer, Benjamin Skinner, and 
rei|uired the latter official to furnish security in S5000 for 
the faithful discharge of his duties, which he subsei|uently 
did, Jacob Brown (afterwards major-general of the United 
States army in the war of 1812) becoming his pledge and 
bondsman. They onlered the clerk to get stationery for 
their use, and adjourned till the next morning. On the 
second day they apixiintcd Messi-s. Hinds and Ellis as a 
committee to examine the as.scssment rolls of the several 
towns, and told themselves off in couples to audit the various 
charges against the towns. Messrs. French, White, and 
Hinds were appointed to procure a conveyance of the court- 

' Brnilford's Ed. ColoninI Laws. 



HISTORY OF JEFFEIISON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



house site, which they subsequently did from Henry and 

Amos Cofl'een, S. C. Kennedy being allowed $2 for 
drafting tliu doeuinent. 

David Parker was allowed 844. 4^^ fur conveying a pris- 
oner to Whitestown (Oneida county) jail. Harrison Mosely's 
bill for apprehending a prisoner and conveying him to the 
same place of contiiiomunt, amounting to §40.1)7, was re- 
duced to $33.50, and allowed at those figures. Robinson 
Pacey, a witness in the case last named, was allowed S10.G2 
for his attendance at Whitcstown. Hart Mas.sey was ap- 
pointed sealer of weights and measures, and $45 approjiri- 
atcd and placed in liis hands to procure standards with 
which to perform his acts. He expended S30 more than 
the appropriation, and the next board allowed him the ex- 
cess. Henry Coffeen, county clerk, was allowed $5.80 for ser- 
vices as such officer, and $29 for stationery aad blank books. 
Six dollars also were allowed justices for criminal scrviiies. 
The bills ot the commissioners to locate the site of the 
cjurt-liou.se and jail, $202, were allowed, and the clerk of 
the board was granted $17 for eight days' .service and a 
bill of stationery. $35 were appropriated for fitting up 
the school-house suitably for holding courts therein, and 
the county clerk given in charge of the work. The treas- 
urer Vfos allowed $5 and the clerk $12 to procure suitable 
records for the needs of their respective offices, the entire 
appropriations of the session amounting to $723.44. 

Henry Coffeen presented a bill of $85. SS, and Jacob 
Brown one of $100 for services at the session of the legis- 
lature in the division of Oneida county, both of which were 
rejected. The latter had been appointed by a meeting of 
citizens of the county, held at Denmark (in Lewis county), 
to attend the legislature for lobbying purposes. Another 
similar bill at a subse<juent session of the board was rejected. 
Dr. Ozias H. Rawson's bill for medical attendance on a poor 
family in the county was rejected. A bounty of $10 on 
wolves' and panthers' scalps was laid in addition to the 
town bounty offered for the destruction of these animals. 
The commissioners of highways of the towns of EllLsburg, 
Brownville, and Harrison (Rodman), petitioned for the 
sum of $250 to be laid on each of their respective towns, 
for road and bridge purposes ; which was done. The record 
of the meeting, which last«d seven days, is closed by the 
following entry : " Resolved, that the meeting be ilesolved." 

The assessment and amount of taxes, population, and 
the collectors of 1805-6 were as follows: 

Viil. Town Tux. Co. Tax. T..t.il. l'o|>lii'n. Colloctora. 

KlliOmrst, $»il,liP9.0ll S41J.7I'. S«i'."l S.">1J.S7 ln\t Uriiiit lloishigton. 

W.it.Mtuwn, fl4,!)S(i..')ll 271..'i;i W.'.IK ;) ic;..'>S :;.'iS John Hl.'vin. 

AilKnn, ;);i,tiiii;.iio l.i4.4i :u.iM IGS.ut 1 iii Oliver WllU.m. 

Brownville, ■H7,-.!4ii.liO 4S7.il 447.24 911.55 20U No.iiliiili Bnrr. 

Harrison, 4;l,:i'J5.iiu oij7.n 4:i.:(.j 41()5U loll IVler yiiuiles. 

Mnltii, 4'J.24».ilU US.:iS 4U.25 147.(10 SU O. Ilntlor. 

Knllmil, 44,S2;P.U0 llU.-'iB 44.8> 10I.:t8 oai Uenj. Eil.ly. 

Uhullipion, 4J,">78..')1> 120.78 42.58 lO'J.M I'JO Beli. Saunders. 



$8U5,992.00 $2ual.S9 S8UJ.08 $2840.87 Uli8 

Of the county tax of $805.98, the collectors' fees 
amounted to 840. 30 and the treasurer's to $8.00, leaving 
the net tax $757.02. A balance of $34.18 was unappro- 
priated, but $539.92 of the aggregate taxes of the county 
were rejected by the comptroller on their return to him, 
and $32(!.88 were delincjucnt, to be jiaid in at the Comp- 
troller's office and by him to be returned to the county treas- 
urer, so that the settlement at the end of the year 180C with 



the treasurer reveals a balance of cash on hand of $3.34 
only, and the orders outstanding amounted to $430.08. The 
prospective a.s.sot,s amounted to $055.49, the realization and 
convertibility of which were more or le.s.s iiidctinile and 
distant. 

A special meeting of the board wa.s convened June 13, 
1800, at which appeared Jacob Brown, IVrley Keyes, Jorta- 
than Davis, Augustus Sacket, Ethni Evans, and Jesse 
Hopkins as new members. This meeting appointed Jacob 
Brown and Augustus Sacket a committee with full powers 
to effect a settlement with Oneida and Lewis counties, on a 
division of the funds on hand in the treasury of Oneida 
county when that .sovereignty was divided. The committee 
was also empowered to receive the money and ]iay the bill 
of the jailer of Oneida against Jcftcrson according to their 
discretion. At the October meeting the same year the 
coniniittoe reported $2292.88 on hand at the time of the 
division of the county, which the committees of the several 
counties had divided according to the assessment-roll of 
Oneida county, last previous to the division, by which 
arrangement Jeflerson was entitled to $328.01, Lewis 
$293.54, and Oneida $1070.73. The supervisors of 
Oneida directed their treasurer to honor the drafts of the 
treasurers of .leflerson and Lewis for their ri'.-pective 
allotments, and the supervisors of Jefferson directed the 
treasurer of this county to draw at once for the amount 
due this county. At the annual meeting of the board, the 
towns of Henderson and Hounsfield were represented by 
Jesse Hopkins and Augustus Sacket respectively, and the 
a.ssos.sment rolls of Ellisburg. Hendei'son, Harri.son, and 
Malta were found incorrect and returned to the asscs.sors 
for correction. The following order was passed : " Ordered, 
that hereafter every justice of the peace who shall give a 
certificate certifying the killing of a tvol/c or panther shall, 
on receiving the pale thereof, sufficiently crop the ears Oi 
the same, and insert the said ears to be so croped in eacli 
certificate to be so given.' The .sessions of October 7 and 
8 were held at the school-house, but on the latter date an 
adjournment was had to November 3 to tlie house of 
Joseph Chirk. Le Hay Wiis represented at the adjourned 
meeting by Ethni Evans. The committee to settle with 
the sheriff of Jefferson County and the jailer of Oneida, 
allowed bills to the amount of $407.70, and in their report 
made a showing which argued strongly for the economy of 
a jail of their own. A tax of $1000 was levied for roads 
and bridges, and distributed pro rata over the towns accord- 
ing to the value of their ta.\able property. Drs. Healls and 
Green presented bills for medical attendance and supplies 
for Noah Emmons and family, which were rejected; but 
sundry bills, amounting to $48.04, incurred in the removal 
of the same family from town to town, and finally out of 
the county, were allowed iicm. cm. 

Messrs. Sacket and Wood, coniniittce on accounts of 
members of the board, ro])orted a pay-roll which was not 
satisfactory to their fellow-members, and their work was 
disallowed, and a new committee, consisting of Mes.srs. 
Davis, Wood, and Keyes, given charge of the matter, who 
reported an allowance of $281, including $48 for the clerk, 
which was audited by the board. The total assessment of 
the county for 1800 amounted to $931,008.72, and the 



T8 



HISTORY OF JKFFEKSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



total taxation to ST230.79, the new towns havinp; llie fol- 
lowing proportion to bear; Le Ray, value §233,006, taxes, 
812(l<).77; Huunsficld, value, $36,942, taxes, $518.30; 
Henderson, value, S25,9!t2, taxe.s, $393.57. 

Two-fifths of the taxes were for county purposes, and the 
remainder for town purpose.s. The county taxes amounted 
to 82908.49, the amount of rejected taxes of 1805. .?539.92, 
being inchided tlicrein. Adding to this amount the amount 
due from Oneida county, and tijc unappropriated balance 
of 1805, the treasurer figured up an excess of revenue 
over appropriations of ISOG of §730.23 ; but rejections by 
the comptroller disjointed the calculations, and the treasury 
was again in default on payment of the drafts made on it 
on account of the levy of 1806. 

In 1807 the as.sessment ran up to $1,035,693.42, and 
the taxes to $7811.28, the county tax being $5178.47. In 
1800 the charges allowed justices and constables for ser- 
vices in criminal cases amounted to $215.79, and in 1807 
to $241.26. The jailer and sheriff' received $135.66 in the 
latter year. A fine of three dollars was levied on Silvenus 
Brown, a Quaker non-combatant, for refusing to do military 
duty, but afterwards the same was annulled, and a tax of 
four dollars substituted therefor. In 1808 the board 
adopted a sot op rules f )r the government of its members. 
To enforce punctuality at the hour of adjournment (mean- 
ing the hour to which the board had previously adjourned) 
a fine of one shilling was levied on delinquents who were 
absent fifteen minutes after roll-call, and one shilling for 
every half-hour's ab.sence after that limitatinn. One shil- 
ling al.so was imposed on all absentees without leave, and 
ordy fifteen minutes' ab.sence was allowed ivitli leave, unless 
by special permission of the president aud on special busine.ss. 
Members were recjuired to be sidiject to good order during 
the business of the board, and to ''observe profound silence 
when called to order by the president, unless addressing the 
chair," and were to speak " one at a time," and but once on 
a subject, unless by permission ; or in default of any or 
either of these requirements to pay one shilling for each 
offense. If any member was found making a copy of his 
assessment- roll at any time during the .sessions of the board 
while the business of the board was in actual progress, the 
offender was fined another shilling, unless he could make it 
appear to the president he had no other business to attend 
to. The president's watch regulated the time of the board, 
and the fines assessed were to be appropriated for the ex- 
penses of the board. The Quaker Brown was still a source 
of contentiim oti the board, though a non-resident himself, 
and was taxed four dollars for his principles, and a warrant 
ordered issued to collect the tax. The taxes fell off' a little 
this year, notwithstanding the increase in values, the latter 
standing at $1 ,094,302.49, and the former at $7200. 7S, 
the county's portion being $4385.42. 

At the October meeting, 1809, begun the third day of 
the month, the board convened at the court-hou.se, but it 
was not suitable for its accommodation, and a committee 
appointed to procure a place for holding the session in, re- 
ported in favor of Judge Clark's; whereupon the clerk 
records the resolution of the board " to pnl up at Judge 
Clark's." The board adopted the rules of the former board, 
and appointed James ShurtlefF " stuerd" — wiiatever that 



might have been — of the board. " Tom," an Indian, was 
allowed the bounty on a " wolfe-pate" he had procured a 
certificate for. The fight opened on the Canada thistle at 
this session, by the appointment of a committee to draft a 
petition to the Legislature for the passage of a law for the 
destruction of that persistent vegetable. Jonas Smith, 
clerk of the board, was ordered to make maps of the several 
towns of the county for filing in the comptroller's office, 
and given one hundred dollars for the job. Another increase 
in values and decrease in taxation occurred this year, the 
assessment being returned at §1,102,785, and the tax levy 
placed at $5499.87, of which $2015.22 were for county 
uses. Jairus Rich presented a certificate for a wolf bounty 
on an animal killed, as alleged, in Brownsville ; but the 
board, for some reason which does not appear on the face 
of the records, rejected the claim. Rich submitted the 
question of his claim to the inhabitants of Brownsville at 
the town-meeting in 1810, who voted to allow it, where- 
upon he brought it before the board of supervisors in Oc- 
tober, 1810, and they rejected the claim again, notwith- 
standing the instruction, and unanimously, too. Both the 
assessment and taxes ran up again this year, the former 
being returned at the sum of $1,138,204, and the tax 
levy being placed at §7391, the county's needs re(iuiring 
$3983.71. In 1811 Antwerp sent her first supervisor to the 
county board — Daniel Heald. Twenty-two Quakers were 
'listed, and taxed four dollars each in lieu of military service ; 
among them Musgrove Evans, who afterwards became a 
noted survcj'or of the United States public lands and specu- 
lator therein in Michigan. The a.s.sessment fell off mate- 
rially this year, the same being returned at $971,045, and 
the taxes amounted to §5915.09, the county's proportion 
being $2329.22. Antwerp's first assessment amounted to 
$50,431, and her first tax-bills to $215.45. In 1813 the 
first equalization of assessments of real estate was attempted. 
John Brown, of Broivnsville, Lyman Ellis, of EUisburg, 
and Jonathan Smiley, of Rutland, were the coiumittee on 
eijualization, and they reported the following schedule: In- 
creased, Antwerp 40 per cent., llounsfield 25 per cent.. 
Champion 10 per cent., Watertown 70 per cent., Hender- 
son 10 per cent. Decreased, Brownsville 25 per cent., 
Rodman 10 per cent. It does not appear by the record 
that this schedule was adopted, or any other, as a basis of 
equalization, but that the taxes were cast on the original 
amounts returned by the assessors, to wit, §3,968,417. 
The taxes amounted to $7113.23, of which Brownsville 
paid §1772, Le Ray §1021.91, and Watertown §597.05. 
In 1814 Wilna was first represented on the board, Thomas 
Brayton being her member. The assessment this year was 
§1,223,871, and the taxes §878,298, of which amount 
Wilna's proportion was figured at $174,190 in valuation, 
and $239.49 in taxes. In 1814 the first school-tax was 
levied under the act for the distribution of the State fund, 
in 1813, the distribution being §789.32. The first State 
tax was levied in 1815, and amounted to §8t>51.7S, the 
total taxes amounting to $22,030.93, the school-tax being 
$1251.27, and other town taxes §7701.55. In 1810 the 
first equalization of real estate assessments between the 
towns was eff'ecled, tlie same being as follows : 10 per cent, 
was added to those of Watertown and Adams, and the fol- 



HISTORY OF JEFFKRSOX COUNTY, NKW YORK. 



79 



lowing deductions made: Brownsville, Rodman, Champion, ! 
and Antwerp, 15 per cent., Henderson 10 per cent., Ellis- 
burg, Lorraine, Le Ray, and Wilna, 5 per cent., and Rut- 
land 2^ percent. In 1817 the personal property ass.scss- 
ment of the county was returned at $105,040, against 
8:i,483,789 on real estate. In 1818 Lyme first had a 
voice in the councils of the county, and paid for the privi- 
lege in taxes $1191.66 on an assessment of $186,721 on j 
real estate, and 81'70 on pei-sonal property. Her first super- 
visor was Richard M. Esselstyne. In 1820 the first and 
only bounty paid for the killing of a panther in Jefferson 
County wxs drawn. Pamelia came into the local leiiislature 
this year, 1820, the asse.ssment of the town being $1)0, IGi 
on real estate, and $100 on personal property, and on this 
valuation she paid taxes to the amount of $1122.12. 

At the annual meeting in 1821 the board voted to pay 
no more wolf bounties after that session ; but they did 
" for all that," as appears by the records. In 1822, Mr. 
Esselstyne died, while the board was in sejision, of yellow 
fever at Utica. At the annual meeting three new towns 
were represented, — Alexandria, by James Shurtleff; Or- 
leans, by Amos Reed; and Philadelphia, by Alden Buck- 
lin. Coroner Scott "sat" on the body of John F. Wages, 
and desired the board to allow a bill of expenses for the 
" crowner's quest ;" but the board deemed the action of 
the coroner " extra judieial" and needless, the said body 
having been drowned in full view of several pereons. The 
total assessment of the county for 1822 was returned at 
$2,484,118, and the total taxes amounted to $22,629.03. 
Of these amounts, the new towns bore the following por- 
tions : 

Alexandria, value real estate, $142,645 ; personal prop- 
erty, 84115; taxes, $1430.50. Orleans, value real estate, 
$131,397; personal property, 88805; taxes, $1359.71. 
Philadelphia, value real estate, $49,346 ; personal property, 
$6(10 ; taxes, $393.04. 

In 1823 thirty dollars were appropriated to assist an I 
aged pauper to Philadelphia, " or any other place where he 
would be the mo.st unlikely to return." In 1830 grand 
and petit jurors were first paid for their services as sueh. 
In 1833 Clayton appeared on the board in the person of 
her first supervisor, Ilubbell Fox. The total assessment ' 
of the county amounted to $3,074,753, and the tax levy | 
figured up $27,346.52. Clayton returned its first assess- 
ment at $82,136, and was laid under a contribution for her 
own needs and those of the general welfare, placed at 
$1465.79. In 1841 Theresa .sent her first supervisor to 
the county-seat, at the annual meeting, the same being 
Alexander Salisbury. The assessment of the town was 
returned as follows: Acres assessed, 40,911; value real 
estate, $184,500; value pei-sonal property, $300; total, 
$184,800. On this valuation taxes were levied to the 
amount of $1049.73. In 1848 Worth was set off as a 
new town, and sent up Albert S. Gillett as its first super- 
visor. Its first assessment was returned as follows : Acres, 
26,743; value real estate, $20,994; personal property, 
$1000; value per acre as assessed, $1.12; taxes levied, 
8377.75. In 1849 Cape Vincent came into the board, by 
Frederick Folger. her first supervi-sor, with an assessment 
of 33,978 acres, and a real-estate valuation of $208,285, 



and $2000 on personal property, and paid taxes on the 
same to the amount of $2698.26. The as-sessed value per 
acre of the lands of the town averaged $6.13. 

In 1875 the legislature conferred upon the boards of 
supervisors of the several counties in the State, save such 
whose limits were co-extensive only with a city in its 
boundaries, increased legislative powers. Under this in- 
crease of power the board of supervisors of Jefferson 
County have enacted laws for the preservation of brook- 
trout and other fish in Jefferson County waters, and also 
establishing the salaries of the then (1876) incoming 
county judge and surrogate at twelve hundred and fifty 
doliai-s per annum, the same having been previously fixed 
at twenty-five hundred dollars per ;niiiuin by the State 
legislature. 

The bounties offered by the board of supervisors for the 
destruction of wolves and panthers, from 1805 to 1814, 
inclusive, were ten dollars per head, besides the town boun- 
ties, which latter varied, and caused so much difficulty, and 
proved such a temptation for fraudulent practices, that in 
1808 the board recommended the towns to confine their 
bounties to the uniform sum of five dollars. 

From 1815 to 1818, inclusive, the county offered a bounty 
of twenty dollars, the State paying as much more a portion 
of the time. In 1819 the bounty was reduced to ten 
dollars on wolves, and in 1820 to the same amount for 
wolves and panthers, and half that sum for the whelps of 
tho.se animals. In 1821 there was no bounty at all offered, 
but it was restored in 1822, and remained at ten dollars for 
several years, but seldom more than half a dozen sealjis were 
taken in a year. During the continuance of the bounty 
there were paid, in the earlier years of the .settlement of the 
county, the following sums on wolfscalps by the county 
treasurer: 1806, $460; 1807,8390; 1808,8470; 1810, 
8770; 1811, 8500; 1816, 8320; 1818, $460; 1819, 
$400; 1820, $780 on wolves and $20 on panthers; 1821, 
$290 for past scalps; 1822, $50. 

The chairmen of the board of supervisors have been an 
follows: From 1805 to 1807, Noadiah Hubbard; 1808, 
Ethel Bronson; 1809-10, Jes.se Hopkins; 1811-12, Judah 
Williams; 1813, Jesse Hopkins; 1814, Noadiah Hubbard; 
1815-16, Egbert Ten ' Eyck ; 1817-24, General Clark 
Allen. Up to 1818 the officer was designated as president, 
but in this last-named year the name was changed to chair- 
man. 1825, Nathan Strong; 1826, Noadiah Hubbard; 
1827-28, Walter Cole: 1829-30, Nathan Strong ; 1831, 
Willard'Ainsworth; 1832-33, Henry H. Coffeen ; 1834- 
36, Jonathan Bigelow ; 18.37, Orville Ilungcrford ; 1838- 
39, Daniel Half; 1840, Eli West; 1841, Daniel Hall; 
1842, Orville Hungerford; 1843, Joseph Graves; 1844, 
John Boyden; 1845, Azel W. Danforth ; 1846, Alanson 
Skinner; 1847, 0. V. Brainard ; 1848, Bernard Bagley ; 
1849, Alden Adams; 1850, Henry Greene, Jr.; 1851, 
Hiram Dewey; 1852, Alfred Fox; 1853-54,0. P. Star- 
key ; 1855-56, Jason Clark; 1857, Luke E. Frame; 1858, 
Luther Sampson; 1859, A. W. Clark; 1860, John H. 
Conklin; 1861, C. A. Benjamin; 1862, Nathan Strong; 
1863, C. W. Burdick; 1864, J. H. Conklin; 1865, Geo. 
W. Hazelton ; 1866, Dr. Charles W. Burdick ; 1867, Chas. 
A. Benjamin ; 1 868, Geo. A. Bagley ; 1869, R. B. Biddle- 



80 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSOJS COUJS'TY, JSEW YORK. 



com; 1870-71, Theodore t'aiifielil ; 1872, Ropl Fuller; 
1873, Thos. C. Chittenden; 1874, 0. D. Green; 1875, 
Fred. Waddiiighau) ; 187C, John C. Knowlton. 

The clerks (if the board (elected by the board) have been 
as follows: Zelotes Ilarvey, 1805-6; Jonas Smith, 1807- 
15 ; iMarinus AV. Gilbert, 1816-23 ; Adriel Ely, 1824-26 ; 
Zenas H. Adams, 1827-31 ; M. W. Gilbert, 1832-37; J. 
F. Bates, 1838; Alanson P. Sijrourncy, 1839; Myron 
Becbee, 1840; M. P. Jackson, 1841; A. M. Watson, 
1843; A. P. Sigourney, 1844-47; A. Wilson, 1848-19; 
A. B. Gilbert, 1850; A. Wilson, 1851; J. R. Bates, 
1852-53; M. Beebee, 1854; Abner Smith, 1855-56; E. 
J. Clark, 1857 ; John A. Haddock, 1858-59; Levi Smith, 
1860; Wm. S. Phelps, 1861-62; Jacob Stears, Jr., 
1863-71 ; W. D. V. Rulison, 1872-77. 

The board fur the year 1877 has not, at this writing, 
met and organized, and will not do so until the annual 
meeting in November, but its constituent members arc as 
follows : 

Adams, O. D. Greene; Alexandria, A. A. Holmes; Ant- 
werp, Geo. D. McAllister; Brownville, II. H. Bininger; 
Cape Vincent, L. 0. Woodruff; Champion, James Ster- 
ling; Clayton, R. M. Es.sclstyn ; Ellisburg, J. P. Wodell; 
Henderson, John Chapman ; Ilounsfield, S. M. Hodges ; 
Le Ray, F. E. Croi.s.sant ; Lorraine, C. C. Moore ; Lyme, 
A. A. Getman ; Orleans, B. Everett; Pamelia, G. H 
Countryman; Philadelphia, George E. Tucker; Rodman, 
George A. Gates; Rutland, George Smith; Theresa, John 
Parker; Watertown, C. Richardson; City of Watertown, 
first ward, J. C. St"?eter; second ward, J. C. Knowlton . 
third ward, T. C. Chittenden ; fourth ward, C. W. Sloat ■ 
Wilna, James Galvin ; Worth, S. B. Kellogg. 

COURT-HOUSES AND .I.MLS. 

According to the provisions of the act establishing the 
county, the governor and council of appointment appointed 
the commissioners to select and designate the site of the 
court-house and jail of the county, the same being Matthew 
Dorr, David Rodgers, and John Van Bentheusen. "The 
question of location was not settled without the most active 
eflorts being made by Brownville to secure the site ; but 
the balance of settlement was theii south of Black river, 
and the level lands in the north pait of the county were 
represented to the commissioners as swampy and incapable 
of settlement. Jacob Brown, finding it iin]iossible to secure 
this advantage to his place, ne.xt endeavored to retain it, at 
least, north of Black river, and oft'ered an eligible site in the 
present town of Pamelia ; but in this he also failed. The 
influence of Henry Coffeen is said to have been especially 
strong with the coinmis.sioners, although he was ably 
seconded by others of much ability. It is said that the 
site was marked at some distance below the business part 
of the village of Watertown to conciliate those who bad 
been disappointed in its location. A deed of the premises 
was presented by Henry and Amos Cofteen."* At the 
October meeting, 1806, of the board of supervisor, Messrs. 
Hinds, Salisbury, and J. Brown were appointed as a com- 
mittee to report the expediency of building a jail, the prob- 

^ llullgli. 



able cost of the same, and the most advi.sable method to be 
pursued in such a proceeding for the interest of the county. 
The expense of .sending prisoners to Whitestown was heavy, 
and it was apprehended that public officers would reluc- 
tantly spend their time in going to and from thence. The 
committee reported that two-thirds of all county charges 
were paid by non-resident taxes, and a prospect then ex- 
isted that this law would be repealed. They therefore 
advised the immediate erection of a jail, and it was esti- 
mated it could be built for S450() ; that S250(l would pro- 
vide one better for the interests of the county than the 
existing system. J. Brown and A. Saekct were appointed 
to draft a petition to the legislature, which procured, on 
February 20, a law authorizing a tax of §250(t for erecting 
a court-house and jail, and February 19, 1808, a further 
tax of $2500 was applied for. William Smith, Gershom 
Tuttle, and N. Hubbard were appointed to build a jail after 
a plan to be approved by the board. It was to be 40 by 
60 feet, built of wood, and fronting eastward, and was built 
in 1807-8 by Wm. Rice and Joel Mix, after the plans of 
Wm. Smith. It contained a jail in the first story, and 
stood a little south of the present jail. On January 30, 
1808, the superintendents were empowered " to build a suf- 
ficient tower and cupola on the centre of said building, and 
cover the dome of said cupola with tin, and so construct the 
said tower and cupola that it shall be sufficiently strong and 
convenient so as to hang a bell, and to erect a sphere and 
vane, and also a suitable rod to conduct the lightning from 
said building." On October 5, 1808, the accounts of the 
courl-buuse auditeil, including extra work and services of 
committee, anKnuited to 81997.58. The contractors, Mix 
and Bice, sued the county for "extras," but afterwards 
compromised, and paid the costs. Wm. Smith was directed 
to purchase the necessary fixtures for the court-house and 
jail, at an estimated co.st of $262.87. 

In 1807 (August 13) the jail liberties^ were fiist estab- 
lished, and deserve mention from the singular manner in 
which they were laid out. They covered a small .space 
around the court-liou.se and a part of the public square, and 
included most of the houses in the village, while between 
these localities, along the sides of the roads, and sometimes 
in the centre, were paths from four to eight feet wide, with 
occasional crossings, so that by carefully observing this 
route, turning right angles, and keeping himself in the 
strict ranges which the court had established, a man might 
visit nearly every building in the village ; but if the route 
was by any accident obstructed by a pile of lumber, a pool 
of mud, or a loaded wagon, he must pass over, or through, 
or under, or else expose himself to the peril of losing this 
precarious freedom, by clo.se imprisonment, and subjecting 
his bail to prosecution for the violation of his trust. In 
several instances persons were thus dealt with, where they 
had inadvertently turned aside from the straight and narrow 
path, to which the statutes of that period allowed the cred- 
itor to Consign his unfortunate debtor. A map of these 
limits, prepared by Jonas Smith, who for several years had 
nnule these details a subject of daily ob.servation from ne- 



t I'rivih-ycs ao '(;rdc(l prisoners for debt, who giivc tail for (lie 
observiinco of the lounds of the ** liberties." 




1877. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



81 



cessity, was prepared in July, 1811, and deposited in the 
cleric's ofEce. It is interesting from its containing the 
names of tlioso who tlion (iwnfd houses in the village, of 
whom there were about til'ty. These limits were maintained 
till February 23, 1821, when an act was passed deBning a 
rectangular area around the village as the jail limits. On Oc- 
tober 9, 1815, the sui)ervi.'S(irs voted a petition for a tax of 
$1000 to build a fire-proof clerk's oflSce,and Ai)rii 5, 1816, 
an act was p;isscd accordingly, allowing a tax, not exceeding 
$1500, for this purpose, and Ebenezer Wood, Ethel Hron- 
son, and Egbert Ten Eyclc were mimed as commissioners to 
build the same. 

A clerk's office was accordingly built between tiic present 
Episcopal church and the public sf|uare, and was occupied 
until 1831, when, in accordance with an act passed January 
26 of that year, granted on a petition of the board in 1 830, 
a new clerk's office was built by Daniel Wardwcil, Eli 
West, and Stephen D. Sloan, commissioners appointed by 
the act for the purpose, who were empowered to borrow one ' 
thousand dollars (in the credit of the count}', and sell the 
former office and lot. The new office was situated on the 
north side of Court street, corner of Jackson street, and 
was occupied until the comjiletion of the present court- 
house, in 18C2. In December, 1817, the court-house was 
injured by fire, which occasioned a meeting of the board, 
and five hundred dollars were voted for repairs. In 1820, 
Wm. Smith was given the contract to re-cover the roof of 
the clerk's office with tin, he agreeing to furnish an " Im- 
proved workman in tinning roofs" for the purpose. In 
this year the sheiiff was instructed to cause the prisoners to 
cleanse the cells and jail generally, and, as an inducement 
to them to perform the task, he was authorized to " dis- 
tribute among them weekly one pound of tobacco to every 
six prisoners." 

On February 9, 1821, the court-house and jail were 
burned, and on the 12th the supervisors met to take into 
consideration the measures necessary for the occasion. A 
petition was forwarded for a law authorizing a tax of $8000 
to rebuild the county buildings, and a loan of S6000 for the 
same purpo.so. It was resolved to build the jail si'parate 
from the court-house, and both buildings were to be of stone. 
Elisha Camp, Nathan Strong, and .luhn Brown were ap- 
pointed conimi.ssiiineis to superintend the building. Pre- 
miums of Silt i'or a plan of a court-hou.se and $15 for one 
of a jail were offered. An act was accordingly passed 
March 13, 1821, for the .separate erection of these build- 
ings, at a cost not exceeding $800(1, under the direction of 
Eliphalet Edmonds, Henry H. Coffeen, and Jabez Foster. 
The courts meanwhile were to be held at the brick academy, 
and criminals were to be sent to the Lewis county jail. A 
loan not exceeding $61)00 was authorized from the State. 
On March 28 the board met, and the plan for a jail offered 
by Wm. Smith was adopted, and a resolution was passed 
providing I'or solitary cells. The court-house was agreed to 
be forty-four by forty eight feet, after a plan by J. H. 
Bishop. This necessity of an outlay for new buildings re- 
vived the question of a new site, and, among others, the 
citizens of Sacket's Harbor made diligent efforts by ]ietiticin 
to secure their location, but without success ; and in the 
same season a court-house and a part of the jail were 



erected, which continued to be occupied until Novem- 
ber, 1848, when the Hon. Jas. M. Comstoek, one of the 
inspectors of county and State prisons, reported to the Hon. 
Robert Lansing, judge of the county, the entire failure of 
the county jail to meet the requirements of the statute in 
relation to the safety, health, and proper classification of 
prisoners, and expressed his belief that the arrangements 
required by law could not be attained without the con- 
strnetion of a new ]iiisiin building. This report, approved 
by the judge, and certified by the clerk of the board, was 
laid before the supervisors, a committee appointed, who 
visited the jail and confirmed the report, but after repeated 
efforts the board failed to agree upon a resolution providing 
for the necessary rebuilding of the county prison. This led 
to the issue of a writ of mandamus by the supreme court in 
December, on the motion of G. C. Sherman, requiring the 
board of supervisors to proceed without delay to the erection 
of a new jail, or the repair of the one then existing. This 
necessity for a new prison suggested the project of the 
division of the county into two jury districts, and the erec- 
tion of two sets of buildings at other places than Water- 
town, and the question became, for a short time, one of 
considerable discu.ssinn in various sections of the county. 
The question was settled by the erection of an extensive 
addition to the jail, two stories high, and considered ade- 
((uate for the wants of the county for some time (then) to 
come, at least, if the course adopted was that recommended 
by the board of supervisors October 20, 1820, as set forth 
in the following resolution : 

*' Whcreni*^ The maintcnnncc of pri-^oncrs coimnittL'tl to the county 
jail fur siiiali offenses, in the manner that, the.v have been usually 
sentenced, has been attended with great cxjiense to the people of this 
county, and in many instances has operated to jiunisli the cnunty with 
taxes more than the criminals for offenses; ancl whereas some courts 
of special sessions have sentenced them to imprisonment upon bread 
and water, which lessens the expense to this county, and tlie same 
operates as a punishment more cfTectually tiian longer terms of ira- 
liri.-^iinment would in the ordinary wa.v ; the board of supervisors, 
therefore, recommend generall.v to magistrates and courts of sessions 
in mittimuses, upon conviction of pctt^' crimes, to make the length of 
confinement less, and direct the jailer to keep tlie offenders upon 
bread and water during the time of their imprisonment. The board 
would roctimmend, in such oases, that the prisoners be not sentenced 
to be kept longer tlian thirty days in any case; it may endanger the 
health of the convicts. 

*' liesoli-etf, That the jailer for the future be directed not to procure 
anything more expensive for criminals than moccasins at lifty cents 
a pair, instead of slioes, nor to procure any hats, and to purchase a8 
liitie clothing as possible, and that of the poorest and least expensive 
kind." 

The court-house became so much dilapidated that it 
became unfit to hold courts in, and in 1851, Judge Thomp- 
son hired rooms ;it $100 per annum for rental and fuel, and 
sent his bills to the board of supervi-sors for auditing. 

In 1857, a resolution looking to the erection of a new 
court-house was pa.ssed at the annual session of the board 
of supervisors, Me.s.srs. S. H. Brown, Win. Estes, and S. 
Eddy being appointed a preliminary committee on the matter. 
A motion at the annual meeting in 1858, to proceed at 
once to the erection of the court-house, was tabled, and thi n 
taken up again, atid amjnded by changing the phicc of loca- 
tion, so as to leave it to the discretion of future boards to 
locate the same at Watertown or elsewhere in the county. 



82 



HISTOllY 0¥ JEFFKilSON COUNTY, NEW YOllK. 



and the amended resolution was adopted. Jlessre. Ingalls, 
Phelps, and Rulison were appointed a committee to receive 
plans and specifications, and then the whole matter was laid 
on the table, and a committee appointed to invest S30 in 
an examination of the old building relative to the possibility 
of repairing it. The grand jury, in April and September, 
1838, indicted the court-house as a nuisance, and as unfit 
and insufiicient to hold courts in. In 1859, a motion to 
rent Washington Hall, in Watertown, for holding the courts 
until the court-house could be repaired, at a rent of S250 
per aimum, was lost, fifteen members voting in the negative; 
whereupon, on motion of Supervisor Ingalls, the majority 
voting against the proposition were appointed a committee 
to report a plan for repairing or rebuilding the court-house. 
This committee reported a resolution to appoint a committee 
to repair the court-house and rent Washington Hall, and 
receive plans and proposals to build a new court-house on 
the old site. On December 10, 18G0, the committee as- 
sembled and received plans and specifications, and appointed 
a sub-committee to visit the several court-houses in the 
State, or as many as they deemed necessary, and examine 
the same, and confer with W. N. White, an architect at 
Syracuse. The sub-committee procured plans and drafts 
from Mr. White, and reported at a special meeting of the 
board, January 7, 1861, recommending the adoption of 
White's plans, which placed the cost of the new building, 
erected in accordance therewith, at the sum of S25,0UU. 
The report of the committee was adopted by the board, and 
after a brisk and animated struggle the present site, corner 
of Arsenal and Benedict streets, in Watertown, was selected, 
the same being donated by the citizens of the city. A loan 
of $25,000 was authorized and made from the State at 
seven per cent., and a contract made with Juhn Hose and 
Joseph Davis to erect the building for S24,000, and W. N. 
White appointed supervising architect, and the following- 
named supervisors a building committee: Joseph Atwell, 
A. W. Clark, A. C. Middlet.m, C. A. Benjamin, Juhn H, 
Conklin, Henry Spiccr, and Jacob Putnam. At the annual 
meeting of the board in October, 18G1, this comniiltce was 
discharged as being too expensive on account of size, and a 
new committee appointed, consisting of J. H. Conklin, D. 
W. Baldwin, and Octave Blanc. The building was com- 
pleted in 1802, at a cost of $25,488.89, furnished, after 
some delays and wrangling with the contractors, who peti- 
tioned the board for an additional allowance, for an allced 
deficit in compensation occasioned by the extraordinary rise 
in building materials occasioned by the war. The roof over 
certain portions of the building was imperfect, and consid- 
erable sums of money were expended to repair and complete 
it. The basement was ill drained, and until the sewerage 
of the city was completed along Arsenal street it was in a 
foul and unhealthy condition ; but drains connecting with 
the main sewer soon obviated that difficuty, th(mgh at 
considerable expense. The entire expense of the court- 
house as it now stands is not far from §35,000. It is 
built of brick, with stone trimmings and portico, and has 
an area of about 70 feet front on Arsenal street by 120 feet 
rear on Benedict street. It has two stories, and is provided 
with a firc-jiroof clerk's office in the rear of the building, 
and is surmounted with a tower in good proportionate di- 



mensions to the balance of the edifice, and, with a well-kept 
lawn (one of the features of Watertown), is an ornament 
to the city and a credit to the county. The county jail 
stands on a commanding bluff overlooking the city and sur- 
rounding country, and furnishes accommodations for the 
needs of the county at the present time, inasmuch as all 
petty crimjs and misdemeanors are punishable by commit- 
ment to the Onondaga county pjnitentiary, which relieves 
the county jail somewhat of what would be au otherwise 
excessive demand for room. 

POOR-IIOUSES AND A.SYLUJIS. 

The first compulsory charity within the limits of the 
present Empire State was that which the act of the colonial 
assembly of April, 1691, provided for, whereby the towns 
of the colony were retiuired to support their own poor, and 
whereby, also, safeguards were thrown around the system, 
to prevent imposition upon the authorities. The assembly 
of 1G83 may have also provided for such support, and so, 
also, maj' have the Dutch burghers before that, but the first 
laws we find lecorded on the subject are those reported in 
Bradford's edition of the Colonial Laws from 1G91 to 1773, 
published in London, which gives the first act as passed in 
April of the former year. 

The legislature in 1778 provided for the support of the 
poor by towns and cities, and later on, for the building of 
poor-houses by towns and counties. Previous to the adop- 
tion of the poor-house system by Jefferson County each 
town in the county supported its own poor, and the records 
of the board of supervisors show annual appropriations in 
many of the towns for that purpose of from $50 to $800. 

In 1817, $50 was voted to build a town poor-house in 
Le Hay, and in 1822, under the act of 1820, the super- 
visors recommended to the several towns to take into 
consideration at their next annual meetings the propriety 
of building a poor-house and house of industry for the 
county, as advised by an act of March 3, 1821). In April, 
1825, a meeting of the board was called, and a committee, 
consisting of Messrs. Hubbard, Hart, and Stewart, was ap- 
pointed to ascertain the most suitable site for erecting a 
poor-house, and the price for whii-li a farm could be pur- 
chased, within five miles of the court-house. The cost of 
buildings was limited to $2000. They were directed to 
advertise for proposals for purchasing a farm, if they sliould 
think proper. On June 7 an adjourned meeting of the 
supervisors mot to hear the above report. After visiting 
the premises in a body, it was resolved to purchase the 
Dudley farm, in Le Ray, five miles from Watertown, con- 
taining 150 acres, at $10 per acre. Committees were ap- 
pointed to procure titles, which came through Vincent Le 
Ray de Chaumont, and fit up the premi.ses. The building 
was erected by Simeon Towle, and completed and accepted 
by the board November 17, 1825, the same costing $1 tHO. 
These premises continued to be occupied for the purpo.se of 
a poor-house until November, 1832, when the supervisors 
voted a ])i'tition for the power to sell the property, and 
borrow $4000 on the credit of the county for building a 
new one on a new site, if the interests of the county re- 
quired it. An act was jiassed by the legislature January 
25, 1833, granting the power asked for, and providing for 



IITSTORY OF JP^FFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



83 



the execution of the trust by three commissioners to be ap- 
pointed by the supervisors. At tlieir following session the 
board, after much discu.s.siun, finally agreed to erect a new 
poor-house on a farm of 100 acres, purchased of J. Foster 
for $1500, about a mile below Watertown, north of the 
river, and Orville Hungerford, Jo.soph Graves, and Bernard 
Bagley were appointed to carry the resolution into efl'ect. 
This poor-house and farm cost 3G123.GG, and the old 
jiroperty was sold for 8201;"). 24. 

The distinction between t(j\vn and county poor was abol- 
ished by a vote of the supervisors in November, 1834, and 
this has been since several times changed. In 1832 the 
experiment of picking oakum was tried, with a profit of 
$154 the first year. The oulhire df the mulberry has also 
been attempted, but with small success. The first super- 
intendents of the poor-hou.-ie, appointed in 1820, were 
Orville Hungerford, Wm. S. Ely, Peter Yandes, John 
Hoover, and Asher Wilmot, who were elected in 1820 and 
1827, and an equal number were annually ajjpninted until 
the adoption of the present constitution. The persons 
elected under the general law were David Montague, Chas. 
F. Symonds, and I'hineas Hardy, in 1848; Martin J. 
Hutchius, 1849; Peter S. Houck, 1850; Austin Everitt, 
1851. It being thought by certain ones that the general 
law was not the best that could bo devised for the county, 
an effort was made in 1S52, which procured on the 12th 
of April an act which directed hut one ov£rseer of the pour 
to be hereafter elected in each town in this county, and 
the duties of overseers of the poor were conferred upon the 
sujiervisor and such overseer, in the several towns, who 
were to be a.ssociated together in atTording relief to the 
indigent within certain limits, to be prescribed by the board 
of supervisors for each town. No superintendents of the 
poor were to be thereafter elected, but <iiie was to be ap- 
pointed by the board of supervisors, to hold his office during 
their pleasure. He is to reside at tlie poor-house, and be 
the keeper thereof. In case of vacancy, the county judge, 
clerk, and treasurer, or any two of them, fill the vacancy 
by temporary appointment until another is chosen. In the 
fall of 1854, and annually afterwards, two visitors arc ap- 
pointed by the board of supervisors, to visit the poor-house 
every two month,s_, and examine its books and management. 
Contracts for uiedicines and medical attendance are made by 
the supervisors, individually, in the several towns, and as a 
board for the poor-house. They have also the power of di- 
recting the manner in which supplies for the poorhou.se shall 
be purchased, which directions the superintendent is obliged 
to follow. The provisions of this act apply to no other 
county than this. The board of supervisors, in accordance 
with powers thus conferred, ap])ointed Alpheus Parker super- 
intendent, who entered ujion his duties January 1, 1853.* 

In lS4t) the barn on the farm wits burned, and rebuilt 
in 1847. In 1S39— 10 cells were built in the poor-house 
for the confinement of lunatics, and in 1855 the lunatic 
a.<yluui was built of brick, and at a cost of S4811.57, 
Messi-s. Adriel Ely, Jason Clark, and A. S. Babcock hav- 
ing supervision of the work. In 1S70 the poor-house was 
remodeled and rebuilt at an expense of $13,750, under the 

«- lIoii.'h. 



supervision of Messrs. R. Fuller, Thomas C. Chittenden, 
and Herman Strong. The institution as it at present 
stands and is conducted is claimed to be second to no 
similar institution in the State. 

Mr. Parker served as superintendent from 1853 to 1858, 
and was succeeded in the latter year by Nathaniel Havens, 
Jr., who held the position until 1800, when he was suc- 
ceeded by Colonel Herman Strong, who continued to receive 
the appointment annually until his death, which occurred 
in Ajiril, 1870. From the commendatory reports of the 
inspectors and committees appointed to visit the poor-house 
and report thereon, we gather that Colonel Strong was 
peculiarly fitted for the delicate and arduous task of caring 
for the unfortunate class committed to his charge, in which 
he was ably .seconded by his estimable wife and daughter. 
Colonel Strong was succeeded by A. W. Wheelock, who 
continues the same general system of management inaugu- 
rated by his immediate predecessor, with gratifying and 
commendable results. 

Beside the care given to the poor in the county institu- 
tion, a greater amount of relief is afforded in the towns 
outside, in the support, or partial relief, of the town poor, 
tlic distinction between county and town charges being now 
maintained. The following statement exhibits the amounts 
paid for the support and relief of the poor since the year 
1800 to 1870, both years iiichisive, in and out of the poor- 
house : 

In Oiltflifio 

Poor-Hoiise. Puor-Hoiise. Tiital. 

1S60 S.j,764 SU.2f.4 $20.1128 

1861 ",'.lfiO 10,1157 24,U17 

1802 7,«2:i 18,5oG 211,179 

ISO.'! S,lll6 27,1S4 .3a,2a0 

1S64 '.1.24S 46,731 5i,97a 

1SC5 11,009 58,006 69,015 

1800 l:i,6:i2 42,049 55,681 

1807 i:i,S,i7 .■54,63:! 48,490 

1868 14,17.1 38,133 52,308 

1809 14,421 30,440 50,801 

1870 13,702 36,408 50,110 

1871 12,335 411,400 52,735 

1872 12,989 36,367 49.356 

1873 12,538 29,3811 41,918 

1874 10,773 15,931 26,704 

1875 12,Sil2 23,141 36,033 

1876» 12,127 19,093 31,220 

$193,751 $53.3,673 $727,424 

In 187C there were 980 persons relieved in the towns, at 
a cost of $21,315.21, as follows: 

No. of Poreoiis. Cusl of Uelii-f. 

Adnms 37 $1,502.74 

Alcxaiulria 64 1,186.15 

Antweq) 17 508.72 

liiownvillc 74 1,528.61 

Ciipe Vincent 116 1,026.58 

t'lianipiun 28 862.70 

Chiyton 77 1,397.85 

Ellishuig 43 744.46 

Ilinileison 6 263.26 

llnunstUlil 24 564.37 

he Kay 17 652.86 

Lorraine 23 661.74 

Lyme 47 765.21 

O.lians 41 1,013.58 

Piinulia None. 

Pliilaiiclphia 19 575.83 

Ro.lman 1 39.20 

Rutland 9 88.50 

Thurefa 74 423.00 

f'itv of WatcTtown 110 4,111.68 

Wiina 132 2,586.81 

Worth 27 811.36 

986 $21,315.21 

* .Appropriations in tax levy for 1876. 



84 



HISTORY OF JKFFERSOX COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



The report of the superintendent of the poor-house for 
the year ending November 1, 1870, makes the following 
exhibit : The sum expended for the year for the support of 
the institution was S11,7C4.S7, for which 3247 weeks of 
board were furnished in the lunatic xsylum, and 4323 weeks 
in the poor-house, averaging Sl-SS-^^j per week. On No- 
vember 1, 1S75, there were tJO persons in the asylum, 15 
males and 45 females. Tiiere were received during the 
year 11 males and 9 females, and 6 males and 8 females 
were discharged, 4 males and 2 females died, and 1 male 
and 3 females escaped, 56 persons remaining in the asylum 
on November, 1876. In the poor-hi.me on November 1, 

1875, there were 48 males and 49 females; 53 males and 
27 females were received, and one of each sex was born ; 
total, 179. Discharged during the year, 4G males, 42 fe- 
males — 88 ; died, males 3, females 2 — 5 ; sent to Orphans' 
Home, 1 ; bound out, 1 ; total 95. Inmates November 1, 

1876. 52 males, 32 females, making 140 in both depart- 
ments. 

Advantage is sometimes taken of the generous provision 
made for the temporary relief of the worthy poor, and 
therefore a system was adopted by which the orders granted 
by the overseers of the poor express upon their face the 
kind and quality of goods the county or town authorities 
will pay for. This was necessary, as will be seen by a reso- 
lution introduced at the annual meeting of the board of 
supervisors in 1SG8, by Mr. Dimick, and adopted, explain- 
ing the fact of the reduction of bills for pauper relief, 
though contracted on regular orders. The resolution cited 
the following spacinien bills presented to the committee for 
audit: One was itemized thus: '-1 C')at, Sll; 1 pair 
shoes, S3.13 ; 1 pair gloves, 56 ; 1 box collars, 25 ; 2 linen 
bosoms,$1.08 ; total, $16.02." Another bill of six months 
ran thus: "Whisky, opium, and canijihor, S21.29; crack- 
ers, herring, and loaf-.sugar, $5.50 ; total, $26.79." 

There was no meat, meal, or flour in the account. The 
resolution then proceeded : " Therefore resolved, that in 
future, although articles may have been ordered by the 
proper authority, yet some discrimination and judgment is 
required of those who furnish goods for the county poor ; 
and however large the ratio of whisky may be to crackers 
in our own private grocery bills, we cannot allow so large a 
proportion of rnm and ojiinm in any poor-bill against the 
county without some good reason for the same accompany- 
ing the bill. And although an offijer might very properly 
is-sue an order (jf $10 on a .shoe-store for the benefit of a 
large and destitute family, yet should the nwiicr of that 
family take it into his liedd to cover his hfi-h with a pair 
of $10 hoots, and the merchant on that order should fur- 
nish a pair actually worth the amount, nevertheless it is the 
o])inion of this board that collecting such accounts against 
the county would be the pursuit of money under diffi- 
culties." 

The .superintendents of the poor-house have been as 
follows: Orville Ilungerford, 1825 to 1834; Wm. I. Ely, 
1825 to 1832; Peter Yandes, 1825 to 1829 ; John Hoover, 
1825 to 1829 ; Asher Wilmot, 1825 to 1829 ; Dyer Hunt- 
ington, 1830-31 ; Jdtham Bigelow, 1830-31 ; John Sin- 
art, 1830-32 ; Eben'r Wood, 1831 ; Ambrose IMunt, ls:j2 
-37; Silas Marvin, 1832; Norris M.Woodruff, 1833-37; 



Stephen D. Sloan, 1833-37; Jonathan Ilowland, 1833-37 ; 
Ralph Rodgers, 1835-37; Eli Farwell, 133S; Daniel Lee, 
1838; Wm. McCullock, 1838; Stephen Johnson, 1838 ; 
John W. Breed, 1838 ; Samuel Call, 1839 ; Jason Clark, 
1839; Hiram Converse, 1839; Arba Strong, 1839 and 
1842-41; Joseph Kimball, 1840-41 ; Asher N. Corss, 1840 
-41 ; John Thurmin, 18iO-41 ; Wm. McNiel, 1840-41 ; 
Willard Shurtliff, 1S40-43; Edw, S, Salisbury,1842-43 ; 
David D. Otis, 1842-44; Peter S. Howk, 1842-44; Joel 
Hayworth, 1844-45 ; E lan'r Brown, 1844 ; Jabaz Hunting, 
1845-47; Stephen Bowen, 1845 and 1847; Wm. Wood, 
1846 ; George W. Corn well, 1846 ; Chas. Sexton, Jr., 
1847; Charles F.Symonds, 1848; Phine;is Harvey, 1848 ; 
David Montague, 1848 ; Peter S. Howk, 1849-51 ; Hutch- 
ins, 1849-51 ; Alpheus Parker, 1852-58 ; Nathaniel 
Havens, 1858-59; Herman Strong, 1860-76; A. W. 
Wheelock, 1876, and present incumbent. 

Another evidence of the humanity that finds lodgment 
in the breasts of the people of Jefferson County is the 

JEFFEaSON COUNTY ORPH.Ws' ASYLUM, 

located in the city of Watertown, of which an estimable 
lady, the wife of one of the worthiest of Watertown's 
citizens, thus writes : 

'• The Watertown Asylum for orphan and destitute chil- 
dren Wiis opened March 1, 1859, and without a day's prep- 
aration, that a home might be made for the reception of two 
orphans, whose mother had been accidentally killed the 
night previous. Miss Frazler, from the highlands of Scot- 
land, a woman of devoted piety, manifested in gathering 
the little waifs of our community into a Sunday-school, 
and most persistently caring for them, had been asked if 
an exigency like to this should occur, would she (il once 
take charge of a ' Home' as matron ? Without hesita- 
tion she a.sscnted. A small tenement-house in the suburbs 
of the town was rented, needful furniture from several 
homes sent in, wood supplied, a fire kindled, which has 
burned brightly now these eighteen years, and the ' Water- 
town Home' was fairly begun. Many years before this a 
charter for a similar institution had been granted by the 
legislature, but the business men of the town advi.-sed post- 
ponement of proceedings under the same from year to year, 
as 'this year was financially hard ;' that many whose hearts 
were in .sympathy with the ]iroject could not iiaio co-op- 
erate in it, but that ' the next year would be more favor- 
able ;' so expired the charter. An iDi/iromjita effort sug- 
gested itself, was tried, and succeeded. From this begin- 
ning came the 'Jefferson County Orphan Asylum;' the 
name being changed when the board of supervisors of the 
county resolved to send to it xs bo.arders the pauper chil- 
dren of the county in 1863. From the commencement of 
the ' Home' the number of children multijilied so rapidly 
that several removals of location were nece.s.sary, and then 
was agitated the feasibility of a permanent home. Already 
the benefit fiom the institution had exceeded expectation. 
Two years found thirty children crowded into the small 
home, while quite a number had homes found for them else- 
where. Now there was an imperative necessity for an ap- 
jieal to the benevolent. It was made, and five thousand 
dollars resulted therefrom, and which exhausted our liber- 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUiNTY, NEW YORK. 



85 



ality for a short time only. One year passed, and tlien a peti- 
tion sent to Albany i,'avc us, tlirou^li the le<.'islature, another 
five tliou.sand, which onahleil us to biiiltl the iaruc, conve- 
nient tliree-story brick buildin<;, with a ])l(iititul supply 
of good water, well ventilated, warmed, and drained, built 
in the midst of a grove, and which is now emphatically an 
' Orplian's Iluuie." It was finished, lurnislied, and occu- 
pied April 20, 1SG4. Filly children came in from the old 
home. The institution had no endowment, and had been 
su.stained these five years by personal eflTort. Each month, 
as it came, all bills were paid. The sole management, dis- 
ciplinary, educational, and moral, with disbursements of 
funds, devolved upon a board of directresses, the president 
and trustees being advisory and fiscal managers. The Di- 
vine bles,sing has been given them, making their intercourse 
a joy and refre-shment instead of laborious duty, — not a dis- 
cord marring the harmony of eighteen years' association. 
More than five hundred children have gone out into other 
homes from this institution, and more than half of this 
number into homes by adoption. Sixty-six children were 
received into the asylum in 1875-70 (the year ending 
October 1), and fifty-one in 1870-77. " 

Appropriations liave be°n received from the State from 
time to time in years past, which, being judiciously invested, 
yields an iiieoine which, added to the receipts from the 
county charges, and .some others who are able to pay a por- 
tion of tlie expense of their board, suffices to pay the run- 
ning expenses of the institution. A school is taught in 
the asylum throughout the year. It affords, too, a homo 
for the children of working women at a small expense, 
when they can pay at all, and gratuitou.sly when they can- 
not. It is also a temporary refuge for mothers and their 
children, while the former are seeking employment, — nine 
mothers having been so aeeommodatcd the past year. The 
committees of the board of supervisors ajipointed from 
year to year to visit and inspect the asylum speak invaria- 
bly, in their reports, in terms of high commendation of the 
humanity and watchful care dis]ilayed in the management 
of the institution. The amount paid by the county for 
the board of the county and town charges at the asylum for 
the year ending November 1, 1870, was §2187.60, and fur 
the year preceding §1809.05. 

The present officers of the asylum are as follows : Presi- 
dent, Willard Ives ; Secretary, Judge R. Lansing ; Treas- 
urer, S. B. Upham ; Suj)erinteiident and Overseer, Geo. 
R. Torrey. 



CHAPTER VII. 



STATISTICAL. 



Pupulatiuu by Towns from ISOO to ISTJ — I'olilics — Popular Votes — 
Valuations and Ta.xation — Equalizations — State Loan — United 
States Deposit— Industry and Wealth, 1810 to 1870— Agricultural 
Society of Jefferson County — Farmers' Club — Dairymen's Board 
of Trade. 



POPtTLATION. 



Federal and State census of the years specified, has been 
as follows : 





1800. 


1810. 


1814. 


1F20. 
2,467 


1826. 


1830. 


1835. 


1840. 


Ailan>« 




1,386 


1,693 


2,41.'i 


2.99.1 


2.970 
2,701 
2,014 
2,8!'0 
2,l»< 
:i,:i44 
r.,n2'.i 
2,27" 
:i,.'..%8 
:i,008 

1,0I.'| 
2,SI0 
2,( 44 
2,:122 
1,010 


2,968 






l,.'i4:l 1,.'.22 
2,2.'i7 2.411 
2,.'>8li 2,!128 
2,028 2.:J42 


:i.475 








30:l 
1.9:l7 


I,:i19 
;i.99(i 


.1,109 






6.0W1 
1,481 

"i'.Vi'A 
l,i:i8 


:i,90« 




.!*!.. 


1,091 2,ll»U 

"2,32s "Vi:!! 
1,4IJ2 I,'.i19 
l,:«o :i.429 


2,206 


CliiytMii 


"4,7:1:1 
2,<.74 
2,70!l 
2,.'..W 
1,41'n 
'ifi<i-'> 
:i,.'i44 
1,988 
820 
1,719 
2,1112 
:i,42.1 
1,120 


,i,292 
•-',428 
3,41.'! 
:1,4I9 
1,727 
2.87:1 
:i,nii1 
2,27:1 
1.107 

1,9111 

2,:i:i9 
4,708 
1,602 

48,493 


3,990 
5,349 






2,480 






04;i 

1,14!) 

812 


4.146 


he ICiy 

Lorinini* 

L>nie 

Orlt-aiiB 

I'aiiieliii 

Ptiiliiflc1iihi:t 





1,121 
810 




2,!I44 
1,112 
1,724 

■■i',ii4'2 


:i,721 
1,099 
r.,472 
:i,(Hil 
2,IC4 
1.888 


Kftlinitri 




1,277 i,4M; l.Tll 
1.718 1.01)4 1 l.'.llO 


1,(98 1,702 
2.111 •i.iKM 


Wjit'Ttuwn 

^Vilim 


iiii 


1,841 


2,4.^8 
2U1 


2,700 
648 


4.279 .'i,0-.7 
2,U63; 2.C81 




262 




63,088 




Total 


l6,un 


18,864 


32,962 


41,050 


60,984 











1850. 



Adnnis 

Alpxanflr-n 

Antwen) 

Brownvillu 

Citpe Vincent 

Cluinipjon 

riavt.in 

Elli^bu•g 

Ilenilcrson 

IIuuii>-llel(l 

hf Uiy 

Lorraine 

Lyini' 

Oi'leans 

I'ani.Iia 

Pliiladi-lpliia 

R'ulinan 

liiitlai.d 

Tliert'^a 

Watcrtown 

(City) 

Wiliiii 

Worth 



,ftWi 
711 
,:i«0 
,:i80 

,14(1 

,682 
,>!1 
,:i4i 
,917 
»M 
(!4n 
,1118 
,1147 
2.')4 
,912 
,0!I4 
,148 
109 
,433 



1855. 



:i,i()6 

:i,i78 
3,00.5 

4,282 
3,044 
2,(185 
4,191 
5.524 
2,2:19 
4,l:i0 
:i.C54 
1,.-)11 

2,919 
:i,2C.'i 
2,.i28 
1.915 
1,781 
2,2f..". 
2,:i42 
7,201 

326 



3,105 
3,:!5:i 
3,76:) 

;i,.')89 
3.:i7fl 
1,940 
4,2:12 
!>,:a9 
2,139 
3,221 
3.2(i:l 
1,470 
2,.'-03 
2.8(10 
2,.ill 
1,74:1 
1,7.V2 
1.977 
2.2781 
7,5i.7 

3,(H4 
474 



1860, 


1865. 


?,496 


3,418 


3,808 


3,014 


3.313 


3,1:12 


.1,960 


3,49.^ 


3..V5 


3,4711 


2,i:i2 


2,002 


4,090 


4.440 


5,014 


5,280 


2,419 


1,902 


3,:i:!9 


2,7.'i4 


3,l.'-.9 


2.980 


1.087 


1,.')81 


2,702 


2,:i77 


2,9:;4 


2.791 


2,7811 


2,492 


1,790 


1.715 


1,8118 


1,1B4 


2,1197 


l,vr.4 


2,029 


2,51.> 


7,507 


8,194 



68,153 65,420 



,3,r62 

634 



3,921 
611 



C9,S25, 66,448 



3,34<>i 

:i,ii87 

3,310 
3,219 
3,:142 
2,1.16 
4,1182 
4,822 
1,920 
2,0:t6 
2 802 
1,.177 
2,405 
2.445 
1,292 
1,079 
1,6l>4 
1.90:1 
2,304 
1,373 
9,:i:i6 
4,000 
-27 



3,:W4 
3,470 
3,:103 
2,876 
3,118 
2,246 
4,215 
4,819 
1,815 
2,.'i52 
2,7:13 
I,:i77 
2,244 
2,:l('7 
l,o.V'. 
1,709 
1.408 
1,849 
2,:101 
1,279 
10,041 
4,205 
707 



6.5,415, 65,362 



The population of Jefferson County, by towns, at differ- 
ent periods from 1800 to 1875, being the exhibit of the 



THE POLITICAL SENTIMENTS 

of the people of Jefferson County will be best shown by a 
tabulation of the votes given at the Presidential elections 
since 1828, and showing those given at gubernatorial elec- 
tions for the years previous. For the vote previous to the 
year 1828, at which date the people first voted for Presi- 
dential electors direct, — they having been chosen by the 
Legislature previously, — the names of the candidates voted 
for arc given, the people being divided into the Federalist 
and Republican parties in the earlier years, and Whig and 
Democratic later on. 

1801. For Governor, George Clinton, 5G : St<i;Iun Van Rensselaer, 

56; total, 112. 
1804. Morgan Lewis, in Oneiila county, 211').): Aaron liurr, 17S2. 

The following are the votes given in Jefferson County : 

1807. Daniel D. Tompkins, 76j ; Morgan Lewis, Cla: total, I.ISO. 
1810. Daniel D. Tompkins, 1076: John Broome, 1077: total, 215.1. 
ISl.'J. Daniel D. Tompkins, '^3; Stephen Van Rcns.selaer, 795 ; total, 
1528. 

1816. Daniel D. Tompkins, 908; Rufus King, 858; total, ITC6. 

1817. De Witt Clinton, 951 : Peter B. Porter, — ^. 

1820. De Wilt Clinton. 7r)2 ; Daniel D. Tompkins, 795: total, 1557. 
1822. De Wilt Clinton, nearly unanimous; Solomon Southwick (the 

returns of this year could not be found). 
1824. DeWitt Clinton. 2779: Samuel Young, 2619: total, 5398. 
1826. Dc Witt Clinton, .3.'528 ; Smith Thompson, 170.1: S. Southwick, 

2204: total, 7295. 



86 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



For President : 





Whig. 


Pomocnitic 


Abolition. F 


rce-.«oil. 


Total. 


1S28 . 


.. 285:! 


3391 
4381 
4595 






7,244 


I8:t2 


... 44!'J 


8,800 


lS3fi 


... 37fil 


8,356 


ISIO 


.... 0257 


5630 
6291 


59 
712 




11,946 


1844 


.... 557t) 


12,579 


1848 


.... 4841 


2445 




4341 


11,627 


1852 


.... aesfi 

Kpi'Ubliciii 


6279 


757 




12,692 


ISaC 


.... 824'J 


3496 
5531 


1058 




12,804 


18fit1 


... 8794 


14,325 


1S()4 


.... 8588 


5842 






14,430 


18G8 


... 8420 


5882 







14,302 


1872 


.... 8463 


5769 






14,232 


1876 


.... 9227 


7094 






1 1>,321 


The vote 


of 1876 


by towns 


was as follows : 










Repuhlicnn. 


Dt'inocratic. Total. 








568 


305 
455 


874 


AlcxJiiiiiiia... 






335 


790 








529 


276 
265 


805 


Urownvillc... 






49!) 


764 


C'ftpc Vincent 






303 


412 


715 


Clmmpiuii 






349 


224 


573 


Clavtun 






421 


492 


913 


EilisliurK 






816 


513 


1329 


Ilemlcrmun..,. 






323 


160 


483 


llounstieltl.... 






352 


253 


605 


Le Ray 






423 


320 


743 








188 


160 
254 
283 
124 


348 


Lyme 






318 


572 








328 


611 


Pamelia 






178 


302 


Pbiladelpliia . 






233 


229 
91 


462 


Kudinau 






.347 


438 


KudaiiJ 






318 


164 


482 


Theresa 






335 


281 


616 


Watertown.... 






223 


107 


330 


Wilna 






50!) 


529 
117 


1038 


Worth 






9S 


215 


Ciry of Watcrtown : 








First Ward 






329 


237 


566 


Seconrl Ward 




319 


208 
269 


527 


Thinl War 


1 




240 


509 


Fourth Wa 


■d 




346 


372 


718 


Total, City 






1234 


1086 


2320 



The sevorul qiu'.stiuns .submitted to the popular vote in 
the county have resulted as follows: 

For the convention of 1821 3432 

For no convention 11!) 

For the adoption of the constitution of 1821 1953 

Agninst " •' " 1144 

1825. On tho manner of electing Presidential electors. By 

districts '.. 2603 

General ticket plurality 2000 

" " majority 35 

1826. For the election of justices of the peace 4702 

Against ** ** " " 1 

1846. For the amended constitution 6603 

Against " *' 1712 

For e(|ual suflVagc to colored persons 2791 

Against '* " " 4536 

May — For license 4012 

" For no license 5644 

1849. For the free-school law 5997 

Agninst " " 3312 

1850. For the repeal of the free-.school law 6064 

Against " " " " 3!I59 

1854. For the amendment in relation to canals 352i) 

Against •' " •' 2029 

1858. For convention to revise constitution 4078 

Against " " " 3221 

1859. For the revised constitution 4579 

Against " " 4285 

IS60. On the suffrage amendment — Fur 6073 

" •' Against 6470 

1864. On the anienilint-nt for voting of ^c>ldier8 — For 6355 

Against 818 

1865. For act to create State deht for hounties t<» volunteers 9341 

Against same act 322 

1866. For convention to revise constitution 7929 

.Against •' ** ** 5156 

1869. For amended constitution 4894 

Against" " 4786 

For anipndeil judiciary article 7763 

Against " " " 1783 

For aiitended assrssmtnt an<l tiixalion article 4i)74 

Against " •' '* '* l;lli!l 



For properly qualifications for suffrage 4609 

Against" " " 5421 

1870. For act to ]iro\'ide for State deht for canal and general 

fund indchlcdnuss 4292 

Agiiinst said act 7665 

1872. For constitutional amendment relative to Court of Ap- 

peals 2966 

Against such amendment 220 

1873. The question of the appointment of judges of the courts 

stood— For 191 

The question of the appointment of judges of the courts 

—Against 8621 

1876. On projiosed amendment to Sec. 3, Art. v., of the con- 
stitution — For 8411 

On proposed amendment to Sec. 3, Art. v., of the con- 
stitution—Against 2380 

On similar amendment to Sec. 4, Art. v., the vote was — 

For 8173 

On similar amendment to Sec. 4, Ai't. v., the vote was — 
Against 2029 

In Maj', 1846, Champion, Pamelia, and Theresa voted 
/or license, and the remainder of the county a(/it!nst license. 
The majorities for license in the towns in which it was 
voted amounted to 78 ; while tho majorities in those towns 
which voted against license amounted to 1700. In 1847 
Henderson and Lorraine gave small majorities far no 
license, in Pamelia no vote was taken, and in all the other 
towns license was voted with aggregate majorities of 1512 
over 8 1 . 

THE STATE LOAN. 

On the 18th of April, 1 786, bills of credit to the amount 
of 200,000 pounds (New York currency) were emitted by 
the State for the relief of the people, in the way of a circu- 
lating medium, and loaned to the different counties according 
to their population, and loan commissioners appointed in 
each county to manage and loan the same on real estate 
security at five per cent, per annum, the loan to run fourteen 
years and limited to 1500 pounds to any one person. These 
bills of credit were counterfeited, and in February, 1788, 
new bills were printed for those in circulation and the old 
ones retired, and death pronounced on all counterfeiters of 
the new issue. In 1790 another loan was made to the new 
counties, and in 1807-8 still another hjan was made by the 
creation of a debt by the State, bonds being issued tlieicfor 
and sold, and the funds arising therefrom distributed pro 
rata among the counties on the basis of population, and 
commissioners apjiointed as before to handle the funds in 
each county. The amount received by Jefferson County 
was S10,,S91).2G, which was ke]it at interest as a separate 
fund, when it was consolidated with the 

UNITED STATES DEI'OSIT FUND, 
the iirincipal of which was deposited in the county in 18.37, 
and amounted to §i;i0,799.06, and separate and distinct 
commissioners appointed to loan the same. This deposit 
fund was the poitioii awarded to Jefl'erson County from tho 
surplus moneys in the United States treasury deposited with 
the several States by act of congress of June 23, 1836, and 
the amount deposited with New York was, by act of the 
legislature of April 4, 1837, distributed among the several 
counties according to their population. The loans from 
this fund are limited between 8200 and §2000 to a .single 
individual, except in New York, where the limits arc §500 
and S.jOOO. The interest is charged at seven per cent., and 
the same paid into the State treasury, less fees and ex- 
penses of Collection, and by the comptroller distributed 
among the counties for the sup]iort of schools and acade- 



HISTORY OF JEFFf:RSON COUNTS', NEW YORK. 



87 



mies. The loan and deposit funds have been diminished 
until at the date of tlie last report of the commissioners — 
November 1, 187G — the amount charged against Jefferson 
County .stood thu.s : 

Loaned on bond ami mortgage $76,067.84 

JetVorsdn Cimnty volunteer bond? 25,700.110 

State stocks " 5,879.36 

Mortgage No. 599 bid in for State 450.0!i 

Cash on hand 3,401.28 

Total $111,498.48 



VALrATIONS AND TAXATION. 

Public moneys were first rai.<od in the Colony of New 
York, June 1, 1G65, by warrant issued by the Governor, 
Colonel Nicholls, to the sheriff and collectors.* It would 
appear antecedetit to this time the towns and counties raised 
moneys for (lieir own use, but the precise mode is not 



known. A tax called a " benevolence" was raised on the 
inhabitants, as appears from a letter from Governor Andross, 
and Smith ob.serves " this proceeding was a badge of bad 
times.' f In 1G83, the first regular system of taxation by 
law was adopted. Tlie ware of England with European 
nations, especially witli the French, plunged the colony into 
an enormous debt, most burdensome to the inhabitants. 
From 1691 to 170'J, the sum of sixty-one thousand eight 
hundred and sixt^'-one pounds was raised by the colonists 
for building forts, raising and paying troops, and for other 
war purposes, besides the excise tax of a penny in the 
pound for the ordinary and incidental charges of the colony- 
Before 1770, the colonists were obliged to pay nearly one 
million pounds sterling. In 1788 the first regular system 
of taxation was adopted bj' the Slate. 

The valuations and taxation of Jefferson by periods of 
five years, since its organization, are here given, as follows: 



Year. 


1 

. f 1 Assessed 
Acres Ml ^..^,,1^ ,,f ,(^,^,, 

'"""'■ Estate. 


Asseraed 

Viilue of Per- 

soliiil i'rt.p- 

erty. 


ABgiegato 
Yaiuulion. 


State 
Taxes. 


Ci'uaty 
Taxes. 


1 
Town School 
Taxes. Taxes.J 


Bate of Tax- 
Agprregate alion on SI "f 
of Taxes. Taiuaiion in 
celit». 


1805 






$805,992 

1,1.3,8,204 

4,325,890 

2,491,083 

2,570,676 

2,649,266 

4,941,437 

7,873,013 

6,536,651 

7,951,660 

17,785,049 

15,935,769 

14,747,407 

14,994,550 

33,942,410 




$805.98 

3,983.71 

5,023.60 

11,789.44 

18.347.43 

12.309.42 

12,315.02 

l.s,702.41 

24,014.39 

48,207.79 

46,938.27 

33,967.37 

170,037.81 

243,794.25 

175,488.97 


$2,034.89 


$2,840.87 00.3.5 
7,391.00 00.6.5 


1810 








3,407.29 ' 


1815 


1 




$8,051.78 
2.491.08 
1,285.33 


6,510.28 ; $1,251.27 
8,005.08 ' 1,525.16 

10,444.31 : 2,647.62 
7,302.10 2,842.13 
8,804.28 3,!I10.27 

12.196.24 8,750.29 

11.416.79 7,782.09 
13,380.20 , 7,138.08 

16.970.80 


22,030.93 

23.811.10 

32,784.04 

22,452.71 

25,089.57 

39.048.94 

43,213.27 

68.726.07 

86,146.38 

119,372..32 

363,711.00 

417,354.51 

380,053.79 


00.5.1 

00.9.55 

01.2.71 

00.8.475 

Ofl.5.07 

00.5.03 

00.6.6 

00.8.64 

00.4.84 

00.7.5 

02.4.6 

02.7.8 

01.1.19 


1820 




$2,425,352 

2,472,682 

2,408,033 

4,279,100 

7,178.296 

5,728,149 

6,724,503 

14,429,039 

12,864,492 

12,187,170 

12,198,050 

28,137,835 


$05,731 

97,994 

181,233 

533,964 

694,718 

798,502 

1,227,117 

3,356,010 

2,971,045 

2,560,226 

2,744,500 

5,804,581 


1825 




1830 




18.35 

1840 

1845 

1850 

1855 

1860 

1865 

1870 

1875 


720,574 
725,969 
733,574 
733,089 
733,089 
7.33,126 
733.121 
733,121 
733,126 






'22,231.31 
49,135.30 

63,298.21 
72,050.74 
83,212.56 


24.317.83 1 11,951.82 
117.041.20 12.133.84 

81.999.84 19,509.08 
99,454.21 21,898.05 





The apportionment of taxes for 1876 is as follows, by towns ; 



Towns am> Waiihs. 



Adams 

Alexandria 

Antwerp 

lirownville 

Cape Vincent 

Champion 

Clayton 

Ellisburg 

Ilendercon 

llounsHeld 

Le Kay 

Lorraine 

Lyme 

Orleans 

Panielin 

Philadelphia 

Rodman 

Kutlnnd 

Theresa 

Watertown 

Waterl'n Citv.lsl ward "| 

•• " 2d '• I 

3d " I 

4th " J 

Wilna 

Worth 



No. of I As.'ipseed 
.\cro8 Valnalion of 
of Laud. Keal Estate. 



27,198 
37,963 
61,100 
33,994 
33,978 
25,683 
48.678 
44,876 
24,115 
22,800 
42,647 
22,359 
33,541 
40,347 
20,967 
24.135 
25,504 
24,200 
40,912 
22,251 



4,781 



44,753 
26,743 



868, 
092, 
382, 
656, 
751,' 
939 
797, 
614 
,004 
187 
.394, 
014, 
,388, 
,147 
800,1 
919,1 
930, 
912! 
851, 
929, 
874, 
013, 
,349, 
342, 
154,, 
234 



841 
430 
144 
010 
970 
240 
50 
286 
1 00 
4 10 
010 
820 
490 
870 
990 
090 
415 
40 
00 
950 
180 
450 
405 
574 
,512 
330 



Equnlized 
Vahlatiuii of 
Keal Kslate, 



$1,645,444 

974.786 

1,709,091 

1,351,949 

1,401,906 

1.102,166 

1,376,927 

2,700,777 

952,297 

1,150,400 

1,4,33,129 

643,190 

1,092,800 

1,439,373 

874,240 

878.484 

974,1.53 

1,089,077 

991,009 

1,121,022 



.L 



4,88.3,254 



J 



1,152,123 
218,570 



Aseewed 
Viihnition 
of I'emonal 

Kstate. 



$650,675 

46,200 

125,285 

175,430 

69,950 

77,850 

74,075 

212,850 

100,650 

120,100: 

81,910 

32,950 1 

69,610] 

44,470! 

31,2101 

62,3501 

191, 030 1 

82,430 

03,880 1 

95,700! 

235,200 j 

727,137| 

1,603,4971 

408,170 

80,300 

5,020 



Totiil 
Vahmtion. 



Amount of I Amount of 
t'ouiity Town 



$2,296,119 
1,020,986 
1,894,376 
1,527,379 
1,471,856 
1,180,016 
1,451,002 
2,913,627 
1,05.8,947 
1,276,590 
1,515,039 

676,140 
1,162,410 
1,483,843 

905,450 

940,834 
1,165,183 
1,172,107 
1.054,889 
1,216,722 
1.153,977 
1,810,558 
3,071,600 
1,821,123 
1,232,423 

223,590 



733,585l$31,222,857i*31,222,85r$5,473,929,$36,696,786 



$10,732.46 
4,772.28 
8,854.63 
7,1.39.22 
6,879.74 
5,515.00 
6,782.22 

13.618.79 
4,949.69 
5,967.00 
7,081.54 
3,160.39 
6,433.32 
6,9,35.73 
4,232.23 
4,397.62 
5,440.26 
5,478.62 
4,930.73 
5,687.15 
5.394.22 
8,462.54 

14,356.65 
8,512.80 
5.760.55 
1,045.10 



$171,527.08 



$.3,287.54 
0,307,14 
1,041,72 
1,559.87 
1,470.92 
2,857.30 
.8,931.53 
3,788.12 
1,472.43 
0,329.42 
5,735.04 
1.239.97 
1,730.53 
1,293.88 
461.41 
5.716.40 
1,674.86 
3,238.70 
0.061.29 
3.447,88 
2,805.01 
5,841.69 

10.018.87 
6,219.43 

11,517.46 
835.00 



Amount of 
Stale Tax 
for Seliouls. 



Amount of I 

State Tax I Agsrenatc 
exclusive of ofTaxes. 

Schools. 



$1,452.98' 
646.08' 
1,198,76 
906.53 
931.39 
746.71 
918.19 
1,843.74 
670.10 
807.83} 
958.72: 
427.86 
735.57 
938.98 
572.97 
595.36 
737.33 
741.71 
607.52 
769.94 
730.53 
1.140.22 
1,944,50 
1,152.87 
779.87 
141.49 



$105,083.50|S23,223.75 



$2,567.66 
1,142.46 
2,117.92 
1,707.61 
1,645,53 
1,319.26 
1,622.22 
3,257.43 
1,183.90 
4,427.23 
1,693.81 
755.93 
1,299.58 
1,658.94 
1,012.30 
1,051.85 
1,302.68 
1,310.42 
1.179.37 
1.300.30 
1,290.20 
2,024.00 
3.434.22 
2,036,00 
1,377.85 
249.97 



$18,040.64 
12,867.96 
13,813.03 
11,373.23 
10,927.58 
10,438.87 
18,254.16 
22,508.08 

8,276.12 
14,531.48 
15,469.11 

6,584.15 

9,199.00 
10,827.53 

6,278.91 
11,701.23 

9.161.13 
10,769.54 
13,438.91 
11,265.27 
10,219.96 
17,474.45 
29,754.24 
16,921.10 
19,435,73 

2,271.56 



$41,028.64 $340,862.97 



» Smith's History of New York, p. 31. t Ib'd., p. 34. 

\ These amount? do not include the amotint raised for schools in the Districts. 



88 



HISTORY OP" JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



The above table does not include the school taxes raised bj^ 
districts, which amounted to $80,677. 

The county taxes for 187G were divided as follows : 

Payment of bonds. Intrrost nnrt iirincipal $S0,28.i.79 

Charities', Poor-IInuse, Asylums, and Statu Institutions... 111,221,50 
Court oxpcMisi's, incluiliiij; sherifl", constables, jurors' fees, 

and salaries of jud^e.s, etc 32,882.84 

Iniliees to deed and mortgage records 5,5:14.73 

Court-house and jail repairs .1,408.08 

Printing 2. 724. GO 

Military expenses I,4y0..')3 

Supervisors 2,8011.110 

School commissioners' salaries 000.00 

Miscellaneous accounts 402.99 

Total $171,527.08 

The State board of equalization equalized the assessment 
of Jefferson for State taxation for the year 187Gatthe sum 
of 618,579,00(), and a.=si2ned to Jefferson, as its quota of 
the State taxes, S64,252.3'J. 

The following valuations were placed on corporate prop- 
erty for taxation in 1876, viz. : 

Rome, Watertown and Ogdcnsburgh railroad .• $1,144,937 

Vti.-a and Itla.'k River railroad... 229,125 

Carthage, W'alertoivn and Sackcl's Harbor railroad 278,220 

Black River and Morristown railroad 78,705 

Total railroad valuation $1,7;!0,987 

Mining companies .'?120,900 

Manufacturing companies .'i02,000 

Insurance companies 824,437 

Park association 4,000 

Total $3,042,324 

By the report of the county treasurer, for the year end- 
ing November 2.5, 1876, it appears that tlic gross receipts 
of revenue for the year were as follows : 

Nov. 23, 1875. Balance on band from old account $4,047.41 

Nov. 25, 187G. Received from collectors 291,736.19 

" " taxes collected by himself.. 1,283.56 

" " fines 1,078.34 

" •' licenses 2,783.00 

" " comptroller} 50.019.16 

Schoid money j . • ., » 

Sundry items 507.21 

Total $351,454.87 

Leaving a balance on hand, af\er payments according to 
vouchers presented, of §940.00. 

In 1866 the eonnuittcc of the Ijoard of supervisors ap- 
pointed to equalize the real estate of the .several towns for 
county taxation, made a report, which was adopted by the 
board, fixini; the assessment of real estate of Watertown at 
$2,326,239. The people of Watertown, feeling aggrieved 
at this equalization, instructed their supervisor to appeal 
from the action of the board to the comptroller, which he 
did, and that official decided tliat $1,358,461 ought to be 
deducted from the amount of the equalized assessment, and 
the excess of taxes, in consequence of such cxces.sive valua- 
tion, to wit, $21,192, ought to be paid back to Watertown. 
The board of supervisors were not content with this finding 
of the comptroller, and tlirrefore brought the case by cer- 
t iorari hvl'itrc the supremo court, which, in 186!), niudifiod 
the comptroller's decision, placing the true excess of equal- 
ized value at $864,808, and the liue excess of tax at 
$13,491, and ordered the board to levy that excess of tax 
on the towns of tbe county, except Watertown, and pay 
the amount over to tlie latter town. 'Die Imanl refused to 
obey the decree of the court, and a iitdiKhnuiis was issued 
November 25, 1869, from the sujirenie court to compel the 



board to levy the tax, whcrcupion the ca.sc was taken to the 
court of appeals, which affirmed the decision of the supreme 
court, and sent the case back to the lower tribunal for final 
judgment and collection. In November, 1870, the board 
voted to levy the tax, but disagi'eed as to the interest and 
costs which had accumulated, whereupon another writ of 
luandamus was i.ssued, commanding the board to levy a sum 
sufficient, on the other towns of the county, to pay Water- 
town the judgment interest and cost, then amounting to 
$14,257.70, which the board proceeded to do. 

Bonds to the amount of $1,597,700 were issued by the 
authorities of Jefferson County, in aid of volunteer enlist- 
ments, in the War of the Rebellion. There was received 
from the State in 1865, on account of bounties jiaid, 
$612,100, and the amount was used to reduce taxation and 
in buying up the outstanding and unmatured bonds of the 
county. The total taxes paid in the county in 1864 
amounted to $457,257.77, of which $258,631.07 were 
county taxes. The heaviest county tax was paid in 1869, 
the same amounting to $290,881.18, and the aggreg-ate 
of taxes being §444,730.08. In 1866, the town taxes 
amounted to $115,086.34. From 1860 to 1876, both years 
inclusive, the people of Jefferson County have paid in taxes 
the sum of $5,683,246.10,* to the State, county, and 
town authorities, aside from their excise and internal 
revenue taxes. The amount of outstanding bonded in- 
debtedness of the county at the present writing is 
$332,000. The bonded indebtedness of the towns on 
November 1, 1876, and which was incurred by aid voted to 
railroads in 18G9-1872, was as follows: 

Original Siibsciiption. Amount Out..itaniling. 



Alexandria $60,000 

Clnun]iion 35,000 

Clayton 1110,000 

Ilounsfield 75,000 

Philadelphia 30,000 

Rutl.indt 3,000 

Theresa 00,000 

Watertown (old town) 300,000 

Watertown CityJ US. 000 

Wilna 1110,1100 



Add county indebtedness. 



$60,000 
34,100 

100,000 

75,000 

29,000 

3,000 

60,000 

206,000 

138,000 
87,500 

$882,600 
332,000 



Total in<lebtediiess of county and towns $1,214,600 

CENSUS STATISTICS. 
The census of 1800 and 1807 gave the number of legal 
voters with property ((ualifications oul}'. The census of 
1810 gave the following returns of manufacturers in this 
county : 

Cotton goods mailc in fiiniilies, yards (av. :J2 cts.) 1,392 

Flaxen poods niiidi- in fmnilies, yards (uv. ;t7^ ct-*.) 100,023 

Itli'ioli'ilnnd unnanu'd cluths, yanls Inv. X) els.) 1,475 

Wouk'ii piods nook- in liuiiilit-s, yaids lav. 87^ cts.) 51,013 

Looms 060 

Cardiiig-mnchines .''), pounds t-nrtled (av, ,^0 cts. per lb,) 35,OU0 

KullinK-niills », yards tiilbd (av. Sl.J.'i |K.r yard) 4)1,000 

HiilteriiB 2, lints made (av. i'iM) 1,0(10 

Kninaces '2, tons of iron (av. SlOO to $lai per ton) fiO 

Trip4ianiniois.. 'i 

Tanneries 10 

Hides tanned inv. $4 S'l) 750 

(air-skins laiinid lav. $1.12) 1000 

Oil-inills :), iinllons mad.' (av. Sl.'AI) 0,650 

DIstdleiies 10, i-alluiiB mad.' (i.v. 8U cl«.) 32,000 

11reworie» 2, pillons mail.' (av. 17 cts.) 25,000 

Papei'-ntills 1, reams made (av. S-l) 900 

The census of 1814, Uiken in pursuance of an act passed 
April 15 of that year, gave the following results: 

■ Does not include district scho.d taxes, f ^'"t f'"' ^- K- I**"'"'- 
I AValer bonds, $1 15,000. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



89 



Tutu] iiopnliition in t)io thirteen towns 

KItM'turrt with t'ruL-liolils (if viiliie of £100 

Electors Willi fr>'«liolcla worlli from i,M tu £lu« 

Elt'rtorH, nut fruclnililcrrt, rerttin^ tencnietitJ) worth 405. per annum 

Frff white mules iiTider IM ycjira of iiKe 

" " " uf till- agi< of IS iinil under 45 

" '* " of 4') yeiirH iind Ul)ward9 

Free while femixle^ under IS years 

" " " of Iho uge "f IS end uniler45 

" " *' of 4.') years and upwards 

All other free pers mis 

SIa%es ( llruwnville 1, Uounsftcld 18, Lo Hay 4, Watortown 5, Wilna -Jy. 



18.604 

l,o:i'J 

107 

1,041 

0,;iU7 

7IU 

7(H) 
217 
30 



No statistics but those of population were taken at this 
time. 

The national census of 1820 gave the fjllowing returns : 

While niiilei under 10 5,592 

fpini 10 to l)i a,4i'i9 

" 10 tu 18 7U0 

" ** " 10 tu 20, including tieuds of families 3,R:U 

" " " 20tu4.'., " " 4,143 

White males, 4.", and upwards, " " 1,574 

White leuiates undel" 111 5,521 

from 10 tu 10 2,3U7 

" " from 10 to 2l>, including heads of families 3,005 

" " " 20 lu l.'i. " " 3,1140 

White females of 45 and iipwaiils, incliiiliiig lioads of families 1,250 

Kureigners nut mit(]t'aH/.ed 7S7 

Persuns engaged in agriculture 134 

" *' in manufacture 1,003 

Slaves (Antwerp 4, Le Itay 1) 5 

Colored males, free 7'J 

" females, free 03 

Statistics of agriculture and manufactures were taken in 
1820, but we are not aware that they were printed in de- 
tail by separate counties. 

The several State censuses, taken in 182.1, 183.5, and 
1845, give the following iiumbeis of the difterent classes of 
population and statistics of agriculture and manufactures in 
this county : 



1825. 

Mules 21.8:!2 

Femftlos lil.SlS 

Subject to uiililary duty 5,00(1 

Voters S.lo:! 

Aliens l,u:iU 



157 

1.02 

12 



Paupers 

Colored persons not ta.Ked 
tii.ved 

" '* Vdters 2 

Married temales under 4.") 5,4iMl 

Unmarried females 10 to 4.') 2,743 

" " under IB y,(ij7 

Married year previous 332 

Uirths— iualos, " UGH 

•• females, " 900 

Deaths— males, " 2Sl 

** fciualcs, ** 216 

Acres improved land 173,147 

Neat cattle 44,730 

Horses 8,072 

Sheep ilf.,408 

Hogs 3S,2ilO 



Yards fulled cloth year previous.. 

" flannel, etc 

" linen, cotton, otc 

Grist-mills 

S.iiv- mills 

Oil. mills 

Fulling-mills 

C irding-muehines 

Cnttou-faeturios 

Woolen -faetorios 

I run -works — 

Trip-hammers 

Di.-^tillerics 

Asheries 

Tanneries 

tilass-faetories 

Rope-factories 

Breweries 



. 7n,si4 

, 101,122 

121),23« 

54 

107 

4 

34 

3il 

3 



IS 



30 
14!1 



1835. 

27,140 

2o,89S 

4,fi(lG 

lll.j'.i-; 

1,712 

Si) 

125 

12 

li.'JlS 

4,01)3 

ll.U'J2 

395 

1,008 

1,017 

355 

378 

258,348 

70,737 

15,813 

114,371 

57,095 

77,043 

99,438 

98,055 

47 

134 

2 

28 

27 

2 



10 

12 

13 

43 

30 

1 

1 

3 



1846. 

64.999 

33,324 

5,893 

1.3,772 

2,049 

147 

168 

9 



8,399 

5,485 

1.3,495 

749 

1,205 

1,025 

354 

430 

380,789 

85,934 

16.397 

184,630 

53,008 

80,135 

113,104 

70,304 

54 

108 

2 

26 

25 

2 

10 

21 

11 

C 

48 
1 
2 
4 



The census of 1830 and 1840 gave the following returns 
from Jefferson County. 



1840. 



M h'tes under 5.. 



5 to 
10 " 
15 " 
20 " 
30 " 



10 

15 

20 

30 , 

40 



Mal.-S. 


Females. 


Males. 


Females 


4,301 


4,074 


4,855 


4,638 


3,901 


3,698 


4,015 


4.217 


3,211 


3,053 


3,907 


3,023 


2,.i99 


2,716 


3,047 


3,077 


4.376 


4,152 


5,083 


5,231 


3.042 


2,440 


3,687 


3,462 



1830. 184(1. 

Mah's. Fi-nmh-s. Slat&t. Felunles. 

Whitcs40to 50 l,s-2 1,041 2,600 2,184 

" 50 " 60 1,03(1 830 1,567 1,106 

" 00 •' 70 47t 417 838 727 

" 70 " 80 195 176 361 299 

" 80 " 90 47 4 79 90 

" 90 " 100 2 4 11 7 

" over 100 2 

Colored persons 05 74 70 71 

From the census of 1840 we derive the following: 

Iron. — Cast iron rurnacev, 6; tons, 1106; forges — mill, 1; tons, 
80; tons of fuel consumed, 1869; men employed, 250; capital in- 
vested, $59,000. 

Lend. — Smelting-housc, I; pounds, 300,000; c.ipital invested, 
S10,000. 

/■„)•<•»(.— Value of lumber, $247,448; tons jint and penrlash, 1006; 
value of furs and skins, $25 ; other products of the forest, $15,854; 
men employed, 131. 

Mntut/ncturcH. — Machinery made, $35,000; men employed, 48; 
manufactures of metal, ?22, 000; men employed, 18; marble, value, 
$30; bricks and lime, $11,732; men employed, 32. 

WitoL — Fullinj;-inills, 22 ; woolen manufactories, 11 : value man- 
ufactured. $205,300; persons employed, 292; capital invested, 
$273,800. 

C'tttun. — Factories, 1 ; spindles, 1000 ; value manufactured, $10,000 ; 
persons employed, 40; capital invested, $10,000. 

Tnhtivfit. — Manufactured, $1000; persons employed, 3. 

Jfats, eti: — Value manufactured, $13,350; value straw bonnets, 
$1000: persons employed, 32 : ca]>ital invested, $7000. 

Lenihfr. — Tanneries, 31: sides sole leather tanned, 10,448; sides 
upper leather tanned, 22,340 ; men employed, 1 13 ; capital investod, 
$88,200: other manufactures of leather, $9S,S00; capital invested, 
$19,100. 

S'tfip and Citudtes. — Pounds of soap, 19,700; tallow candles, 
pounds, 34,040; men employed, 5; capital invested, $3000. 

DiHliHed and Ft'rmeiited Lu/uorg. — Distilleries, 9; gallons produced, 
313,344; breweries, 8 ; gallons produced, 04,000 ; men employed, 31 ; 
capital invested, $37,500. 

Medicinal Dnitjt, PtiiitiM, c/e., $1500. 

Piiper. — Manufactory, 1; value made, $10,000. 

Printing^ etc. — Offices. 4; binderies, 1; weekly papers, 5; men 
employed, 28; capital invested, $16,300. 

t'urdfiffc. — Rope-walk, 1 ; value made, $8000; men employed, 5. 

Cnryitifjcfi^ ch\ — Value merchandise, $44,400; men employed, 70 ; 
capital invested, $20,160. 

Mills. — Flouring-mills, 8; barrels of flour made, 11,900; grist- 
mills, 34; saw-mills, 109; oil-mill.<, 4; value of manufactures, 
$299,514; men employed, 177; capital invested, $194,200. 

Furniture. — Value made, $24,250; men employed, 42; capital 
invested, $9340. 

Ifoutcs. — Built of wood year jirevious, 147 : brick and stone houses, 
23; men employed, 318; value of buildings, $223,790. 

All other ninnufaetures not enumerated, $74,493; capital invested, 
$22,358; total manufacturing capital, $721,249. 

The census of 1845 gave many details, for which the 
former ones afford no means of comparison, viz. : 

A'lilivili/. — New York, 50,582; New England, 7528; other States, 
557; Great Britain and Provinces, 4200; France, 424; Germany, 
425; other European countries, 99. 

Children. — Between 5 and 10, 18,019; attending common schools, 
15,059; attending )irivate sehoolsi, 023: attending academies, 73; 
attending colleges, 14. 

Chnrehei. — Baptist, 19; E]tiscopal, 0; Presbyterian. 16 ; Congre- 
gational, 9 ; Methodist, 24; Catholic, 5; Dutch Reformed. 3; Uni- 
tarian, 2; Jewish, 1: Quakers, 2. Number of elergymen, 100; 
salary, $28,040.30. 

Schools. — Academies, 1; common schools, 357; cost of schools, 
$74,927.70; costof improvements, $3,041.10 ; pujdls, 15,761 ; uverngc 
attendance, 9380 : private schools, 20 : pujiils, 620. 

Pro/caHinua. — Attorneys, 48; jdiysicians, 102; merchants, 200; 
manufacturers, 253; meehanics, 2309; farmers, 11,002; inns, 118: 
wholesale stores, 3; retail stores, 101 ; groceries, 57. 

ei-..;>».— Wheat 32,919 acres, 421,819 bushels; corn 17,432 acres. 



90 



HISTORY OK JKFFEllSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



4li7,230 buslicls: biirloy 11,007 acres, 1J0,S72 bushels; peas 10,079 
acres, 15:i,37-l bushels: onts 2(!,4G2 iicrcs, 703,232 bushels; r.ve BilfiO 
acres, 55,457 bushels; buckwheiit 2882 ncrcs, 12,128 bushels; potatoes 
8628 acres, 1,2.!5,I3H bushels; beans fiCO acres, G974 bushels; turnips 
159 acres, 18. 53S bushels; flax llOli acres, 208,545 ]ioun(ls. Cows 
niilkcd, 41,.360. Butter, .1,080,707 pounds. Cheese, 2,802,314 pounds. 

The census of 1850 funii.slics the following statistics: 

Total population, 68,153; males, 34,748 ; females, 33,223 ; colored 
(males 90, females 92), 182: United States born, 60,281; foreign 
bom, 7872; deaths year previous to June 1, 572; marriages year 
previous to June 1, 773; persons over 20 who cannot read, 1577; do. 
foreigners, 899. 

Dwelling-houses, 11,026; families, 12,235; farms, 5500; number 
of ehurches, 89; children attending school, 18,605. 

Manufacturing capital, .'?1, 443, 002 ; raw material used, $1,452,345 ; 
value of product, $2,657,983; males employed, 2004; females em- 
ployed, 391. 

Acres of impro\e(l land, 41S.540; acres of uninii)roved hiiul. 
179,799 ; cost > alue of farms, $13,980,823 ; cost value of farming im- 
plements and iniichinery, $679,293. Live-stock — number of horses, 
15,400; mules, 1; milch cows, 45,186; working oxen, 3436; other 
cattle, 29,370; sheep, 00,330; swine, 27,873; value of live-stock, 
$2,515,100; value of slaught'jred animals, $323,360. 

Af/ricnltural Prodnctn. — Bushels of whe:it, 270,137; rye, 71,370; 
corn, 367,731; oats, 430,303; barley. 227,416; buckwheat, 15,182: 
peas anil beans, 76,244; potatoes, 77,417: pounds wool, 192,168; 
butter, 3,584,376; cheese, 4,192,719; hay, 131,949 tons; elovcr-soed, 
31 bushels; other grass-seeds, 6127 bushels; flax, pounds, 2954; 
flax-seed, bushels, 644; maple-sugar, pounds, 818,394; molasses, gal- 
lons, 1705; wine, 54 gallons; beeswa.x and honey, 26,186 pounds; 
value of home-made products, $80,110; value of orchard j)roducts, 
$43,227 ; value of products of market-gardens, .$2056. 

Of the pliice of nativity of tlie citizens of the county the 
census of 1850 gives the fullowinu;: New York, 53,199; 
Maine, 88; New Hampshire, 816 ; Vermont, 2055 ; Mas- 
sachusetts, 1877 ; Riiode Island, 338 ; Connecticut, 1369 ; 
New Jei'sey, 1C9; Penii.sylv;inia, 1()3 ; Delaware, 8; Mary- 
land, 14; District of Coluinhia, 8; Virginia, 11; North 
Carolina, 1 ; South Carolina, 1 ; Georgia, 1 ; Louisiana, 3; 
Ohio, 60 ; Jliehigan, 42; Illinois, 27 ; other States, 31; 
England, 11)47 ; Ireland, 254(5 ; Scotland, 284 ; Wales, 55; 
Germany, 585 ; France, 401 ; Holland, 2 ; Italy, 6 ; Swit- 
zerland, 65 ; Prussia, 1 ; British America, 2830 ; West 
Indies, 1 ; other countries, 17 ; unknown, 52. 

From the census of 1860 we gather the following infor- 
mation: White population, 34,898 males, 34,713 females; 
total white, 69,611. Colored, 102 males, 107 females; 
total colored, 209. Total population, 69,820. 

Of the above-enumerated inhabitants 30,096 white males 
and 3(1,270 white females were native-born; and 4804 males 
and 4446 femidcs were foreign-born. Of the colored people 
189 were natives of the States, and 20 were foreign-born, 
making the aggregate native population 60,555, and the 
foreign-born 9270. 

The agricultural statistics are as follows : 

Improved acres, in farms 510,920 

Iniiuprove.I lands '. 29:1,490 

Cash value of farms $25,542,788 

Value of farming implements and machinery 806, (jlO 

Value of live-sloek 3,441,925 

Value of orelninl jiroducts 45,860 

\'alue <if prnduels of market-gardens S,034 

\'alne of hnme-niade manufactures 34,072 

Value of nnimals slaughtered 398,299 

Live-Stock. — Horses, 16,343; mules, 6; milch cows, 
59,512 ; working o.xcn, 211 I ; other catllc, 23,554; sheep, 
34,665; swine, 18,071. 

Frodiic/ioiis. — Wheat, 574,368 bushels; rye, 47,134 



bushels; corn, 435,645 bushels; oats, 571,813 bushels; 
barley, 375,464 bushels; buckwheat, 7777 bushels ; peas and 
beans, 79,238 bushels ; potatoes, 555,325 bushels ; tobacco, 
750 jounds; wool, 122.(149 pounds; wine,1399 gallons; but- 
■ ter, 4,890,980 pounds; cheese, 4,773,1 09 pounds; h:iy,133,- 
400 tons; clover- seed, 29 bushels ; grass-seed, 9523 bushels; 
hops, 23,913 pcuinds; fla.v, 72 pounds; flax-seed, 73 bushels; 
maple-sugar, 857,790 jajunds ; maple-molasses, 4136 gal- 
lons; beeswax, 1416 pounds; honey, 22,933 pounds. 

There were 84 farms containing from 3 to 10 acres; 
235 from 10 to 20 acres ; 1542 from 20 to 50 acres ; 2320 
from 50 to 100 acres; 1907 from 100 to 500 acres; and 
9 from 500 to 1000 acres; 0097 farms all told, of all 
sizes. 

The census of 1870 revealed the following exhibit of the 
population of Jefferson County: total number of inhabi- 
tants, 65,414, 236 being colored; 55,379 were natives of 
the United States, and 10,036 were foreign-born. Of the 
natives 51,704 were born in the State of New Y^ork, 782 in 
Massachusetts, 497 in Connecticut, 1158 in Vermont, 138 
in Pennsylvania, and 70 in New Jersey. Of the foreign- 
born, 4883 were born in British America, 1021 in England 
and Wales, 2540 in Ireland, 250 in Scotland, 912 in Ger- 
many, 299 in France, 1 in Sweden, 84 in Switzerland, 3 in 
Holland, 7 in Poland, and 7 in Austria. There were 
8893 males of the school age, from five to eighteen years ; 
12,644 males of the military age, eighteen to forty-five 
years; 17,779 males of the voting age, twenty-one years 
and upwards, and 15,973 were male citizens. The males 
of all ages numbered 32,434, and the females, 32,980 ; 
15,617 children attended the schools the year previous to 
June 1, 1870; 14,768 being natives, and 849 foreign- 
born ; 4355 ni:iles and 3918 females over ten years of age 
could not read among the white population, and 17 males 
and 20 females of the colored people were in the like 
illiterate condition; 2986 natives and 1179 foreign-born, 
over fifteen years, could not write. 

I'he industri;d statistics were as follows : 

Acres imprnved 554,155 

" woiidhnid 129.867 

" other im]^ roved lands 13,490 

Cash value of farms $33,432,152 

Value of farm implements and machinery 1,26(),729 

Total wages paid during year, intduding value of boaril... 811,311 
Value (estimated) of all farui products, including better- 
ments and additions to slock 8,276,348 

Value orchard j)roducts 116,022 

Value of market garden products 14,715 

Value of forest ]iroduets 119,266 

Value of home manufactures :i6,050 

Value of auiiuiils slaughtered 600,376 

Value of live-stock 5;S09,161 

True value of real estate and personal property 40,010,235 

Assessed value of same 15,127,745 

Live-Stoclc. — Horses, 15,564; mules, 16; milch cows, 
72,980 ; working oxen, 557 ; other cattle, 22,968 ; sheep, 
26,300 ; swine, 13,930. Productions. — Wheat, sjjring, 
181,956 bushels, winter, 46,816 bushels; rye, 36,809 
bushels; corn, 221,551 bushels; oats, 1,058,227 bushels; 
barley, 415,704 bushels; buckwheat, 23,837 bushels; peas 
and beans, 86,602 bushels ; potatoes, 507,349 bushels ; 
tobacco, 1350 pounds; wool, 104,459 pounds; butter, 
4,S83,50S pounds; cheese, 2,545,654 pounds; milk .sold, 
8,560,481 gallons; hay, 223,343 tons; clover-seed, 387 
bushels; grass-seed, 10,033 bushels; hops, 262,738 bushels; 



IlISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



91 



flax, 35,850 pounds ; flax-seed, 148 bushels ; maple-sugar, 
529,109 pounds ; maple-molasses, 1883 jiallons ; beeswax, 
1198 pounds; honey, 10,504 pounds. There were 5788 
farms of all sizes, tlie larger ones inereasing over 18G0, 
there being 2290 containin^^ i'vuin 100 to 500 acres, and 12 
containing; from 500 to 1000 acres. 

The nianuracturin;j; interests made the following exhibit: 
there were 737 establishments, 41 (jf whii^-h were operated 
by steam, requiring 801 horse-power, and 3G4 were ope- 
rated by water-power of 9223 horse-power. Of 3455 
operatives employed, 277G were males above the age of six- 
teen years, 555 were females above fifteen years, and 124 
were youth. Tlie capital invested amounted to 33,813,092; 
the total amount of wages paid, 8941, 944; cost of materials 
used, $4,753,521, and value of the products of the same, 
87,241,000. These industries were classified as follows : 



AgricnUnnil implements 

Bajrs uthcr than puiiur 

HookliiinUiig 

Itootu ami shoes 

lloxc."*, rlieese 

Breiul liiul oOior bakery proilucts. 

Brii-ka 

(^iirria^es ami wnguiis 

Cliarcuat 

Cheeso 

Clothing, men's 

Oint'eciionery 

CoopeniKC 

Cuttun Kiiotla 

Flax, dressed 

Kkmriiig-niill proiliuts 

Furriitiiry (not specified) 

Fiunituro, chair* 

(iitS 

Iruii Lilouniii 

castings (not specified) 

stove:!, hnaters, etc 

liOattier, tiinnod 

curried 

Lime 

Liquors, limit 

Liinihfr, wawed 

Muchuiery (not spt-citi'*'!) 

engines and boilers.... 

Malt 

Marldu work, tombstones 

Matches 

Millinery 

Mnsical instrnnienttj 

Paper (not specified) 

liriiitin<; 

wrapping.. 

writing 

Pumps 

Sa<tdlery and harness 

Sarih, doors, and idinda 

Sewing inacliineH 

Shiplinilding and repairing 

Steel Rpritigt) 

Tin, copper, anil sheet-iron ware.. 

Tiihacco, cij;ars 

Wool-carding and cloth-tlreesing. 
Woolen gooUtt 



11 



59,(K)0 

(j.llUU 

8,U0l) 
10,(l5u! 
12,0UO 
1(I,S(IIJ 

iiia.no 

aa 130,070 

2;ia ii7,i.">ii 

IC' 12,01)0 
58 22,210 

e7i oo,uuo 
4 e.iiuo 



500,000 

oi,iflol 

20,400 
20,0110 

a6,ooo 

CC,G:i5 

15,oool 

120] 587,7«1 

10 liu;705 

24 4,750 

l;i| 46,000] 

2B91 196,070 

431 48,905 

80 1 80,000 

24' 01,200 

23 32,200 

18 5,IHI0 

371 11,030, 

3,000 

31 1 40,000 

40, 119,000 

36, 100,000 

05 00,000 

32! 27,700 1 

128 1 71,r)00 

72 68,100 

100 300,000 

181 4,90ol 

03,000 

08,<JI10 

22,000 

5,700 

83,300 



10,01 K) 

0,01 H) 

5,llH» 

5,730 

12,180 ] 

5,081 

0,0, io 

47,433 

10,1100 

29,070 

48,475 

4,313 

0,KSO 

21,000 

3,000 

32,089 1 

27,420' 

8,000 

4,0U0 

30,000 

20,300 

3,800 

47,690 

0,299 i 

1,901 

6,050 

Co,ii04 

22,0(H1 

40,000 

5,940 

13,020 

1,800 

2,025 

4,500 

12,000 

13,894 

II.IKIO 

2,0001 

12.200} 

32,245 

25,539 

75,01K1 

6,01H1 

18,01 K) 

18,006 

14,410 

773 

45,400 



40,900 

135,000 

10,910 

9,520 
41,508 
17,905 

3,411 
40,100 

3,500 

750,977 

154.675 

58,521 

13,388 

89,635 

10,000 

,077,884 1 

24,179 

4,000 
12.000 
38,000 
80,473 

4,770 

490,328] 

09,580 

0,.537 
40,019 
159,057 
38,821 
63,000 
44,150 
72.810 

4,170 

7,.099 

3,210 1 
10,100 
108,487 
90,000 
10,470 
30,700 
86.970 
40,2.S9 
20,416 

9,291 
07,070 
73,237 
23,8IHI 

9,962 
165,930 



72,030 

102,000 
22,000 
2o,9.SO 
70,740 
29,700 
17,:iOO 

142,806 
28,0{tO 

939,900 

249,300 
78,290 
35,833 

121,380 
22,5',IO 
1,259,324 
84,178 
18,800 
23,.').".9 
75,000 

103,290 
11,175 

685,921 
75,444 
11.070 
04,400 

299,0114 
87,400 

111,000 
08,049 
97,000 
11,000 
10,099 
10,{IOO 
35,000 

202,000 

141,473 
10,000 
99,500 

170,9.-i9 
98,005 

140,000 
30,125 

100,000 

132,213 
58,100 
14,390 

2)4,287 



The census of 1875 beiti;? at tlio time of this compilation 
viiiiuililislied, no statistics of agriculture or industry are 
obtainable. The population of the county was G5,3G2, the 
voters numbcrinp; 17,143, of which 14,570 were natives, and 
2573 were naturalized aliens. 

THE AClllrlLTUK.VI, .SOCIKTV OF .IKFFERSON COUNTY. 

The following history of the Jclferson County Ajrricul- 
tural Society is clipped from Dr. Hough's History of Jef- 
ferson County; 

"As the tillage of the soil has boon and must ncci\-sarily 



continue to be the principal source of wealth ii] the county, 
every measure tending to the promotion of this object is 
especially deserving of notice. Such was the feeling that 
in 1817 prompted to the formation of an agricultural .soci- 
etj', which has ever since continued in active and efficient 
operation, surviving every other County society in the State 
that originated at an early period, and at present exerting 
ii beneficial influence comparable with the most flourishing. 

"The first act for the encouragement of agriculture or 
manufactures that ojierated in the county was passed April 
8, 1808, giving eighty dollars premium to the one who 
should produce the best specimen of woolen cloth of uni- 
form texture and quality not less than thirty yards long. 
The award was to be made by the judges of the court of 
common pleas, and paid by the comptroller. Mr. Le Ray, 
having imported some fine wool sheep, thus afforded the 
material, and speoimens were produced by Hart Mas.sey 
and Noadiah Hubbard, which were so nearly alike in (pial- 
ity that the premium was divided between them. Some 
irregularity in application made a special act necessary, 
which was passed March Ii), 1810. 

" The Jefferson County Agricultural Society was formed 
at the lunise of Isaac Lee, in Watertown, October 25, 1817, 
at which J. D. Le Ray was chosen president ; Jacob Brown, 
first vice-president; Ethel Bronson, second vice-president; 
Egbert Ten Eyck, secretary; Oren Stone, treasurer, and 
one in each town as a local committee, viz.: William M. 
Lord, Ilounsfield ; Hart JIa.ssey, Watertown ; George White. 
Rutland; Noadiah Hubbard, Champion; Ahiza Smith, 
Henderson; Eliphalet Edmonds, Adams; Nathan Strong, 
Rodman; Ebenezer Wood, Ellisburg; Clark Allen, Lor- 
raine; John 15. Essclstyn, L^'me; Walter B. Cole, Brown- 
ville; Roswell Woodruff, Le Ray; Silvius Hoard, Antwerp; 
Thoma.s Brayton, Wilna. 

"This Wiis the second county society in the State, that 
of Otsego county being the first. The first in the Union 
is said to have been that of Berkshire county, Ma.ssachu- 
setts, after which the most of those that followed have been 
modeled. Jlr. Elkanah Watson, who may be said to have 
been its founder, gives the following account of its origin:* 

"In the fall of 1807, having procured the first pair of 
merino sheep that had appeared in that county, if not in 
the State, which, although defective in grade, were far su- 
perior to any that had been before seen, he was induced to 
notify an exhibition under the great ehn-tn^e, in tlir ]iublic 
square, in Pittsfield, of these two sheep, on a certain day. 
Many farmers, and even wcmien, were excited by curiosity 
to attend this first, novel, and humble exhibition, and its 
projector, giving to his reasoning the rule-of-three form, 
thus argued to himself: If two animals are capable of ex- 
citing so much attention, what would be the effect on a 
larger scale, with larger animals? This little incident sub- 
sequently led to other and more extensive operations in the 
line of exhibitions, until the .sphere of their influence has 
come to embrace the entire range of domestic iudustry, ex- 
citing emulation in the lowly cottage and among the humble 
classes as well as with the more oj>ulenf, and diffusing the 

* History of Agricultural Societies on the Modern Berkshire 
System, p. 1 10. 



92 



UISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



republican principle of equality by elevating and dignify- 
ing the pursuits of the laboring classes. 

" The following is a copy of the first articles of associa- 
tion of our county society : 

'"1. The objects of this society arc the promotion and improTcment 
uf agricultural and rural cconomj. 

** ' 2. Every member of this society shall subscribe these articles, or 
a copy thereof, and pay, at the time of subscribing, one dollar to the 
treasury for the use of the society ; he shall also pay in like manner, 
on or before the second Tuesday of October, one dollar, annually, so 
long as he continues a member: and whenever a member chooses to 
withdraw, he shall have liberty so to do on giving notice in writing 
to the secretary and paying all arrears and dues, including the cur- 
rent 5'ear. 

" ' 3. The officers of the society shall consist of a president, two 
vice-president?, a secretary, and a treasurer, to be chosen by ballot, 
and such other officers as the by-laws shall direct. 

'"4. The next meeting of the society shall be on the last Monday 
of December next, at the house of Isaac Lee: at which meeting, and 
at any future stated meeting of the society, the members present 
shall have power to make such laws and regulations as they shall 
deem expedient for carrying into effect the objects of this society. 

•* * 6. Xo salary or pecuniary reward shall be allowed to any oflBcer 
or committee of this society for discharging their official duties.* 

"The by-laws provided for two stated meetings annually, 
on the first Mondays of March and October, at the first of 
which the oflBcers were to be elected, and at the latter a 
fair was to be held. The general affairs of the society 
were vested in a committee, consisting of the president, 
secretary, and five members; and a committee of three 
members was to be appointed in each town to distribute 
seeds, plants, scions, books, et«., and to receive and transmit 
meritorious communications to the central body. Honorary 
members were to be admitted on a two-third vote. A 
'viewing committee,' of five, to judge on the improve- 
ments and cultivation of lands ; a ' committee of produce,' 
nine in number, to judge on the quantity and quality of 
produce; and an 'inspecting committee,' of nine, for do- 
mestic iiniinals. were to be annually appointed by the exec- 
utive committee. 

"The first address before the society was delivered by 
L3 Ray de Chaumont. After alluding to the interest he 
hud felt on thi.s subject, and the part he had taken in the 
first settlement of Otsego county, in 1785, he adds: 

" ' It has now the honor to take the lead in establishing in this great 
Slate the 6r..t ngricultural society. I mention this example more 
particularly as being, by a greater analogy with us, more easy to fol- 
low, and to excite a noble and profitable emulation. . . . The object 
of our society, and its more direct business, is to encourage every 
branch of agriculture and rural economy best adapted to our soil 
and climate, by a well-digested combination of science and practice; 
to promote inquiries and receive information the most useful to ag- 
riculture : to suggest experiments and improvements which may tend 
to the amelioration and prosperity of agriculture, and, of course, our 
manufactures, of which they arc the aliinint and support. By pre- 
miums we excite a spirit of generous pride and emulation : a desire to 
gain a knowledge of the most profitable and practical husbandry; to 
get the best breeds of domestic ai^imals : in more neatly cultivate our 
farms; to raise the cleanest and beat crops; in a word, to make ngri- 
cultnrc more systematic, lucrative, and respectable.' 

•' From this quotation it wa.s evident that at that period 
the advanliiges to be derived from association were fully 
appreciated, and the experience of nearly forty j-ears has 
done little more than to confirm the views of these pioneer 
founders of the society. The venerable John Adams, ex- 



president of the United States, received, with others, a copy 
of the proceedings of the first meeting, and he thus wrote: 

'"QcisCT, February 12, 1S18. 
"'Sir, — I have received and read with pleasure an address to the 
Agricultural Society of Jefferson County, in the State of New York, 
and as I know not from whom it came, who should I thank for it but 
its author ? I rejoice in every new society which has agriculture for 
its object, and see with delight that the spirit is spreading through 
the United States. If I could worship any of the heathen gods, it 
would be old Saturn, because I believe him to be only an allegorical 
personification of Agriculture, and the children he devoured to be 
only his own grapes and figs, apples and pears, wheat and barley. 
I agree with you in the main in every sentiment, particularly rela- 
tive to grapes and com ; yet we cannot have perfect roast beef, nor 
perfect roast spare-rib, nor perfect poultry, without maize. We must 
therefore sacrifice a little luxury to a great deal of public good. 
From the style of this address I should not have susjiccted it to have 
been written by any other than a native of this country. Thirty- 
nine years ago I little thought I should live to see the heir-apparent 
to the princely palaces and garden of Passy, my fellow-citizen in the 
republican wilderness of .America, laying the foundation for more 
ample domains and perh:Lps more splendid palaces. I observed tbe 
motto of the Hotel de Valenciennes, which I had then the honor to 
inhabit, "«e stn bent, mom ee r*iore,'* — If you stand well, stand still. 
But you have proved tbe maxim not to be infallible, and I rejoice in 
it. 

"'Your sincere well wisher and humble servant, 

"' JoB.N .^DAMS. 

" ' Le Ray tte Chaiiniout.' 

"At the first meeting, upon motion of Ethel Bronson, 
I a committee of nine persons, styled a 'committee of man- 
ufactures.' was added to those previously' existing. 

" The first cattle-show and fair of the society was held 
on the 28th and 29th of September, 1818. The first day 
was devoted to the exhibition of stock and domestic manu- 
facture, and iu receiving communications on various sub- 
jects presented by the occasion. Governor Clinton, Gen- 
eral Stephen Van Rensselaer, Colonel Jenkins, G. Parish, 
and other distinguished strangers were present on the stand 
with the officers of the society. The pens for cattle were 
arranged in a circle, the platform in the centre, and the do- 
mestic manufactures were displayed in the court-house. 
In the course of the afternoon Roswell Woodruff exhibited 
a cart drawn by seventeen ^-oke of oxen and steers, the 
product of his own farm. Judge Hubbard and Colonel 
Harris, of Champion, exhibited a cart drawn by fifteen yoke 
of very fine fat cattle, and the officers of the society dined 
at the house of Butler Ranney, where extensive prepara- 
tions had been made for the occasion. On the 2'Jth a 
plowing-match came off with horse- and ox-teatns, after 
which a procession was formed, which, preceded by a band 
of music attached to the Second Regiment United States 
Infantry, marched to the court-house, while a salute was 
fired at the arsenal, under the direction of Major Masters. 
An address was delivered by J. D. Le Ray de Chaumont, 
the president of the society, which was followed by one by 
De Witt Clinton, then Governor of the State. Believing 
that the latter will be read with peculiar interest, we here 
insert it: 

'"Independent of the very flattering references which have been 
made in the very able ad<lress just delivered, and which demand uiy 
sincere acknowledgments, it would be difficult for me to refrain from 
expressing the high gratification which I have derived from the first 
exhibition of this respectable as8neiati<in. 

"•When we recollect that scarcely twenty years have passed away 
since the first inhabitant erected his hut in this county, and uhtn we 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



93 



8CC that it now contains flourishing villages and a considerable pop- 
uhitiun, characterizfd, as tlio proccotlings of this day evinije, by intel- 
ligent views ancl wcll-dirceted exertions; that its soil is uncommonly 
fertile and its climate eminently salubrious; and when we consider 
that with the natural advantages which How from its extensive con- 
neclion with our interior seas, and the artiticial facilities which it 
will derive from the improvements of i>ur internal navigation, the 
markets of the north and south will be open to its |>roductions, wo 
must be persuaded that the attainment of fullness of population and 
exuberance of wealth depends entirely upon yourselves. 

*' ' You have, gentlemen, wisely chosen the true road which leads to 
prosperity. Agriculttire is the source of subsistence : subsistence is 
the basis of population : and population is the foundation of prosper- 
ity and pi>wer. Agriculture is also the parent of individual and na- 
tional opulence. It comprehends in its operations all tiic sources of 
wealth. It employs lanil, labor, and capital. It com])riscs the cul- 
tivation of all the fruits of the earth, embraces almost every method 
of obtaining food for labt)r, and includes the raising of domestic an- 
imals, because that employment is necessarily identified with the 
cultivation of vegetable food. Anrl as the prosperity of a country 
essentially <lei>en<ls upon the quantity of surplus produce derived 
from the soil, and as the amount of the materials of subsistence will 
always be regulated by the exertions of agriculturists, it is evident 
that its benefits in these respects cannot be too highly appreciated. 
But when we further reflect that it is favorable to exercise, the guar- 
dian of health, to coptemplation, the parent of wisdom, to activity, 
the friend of virtue, and — to adopt tlie emphatic language of a su- 
blime poet — to that 

"Sweet iiea:e which goo.Iness h isjra* ever,'" 
we must all admit that, as it was the first, it is also the best. 

"* Among the various measures adopted for the promotion of this 
pursuit, and its invariable companion, domestic manufactures, the 
most effectual is the establishment of societies for the collection and 
difl^urfion of information, and for tlie excitement of industry and em- 
ulation. This plan has been adopted in this county, and a wise legis- 
lature will cherish such institutions with extraordinary patronage. 
It is pleasing to see at the head of this establishment distinguished 
men, applying with so much public sjiirit the gifts of nature, the 
endowments of education, and the bounties of fortune to the im- 
provement of this favored region. It is gratifying to perceive men 
who have encircled themselves with high renown, and elevated the 
character of their country, planting the olive by the laurel, and cul- 
tivating the arts of peace with the same ability with which they 
directed the storm of war. And it is a subject of high felicitation to 
witness this eonfedor.acy of scientific and practical men; to behold 
the experienced agriculturist and the enlightened professional man 
combining their powers in favor of agriculture and domestic manu- 
factures, and devising ways and means to promote the public pros- 
perity. 

'■ ' There was a period of danger, when the eyes of the people of 
this State were directed with ]>eculiar anxiety to this region ; when 
you passed with honor through the difficulties with which you were 
environed, and vindicated the character of America at the point of 
the sword. On this day the j>ublic eye is lixeti on you with equal 
attention to view the prosperity of your agriculture and the wide- 
spreading an<l far-extending progress of your useful improvements; 
and I am ha]ipy to say that there will be no disappointment. The 
distiuguislieil gentlemen who have united with me in this visit also 
uni'.e with me in this expression of approbation. We ofl'er you our 
best acknowledgments for your fricnilly invitation and cordial recep- 
tion, and we humbly implore the blessings of the .Vlmighty on you 
indiviilually and collectively, and on the inhabitants in general of 
this flourishing county.' 

" The fii'.st viewins; committoo. in 1818, eon.sisted of Sam- 
uel Brown, James Parker, Simeon Hunt, Curtis G. Brooks, 
and Samuel Evans, who visited nine towns, examined 
seventy-five s-ulyeets, and awarded tweiit3'-two premiums in 
cup.s, goblets, and spoons, worth 8128. Three piremiums 
in plate, worth §25, were awarded on the plowing-mateh ; 
eighteen premiums on .stock, worth JlSt!, and fourteen on 
doinestie manufaeture.s, worth S'.).'], were awarded. At the 
clo.so of the exereises the society inljourned to attend the 



sale of the premium ox, which had been presented to the 
society by its worthy presidjiit. It was sold in small par- 
cels, and amounted to SGI 9. 

'=0n the 7th of April, 1819, the sum of S10,000, for 
two years, was applied by law to the encouragement of 
county societies for the promotion of agriculture and domes- 
tic manufactures, of which sum this county received 8200. 
Under this act the presidents of county societies iis.serablcd 
at Albany and formed a board of agriculture. Of this 
board Mr. Le Ray was elected vice-president. No pro- 
vision being made for a continuance beyond two years, 
many county societies disbaniled, but this continued in 
operation, and held rt'gular meetings and fairs. 

" On the 28th of March, 1828, an act was passed incor- 
porating Le Ray de Cliaiimmit, Perley Keyes, Elisha Camp, 
Peter N. Cushman, Egb^-rl Ten Eyck, Rodney Burt, Daniel 
Eames, Micah Sterlitig, Noadiah Hubbard, Orville Hunger- 
ford, George White, Hiram Merrill, John Brown, Curtis 
Golden, Samuel C. Kennedy, Ezekiel Jewett, Albert Bray- 
ton, Samuel Brown, John B. Esselstyn, Abijah Farwell, 
Edmund Kiihy, V. Le Ray de Chaumotit, Alfred Freeman, 
Simeon Hunt, Stoel Warner, Asa Carter, Jonathan Graves, 
William DoxUitcr, Clark Allen, Liberty Bates, and such as 
might join them, as the Jijfeisun County AgricnUtirnl 
■Society. J. Lo Ray was named first president; P. Keyes, 
E. Camp, and P. N. Cushman, vice-presidents ; 0. Hunger- 
ford, treasurer; E. Ten Eyck, secretary. Elections were 
to be held on the last Tuesday of September, and the in- 
come was limited to S-jOOO. Under this act the society 
continued to hold annual fairs, with one or two exceptions, 
until reorganized under the general actrof 184:1. 

"In March, 1830, members of the' society, then the 
only one of the class existing in the State, petitioned the 
legislature for the power of offering premiums for horses of 
the best speed, and that the racing of horses for such pre- 
miums might be allowed under proper regulations and 
restrictions. The petitioners set forth that the rearing of 
horses is much attended to in the country ; ' that the value 
of horses in market depends much upon their speed and 
activity ; but that, owing to the restrictions now existing 
by law, it is impossible properly to test the speed of horses 
at home, and, consei|uently, they can not cominand that 
price in market which they would command could their 
value be known. The soil of the county is well adapted to 
the growing of grains, both fine and coarse ; but, in conse- 
quence of the distance from the m;irkets of the State, those 
productions will not bear transportation, so that the farmers 
are compelled to resort to the raising of live-stock as almost 
the only resource for money in the county.'* This petition 
met with a favorable report from the committee to whom it 
was referred, but failed to procure a law authoriziDg a race- 
course. 

" A convention for the formation of a State Agricultural 
Society met at Albany, February 14, 1832, of which Le 
Ray de Chaumont was chosen president. The other dele- 
gates from Jefferson County were Orville Hungerford, V. 
Le Ray de Chaumont, Edmund Kirby, Jason Fairbanks, 
Isaac H. Bronson, Perley Keyes, Robert Lansing, Nathan 



Assembly Documents, IS.iO, vol. iv. No. 308. 



94 



HISTOllY OF JEFFEIISON COU^'TY, NEW YORK. 



Strong, Philip Maxwell, and Robert Nichols. The result 
of this convention was the formation of a State Society 
having for its objects to iuij)n)ve the condition of agricul- 
ture, horticulture, and the household arts. Besides the 
usual officci's of such organizations it had a general com- 
mittee, the members of which were to be located in the 
several counties, and be e(|ual to the repre.sentation in the 
assembly. Those appointed in Jeffcr.'son County were V. 
Le Ray de Chaumont, Edmund Kirby, and Egbei-t Ten 
Eyck. 

" By this act no provision was made for county societies. 
In December, 1833, the Jefferson County Society addressed 
a memorial uigiiig this object, and calling attention to their 
own county in jiroof of the beneficial results of these orga?i- 
izitions, as shown in improved breeds of stock, in the 
general practice of bettor and more systematic busli.-indiy, 
and in a wllole^ome spirit of emulation, imparting value to 
farms and respectability to i'armers. An an.\ious desire for 
an extension of the.se benefits induced this application, in 
which, of the two plans which had been before the legisla- 
ture at its former session, one of which provided for the 
establishment of agricultural schools, and the other for 
county and State societies, they expressed their preference 
for the latter, as at that time more extensively useful. The 
committee who signed this memorial were J. Le Ray de 
Chaumont, E. Ten Eyck, E. Kirby, George White, Olney 
Pearce, and Orville llungerford. 

" On the 5th of May, 1841, an act for the encouragement 
of agricultural societies was passed, by which this was to 
receive SI S3 for five years, and on the ISIth of June of 
that year a now organization vras completed. In the sum- 
mer of 1843 the 'society erected in the rear of the court- 
hou.se a hall, 105 by 50 feet, at a cost of §1000, for the 
holding of fairis. On the 24th of August, 1851, the 
executive committee resolved to purchase ten acres of land 
on the Brownville road, about half a mile west of the rail- 
road, which was inclosed, and the building originally built 
near the court-house removed and fitted up with additions 
for the permanent use of the .society. Great credit is due 
to the forecast of the executive commiitee in thus securing 
a most eligible site for the annual fairs of the society." 

Since the fii-st purchase of ten acres, the society has 
added five more, and erected stabling and hall facilities, 
having at the ])resent time accommodations for over two 
hundred head of stock, four halls for floral and other dis- 
plaj-s, a grand stand, seated and covered, and the grounds 
well fenced. The society held its sixtieth annual fair at 
Watertown, on September 1 1 to 13, inclu.sive, 1877, at 
which there were- fifteen hniidred entries of live-stock, do- 
mestic manufictures, product.s of mechanical arts, pinducts 
of the farm and garden, ladies' handiwork, etc. The re- 
ceipts were $3500, 82802 being the gate fees ; SI 200 were 
paid in premiums. lion. William M. White, of Alleghany 
county. New York, delivered the annual address. The offi- 
cers of the society for 1877 were, Gen. S. D. Hungerford, 
president; James 51. Felt, general superintendent; Charles 
Richard.son, treasurer; Wines R. Skeels, secretary. 

TIIK .IKFFERSO.N COUNTY F.VRSIEKS' CLUB 

was an outgrowth from the agricultural society, founded in 



a laudable desire to improve the general stock of informa- 
tion and modes of practice in agricultural operations. It 
was organized in 1870, its first jircsident being Clift Eames, 
and A. C. Middleton its first secretary. During its exist- 
ence of four years, its meetings were made interesting by 
able es.says and spirited discu.ssions on agricultural subjects, 
and much benefit accrued therefrom to those who attended 
its sessions. In 1874, David Hamlin suggested to the 
members the formation of the 

WATERTO\V.\ D.VIRYMEN's BO.XRD OF TR.\DE, 

which suggestion was put into successful oiieralion, the 
board of trade being organized in Ma}' of the last-named 
year. Its first officers were, David Handin, president ; Mad- 
ison Cooper, vice-president ; Luman D. Olney, treasurer ; 
W. R. Skcels, secretary. The first meeting was held June 
6, 1874. During the first year of its existence fifty-throe 
chee.se-fact«rics were represented in the board; in 1875, 
ninety-two factories; and in 1S76, sixty-nine. On the 2d 
day of October, 1875, forty nine factories offered 27,939 
boxes of cheese, averaging sixty pounds to the box. On 
the 10th of July, in the .same year, 9922 boxes were .sold, 
weighing 595,320 pounds, averaging Hi cents per pound, 
or SG8,461.80 for the total sales. Seventy-eight factories 
were represented in these sales. The buyers come from all 
parts of the United States and Canada to the sessions of 
the board, which are held on Saturdays of each week. The 
success of the board, in the advantages gained by the pro- 
ducers, exceeds the expectations of its founders, and the 
competition created by it tends to make the .standard of the 
product of the factories higher, which commands at the 
present time the best markets at home or abroad. The 
present officers are, H. W. Hadsell, jiresident, and Wines 
11. Skeels, secretary; Sir. Skcels having held the position 
since the first organization of the board. The sessions of 
the board are held in the city of Watertown. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

PUBLIC OFFICERS. 

Fir^t EU'irtiim — Planner of liolding Klections — Constitutional Lejjis- 
lation — Qualiticjltions of Suffrage — Counuil of Ajjpointuient — Con- 
gressional Districts anil Mcniliers of Congress — The Legislature — 
Senatorial Districts and .Senators — .^.ssenibly Districts and As_ 
sciublymen — Delegates to Constitutional Conventions — County 
Clerks — SherilTs — County Treasurers — District Attorneys — Coro- 
ners — Loan Commissioners — -E-Xciso Commissioners — School Com- 
missioners — Presidential Electors — Lieutenaut-lJovernor. 

The first election held under color of law in the colony 
of New York was in 1665, when Governor Nicolls, early 
in that year, issued his proclamation to the inhabitants of 
Long Island, calling on them to elect deputies to a conven- 
tion to settle the affairs of the Province, to allay the dis- 
content that had arisen among the colonists under the 
Dutch, by the lack of a legislative body. The convention 
met at Hempstead, on the 1st of March, 1665; remained 
in .session two or three days, pa.s.sed the " Duke's Laws," 
and adjourned. This body, however, could liardly be called 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



95 



a lef^islative assembl}', as it only (.•uuliriiioJ luwsol' llit; Duke 
oC York's own iiiakini;. The Court of Assize, however, 
was establishinl, whicii theiieoforward exercised a limited- 
legislative power ill aineiiJing and adding to the dukes 
laws, subject to the latter personage's approval. This system 
was worse than the one under the Putcli governors, and 
greater dissatisfaetion resulted among the people; but they 
failed to get relief until the eollcetor of the ]iort of Now 
York was arrested for dotaining goods the duties on which 
had not been paid, and charged with high treason before 
the Court of Assize, and sent, by tiial tribunal, to England 
for trial ; which proceeding opened the eyes of the duko to 
the natural consequences of his arbitrary proceeding, when, 
to save his own private purse from the charge of the colony, 
he sent out Colonel Dongan, a-s governor, with power to 
convene a General Assembly. 

The new governor arrived in August, 1G83, and on Sep- 
tember 13 he ordered the election of a General Assembly, 
consisting of fourteen representatives, which met October 
17, 1C33, and again in October, 1()S4, and a new a-sisembly 
was convened in 1G85. But in the mean time the Duke 
of York had succeeded to the throne as James II., and 
having more funds at his disposal, the motive which 
prompted the gencnll assembly_^was removed, and accord- 
ingly, June 16, 1686, he abolished that body, the assembly 
binng dissolved January 20, 1(587. In its stead James 
authorized the governor, by and with the consent of the 
council, to enact such laws as he deemed best, subject to 
the kin^i's ajiproval, and tcj bacomo void if at any time 
disapproved. This arbitrary form of government continued 
until June 3, 1689, when Captain Jacob Laisler seized the 
fort in the name of William and Mary, and issued writs 
for the election of members of assembly. Every county 
but Suffolk chose representatives. This assembly met in 
April, 16'.>0, and held two sessions, one in April and the 
other in October, passing altogether four laws. 

On March 19, 1691, Governor Sloughtcr arrived, com- 
missioned by the new sovereigns, and directed to re-establish 
the general assembly and reinstate the people in their 
rights.* The elections in the colony up to March 27, 
1778, were held before the sheriff, by poll or livu vuce 
vote; but the constitution, in deference to the popular and 
growing demand for the ballot system, provided for the 
same as an " experiment,'' and directed the legislature to 
pass the necessary laws, after the cessation of hostilities, 
then waging between the colonies and the mother country, 
to carry into effect the provision ; guarding the same care- 
fully, however, in order that if the " experiment" should 
not ]irove "all the fancy painted it." the former system 
should again prevail.")" 

On the date last mentioned, the legislature provided for 
the election by ballot of a governor and lieutenant-governor, 
but retained the viva voce system for the election of repre- 
sentatives. This preliminary law remained in force until 
February 18, 1787, when the necessary legislation was had 
to put in full operation the ballot system, which has ever 



* Leisler, resisting Governor Sloughter's rights, was arrested for 
treason, comlemned. ami esccutci.1. 
t See ronstilution, 177". 



since obtained. By this law the sheritf received the ballot- 
boxes with the ballots, returning those for governor, lieuten- 
ant-governor, and senators to the secretary of State's office, 
where they were canvas.scd by a joint committee of the legis- 
lature. The ballots for assemblymen were canvassed by the 
mayor and ahhTinen in New Y'ork city, and by the board of 
supervisors, judges, and assistant justices of the coui-ts of 
Common Pleas elsewhere. This system was done away with 
by an act of March 27, 1799, and local boards instituted, who 
were required to inspect atid canvass the ballots, the result to 
be recorded by the town clerk, who was to return it to the 
county clerk for the same purpose, by whom it was trans- 
mitted to the secretary of State, to be by him also recorded. 
A board of State canvas.sers, consisting of the secretary of 
State, comptroller and treasurer, then canvasses these re- 
turns and publishes the result. By the act of 1787 gen- 
eral elections were held on the last Tuesday of April, and 
might continue for five days. The inspector system, with 
some amendments, is still in force, the board of supervisors 
being the county canvassing board, and the Slate board 
being composed of the officers comprising the .same under 
the law of 1797, and, in addition thereto, the attorney-gen- 
eral. State engineer, and surveyor, any three of whom form 
a quorum. The inferior civil niatiistratcs and officers under 
the Dutch had been elected, and in the articles of cajtitu- 
lation of 1604 it was stipulated those officers then in office 
should fill out their unexpired terms, when new incum- 
bents should be elected who should swear allegiance to the 
new power. It was expressly stipulated that the " town 
of Manhattans should choose deputycs who should have 
free voyces in all publique affairs, as much as any other 
deputyes." 

The electors under the colonial rule were such of the in- 
habitants as were freeholders of forty pounds value, or had 
an income of forty shillings per annum, or paid a rental 
of that amount, or were freemen of the cities of New I'ork 
and Albany. Under the first constitution, the governor, 
lieutenant-governor, and senators were chosen by freehold- 
ers, being actual residents, and possessed of freeholds of the 
value of one liundred jiounds over and above all debts 
charged thereon. For members of a.ssembly, male iidiabit- 
ants who had resided within one of the counties of the 
State six months i)receding the election could vote, pro- 
vided they owned within the county a freehold of twenty 
■pounds, or jiaid a yearly rent of forty shillings, and were 
rated and actually paid taxes. By an act of April 9, 1811, 
these values were changed to corresponding sums in the 
Federal currency, viz., two hundred and fifty dollai-s, fifty 
dollars, and five dollars. No discriminations were made 
against blacks and mulattoes, except that they were re- 
quired to produce authenticated certificates of freedom. 
Freemen of Albany and New Y'ork cities were entitled to 
vote for assemblymen, without the property qualification, 
provided they were such freemen of Albany at the time of 
the adoption of the constitution, and of New York, Octo- 
ber 14, 1775. The elective officers under the first consti- 
tution were those already named, and town-offieors, except 
justices of the peace, all others being appointed by the gov- 
ernor and a council of appointment, which latter was com- 
i posed of one senator from each district, openly nominated 



96 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUiNTY, NEW YORK. 



and a]i[ioiMtL'd each j-ear b}' tlie assembly, no senator being 
eligible twt) years suecessively. Nearly every eivil, military, 
and judicial officer was appointed by this council. In 1821, 
eight thoui^and two hundred and cighty-.'scvcn military and 
six thousand six hundred and sixty-three civil officers held 
their commissions by its authority. The council grew arbi- 
trary and abu.sod it.s power, wielding it oftentimes for par- 
tisan purposes, and hence became unjiopular and dista.stcf'ul 
among the people, and the constitution of 1 821 abolished it 
without a dissenting voice. The journals of the council fill 
fourteen manuscript volumes in the office of secretary of 
State. 

The con.stitulion last named vested the power of the 
council of appointment, modified and restricted, in the 
governor and senate, extended the list of elective officers 
largely, and made more liberal concessions on suffrage. In 
1826 an amendment was adopted by the people, making 
the elective franchise free to all white male citizens resident 
one year in the State, regardless of property qualifications, 
the vote being 127,077 for, to 8215 against the extension, 
in the State; and in 1845 an amendment was adopted for 
the abrogation of the property qualification for office. 

The time of holding the general elections was changed, 
under the constitution of 1821, from April to November; 
and April 5, 1842, an act was pa.ssed directing elections to 
be held in one day, on the Tuesday succeeding the first 
Monday in November. The first constitution declared 
ministers of the gospel and priests ineligible to office, civil 
or military, in order " that they might have no hindrance 
in giving their entire attention to their sacred calling," and 
the constitution of 1821 continued the disability ; but the 
" cloth" are eligible now to any station the people may see 
fit to elevate them to. Under the constitution of 1821, 
the governor appointed the judicial oflicers, justices of the 
peace being nominated to him by the boards of supervisors, 
ami county judges as under the fir.st constitution, until 1826, 
when the latter officials were made elective. Under the 
first constitution the clerks of the courts were appointed 
by the tribunals which they served ; but in 1796 the 
office was abolished, and the county clerks made ex-njjicio 
clerks of the several courts iu the counties. 

Under the constitution tif 1846, nearly every civil oflice 
was made elective, and have remained so to the j)resent time, 
the people refusing to sanction a proposition to make the 
judges of the courts appointive in 1873. In 1SG9, the 
jieoplc also put the stamp of their disapprobation upon a 
proposed article in the defeated constitution of 1867, for 
•juaiified suffrage. 

CONURESSIONAL DISTRICTS. 

The constitution of the United States directs that a cen- 
sus be taken every ten years, which liius been fixed at those 
ending with a ci]iher, and after each enumeration Congress 
ajiportions the representation among the several States. 
Under the first constitution of New York, the apportion- 
ment for the State was as follows: 1789, ratio 30,000, 6 
representatives; April 14, 1792, ratio 38,000, 10; Janu- 
ary 14, 1802, ratio 33,000, 17; December 21, 1811, ratio 
35,000, 27. Under the constitution of 1821, the appor- 
tionment was as follows: March 7, 1822, ratio 40,000, 34 



representatives; May 22, 1832, ratio 47,000, 40; June 25, 
1842, ratio 70,680, 34. Under the present constitution, 
the apportionment has been as follows : July 30, 1852, ratio 
93,423, 33; July 5, 1861, ratio 127,000, 31 ; 1872, ratio 
133,000, 33. 

As soon as practicable after each apportionment, the 
legislature divides the State into congressional districts. 
In the first two divisions the districts were not numbered, 
the tliiid division, in 1797, being the first one to number 
them. By an act of March 20, 1802, Herkimer, Oneida, 
and St. Lawrence were made the 15th district. The act of 
erection made Jefferson and Lewis a part of this district; 
and April 8, 1808, Herkimer, Lewis, St. Lawrence, and 
Jefferson were made the 10th district. On June 10, 1812, 
Lewis, Jefferson, and St. Lawrence were made the 18th; 
April 17, 1822, Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Law- 
rence were made the 2()th, and entitled to two meinhevs ; 
June 29. 1832, Jefferson was made the 18th ; September 6, 
1842, Jefferson was made the 19th; and July 10, 1851, 
Jefferson and Lewis were made the 23d. In 1862, Her- 
kimer, Lewis, and Jefferson were made the 20lh, and in 
1871 the last-named counties were constituted the 22d. 

MEMBERS OF CONGRESS, 

giving the years when elected. 



1798— Jonas Piatt. 
1800— lionjamin Walker. 
1802— Gayloril Griswokl. 
1S04 — Nathan Williams. 
1806— William Kirk Patrick. 
1808— John Nicholson. 
1810— Silas Stow. 
1812-U— Moss Kent. 
1810— Daviil A. Ogdcn. 
1818— William D. I'orcl. 
1820— Micah Sterling. 
1822— Ela Collins, Egbert Ten 

Eyck. 
1S21— Xicoll Fosdick, Egbert 

Ten Evek. 
182C— Silas Wright, KiiJul|,h 

Bunncr. 



1828— Jose). h Hawkins. Geo. 

Fisher. 
1S30— Daniel Warduell. Chas. 

Diiyan. 
1832-.'!J— Daniel W.arJwcll. 
1836— Isaac H. Bronson. 
1838-40- Thos. C. Chiltcn<len. 
1842-44— Orville Hungerlord. 
1846- Joseph Mullin. 
1848— Charles E. Clark. 
ISaO— Willard Ives. 
1852— Caleb Lyon. 
1854- William A. Gilbert. 
18j6-o8— Charles I!. Hoard. 
1860-02- Ambrose W. Clark. 
1801-68— Addison H. Laliin. 
1870-72— Clinton L. Merriani. 
1874-76— George A. Baglcy. 



THE LEGISLATURE. 

The first constitution provided that the supreme legi.sla- 
tive power within the State should be vested in two sep- 
arate and distinct bodies of men ; the one to be called the 
Assembly, and the other the Senate of the State of New 
Y'ork, which together form the Legislature, and .should 
meet at least once in each year, for the dispatch of business. 

The first Legislature had its first meeting at Kingston, 
which began September 9, and ended October 7, 1778, dis- 
persing on the approach of the enemy. The Governor, 
Chancellor, and Judges of the Supreme court, or any two 
of them, with the governor, were constituted by the con- 
stitution a Council of Revision, to revi.se all bills ai)out to 
be passed into laws by the Legislature, as well as bills al- 
ready passed ; and if such bills were found objectionable by 
the council the .same were returned to the body in which 
the same originated, with the objections of the council in 
writing; and only a two-thirds vote of the members pres- 
ent in both houses could pa.ss the bill over the objections. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



97 



The council was abolished by the constitution of 1821, and 
its power, niotlififd and restricted, vested in the governor, 
which power that officer still retains. During the existence 
of the Council it returned one hundred and sistj-nine bills 
to tlie Legislature, with its objection.s, fifty-one of which 
became laws notwithstandiiitr. 

The assembly originates all bills for appropriations of 
money, claiming that right soon after the organization of 
the government, wliich, though for a short time contested 
by the senate, was b^' that body, in November, 1778, 
tacitly surrendered, the latter body retaining the free exer- 
cise of its right to amend, modify, or reject, as it may deem 
proper. The two hou.scs jointly, from 1777 to 1789, ap- 
pointed delegates to Congress; since 1787, regents of the 
university; since 1789, senators in Congress; and from 
181G to 1844, canal commissioners. 

Under the first constitution the senate consisted of twenty- 
four members, apportioned among four great districts. After 
the first election they were divided by lot into four classes, 
so that the terms of six should expire each year. An ad- 
ditional senator should be added to each di-strict whenever, 
by a septennial cen.sus, it was shown that the number of 
electors in the district had increased one-twenty-fourth. 
This increase was to be allowed until the number reached 
one hundred. The census of 1795 made the number 
forty-three. In 1801, the rule being found uneiiual in its 
operation, the constitution was amended so as to fix the 
number permanently at thirty-two, which has ever since 
been retained. 

The districts fixed by the constitution were the .southern, 
middle, western, and eastern, the western ini-huling Albany 
and Tryon counties as its territory, and being entitled to 
sis senators. In 1791 the State was re-districted, by 
which action the western district comprised the counties 
of Albany, Ilerkinier, Montgomery, Ontario, Otsego, Sara- 
toga ; Tioga from February IG, 1791, Onondaga from 
March 5, 1794, and Schoharie from April 6, 1795, and 
was entitled to five senators. Under the act of March 4, 
179C, the western district comprised the counties of Alle- 
gany, Herkimer, Montgomery, until 1803, Onondaga, On- 
tario, Otsego, Schoharie, Tioga, Steuben, from March 18, 
170(i, Oneida from March 15, 1798, Cayuga from March 
8, 1799, St. Lawrence from .March 15, 1802, Genesee from 
March 30, 1802, Seneca from March 29, 1804, Jefferson 
and Lewis from March 28, 1805, Madison from March 21, 
180G, Broome from March 28, 1806, Cattaraugus, Cha- 
taui|ua, and Niagara from March 11, ISOS, and Cortland 
from April 8, 1808,* and w<is entitled to eleven members 
until 1803, nine from 1803 to 1808, and twelve from 1808 
to 1815. 

Under the act of April 15, 1815, Jefferson County 
formed a part of the eastern district, the other counties 
composing the same being Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Her- 
kimer, Lewis, Montgomery, Rensselaer, St. Lawrence, Sara- 
toga, Schenectady, Warren, Washington, and Hamilton 
from April IG, 1816, the date of its organization, and the 
district was entitled to eight senators. 



^ The dates here given are the times of organizatiou of the counties 
respectively. 



Under the constitution of 1821 the legislature, in joint 
session, appointed the .secretary of State, comptroller, treas- 
urer, attorney-general, surveyor-general, and commi.s.sary- 
general, in addition to their former power of appointment. 
A decennial census was provided for by this constitution 
also, by which the apportionment of senators and a.ssembly- 
men should be from time to time ei(ualized. The appoint- 
ments of the governor and senate, during the life of the 
con.stitution of 1821, numbered two thousand two hundred 
and thirty-eight. The State was divided into eight great 
senatorial districts, each of which was entitled to four sena- 
tors, one being elected each year, with official terms of four 
years. The fifth district comprised the counties of Her- 
kimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, and Oswego 
until Jlay 23, 183G, when Ot.scgo was annexed and Her- 
kimer transferred. By the constitution of 184G the coun- 
ties of Jefferson and Lewis were constituted the twenty-first 
district, and were entitled to one senator. Under the act 
of April 13, 1857, these counties were constituted the 
eighteenth district, with the .same re]ircseiitation, which 
constitution and representation remains unchanged at the 
present time. 

The candidates for senators previous to 1848 were elected 
on a general ticket for the entire district, but since that 
time each district has been assigned a single member. 
Tender the first constitution, Jefferson County had but a 
single senator resident within its borders, the same being 
Perley Keyes, who was elected in 1814, and sat in the 
senate until the elo.se of the furlieth session, which ended 
April 14, 1817. In the fifth district, from 1822 to 1847, 
the senators who resided in Jefferson County, and who 
were elected therefrom, were as follows: 1824-27, Perley 
Keyes;! 1832-35, Robert Lansing; 183G-39, Micah 
Sterling; 1842-43, William Ruger; 1844-45, George C. 
Sherman. The senators of the twenty-first district have 
been as follows: 1848-49, John W. Tamblin ; 1850-51, 
Alanson Skinner; 1851, Caleb Lyon (to fill vacancy); 
1852-53, Ashley Davenport; 1854-55, Robert Lansing; 
185G-57, Gardner Towne; 1858-59, Joseph A. Willard. 
In the eighteenth district ; 18G0-G5, James A. Bell ; 18GG- 
G9, John O. Bonnell ; 1870-73, Norris Winslow ; 1874-75, 
Andrew C. Middleton ; 1876-77, James F. Starbuck. 

The assembly has always been chosen annually. It con- 
sisted, at first, of seventy members, with the power to 
increase one with every seventieth increase of the number 
of electors until it contained three hundred members. 



■j- Peri.ky Kkvkswhs born in Acworth, New Hampshire, Febru- 
ary 24, 1774. He first selllcd in RulliinJ ; but on his appointment 
as sheriff of Jefferson Cuuiity, in ISOil, ho removed to Watertown, 
where he ever afterwards lived untilliis deal!). Notwithstanding a 
liick of early education, his native strength of mind and clearness of 
juilgmcnt gave him the confidence of the Kcpublican (Democratic) 
party, of which he was un ardent supporter, and he held successively 
the offices of magistrate, judge of the county court, sheriff, collector 
of customs at .Saekef s Harbor, was twice elected to the State senate, 
and held terms of four years each time (1S14-17 and 1S24-27), and 
was in 1ST6 a member of the council of appointment. He was a 
leader in his party, and was strongly recommended to President 
•Van Buren lor the post of Territorial governor of Wisconsin, in IS.tO, 
by Silas Wright, Jr., A. G. Fbigg, E. Croswell, and Governor W. I,. 
Marcy, but an apoidectic stroke prevented his appointment. He 
died in Watertuwii, .May l:i, 1S34. — Hoioil. 



98 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



When the constitution was aniendfiJ in 1801 the number 
had readied one hundred and eight, when it was reduced 
to one hundred, witii a provision that it should be increased 
after eaeli sc|iteniiial census, at the rate of two annually, 
until the number reached one hundred and fifty. This 
increase was twelve in 1808, and fourteen in 1815. Mem- 
bers in the several counties were elected on a general ticket. 
The con.stitution of 1821 fi.\ed the number of members of 
as.sembly permanently at one hundred and twenty-eight, 
which number was continued by the present constitution. 
No change can be made in the representation of counties 
between the period fixed by the constitution for the appor- 
tionment based upon the census taken in years ending in 
five ; the votes in new counties, organized in the mean time, 
being canvassed in the original counties as if no division 
liad been made, until a new apportionment is made after 
another State census is taken. The constitution of 1846 
also required the boards of supervisors of the several 
counties to meet on the first Tuesday of January succeeding 
the adoption of the constitution and divide the counties 
int« districts of the number apportioned to them, of con- 
venient and contiguous territory, and as nearly of erpial 
population as possible. After each State census a )o-ap]ior- 
tioiiment is made by the legislature, and a re-distrieting 
of counties ordered. Pursuant to this provision, the 
boards met in January, 1847. Fulton and Hamilton 
counties were assigned one assemblyman together, and 
every other county in the State had one or more. Jeffer- 
son had three members. Fulton and Hamilton have re- 
ceived no addition to their representation since their first 
assignment. On March ol, 1802, Oneida was given four 
members, and St. Lawrence, formed of a part of its terri- 
tory, continued to be represented with it till 1805, when 
Jefferson and Lewis were formed from Oneida, and St. 
Lawrence taken from the representative district of Oneida 
and associated with the new counties, and three members 
assigned to the new district. On April 1, 1808, Jefferson 
was given two members, and so continued to be repre- 
sented until 1821), when three members were assigned as 
its represcntatioTi, which latter apportionment continued 
until ISOG, when the rejiresentation was reduced to two 
members, which remains unchanged at this date. 

In 1804, David Coffeen was one of the representatives 
from Oneida county, and in 1805, at the time the county 
was divided, the asscmblynuMi were George Brayton, Joseph 
Jennings, Joseph Kirkland, and Benjamin Wright. Walter 
Martin, of Lewis county (afterward), was also returned as 
having an er|ual number of votes as Mr. Wright, but the 
latter was admitted to his seat November 7, 1804. 

The as-semblymen from Jefferson have been as follows ; 

1806.— lleiir>- Coffccn. 
1807.— jMuss Kent. 
180S.— Lewis Graves. 
1809.— Corlis Hin.U, D. I. Aiidnis. 
1810-1 1.— Moss Kent, E. Bronson. 
1812.- D. I. Anrlnis, John Durkcc. 
1813.— E. Ten Ejck, (lurk Allen. 
I814.-^E. Bronson, Clark Allen. 
ISlo.— E. Bron5.>n, M. Hopkins. 
1810.— Amos Sulihins, Abel Cole. 
1817.— A. Stcbbins, Eben. Wood. 
1818.— Abel Cole, Horivlio Orvis. 



1819. — Ge'irge Brown, Jr., J. Cowles. 

1820.— II. .Steele, C. McKnigbt. 

1821.— Ainos Stcbbins, K. Goodalc. 

1822.- G. Andrus, J. B. Esselstyn. 

182.'!-2.').— Richard Goodale, George AVhite, John B. Esselst.yn. 

1S26-28.— David W. Bucklin, Daniel AVardwell, Al|ibeus S. Greene. 

18211. — Jcrre Carrier, Titus Ives, Flcury Keith. 

1830. — Aaron Brown, Curtis G. Brooks, Charles Orvis. 

18;jl.— Walter Cole, Kleur.v Keith, Joseph C. Budd. 

1.832.- William H. Angel, I'hilip Maxwell, Nathan Strong. 

1833.— Jolham Ives, John Burch, William II. Angel. 

1834.— AVilliain H. Angel, Eli West, Calvin MeKiiight. 

1.835.— Charles Strong, Eli FarwcU, Calvin Clark. 

1836.- Lowrey Barney, Otis P. Starkey, Richar.l llulbert. 

1837.— Jothaui Bigclow, Richard Hulbert, John W. Taniblin. 

1838.— Daniel Wardwcll, Richard Hulbert, John W. Tamblin. 

1839.— Calvin Clark, Charles E. Clarke, Philij. Gage. 

1840.— Calvin Clark, Charles E. Clarke, Stephen Johnson. 

1841. — William C. Pierrepont, Joseph Webb, William McAllaster. 

1812.- Elihu McNeil, Elihu C. Church, John W. Tamblin. 

1843. — Elihu C. Church, Joseph Graves, Job Lamson. 

1844.- Samuel Bond, William Carlisle, Eli West. 

1845. — Edward S. Salisbury, Aze! W. Danforth, Lysnnder H. Brown. 

1846.— Levi Miller, Henderson Howk, Elihu M. McNeil. 

1847 — John Boyden, John D. Davidson, Samusl J. Davis. 

Jefferson County, under the new con.stitution, was divi- 
ded into three assembly districts, as follows: 

Thr Fir.ll District, comprising Watertown, Henderson, 
Adams, Ellisburg, Lorraine, Rodman, Hounsfield, and 
Worth. 

The Seconil Dixlrict, comprising Rutland, Champion, 
Wilna, Philadelphia, Antwerp, Le Ray, Theresa, and 
Alexandria. 

The Third District, comprising Brownville, Lyme. Cape 
Vincent, Clayton, Pamelia, and Orleans. The members 
under that arrangement were as follows : 



1848.- 
1849.- 
1850.- 
1851.- 
1852.- 
1853.- 
1854.- 
1855.- 
1856.- 
1S57». 
1S5S.- 
1859.- 
1860.- 
1861.- 
1862.- 
1863.- 
1864.- 
1,865.- 
18661-. 
1867.- 



Fiist Itistrict. 
-Benjamin Maxon. 
-George Gates. 
-John Winslow. 
-William A. Gilbert. 
-William A. Gilbert, 
-.lames Gifford. 
-Calvin Litlleficld. 
-Calvin Littlefield. 
-Hart Massey. 
—Calvin Littlcfield. 
-George Babbitt. 
-Russell Wc:iver. 
-Barnard D. Searles. 
-David Montague. 
-Jonathan M..Ackley. 
-Chas. A. Benjamin. 
-Geo. M. Hopkinson. 
-Jas. G, Kellogg. 
-Theo. Canliehl. 
-Lafay. J. Bigclow. 



Second P'strict. 
Harvey D. Parker. 
John L. .Marsh. 
Joel Haworth. 
Jidin Pool, Jr. 
Merri! Colburn. 
Dewitt C. West. 
Jesso E. Willis. 
Moses Eamcs. 
Franklin Parker. 
Cleanthus Granger. 
Elihu C. Church. 
Patrick S. Stewart. 
W. W. Taggart. 
Daviil J. AVager, 
(icorge W. Ila/.lcton. 
Levi Miller. 
Lewis Palmer. 
Lewis Palmer. 
Nelson 1>. Ferguson. 
Albert D. Shaw. 



TliirJ District. 
Fleury Keith. 
Bernard Bagely. 
Alfred Fo.\. 
Lorin Bushncll. 
William Rouso. 
Charles Smith. 
William Dewey. 
Joshua Main. 
Isaac AVells. 
Abner W. Peck. 
Robert F. Austin. 
Firman Fish. 
Moses C. Jewett. 
Harvey Bailey. 
William Dewey. 
William Dewey. 
William Dewey. 
R. B. Biddlccom. 
R. B. Biddlccom. 



^ In 1857 a ui'w apjiortioTimunt and redistrioting was made, the 
re]>resentation remaining unchanged, but the districts being altered. 
Brownville was transferred from the first to tlic third ; Watertown 
to the second from the first; Alexandria from the second to the (bird : 
and Theresa from the second to the thirtl. 

f In 1866 the representation of Jefferson County was reduced to 
two assemblymen and the county divided into two districts. The 
first one coniprising the towns of Adams, Champion, Ellisburg, 
Henderson, Hounsfield, Lorraine, Rodman, Rutland, Watertown, and 
Worth: the sctiond district comprising the towns of Alexandria, 
Antworji, Brownville, Cape Vincent, Clayton. Le Ray, Lyme, Orleans, 
Pamelia, Philadelphia, Theresa, and Wilna. These districts con- 
linuc thus limited at the present time. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



99 



1868. — Ij. J. Bigclow. Andrew Cornwall. 

] 8(59-70. —Jnj- Dimick. W. AV. liutterfielil. 

1871. — Oliver li. Wvinan. .rnnies .Johnson. 

1872.— Oliver H. Wymiin. Wm. W. Enos. 

187.3. — Eliiiu Persons. Ilorntio S. Henilie. 

1874.— Elam Persons. Hugh Pniilh. 

1875. — Eliini Persons. (ieorgc E. Yost. 

1S7C. — Lotus Ingnlls. Lansing beckcr. 
],S7". — Charles R. Skinner. Henry Spioer. 

UELEOATES TO THE CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTIONS. 

1821.— Egbert Ten Eyck and Horace Steo!c. 
184B.— Alphcus S. Orcene, A/.el Danforth, and Elihii M. McNeil. 
1807.- James A. Bell, M. H. Merwin. Marcus liickford, and Edward 
A. Brown. 

Coiinly Clerks. — By appoiiitiiiciit anmially by the gover- 
nor and couucil before 1821, aud by election since. Terms, 
throe years : 

Henry Coffeen, 1805-G ; Egbert Ten Eyck,1807-10 ; Ben- 
jamin Sicinner, 1811-12 ; Richard M. Esselstyn, 1813-1-4 ; 
B. Skinner, 1815-20; George Andrus, 1820-21 ; Henry 
H. Slierwood, 1822-24 ; Peieg Biirehard, 1820-40 ; Daniel 
Lcc, 1841-43; Charles B. Hoard, "1844-4G; James G. 
Lynde, 1847-49; Isaac 3Iunson, lSJO-52; John L. 
Marsh, 1853-58; R. B. Biddlecom, 1859-61; Dexter 
Wilder, 1SG2-67; Nelson D. Ferguson, 18G8-70; Jacob 
Stears, Jr., 1871-76; George Cole, 1877, and present 
incumbent. . 

Slwriffs (by appointment previous to 1821, and by elec- 
tion since. Terms, three years). — Abel Sherman, 1805-7 ; 
Perley Keys, 1808-11; David I. Andrus, 1812; John 
Paddock, 1813-14; David I. Andrus, 1815-17; Joseph 
Clark, 1818; Amasa Trowbridge, lSl<)-20; Jason Fair- 
banks, 1821-25 ; Henry H. Coffeen, 1826-28; John Fay, 
1829-31; Heman Jlillard, 1832-34; Chauncey Baker, 
1835-37; Abner Baker, 1838-40; Albert P. Brayton, 
1841-43; Herman Strong, 1844-46; Walter Collins, 
1847-49; Rufus Herrick, 1849-51; Daniel C. Rouse, 
1852-54; Wells Benton, 1855-57 ; Abner Baker, 1858- 
60; Francis A. Cross, 1861-63; Nathan Strong, 1864- 
66 ; James Johnson, 1867-69 ; Addison W. Wheelock, 
1870-72; George Babbitt, 1873-75; Abner W. Peck, 
1876-78. 

County Treasurers (by appointment of Board of Super- 
visors till 1848, and by election since). — Benjamin Skinner^ 
1805-7; Joseph Clark, 1807-13; Wm. Smith, 1813-23; 
Marianus W. Gilbert, 1823-28 ; Jason Fairbanks, 1828- 
38 ; Thomas Baker, 1838-40 ; Adriel Ely, 1840^2 ; John 
Sigourney, 1842-43; Wm. H. Robinson, 1843-46; Silas 
Clark, 1846-48; Wm. Smith, 1849-51; Silas Clark, 1852 
-54; James M. Clark, 1855-57; Myron Beebee, 1858- 
63 ; Benj. F. Hotelikiss, 1864-69 ; John M. Carpenter, 
1870-75 ; L. W. Tyler, 187*!, and present incumbent. 

District Attorntijs.—\\\ 1796 (February 12) the ofiSce 
of Assistant Attorney-General was created for districts, the 
incumbent.s to be appointed by the governor and council of 
appointment, and to be in charge of the criminal business 
previously performed by the clerks of the court. Otsego 
and Herkimer counties were constituted one di.*trict. In 
1801 the office was abolished, and the office of district at- 
torney created in lieu thereof, with the appointment tliere- 
for vested in the governor. The counties of Otsego, 
Oneida, Herkimer, and Chenanuu were constituted one dis- 



trict, to which Jefferson County was attached by the act of 
creation. In 1808, Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence 
were constituted a separate district, and in 1818, Jefferson 
alone composed one. 

The office has been filled as follows : Nathan Williams, 
1807; S. AVhittlescy, 1808; Amos Benedict, 1810; S. 
AVhittl&sey, 1811; Amos Benedict, 1813-14; Ela Col- 
lins, 1815; D. W. Bucklin, 1818; Horatio Shumway, 
1820; D. W. Bucklin, 1821. Under the e(m.slitution of 
1821 the attorney was appointed by the court, the .succes- 
sion being: D. W. Bucklin, Robert Lansing, George C. 
Shern)an, Wm. D. Ford, D. N. Burnhain, Joseph Mullen, 
Robert Lansing. Under the constitution of 1847 the 
office was elective, and has been filled as follows: Joshua 
Moore, Jr., 1848-51 ; James F. Starbuck, 1852-53 ; De- 
lano C. Calvin, 1854-56; D. M. Bennett, 1857-59; Brad- 
ley Winslow, 1860-62; L. J. Bigclow, 1863-65; Bradley 
Winslow, 1866-63; Pardon C. Williams, 1869-74; Wat- 
son M. Rogers, 1875-77. 

Commissioner <>/ Jitxah-eiiei/.—i^. Whittlesey, April 8, 
1811. 

Commissioners to perform duties of Judge of Supreme 
Court.— Wm. D. Ford, 1817; David W, Bueklin, 1821. 

Coroners, with date of first a]ipointment : 1S04, Eleazer 
House, of Turin ; this territory extended over this county ; 
18(15, Ambrose Pea.se, Hart ]Mas.sey, Faircbild Hubbard; 
1808, Orimel Brewster; 1809, Benjamin Poole, Jr. ; 1810, 
Nathaniel Haven; 1811, Jason Fairbanks, William War- 
ing, Andrew S. Bond; 1812, Simccm Forbes; 1813, Elijah 
Fox, Henry Martin, Seth Bailey, Ezra Stearns; 1814, 
Daniel Leonard; 1815, Elijah Sheldon, Nathan Burnhain ; 
1816, James Perry; 1817, Hiram Steele; 1818, Seth 
Otis, John B. EsseKstyn, James Shields, Joseph Kellogg, 
John Cowles, Nathan Brown, Abijah Jenkins; 1820, Wil- 
liam Merrills; 1821, Suel Wilson, Luther Gilson, Gideon 
S. Sacket, Eseck Lewis, Jacob C. Greene, Sylvester Smith, 
John Chamberlain, Eleazer A Scott, Pardon Smith ; 1822, 
Alfred M. Ackley. 

Under the late and present constitution coroners have 
been elected, but we have not been able to procure the 
names of those between 1822 and 1828. 

Azariah Walton, Alfred M. Ackley, William Wood, 
Abijah Jenkins, in 1828; A. Jenkins, Archibald Fisher, 
James McKeuzie, Elijah Fields, in 1831 ; Luther G Hoyt, 
E. Fields, Mahlon P. Jackson, in 1834 ; Truman S. Angel, 
E. Fields. Jotham Bigclow, Ebenezcr Sabiii, in 1837 ; 
Henry D. Caldwell (did not ViualiFy), Asaliel Smith, Liberty 
Coiuins,Samuel W.Vincent, James G. Lynde, in 1841 ; Arba 
Strong, Jedediah McCumber, Pear.son JIundy, in 1843; 
Samuel W. Gilbert, in 1844 ; Samuel J. Davis, in 1845; 
James White, Thomas Benjamin, Jacob Cramer, John W. 
Fuller, in 1846; Andrew Cornwell, in 1847; Abraham 
Schuyler, Thomas Benjamin, Horace P. Mitchell, in 1849; 
Je&se Davis, in 1850; A. Schuyler, Aaron Eddy, Patrick 
Keon,in 1852; Lyman E. Hungerford, in 1853; Ambrose 
H. Huntington, 1854; Loren Bu.shnell, Nathaniel Inger- 
son, Walter Failing, 1855 ; Wm. D. Lewis, I'eter 0. Wil- 
liams, 1856; Rinaldo M. Bingham, 1857; Rinaldo M. 
Bingham, Jesse Davis, James A. Bell, 1858 ; Loren Bush- 
nell, Wm. D. Lewis, 1859; Robert G. Angel, Valentine 



100 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Parker, 1861; J. B. Tamblin, Robert G. Angel, 1864; 
Anson G. Thompson, Orriii F. Saunders, 1805; Orrin W. 
Smith, Addison W. Goodale, Anson G. Thompson, Orrin 
F. Saunders, 18G8; Orrin W. Smith, 1870; F. B. A. 
Lewis, 1870-74; Eugene H. Chapman, 187(1-72; Henry 
W. Jewett, 1870-75; Joseph Thibault, 1871-72; Perry 
Caswell, 1872-75; S. D. Lord, 1878 and 1870-77; Geo. 
N. Hubbard, 1874-77; L. B. Fliillips, 1875-77; Jacob 
Snell, 1870-77. 

Lonn Comniinsioiiers. — 1808, Gershom Tuttle, Amos 
Stebbins ; 1810, Henry H. Sherwood, in place of Stebbins ; 
1818, Daniel Eamcs, in place of Tuttle ; 1822, Seth Otis, in 
place of Eames; 1829, Curtis G. Crook.s, in place of Sher- 
wood ; 1835, Jo.st'ph Graves, in place of Brooks; 1839, 
Daniel Eames, in place of Otis; 1840, Albert P. Lewis, in 
place of Graves ; 1843, Joel Wood worth, in place of Lewis ; 
Martin L. Graves, in place of Eames. M. L. Graves and 
Joel Woodworth were commissioners when this fund was 
consolidated with the United States deposit fund in 1850. 

United Slates Deposit Fund. — April 28, 1837, Jason 
Marsh, John Macomber ; February 28, 1840, Edward B. 
Hawes, in place of Marsh ; January 12, 1841, Oliver Child, 
in place of Macomber ; April 4, 1843, Moses Brown, in 
place of Child; Rufus H. King, in place of Hawes; 
February 29, 1848, Nathau Ingerson, in place of Brown; 
Wells Benton, in place of King; February 28, 1852, Phi- 
lander Smith, in place of Benton ; Solon Blassey, in place 
of Ligerson ; 1857-00, Joseph Fagel, John C. Cooper; 
1861-63, J. E. Willis, A. C. Moffatt; 1864-66, A. C. Mof- 
fatt, E. J. Marsh; 1800-08, E. D. Allen, D. M. Hall; 
1869-73, Carlton C. Moore, Hiram Converse; 1874-77, 
Hiram Converse, Henry Bailey. 

Excise Commissioners (by appointment of county judge 
and justices of peace under the law of 1857). — 1859-04, 
John Winslow, Seth Strickland, Jack Putnam ; 1865-71, 
C. A. Benjamin in place of Strickland; 1868-71, John L. 
Hotehkiss in plaee of Winslow; 1870-71, B. K. Hawes 
in place of Putnam. The office was abolished in 1871. 

School Commissimieis. — lender the act of 1840, the 
board of supervisors of Jefferson County appointed two 
commissioners of schools in November, 1841, L-a May- 
hew and Henry D. Scwell. In 1842, Lysandcr H. Brown 
was apj)ointed in place of Mr. Sewell, and in 1843 Porter 
Montgomery succeeded Mr. iMayhew. This year the county 
was divided into two districts, and Mr. Brown had charge 
of the northern one, and Mr. Montgomery the southern. 
In 1844 this division was aboli.shod, and Mr. Montgomery 
put in charge of the whole county. In 1845 Erwin S. 
Barnes was appointed, and held the position until the office 
was abolisheil in 1848. In 1857 the commissioners were 
elected, and since then have been as follows ; 1858-00, 
Henry H. Smith, Lafayette Lytic, J. Ferdinand Dayan ; 
1861-63, Henry II. Smith, Jedediah Winslow, William 
Hawes; 1804-06, George A. Ramsey, Samuel D. Barr, 
George H. Strough ; 1866, Joseph M. Beaman ; 1867-69, 
Alonzo E. Coolc}', Jo.seph M. Beaman, Charles A. Kelsey ; 
1870-72, Alphonso E. Cooley, Bennett F. Biown, Horace 
E. Morse ; 1873-75, Willard C. Porter, Henry Purccll, 
George H. Strough; ]87(i-78, W. H. Sias, Ambro.sc E. 
Sawyer, Don A. Watson. 



The Jitdjrs of the courts are enumirated in connaction 
with those tribunals, and the chairman and clerks of the 
board of supervisors are named in connection with that 
body. 

Beside the officers named in the foregoing list, the citi- 
zens of Jefferson have honorably filled national and State 
offices as follows: Presidential Electors — 1816, Elijihalet 
Edmonds, by appointment of Legislature; 1828, Jesse 
Smith; 1832, Ebenezer Wood ; 1836, Orville Hunger- 
ford;* 1840, Elhridge G. Merrick; 1844, Azariah Doane ; 
1848, John Bradley; 1800, Hiram Dewey; 1864, John 
Clarke ; 1868, De Witt C. West ; Henry Spencer, 1876. 
Lieutenant-Governor^ Allen C. Bo.ich, 1870-73. Council 
of Ajipointment. Perley Keyes, 1816. State's Prison In- 
spector, James K. Bates, 1860. Auditor in Canal De- 
partment, James A. Bell, 1870. Private Secretary to 
Governor, Beman Brockway, 1865. 



CHAPTER IX. 

THE LEARNED PROFESSIONS. 

The B:ir — Tlic Mui.lical Profession — Educational ; Acailemies, Public 
Schools, Libr;yics — Religious. 

THE JEFFERSON COaNTl' BAR. 

In an act relating to attorneys, passed in 1787, it was 
declared that none should be admitted to the practice of the 
profession in the courts of the State but " such as have 
been brought up in the court he applies to, or are otherwise 
well practiced in soliciting causes, and have been found by 
the discharge of their duties to be skillful, and of honest 
disposition." In 1840, the Court of Appeals was given the 
power to establish rules of admission to the practice of the 
profession in the State courts, and access thereto was made 
comparatively an easy matter, and many throughout the 
State entered on an honorable profession whose subsequent 

* OriviLLK Hu.vGEiiFonD wfts bom in Fnrmin 'ton, Ootobor 29, 1790. 
Ho settled in Watertown in 1804, and coininenced a clerkship with 
Judge Jahcz Fo..Jter in the hitter's .«tore in Rurrvillc, and in 1807 or 
1808 removed with him to \VutertoHn, where tliey engaged in mer- 
cantile business as partners. During the AVar of lS12-I.i the firm 
was extensively engaged as contractors for su{>plies for the array of 
Sacket's Harbor. In 1S1.T Mr. Hungerl'ord began trade by himself, 
and continued therein until 18-12. In the latter year he was elected 
to Congress, and reprcsentcil the 10th district in that body four years. 
In 1817 he wa^ nominated for comptroller by the Democratic party, 
but was defeated by Millard Fillmore, the vote standing thus: 

JefforBon County. State, 

For 0. Hungerford 4103 t For 0. Hungerr..rd i:iG.017 

" Milhird I'iilmorc 389:! I " Millard Fillmore 171.7.i6 

" Lewis Tupjian 489 I '• Lewis T.ippan Itl.lOS 

While in Citngress he was appidntcd at the lirst session of his first 
term on the Committees of Revolutionary Pensions and on Accounts, 
and the business tact and ability which he displayed raised him high 
in the estimation of his associates, and at the next session he was 
placed on the most important committee of the House, — that of Ways 
and Means, — where he fully sustained the reputation he had acquired, 
that of a thorough business man. He was the first President of the 
Rome and Capo Vincent Railroad, in the promotion of which he 
labored with a zeal and energy that knew no weariness or discourage- 
ment, and clied while holding the position, .\pril fi. IS.M, after an 
illness of but twelve davs. — HoCGlI. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



101 



career lias not been remarkably brilliant ; but notwithstand- 
ing this fact, so many attorneys of national repute and ac- 
knowledged ability have been and arc numbered in the 
annals of the bar of the State, its fame is imjierishablc ; and 
the Jefferson County bar has contributed no little to the 
honorable record. 

The following list of resident attorneys' of Jefferson 
County has been compiled from the records of the courts of 
the county where their names a]'pcar, more or less fre- 
quently, in the conduct of cases before the several tribunals 
of the Common Pleas, Oyer and Terminer, General Ses- 
sions, and County Circuit and Supreme Courts, and which 
list has been revised by two tniineiit practitioners of the 
early days of the county, as well as of its latter ones. 
The dates prefixed are the dates of the fir^t appearance of 
the attorney named in the courts of the county, and the 
name of tiie town given was, or is, the i)lace of residence 
of the person named. 

WiitcrtowH. — 1807, S. Wliittlesey, Amos Benedict, B. 
Skinner, S. C. Kennedy, Moss Kent; 1808, Micah Ster- 
ling ; 1800, Wm. Brown ; 1811, D. W. Bucklin, D. Perry, 
J. M. Canfield, Egbert Ten Eyck ; 181G, Charles E. 
Clarke, Thomas C. Chittenden, Harlowe Emerson ; 1820, 
W. H. Shumway; 1821, Wm. I). Ford, Robert Lansing; 
1822, A. Loomis, Geo. C. Sherman ; 1825, Isaac G. Bron- 
son, John Clarke; 1829, Bernard Bagley ; 1830, W. 
Smith; ISH], Wm. A. Greene, E. Dodge; 1835, J. W. 
Tamblin ; 183G, Wm. A. Ruger, C. Mason, S. G. Watson ; 
1838, A. W. Watson, J. Mullen ; 1840, F. W. Hubbard, 
W. C. Thompson, Woostcr Sherman; 1841, Randolph 
Barnes, W. H. Green, E. W. Williams, Charles D. Wright ; 
1842, J. Moore, Jr.; 1843, W. W. Sherman, D. M. 
Bennett, N. P. Wardwell, J. H. Button ; 1S44, Luther J. 
Dorwin ; 184G, Lysander H. Brown, J. F. Hutchinson ; 
1847, Levi H. Brown, G. M. Bucklin, James F. Star- 
buck, James R. A. Perkins; 1848, John S. Newcomb, 

A. Wilson, S. J. Hubbard, E. B. Wynn ; 184!), L. H. 
Ainsworth, W. F. Porter, Lotus Ingalls; 1850, D. C. 
Calvin, Geo. A. Bagley; 1852, E. Q. Sewall ; 1853, A. 

C. Beach; 1854, M. H. Merwin, Fred. Emerson, Wm. 

B. Farwell ; 1855, G. II. Sherman, John Lansing; 1856, 
Bradley Winslow, M. G. Warrington ; 1857, A. H. Saw- 
yer, Joseph Spratt; 1858, W. N. Sherman, Milton Bal- 
lard, L. J. Bigelow, Brockway, N. Whiting, I.^aac 

-Munson ; 1859, Fred. Lansing, Jr., Jesse T. Reynolds, 
J. W. Gilbert; 18G0, C. T. Hammoiul, Anson B. Moore, 
A. D. Sternberg, Chas. A. Sherman, S. D. Barr, H. A. 
Gates, M. J. Connelly, Chas. H. Kelscy ; 18G1, C. H. 
Watts, Stephen Strong, S. II. Hammond, John C. McCar- 
tin; 18G2, W. W. faggart, D. 0. Brien ; 1864, Allan 
McGregor, John Cosgrove, Ross C. Scott, P. C. Wil- 
liams; 1865, Francis N. Fitch; 18G6, Edgar North; 

1870, 0. G. Walrath, W. M. Rogers, Walter S. Lamb ; 

1871, Joseph Mullen, Jr., H. S. Gipson; 1872, H. W. 
Congdon, E. C. Dorwin, W. H. Hotchkin, E. C. Emerson, 
Andrew J. Moore; 1873, Thomas F. Kearnes ; 1875, 
Hannibal Smith, F. H. Remington, George W. Moak ; 
1876, W. B. Brecn, Henry C. Cook, Henry Purcell, 

D. G. Griffin, John W. Hogan, C. W. Hubbard, Frederick 
D. Sherman ; 1877, George S. Hooker, Wilbur A. Porter, 



S. S. Trowbridge; date not given, Henry A. Munson, S. 
R. Pratt. 

Adams. — 1807, Lyman Munson, Thomas Skinner; 
1811, B. Wright; 1816, J. P. Rossiter; 1827, Calvin 
Skinner; 1831, S. Osgood; 1836, S. Crittenden; 1846, 
0. Bushnell; 1849, E. J. Marsh ; 1850, Alonzo Maxson ; 
1851, E. A. Brown, Thomas P. Saunders; 1855, G. L. 
Brown, H. C. Chittenden; 1856, Theo. Hawley, 0. W. 
Skinner, N. Vickery ; 1859, P. C. Maxscm ; 1860, Parley 
Brown, Theo. C. Chittenden, 2d; 1861, Wm. H. Brown, 
A. J. Brown ; 1862, A. E. Cooley ; 1870, E. F. Rams- 
dell ; 1872, G. B. R. Whipple; 1876, Thomas H. Breen ; 
date not given, L. L. Hunt, Jr. 

i?/oii»r///«.— 1807, Thomas Y. How ; 1818, N. Rath- 
burn ; 1835, Y. H. Howe; 1838, W. W. Wager ; 1848, 
Do Witt C. Priest; 1850, Silas A. Webb ; 1862, Geo. W. 
Wager. 

Snc/cft's ILohor. — 1807, Elisba Camp; 1816, Justin 
Butterficid, A. Holton ; 1820, Elisha Smith Lee; 1821, 
Jno. McCarty ; 1822, 1. Steele ; 1829, M. K. Stow ; 1836, 

D. N. Burnham; 1838, Aug. Ford; 1840, G. H. Camp; 
1841, A. Z. McCarty; 1845, E. W. Lewis; 1848, J. Van 
Vleck ; 1800, Oliver Bobbins, S. C. Green. 

Ileiiderson. — A. M. Leffingwell. 

El/lshurff. — i8'[G, S. Wardwell, Daniel Wardwell; 
1830, J. W. Bishop; 1840, H. Ackley ; 1849, W. L. 
Bishop; 1857, Eli Overton; 1860, A. A. Wheeler; 1864, 
R. R. Tousley. 

C'/rf/H/ye.— 1842, H. Carpenter; 1844, M. Biekford ; 
1845, L. J. Goodale, Chas. Edwards; 1849, Thos. S. 
Hammond, A. B. Gilbert; 1855, Geo. Gilbert; 1859, 
A. H. Francis; 1S60, S. J. Pratt, 0. F. Atwood, J. B. 
Emmes; 1863, Henry J. Welch; 1865, William M. 
Forbes; 1870, Jno. C. Fulton; 1872, A. E. Kilby, 
Chas. II. Kimball, Jr. ; 1873, II. C. Cook ; date not 
given, Gaines 51. Allen. 

ChampiuH. — 1810, Alfred Lathrop. 

Rodnmn.—\S-12, Benajah B. Phelps; 1829, 

Strong; 1845, R. S. Hunt. 

BellcvUle.—X'SM, E. B. Hawes; 1860, M. A. Hack- 
ley; 1870, H. C. Hawes. 

Anticcrp.—\U\, Eli Cook; 1849, P. D. Foster; 1857, 

Gillctt; 1860, 11. W. Kecne ; 1861, J. F. Cook; 

1874, J. C. Trolan. 

J,e /I'ay.— 1862, Wm. S. Phelps; 1864, Julius D. 
Bcckwith. 

l'h!kHklphla.—\'i\A, D. J. Wager. 

Evan's Mills.— \SU, Allen Nims; 1649, J. Boyer; 
1862, Wm. B. Beckwith. 

0.tlMv.—lAV.), E. Fowler; 1860, M. V. Brainard. 

Clayton. — 1855, A. E. Morse; 1862, J. C. Johnson; 
date not given, N. G. Ilickok, F. T. Evans. 

Theresa. — 1856, David Bearup, E. R. Keene; 1876, 
C. W. Thompson. 

Cape Vincent. — 1861, Morris E. Lee; date not given, 

E. D. Hilts. 

Lafargeville. — 1852, Wayland Ford. 
Redwood.— \W\2, A. Harder; 1870, Don A. Watson. 
The Jefferson bar has furnished from its members offi- 
cials for the_nation and the State, who have reflected honor 



102 



IlISTOUV OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YUlUv. 



upon tlie profession, as well ;is tlie people whom flioy rep- 
resented, by tlic distinguislied ability they have brought to 
the discharge of their trusts. Kent, Sterling, Ten Eyck, 
Daniel Wardwoll, rJrotisdii, Thomas C. Cliittendcn, Mullen, 
Charles E. Clarke, and Geo. A. Bagley have served in the 
lower house of Congress; Beach, as lieutenant-governor; 
Robert Lansing, Ruger, Geo. C. Sherman, Tamblin, and 
Starbuck as State senators; Mullen, Hubbard, and Mcr- 
win on the Supreme bench, and Robert Lansing, W. C. 
Thompson, Chas. D. Wright, and Sawyer on the bench of 
the county; while others have filled positions of lesser note 
with e(|ual honor in the discharge of their ofSciul duties. 

On February 2(5, 1834, the judges of the county courts, 
the officers of those courts, the meuibers of the bar and 
students-at-law, met in the court-house and organized them- 
selves into a temperance society and chose the following 
oflScers : Hon. John Macomber, president; B. Wright, 
first vice-president ; Zeno Allen, second vice-president ; 
Peleg Burchard, secretary ; I. Steele, T. C. Chittenden, 
and J. Butterfield, executive committee. The greater 
portion of the pcr.sons present signed the pledge. 

Other attorneys of note in the State have practiced in 
the early courts, who never resided in the county, whose 
names are not given in connection herewith. 

THE MEDICAL PROFESSION. 

The practice of physic and surgery was first regulated by 
law in the city of New York by an act of the colonial as- 
sembly, passed June 10, 1760, and by tlie State, by an 
act of JMurch 27, 1792. The first general regulation 
adopted for the State at huge was the act of March 18, 
17'J7, authorizing the chancellor, a judge of the supreme 
or common pleas courts, or a master in chancery, to license 
physicians and surgeons, on j)roper evidence of havini.' 
studied niediciuc two years ; and the former act was re- 
pealed. In 1801 and 1803 amendments were made to the 
act of 1797, and in 1806 an act was passed establishing a 
State Medical Society and medical societies for the counties, 
and repealing all former acts touching the medical practice. 

THE JEFFKK.SON COUNTY MEDIC.\L SOCIETY 

wa.s formed December 17, 1806. John Durkee, Isaac Ma- 
goon, David B. Ripley, Isaiah Massey, Jabez Kingsbury, 
Benjamin Farley, James D. Seisco, Ozias H. Rawson, Daniel 
Barney. Eli Eastman, II. Wilcox, Elias Skinner, and Hugh 
Henderson were present, and united in the organization. 
The first officers were: John Durkee, president; Daniel 
Barney, vice-president ; Hugh Henderson, secretary ; Isaiah 
Massey, treasurer; Benjamin Farlie, Eli Eastman, and Hugh 
Henderson, censors; II. Henderson, delegate to the State 
society. 

August 11, 1807, a committee was appointed to inquire 
whether any unauthorized persons were practicing medicine, 
and to pro.secutc them if so. July 4, 1809, a committee 
of six was appointed to report the nnmbir of (piacks and 
unlicensed pliysicians. On the 13lli of .^larcli, ISlO, they 
reported nineteen names. A code of medical ethics was 
published by the .society in 1820. At the July session, in 
1830, a central committee of five, and one from each town, 
was appointed to take a medical topographical survey of 



the county ; but this measure was not carried into efiFect. 
During many years it was the custom of the society to offer 
prizes for essays on given subjects. The last meeting of the 
society, under its original organization, was held in 1849 or 
1850 ; but the records having been destroyed by the great 
fire of 1849, in Watertown, the exact date cannot now be 
ascertained. Dr. J. Mortimer Crawe, of Watertown, in an 
address delivered before the society January 4, 1876, as its 
retiring president, gave as the reasons for the disbanding 
of the .society the inconvenience and difficulty con.sequent 
upon the effijrts to attend its meetings by the members, 
disgust at the removal of legi.slative restrictions previously 
thrown around the practice of medicine, and some other 
minor considerations. The doctor administers a kindly 
rebuke to the craft for their surrender in the face of the 
enemy. 

Two decades elapsed without the operations of a medical 
society in the county. In 1868, August 15, Dr. F. B. A. 
Lewis and Dr. H. G. P. Spencer called a meeting of phy- 
sicians at the American hotel in Watertown, which call 
was also sigtied by fifteen other physicians, at which the 
following-named were present: Drs. H. G. P. Spencer, 
Wm. R. Trowbridge, James K. Bates, J. Mortimer Crawe, 
F. R. A. Lewis, U. S. Ilendee, James T. Peeden, Geo. N. 
Hubbard, Truman Tuttlo, and E. G. Derby. The society 
was reorganized, and the following officers chosen : Presi- 
dent, II. G. P. Spencer ; Vice-President, II. S. Ilendce; 
Secretary, F. B. A. Lewis; Treasurer, W. R. Trowbridge. 
A constitution and by-laws and a fee-bill were subsequently 
prepared and adopted, and the society has since that date 
maintained its high position among the institutions of the 
county, meeting in regular session annually, at which able 
addresses have been made by prominent membei-s of the 
profession. In 1870, the essay was by the retiring presi- 
dent of the society, on " Diplitheria." In 1871 , Dr. Peeden, 
the retiring president, addressed the society on " The jMed- 
ical Profe.s.sion,'' and at the semi-annual meeting of that 
year Dr. W. C. Bailey's address was on •' Sleep." The 
addresses since have been as follows, the retiring president 
delivering the .same at the annual meeting, and the vice- 
president at the semi-annual meeting: 1872, Dr. Ira H. 
Abell, jiresident, "Standing of the Medical Profcssiori ;" 
also, an essay by Dr. Pratt ; subject, " Diagnosis." Vice- 
president Geo. N. Hubbard; subject, "Epidemic Cerebro- 
spinal Meningitis.' 1873, President II. W. Jewett, 
" Medical A.ssociations ;" and an essay on " Criminal Abor- 
tions," by Dr. C. M. Johnson, 1874. At the annual meet- 
ing Dr. Peeden's es.say was on " Gastritis. ' At the semi- 
annual meeting the vice-president's (Dr. J. .^I. Crawe) essay 
was on "Sporadic Dysentery." In 1875 the essays cov- 
ered " Blisters," " Face Presentations," " Electricity as a 
Therapeutic Agent," and the " Ophthalmoscope," and were 
read by Drs. Streeter, Spencer, and others. In 1876, Dr. 
Crawe, as before mentioned, delivered his address as tiie 
retiring president, in which ho recorded the history of the 
society, from which much of the information given in this 
j)resent record is drawn. The officers of the society for 
1877 were Dr. W. P. Massey, president, and Dr. C. W. Bur- 
dick, secretary. 

By the destruction of the records ol' the .society in 1.S49 



HISTOKY OF JKFFEUSON COUNTY, NEW YOKK. 



103 



by fire, it is made nearly, if not quite, impossible to gather 
a complete list of the members of the society previous to 
that date; but such as Dr. Crawe was enabled to obtain, by 
diligent in(|uiry and untiring effort, are here given, with 
the date of their aduiissimi : 

18Ut>. — John Durkee, Isaac Magoon, David B. llipley, 
Isaiah Massey, Jabez Kingsbury, Benjamin Farlie, James 
D. Seiseo, O/.ia.s H. Rawsoii, DatiiL'l Barney, Eli Eastman, 
H. Wilcox, Eiias Skinner, Hugh Henderson (died in ISOS). 

1807.— Joshua Bealls, Jr., William Baker, Daniel 
Brainard, Joel Dres.«er, Joseph Green, Horatio Orvis, Abel 
Sherman, Eli West, Isaac Weston. 

1808. — Elisha JIathews, Henry H. Sherwood. 

ISO!). — Paul Hutchinson, Amasa Trowbridge. 

ISll). — Jo.shua J. Barrett, Nathan Chcever, John M. 
Henderson, Russell Steel, Isaac S. Wood. 

1811. — Joseph Clar}', John Cowcn, Amasa Howe, John 
Spafford, Noah Tubbs. 

1812. — I.<aac Olney, William Kobinson. 

1813. — Reuben (jiiodalo. 

1814.— C. T. Kimball, Frederick P. Markham. 

1815. — E. Dutton (Denton?). 

181U.— S. Houghton, J. Marsh. 

1817.— Wm. H. Buchanan, Alfred Eli, Alpheus S. 
Green, Samuel Randall. 

1818. — John M. Burton, Benjamin Cushnian, Alpheus 
Morse, Jonathan Sherwood. 

1819. — Joseph N. Clark, Nelson, Amos Page, B. 

L. M. Davis. 

1820. — Oliver Brewster, Ralph Rogers, Ira A. Smith, 
Rufus S. Waite. 

1821.— Joseph Bagg, James A. AVells. 

1822. — James Brooks, Ithamur B. Crawe, Curtis Haven. 

1823. — Ephraim Adams, Walter Webb. 

1824.— Wm. J. Bates. 

182t). — Lowrey Barney, Wm. J. Fisk, Hiram Mill.«, 
Charles Orvis, Caleb Woodward. 

1827. — R. Kinney, Carrier. 

1828.— E. M. Adams, Abner Denton, H. W. Bushnell, 
Caleb Cook, 0. W. Cushman, John D. Davison, .Foster 
Dexter, David Dickerson, Peletiah Dwight, Elkanah French, 
A. W. Gray, H. II. Hills, Isaac Jenks, J. Jones, Converse 
Johnson, John R. Johnson, D. S. Kimball, Philip Max- 
well, Almond Pitcher, Caleb Preston, G. S. Sacket, Wm. 
J. Sikes, Gordon P. Spencer, Samuel Tucker, Samuel 
Wetmore, Ira Wright. 

1829. — Jesse Ay res. La Mont Bagg, "James K. Bates, 
C. Barge, Richard Clark, Henry J. Munson, Alva Murdock. 

1830. — Stejihen Seymour, George Green. 

1831. — Jonathan Ellis, Samuel J. Gaines, S. W. Hunt, 
Aaron Sumner. 

1833.— Wm. H. Wiser. 

1834. — Lsaac JIunson. 

1835.— Chas. W. Ea.stnian, Wm. A. Wood. 

183G.-:-Abraham Hawn, H. I. Dickenson. 

1837. — Kilborn Hannahs. 

1838.— Walter Dowey. 

1839.— Amos Ellis, Amasa Trowbridge, Jr. (died 1841). 

1S41.— Wm. H. II. Davis, Charles Goodale, S. W. Soule. 

1842. — Benjamin Walton. 



1843.— W. G. Comstock, Wm. V. V. Rosa, Wm. E. 
Tyler, A. M. Van Ostrand, Leonard Powers. 

1840.— Wm. R. Trowbridge, E. R. JIaxson. 

1848.— Sin Goodell. 

Jlembers of the reorganized society, other than those 
who were members of the old society : 

1868.— H. G. P. Spencer, J. Mortimer Crawe, F. B. A. 
Lewis, H. S. Ilondee, James F. Pceden, George N. Hub- 
bard, Truman Tuttle (deceased), E. G. Derby (1847). 

1869— H. M. Stevens, Frederick Boft, Ira II. Abell, 
E. A. Chapman, L. E. Frame, Charles Parker, Alonzo H. 
Gordinier, C. M. Johnson, Jtoberl Clink, La Fayette Mason, 
H. W. Jewett. 

1870.— Nathan M. Davidson, George G. Sabin, Parley 
H. Johnson, Anson S. Thompson, Ezra B. Pratt, E. S. 
Carlisle, Solomon V. Frame, Henry W. Streeter, Wm. P. 
Mas.sey, William C. Bailey, Martin J. Hutehins, Charles A. 
Catlin, James I). Spencer, Emerson G. Seymour. 

1871. — Lewis C. Watson, Amos Ellis. 

1872.— A. A. Getman, J. H. Miller. 

1873.— E. G. Howland, James E. Kelsey, N. 0. Bemis, 
G. G. Wliitaker. 

1874. — J. K. Sturtevant, D. E. Pierce, John Grafton, 
E. Sill, J. Aldrich Wood, D. A. Gleason, Geo. Seymour, 
A. B. Stearns. M. L. Overton, J. T. Millard. 

1875.— A. K. Hale, A. R. Rudd, Clias. Douglass, Z. K. 
Babcock, C. W. Burdick, L. E. Jones, H. S. Lane, W. T. 
Burdick, K. Hannahs. 

1870. — S. E. Merrill, John Pearce, Dr. John Muir, Dr. 
Goodwin, Thos. Masson, S. L. Parmelee, N. D. Ferguson, 
Lois Mansfield. 

1877.— Wm. E. Tyler, J. lI.Tamblin, H. H. Deane, H. 

A. Mellmoyl, C. D. Potter, Benedict, S. E. Ballard, 

J. Daab, Charles F. Wright. 

Besides these physicians named as members of the medi- 
cal societj", others have practiced in -the county, as follows: 

Antwerp. — Dr. William Robinson, 1852 ; Dr. J. S. Con- 
key, 1842, and moved to Canton, St. Lawrence county ; 
Dr. R. R. Sherman, 1848. 

Siicket's Hiirbor. — Dr. R. P. Hayes, 1817 ; Dr. Samuel 
Guthrie, 1816-18, died October, 1848. 

T/iere.tti. — Dr. James Davison, Dr. James B. Carpenter, 
1812, and later in Philadelphia, Dr. Rexford Davison, Dr. 
Lucius Hannahs, died in 1876. 

Ffnl(uMphw.—'Dr. Coan, A. Welch, 0. S. Copeland, V. 

B. Ayres, 1SG2 ; Dr. A. I. Ooo, 1864; Dr. E. W. Trow- 
bridge, Dr. R. A. Stevens. 

Carlhiiyc. — Dr. Benjamin S. Budd, 1821, and still in 
practice; Dr. J. H. Ci)pp, 1863, at Natural Bridge. 

Ch,cmpw)i.—J)r. G. D. Hewitt, 1SG5; Dr. K. J. Dar- 
ragh, 1877. 

BdkvUle.—S. Wright Frame, M.D., 1875. 

DepanvHle. — Dr. Wm. Frame, 1822-47 (decea.sed). 

Oipc Viiicriii. — Drs. JIartin Braun, A. S. Smith, and 
Philip Cole, at present in practice in that town. 

La Farf/cville. — Doctors Boalt and William Potter. Dr. 
Reuben Andrus, 1819. 

riessis.—Dr. Dunton, 1830. 

Ahx<imh!a /i<»^.— Dr. Charles Walton, Dr. A.O. Bl;:ir, 
1832 to 1838. 



104 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Adams. — Dr. Walter AVekli. before 1833; Dr. Brownell. 

Rodman. — Drs. Woodman and Potter; and Dr. Peck, at 
Zoar; also Dr. William Christie. 

Lorraine. — Drs. Hathaway and Nugent. 

Smithvillc. — Dre. Lord, Breed, and Piersons; the latter 
now resident there. 

THE HOMCEOPATHIC SCHOOL. 

The practitioners of the Hahnemann system of medi- 
cine have been, as far as has been ascertained in the county, 
as follows : Dr. U. S. Dunning was the first physician of 
this school to locate in the county, and he came in 1843 
to Watcrtown, and connected with his practice as a dentist 
that also of a physician. He remained some five or six years, 
when he removed to California, and after a few years' resi- 
dence in that State and in Oregon, he returned to the 
county and located in Adams, where he died. Dr. C. E. 
Boice came next to Watcrtown, and is now in Auburn. Dr. 
George W. Foote came iiext, and stayed two or three years, 
and then Dr. Bailey, who was in practice for several years. 
Dr. W. A. Hawley, now of Syracuse, was in practice also 
in Wattrtown for four or five years. Dr. S. C. Knicker- 
bocker came from New York in 18G1, and is still in practice, 
in company with Dr. W. T. Laird, who came to the city 
in 1872. Dr. Ira V. D.igget came also in 1872, and Dr. 
Alfred G. Cole in 1877, and is now in practice in the city. 
Dr. J. W. Brown, of Carthage, 1869;* Dr. G. H. Wood, 
of Antwerp, 1877. f Dr. Waldo located in Adams, 1863, 
and Dr. M. W. Gallup in 1875, and resides there at the 
present writing. 

ECLECTIC SCHOOL. 

Dr. Alanson P. Hale, now of Adams, was the earliest 
practitioner of this school in the county, locating at Adams 
in 1835. Dr. Weeden Mosher practiced also after this 
system, or the botanic, in Philadelphia, quite early. Dr. 
C. Heath is now a resident physician of the latter place. 

For further details concerning the medical profession, see 
the several town and village histories. 

SUKGEON-UENTISTS. 

Those dentists who have practiced tlicir profes.sion in 
Jefferson County arc as follows, with the date of their lo- 
cation therein : 

Dr. Spalding, 1840; Dr. E. B. Wells, 1843 (died in 
Oneida county); Dr. U. S. Dunning, 1843 (died in 
Adams); Dr. S. M. Robinson, 1846, in Watcrtown, and 
still practices there; Dr. E. A. Holbrook, 1853, in Water- 
town, and still in practice ; Dr. C. F. Ives, 1857 ; Dr. 
James Ketchum and Dr. Van Valkenburgh, 1848 ; the 
former is deceased and the latter is in Camden ; Dr. T. N. 
Pointer, 1854; Dr. J. D. Huntington, 1SG2, and still in 
practice in Watcrtown ; Dr. Henry Smith and Dr. A. M. 
Butler, 1860 ; they were in Watcrtown a short time only ; 
Dr. E. L. Sargent, 1864; Dr. J. P. Dunn, 1875; Dr. W. 
E. Dunn, 1876; Dr. A. D. Payne, 1877. Tiie four last 
named are in practice at the present time in Watcrtown. 
Dr. H. A. Coe came to Theresa in 1850, and after practicing 
several years died in Georgia in 1874, being succecilcd by 



* Sec history of town of Wilnn. 



t Sec Antwor|>. 



his son, George H. Coe, in his practice. Dr. A. Bain lo- 
cated in Clayton in 1871, and Dr. E. A. Monroe in Car- 
thage, 1864; Dr. Blandon located at Belleville, Dr. Bailey 
at Mannsvillc, and Dr. George H. Latham at Antwerp, 
the latter in 1870 ; Dr. Manville located in Adams in 
1861-62, and Dr. E. T. Kirkland later; Dr. C. W. Bullard, 
of Carthage, located in Antwerp, 1870, and in present place 
of residence, 1876. 

Dr. Hough says : " The diseases which have occurred in 
our county can scarcely be said to offer any peculiarity 
worthy of remark. Few sections are more generally 
healthy, or less exposed to local cau.ses of disease. The 
sickness of 1798 and that of 1828 have been noticed on 
preceding pages. The lake and river shore, and the bor- 
ders of Perch and Indian rivers, have been in some dry 
seasons subject to intermittent fevers ; but less now than 
formerly. 

" The vicinity of Natural Bridge, in Wilna, is thought to 
present endemic causes of bronchocele, a malady somewhat 
common there. 

" The spring of 1813 was remarkable for the prevalence 
of an epidemic, p"e!/H)o»i'a typlioiihii, which, having pre- 
vailed in the eastern portions of the Union during the 
previous winter, first appeared in the county about the 8th 
of March, and raged with great severity till the 1st of JIay. 
Some idea of its prevalence may be judged from the ex- 
perience of a single physician.^ who, in the ordinary limits 
of his practice, met in that period with three hundred and 
thirty cases, of which thirteen were fatal. Its appearance 
was a little earlier in Lewis county, and later at Watcrtown 
than at Rutland. The attack was generally sudden, and 
the fate of the patient was often decided within a few 
hours. In about one-third of the cases the disease attacked 
the head, and in the remainder the lungs. It was epidemic, 
but not contagious, and in its course it spread over a wide 
extent of country. No exemptions of age, sex, or condition 
were noticed. Other epidemics of less fatality have been 
observed, but statistics are wanting concerning them. In 
1822—23 a very fatal but limited sickness from a local cause 
occurred in Rutland, and in the winter of 1844—15 a sim- 
ilar but more fatal and prevalent sickness occurred in Ant- 
werp, of which many died. The cholera has on the several 
occasions of its return spread an alarm through the county, 
but fortunately never visited our border except perhaps in 
a few scattered cases." 

EDUCATIONAL. 

On the 18th day of April, ICOl, the Colonial assembly 
passed a bill providing for the ajipointment of a school- 
master for "educating and instructing children and youth 
to read and write in the English language in every town in 
the ]irovincc.'"§ April 9, 1795, the legislature of the State 
passed an act appropriating twenty thousand pounds per 
annum, for five years, for the encouragement and mainte- 
nance of common schools, wherein the children of the in- 
habitants of the several towns and districts might be 
" instructed in the English language, or be taught English 

} Dr. C. p. Kcmlmll, of Rullnnd. 
I Journal of .\ssi'iiil)ly, p. 7. 



HISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



105 



grammar, arithmetic, mathematics, and such other branches 
of knowtedge as are most useful and necessary to complete 
a good Eiiirlish education."* The several counties were to 
receive a portion of this annual distribution according to 
their population, and were required to raise a sum annually 
equal to the amount received by them by tax for the like 
purpose. Herkimer county's proportion of the first distri- 
bution was nine hundred and thirty pounds. Seven com- 
mis.'iioners of .schools were chosen in each town. In 1812 
the legtslature passed an act for the establishment of com- 
mon schools, and provided for the appointment of a super- 
intendent of common schools, whoso duty should be to 
prepare and digest plans for the improvement and nianage- 
mcnc of a common school-fund. In 1813 a permanent 
fund was provided for the support of common schools by 
an appropriation of the net proceeds of the sales of the 
State lands since April 2, 1805, and sufficient of the unsold 
lands at the date of the passage of the act, April 9, 1813, 
to make five hundred thousand acres. The money arising 
therefrom to be loaned at seven j)er cent., and distributed 
among the counties when the income reached fifty thousand 
dollars annually. The first distribution under thi.s law to 
Jeflerson County was made in 1813, and amounted to 
seven hundred and eighty-nine dollars and thirty-two cents, 
and was apportioned to the several towns as follows : 

Lc Ray, 859.93 ; Hounsfield, $49.2(1 ; Rutland, 890.57 ; 
Champion, S77. 21 ; Lorraine, S42.41; Waterlown, §95.92; 
EUisburg, $89.37 ; Rodman, SG6.57; Brown ville, 886.51 ; 
Henderson, $59.30 ; Adams, $72.27. 

These towns raised by tax as much or more than the 
amount they received for similar purposes. In 1831 the 
distribution for the State amounted to §100,000, JefiFer- 
son's share being §2527.01. Azariah C. Flagg was the 
State superintendent. In 1830 the distribution was in- 
creased to $110,000, Jefferson getting §2080.74, John A. 
Dix being the superintendent. By the act of March 20, 
1 849, free schools were provided for ; but the law was re- 
pealed in 1851, the people of Jeffei-son County voting for 
the repeal by a large majority, some sixty per cent, of the 
total vote. The law of 1851 appropriated §800,000 annu- 
ally for the payment of teachers' wages, and abolished the 
requirement for the raising of an equal amount by taxation 
in the towns. A rate-bill was established to pay any de- 
ficiency in teachers' wages not covered by the annual 
distribution. In 1856 the clause in the law of 1851 appro- 
priating §800,0(10 annually was repealed, and a tax of three- 
fouiths of a mill on the dollar of the real and personal 
valuation of each county substituted therefor for the pay- 
ment of teachci's' wages, and the rate-bill continued. The 
board of supervisors was to elect the school commissioners. 
In 1853 the law providing for I'nion free schools was 
passed, which permits and authorizes the inhabitants of two 
or more adjoining districts to vote for and elect trustees, 
and levy a general tax on the property in the united dis- 
tricts for the payment of teachers' wages and all other ex- 
penses. In 1807 the rate-bill was finally repealed and the 
common school made entirely free from private assessment 
of its patrons. 

* This a]i]>rojiriation cipircd in ISOO. 



EARLY SCHOOLS. 

The earliest schools in the county were opened at various 
points, — Watertown, Rutland, EIILsburg, Browuvillc, and 
perhaps a few other localities, j)rineipally in the western 
and southwestern portion of the county, — commencing 
about 1802. They were supported by a tax made up in 
the form of rate-bills, which .system was not entirely suj)er- 
seded until 1807, when the schools became rcidly free to 
all claissas, rich and poor alike. 

Probably the first school in the county was opened in 
■W'atertown, in 1802, under the supervision of Miss Sally 
Coffeen, a daughter of Henry Coffcen, one of the pioneers 
of the county. This embryo school is said to have been 
taught in an unoccupied barn which stood on the ground 
now occupied by the " Dispatch'' block, on Arcade street. 
A sister, Heiress Coffeen, subsequently taught in a log 
house on 'Washington street. It is said that the first 
school district organized in the county was in 1804, and 
embraced the whole town of Watertown. A small frame 
building was erected for school purposes on the brow of a 
steep hill near where the Universalist church now stands. 
It was elevated upon logs set endwise, and stood about four 
feet above the ground. The seats consisted of a pine board 
extending around the out.side of the room, while the tc:icher 
occupied the central an)pliithcatre. A Mr. McGregor, a 
native of Scotland, was the first teacher, and following him 
was a " missionary," named Leavenworth. Succeeding him 
were Roswell Babbitt and a Mr. Laidlow. Then came 
Jeremiah Bishop, who became badly involved, and as im- 
prisonment for debt was legal in those days, the school 
interests of Watertown were seriously endangered by liis 
misfortune. But his creditors were magnanimous, and 
allowed him the liberty of the "jail limits," which prob- 
ably comprised a radius of a mile around the jail buildings, 
and the school was not interrupted. Bishop appears to 
have been a man of considerable scientific attainments, and 
among other projects of his fertile brain Was one for eradi- 
Ciitiug weeds and Canada thistles from the public .square. 
His plan was to sprinkle freely with salt and let the cattle 
eat them as a salad ; but the ]jlan did not produce the de- 
sired result, though the discoverer insisted that it was only 
a question of time. Succeeding Mr. Bishop came two gen- 
tlemen named Cowan and Everett, the latter of whom con- 
tinued as late as 1810. It is said that the first court ever 
held in the county was in this school building, in 1807. 

ACADEMIES. 

Schools of a higher grade were established at an early 
day and flourished for many years, and there are several 
institutions of a high order now in operation. A detailed 
account of all these will be found in the history of the 
respective towns where they are, or were, situated. 

The first academy which went into operation in Jeffer- 
son County was located in Watertown, and was opened 
in 1811. In 1835 the " Watertown Academy", was incor- 
porated. In May, 1830, the " Black River Literary and 
Religious Institute" was incorporated. In February, 1840, 
the name was changed by act of the legislature to " Jefli"er- 
son County Institute." This school continued until 1805, 
when the building wa.s leased for a high-school to the 



108 



HISTOKY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



time Lewis county, wliioli lia<l jneviously formed a part of 
Watertowii Presbytery, was set ofl" to the Utica Presbytery. 

The Presbyterian churcli in Kingston fur many years 
belonged to this Presbytery. At t}ic February meeting of 
18;i4 it withdrew. 

A coiupeiKJiuni drawn up by order of the Presbytery in 
1828, gives the following facts in relation to religious 
revivals in that church, with the numbers added: — 1815, 
Lowville, 1st and 2d church united, 25 added; 1817, 
Rutland, 30; 1818, Bucket's Harbor, 15; 1819, Adams, 
65; 1820, Saeket's Harbor, 70; 1821, Watcrtown, 93; 
1822, Rutland, 20 ; Adams, G2 : Brownviile, 2t) ; 1823, 
Saeket's Harbor, 25, mostly from the arm}-, and families of 
ofiScers; 1824, Lowville, 1st, 95; 2d, IG; Martinsburgh, 
23; Lcyden, 1st, 42; Ellisburg, 20; Denmark, 1st and 
2d united, 30 ; Cape Vincent, 30 ; Antwerp, 35 ; Le Ray, 
30; Orleans, 15; 1820, Adams, 25; 1827, Watertown, 
29 ; Smithville, 25 ; total added to Presbyterian churches, 
840. The above years were noted fur religious excitements, 
and great numbers united with other churches. The au- 
thority above quoted attributes much of this to the meeting 
of the Albany synod at Brownviile in 1820. In the re- 
vivals of 1824 the Rev. Jedediah Burcliard was particularly 
active at pjUisburg and Cape Vincent, and Charles G. Fin- 
ney at Antwerp, Lc Ray, Brownviile, etc. Both have since 
acfjuired a very unusual degree of celebrity as evangelists. 

In the summer of 1831 there occurred another series of 
religious revivals tlimughout the country, and " protracted 
meetings'" were held in nearly every village. Great num- 
bers professed conversion, and all the evangelical churches 
received accessions. The.sc proceedings were strongly dis- 
countenanced by a portion of the citizens, and led to a 
convention at the court-house, July 2, 1831, at which 
addresses deprecating these excitements were made, and 
resolutions were published exj)ressing their sentiments on 
this subject. In these a conscientious approval of pure 
religion was avowed, but the popular excitements of the 
day were denounced as whirlwinds of moral desolation. 

The Presbytery of St. Lawrence is included in the Synod 
of Central New York, which comprises five Presbyteries, 
viz., Binghamton, Otsego, St. Lawrence, Syracuse, and 
Utica. 

There are at present fourteen organizations of this de- 
nomination in Jefferson County, as follows : Adams, Brown- 
viile, Cape Vincent, Carthage, Chaumont, Dexter, Evans' 
Mills, Oxbow. Orleans, Plcssis, Saeket's Harbor, Theresa, 
Watertown First, and Watertown Stone Street churches. 
The number of families connected with these churches, by 
the report of 1870-77, was 905, and the number of com- 
municants 1775. The total congi-cgational expenses of 
these churches was $17,108, and the nii.«eellaneous charities 
amounted to SI 238. 

Sabbath-schools are connected with each of the churches, 
and the total membership was by the same report 1G71. 
All the schools have good libraries, but the number of 
volumes is not given. 

CONGUEOATIONAL. 

This ileiKiniination wx« among the earliest in the county. 
The Wack lliver A.'v-iociation was formed in 1807. at Low- 



ville, Lewis county, by delegates from cliurelies at Esist and 
West Leyden, Turin, Lowville, Denmark, Champion, Rut- 
land, Watertown, Rodman, Adams, and Lorraine. Quite 
a number of the early organizations were eventually merged 
in the Presbyterian body. 

At the present tiiue there are organizations belonging to 
this denomination in the following villages of Jefferson 
County : Antwerp, Burrville, Champion, Mannsville, Phila- 
delphia, Rodman, Rutland, West Carthage, and Woodville. 
We have not been able to obtain the desired information as 
to membership and other statistics of the general body, but 
a history of each society will be found in the history of the 
respective towns and villages where they are situated. 

METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. 

Previous to 183G the county of Jefferson had formed at dif- 
ferent periods a portion of Albany, Cayuga, Oneida, and Black 
River districts. In 183G the " Black River (!onference" was 
organized, and forniall}' incorporated April 17, 1841. It 
included a large number of counties in northern New York. 
The first board of trustees consisted of George Gary, John 
Dempsey, Nathaniel Salisbury, Gardner Baker, Wm. S. 
Bowdish, Isaac Stone, and Lewis Whitcomb. Its original 
charter restricted its powers to the holding of property 
which should jiroduce an annual income not exceeding ten 
thousand dollars ; but the new charter, obtained in 1.S73, 
enlarged its jurisdiction so that its annual income might 
amount to fifteen thousand dollars. 

The " Black River Circuit " was formed in 1804, and 
up to 1815 inchuied the entire county and considerable 
additional territory. In the latter year " Sandy Creek Cir- 
cuit" w'as formed, including jiart of Jefferson County. 
Among the early preachers were the following : Black 
River Circuit, 1804, Griffin Sweet, Asa Cummings; 1805, 
G. Sweet, Seymour En.sign ; 180G, Matthew A'^an Duzen, 
William Vredenburgh ; 1807, Datiis Ensign; 1808, IMat- 
thew Van Duzen, Luther Bi.shop ; 1809, L. Bishop, Wm. 
Jcwetl; 1810, Joseph Willis, Chandler Lambert; 1811, 
Wm. Snow, Truman (Jillet ; 1812, Joscjih Kinkead; 
1813, Isaac Puffer, Goodwin Stoddard ; 1814, C. Lambert ; 
1815, Ira Fairbanks, Jason Hazen. Sandy Creek Circuit, 
1815, James Bowen. 

Circuits were subse((uently formed as follows: 1818, 
Watertown; 1821, Indian River; 1826, Le Ray and 
Watertown; 1827, Cape Vincent; 1820, Le Ray ami Car- 
thage, Brownviile and Saeket's Harbor, Adams; 1832, 
Theresa; 1833, Antwerp; 1834, Pulaski and Manns- 
ville; 183G, Carthage, MannsviUe, Rodman; 1839, Nat- 
ural ]5ridge, Evans' Mills; 1840, Dexter and Pillar I'oint, 
Philadelphia; 1842, Pillar Point, Belleville, Henderson, 
Ellisburg; 184G,Three-Mile Bay; 1847, Smithville; 1848, 
Pameliu Corners, Depauville ; 1849, Watertown, Arsenal 
Street, State Street ; 1850, Champion ; 1851, La Fargeville. 

These in turn were reconstructed, and at the present 
time the county is divided into two districts and thirty-two 
stations or charges, as follows: A<hims Dintrict, Adams, 
State Street, Watertown ; Belleville, Rodman, Champion, 
JLumsville, Ellisburg, Lorraine, Henderson, Saeket's Har- 
bor, Pillar I'oiiit, Brownviile. Three-Mile Bay, Cape A'in- 
ccnt. Point Peninsula. \yiil( rioini Dixlrict, .\rsenal Street, 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



109 



Watertown ; Black River, Carthage, Natural Bridge, Pa- 
nielia, Evans' Mills, Philadelphia, Antwerp, Sprague's Cor- 
ners, Theresa, La Fargevillc, Dcpauville, St. Lawrence, 
Clayton, Alexandria Baj', Ple.ssis, and Grind.stone and 
Wellftslcy Islands in the St. Lawrence River. 

From the original " Black River District" were formed 
at different times three other districts, as follows : Water- 
town, 18 tO; Adams, 1844 ; Ogdi^nsburgh, 1S.">2. Subse- 
quently the county was erected into two districts, as at 
present. 

In 1868 the conference was reduced to fiiur counties, 
viz., Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence, and Franklin. In 
1872 the title was changed to its present one, " Northern 
New York Conference." At present the confcnMice em- 
braces the counties of Oneida, Oswego, Jeflerson, Lewis, 
St. Lawrence, Franklin, and a part of Madison, and is sub- 
divided into six districts, Jefferson County comprising two, 
as before stated. 

The presiding elders of the various districts have been 
as follows: liluck River Bistn'c/, 1820, R. >L Everts; 
1824, Daniel Barnes; 182G, Goodwin Stoddard; 1827, 
Nathaniel Salisbury ; 1832, Josiah Keyes ; 183:5, J. Demp- 
ster; 183C, J. Baker. Gouvcrneur District, 1839, W. S. 
Bowdish. Watertown District, 1840, N.Salisbury; 1842, 
Lewis Whitcorab; 1844, N. Salisbury; 184.5, L. Whit- 
C(mib; 1849, (jr. Baker; 1853, F. II. Stanton; 1857, B. 
Holmes ; 1801, G. Baker ; 18G5, J. W. Armstrong ; 18GG, 
J. T. Dayan; 18G8, L. D. White; 1872, L S. Bingham; 
1870, S. Call ; 1877, B. F. Wood. Adams District, 1853, 
G. Baker; 1857, F. H. Stanton; 1801, D. AV. Roney ; 
18G5, G. Baker; 1809, Thomas Richey ; 1873, M. D. Kin- 
ney ; 1877, I. S. Bingliam. 

The conference includes within its jurisdiction four insti- 
tutions of learning, viz., the Syracuse University, the Wes- 
leyan University, the Drew Theological Seminary, and the 
Ives Seminary, the latter located at Antwerp, in Jefferson 
County. It also includes a historical society. Rev. I. S. 
Bingham, president; a life insurance association, a board 
of church extension, a missionary society, a freedman's 
aid society, and a ladies' and pastors' Christian union. 

Conference Ofpiceiis. — President, Bishop Thomas 
Bowman, D.D., LL.D., St. Louis, Missouri; Secretary, S. 
0. Barnes, Herkimer, New York ; Trustees — First Class, 
Isaac S. Bingham, Thomas Richey, Eli C. Bnice ; Second 
Class, Albert E. Corse, Simon P. Gray ; Tliird Class, 
Gardner Baker, Isaac L. Hunt. 

Statistical. — According to the report of the conference 
for 1877, there were thirty-two organizations in the county, 
with a membership, including probationers, of about five 
thousand two hundred. Attached to the various organiza- 
tions were about fifty Sabbath-schools, with a membership, 
including teachers and scholars, of a little over four thou- 
sand, and about three thousand six hundred volumes in 
libraries. 

The estimated value of church property in the county is 
placed at about one hundred and seventy thousand dollars. 
The salaries of ministers range from three hundred and 
fif\y to twelve hundred dollars, and the aggregate paid to 
them to about nineteen thou.sand four hundred dollars, 
being an average of a trifle over six bundled dollars each. 



THE BAPTI.ST.S. 

This denomination of Christians was among the earliest 
to org.inize in the county, and as early as 1808 or 1809 
" The Black River Baptist Association" was formed, with 
the following churches and number of members, the elders 
of each being given in italics : Adams, 45, Timothy IIcul/i; 
Browiiville, 47, Tiiiiot/ii/ I'nul ; Champion, 25 ; Denmark, 
29, J'eleff Card ; Henderson, 42, Kmori/ Osyood ; Lor- 
raine, 32, Amos Lampson ; Rutland, 2 churches, of 52 
and 34 members ; Turin, G5, Stephen Parsons. 

In 18o2, Baj)list missionaries had begun to labor in this 
section, among whom Peter P. Root and Stephen Parsons 
were prominent. In 1810 the missionary limits of this 
body were defined : north of Black river to include Le 
Ray and the new settlements in St. Lawrence and Oswe- 
gatchie, and south to include Mexico on the Salmon river, 
and the new settlements eontigu(}us therc^to. Solumon 
John.son, Emory O.sgood, and Martin E. Cook were to 
spend the en.suing year, five weeks each, and Amos Lam- 
son six weeks. In 181G an association of eighty-four ladies 
in Henderson, styled " The United Female Society," formed 
for the purpose of promoting foreign missions, memorialized 
the association, and forwarded $88.74 to aid in this pur- 
pose. This example was followed by others, and in 1817 
reports were received from the Henderson and Ellisburg 
Missionary Society, the Female Mi.ssion Society in Lor- 
raine, the Female Mite Society in Rutland, the Female 
Society in Brownville, the Baptist Female Society in Rod- 
man, and the Female Mite Society in Ellisburg, who, with 
the churches, contributed $243.79 for mi.ssions. In the 
same year the " Blai-k lliver Baptist Missionary Society" 
was formed. In 1818 several auxiliaries to this were or- 
ganized, which had but a short duration. In 1818-19, 
Elder Solomon Johnson was employed several months in 
missionary labors in St. Lawrence and Franklin counties. 
The missionary society, up to 1844, had received $7837, of 
which more than $201(0 had been applied to foreign mis- 
sions, and the balance spent in this and neighboring coun- 
ties. The "Jcflferson Union As,sociation" existed four 
years, and in 1838 went down. From 1815 to 1819 five 
hundred and sixteen had been added to the churches, and 
in 1821 three hundred and seventy-three more. In 1825 
four or five hundred, and in 1831-34 more than fifteen 
hundred. It was during this period that Elder Jacob 
Knapp first began preaching as an evangelist, and in this 
county commenced that .series of protracted meetings with 
the Baptist churches that has since rendered his name cele- 
brated. The excitements raised by his labors were here 
generally transient, and followed by a reaction. By the 
report of 1853 there were twenty -six churches in Jefferson, 
seven in Lewis, and one in Oneida belonging to this asso- 
ciation. Churches in this county exist at Adams (Davis' 
Corners), Adams Centre, Adams village, two in Alexan- 
dria, Antwerj), Steele's Corners, Belleville, Carthage, Clay- 
ton, Dcpauville, Great Bend, Hendereon, La Fargevillc, 
Lorraine. Le Raj-, Lyme, Maunsvillc, Perch River, Phila- 
delphia, Rodman, Sniithvillc, Tylerville, Woodville, Water- 
town, and North Wilna. 

On the 28th of January, 1820, Martin ]■]. (.'ook, Sardis 



110 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Little, Emery Osgood, and otliers were incorjwratcd as the 
" Black River Baptist Missionary Society." The first meet- 
ing was to be held at the brick school-house, near Elisha 
Morgan's, in Rutland. The association has been continued 
down to the present time in a healthy and prosperous con- 
dition. It includes at present all the Baptist churches in 
Jefferson County, and a considerable number in adjoining 
counties. 

" The Black River Baptist Missionary Society" was some 
years since merged into the Association. A " Woman's 
Missionary Society" was organized about IST.'i, having con- 
nection with all the churches in the A.ssociation. It is a 
vigorous and industrious body of co-workers. 

The following statistics are from the annual report of the 
Association for the year 1 877 : 

Whole number of church organizations in the county, 
eighteen, as follows : Adams, Adams Centre, Adams Vil- 
lage, Belleville, Carthage, Clayton, Great Bend, Henderson, 
La Fargcville, Le Ray, Lorraine, Lyme, Mannsville, Phil- 
adelphia, Redwood, Smithville, South Rutland, Watertown, 
Woodviile. 

The total membership is about two thousand, and the 
valuation of church property not far from one hundred and 
twenty-seven thousand dollars. The value of the parsonages 
given is eleven thousand three hundred and fifty dollars. 
The total amount raised by the Association for all benevo- 
lent purposes for the year was §1049.28. 

There are thirteen Sunday-schools reported in Jefferson 
County,-with one hundred and twenty-seven teachers, and 
a membership of one thousand three hundred and forty. 
The number of volumes in the libraries is about eight 
hundred. 

OJljcers of the Associntmi. — Moderator, A. J. Brown, 
Adams ; Clerk, Rev. S. W. Hatch, Adams ; Corresponding 
Secretary, Rev. J. 0. Perkins, Copenhagen ; Treasurer, C. 
W. McKin.stry, Three-Mile Bay ; Librtiri'iiii, H. F. Overton, 
Adams; Illslorian, Rev. J. W. Putnam, Watertown. 

" The Free Communion Baptist Black River Yearly 
Meeting" was organized and adopted a constitution in Sep- 
tember, 18150, although meetings had been held previously. 
The limits of this body were defined as bounded west by 
the Genesee river, south by the Mohawk, and east by the 
East Canada creek, embracing the country north of Utica 
within these limits. In 1831, this body reported churches 
in Alexander, Jjyuie, and Orleans, where societies had 
mostly been formed by settlers from Russia, New York, 
where the sect was by far the most numerous. Subsequent 
minutes report societies at Uounstield, Clayton, and Phila- 
delphia. This body has since been merged in the Free-will 
Baptist church. 

EPISCOPALIANS. 

We have been unable to get the general history of tliis 
denomination for the county, but each separate organization 
will be found written in the respective towns and villages 
where situated. The churches of Jefferson County arc in- 
cluded in the diocese of central New York. 

According to the United States census of 1870, there 
were tin organizations in the county, with sittings for the 
accommodation of three thousand four hundred. 



CATHOLIC. 

The Catholics were among the earliest in the county. 
M. Le Ray de Chaumont and all the early French settlers 
were members of this body, and Le Ray himself was active 
in promoting the interests of the young colonies of the 
"mother church." The oldest church of this denomination 
in northern New York is located in the village of Carthage, 
having been organized in 1821. 

By the census returns of 1870, the Catholics are 
credited with twelve organizations in the county, with sit- 
tings for four thousand four hundred and sixty-six people. 
A history of each society will be found in connection 
with that of the towns and villages where the same are 
situated. The seat of the bishopric is at Ogdensburgh. 

UNIVERSALIST. 

The earliest organizations of this denomination were in 
Watertown, 1820, and Ellisburg, 1821. 

We have not been able to procure the necessary data for 
the church at large, but a separate account of each organi- 
zation in the county will be found in connection with the 
history of the various towns and villages. 

LUTHERANS. 

We are indebted to the Rev. F. Shipherd for the follow- 
ing notice of this sect : 

"In the year IS.'iS the Synod of the Frankean Evangelic Lutheran 
Church sent the Rev. Henry L. Dox as their missionary, to select any 
portion of Jefferson County as his field of labor which he might 
think most likely to yield the peaceable fruits of righteousness in re- 
turn for his labors. Acting under this commission, he located at 
Perch River and Stone Mills. He was * but a youth and ruddy,' 
but God wrought most astonishing changes through his ministry. 
Churches were soon organized at Perch River and at Stone Mills; 
but no record is found which furnishes the particulars respecting their 
formation. On the 2ud of May. 1840, these two churches were bltndcd 
into one, by mutual agreement, and si.xty members were enrolled as 
constituting the church at Stone Mills. On the liith of November, 
1852, a church was organized at Perch River, consisting of 32 mem- 
bers, leaving 66 remaining at Stone Mills. Mr. Dox also preached 
with great success at Shantyville (now Orleans Four Corners), and 
organized a church, consisting of thirty-three members. The present 
number is eighty-eight. A church edifice, of stone, was erected at 
Stone Mills, about the year 1835, at an expense of some $1500. A 
very neat and commoitious house for worshijt was built at Percti River, 
like that at Stone Mills, on the union principle, and dedicated to the 
worship of God, February 10, 1852. Mr. Charles B. Avery contracted 
to build it for $1340, but is said to have expended some $1700 uj)on 
it. On the following Sabbatli a beautiful church edifice, very much 
like that at Perch River, was consecrated to God's service at Orleans 
Four Corners. This building is owned wholly by the Lutheran con- 
gregation, and was erected at the cost of $1250. The lot on which it 
stands was valued at $50 ; that at Perch River at $85. Mr. Dox seems 
to have resigned his charge to the Rev. George W. Hemperley in the 
winter or spring of 18n, who retained this charge, with two short 
intervals, for more than ten years, Fayette Shipherd eoinmoneed his 
labors in May, 1852. Unpretending as are these Lutheran churches, 
they are deemed important auxiliaries in the reform and salvation of 
the multitudes with whom they are surrounded."* 

By the last census the Lutherans are credited with four 
organizations in Jefferson County, having sittings for seven 
hundred and forty persons. (See History of Towns.) 

THE DUTCH UEKORMED, 

or Reformed Church, have one organization in the county, 
* From Dr. U ugh's work. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Ill 



located at Alexandria Bay, of which an account will be 
found in the histor3' of the town of Alexandria. By the 
last census this society is given sittings for three hundred 
and fifty. 

In addition to the above there were reported by the Jef- 
ferson County ]?ible Society three Free Methodist, three 
Church of Christ, and one Protestant Methodist organiza- 
tions in the county in 1877. 

JEFFERSON COUNTY BIBLE SOCIETY. 

The Bible Society of Jefferson County wa.s oriicinaliy 
formed January 29, 1817, at the Academy in Watcrtown. 
The first oflScers elected were, Ethel Bronson, president ; 
Rev. Samuel F. Snowden, vice-president ; Rev. Nathaniel 
Button, second vice-president , Rev. Daniel Banks, corre- 
sponding secretary ; Timothy Burr, recording secretary ; 
Egbert Ten Eyck, treasurer; Mieah Sterling, auditor; and 
fifteen directors. An address was issued to the public and 
measures were taken to sujiply destitute families. A sys- 
tematic visitation was instituted, and at the January meet- 
ing, 1824, it was reported that up to that time G81 Bibles 
and 457 Testaments had been distributed. The amount 
received had been S.j15.78, and the amount paid out 
$343.07. Ten town associations had been formed, viz., 
in Adams, Champion, Sacket's Harbor, Rodman, Brown- 
ville, Orleans, Antwerp, Le Ray, Watertowu, and Elli-sburg. 
Previous to September 20, 1832, the following additional 
auxiliaries had been formed : Chaumont, Cape Vincent, 
Rutland, Hounstield, Perch River, Philadelphia, Evans' 
Mills, Alexandria, Smithville, North Adams. In 1834 an 
effort w;is made to raise §300 to purchase Bibles for foreign 
distribution, besides supplying the county. 

The meetings of the society have been maintained annu- 
ally to the present time. 

We have not been able to procure the various statements 
for the different years since 1853, but present herewith the 
last annual statement for 1877 : 

The present officers are : PreaidenI, Hon. Willard Ives ; 1«( I'lVe- 
Presuicnt, John D. Ellis: 2d Vice-Preaidenf, John F. Molfatt; Si-cte- 
t»ry,Rev. Richard Keyes; jTredsurcr, George B. JIassey; Auditor, 
A. U. Coughlau. 

The reeeijtts. according to the report for 1S7G-77, were for Bibles 
and Testaments sold, $491.1-1; donations, SllS.-t". 

Condensed statement of contributions by churches and individuals 
fur the year ending December, lti76 : 

3.3 Methodist E|iiscopal churches S.'!S0.7'J 

9 Presbyterian " 27o.Sl 

6 Congregational " 167. 8;j 

9 Episcopal " 81.98 

7 Baptist ** 54.49 

3 Universalist " o2.6j 

3 Free Methodist " 13.47 

2 Lutheran " 5.S7 

3 Cburili of Christ " 9.65 

1 Reformed " 20.110 

I Protestant Methodist " 3.97 

Individuals 16.^6 

Total .' $1083.37 

The last anniversary of the society was the sixtieth, and 
the annual sermon was delivered by Rev. John Waugh, of 
Carthage, from Psalms cxix. 105: "Thy word is a lamp." 

Rev. Walter R. Long was engaged during the latter part 
of 1875, and most of 187G, in canvassing the county, — 
which is done every seven or ten years. October 4, 1 870, 



he reported business places visited, 490 ; families visited, 
7394 ; Catholic families visited, about 1500 ; Protestant 
families destitute, 338 ; Catholic families destitute, 539 ; 
Bibles supplied to same, 325 ; families who could not read, 
140 ; total calls made, 8052 ; Bibles devoted to the poor, 
240 ; district schools supplied, 253 ; hotels supplied, 01. 

This society is auxiliary to the American Bible Society, 
which was or'auized in 1810. 



CHAPTER X. 

INTEHNAL IMPROVEMENTS. 

Roads — Canals — Lake Navigation — First Steamboat — Railways — 
Miscellaneous. 

The advance of civilization and improvements in every 
country are in a great degree indicated by the means of 
public conveyance. In barbarous regions such luxuries as 
public roads are unknown ; the only me.ins of travel and 
conveyance being on foot, or at most on horseback, by trails 
and bridle-paths. The most distinguishing mark between 
the savage and the enlightened nations is, ])erhaps, the dif- 
ference in the means of locomotion, both on land and water. 
The wild and nomadic tribes of the earth have nothing 
superior to the foot-path and the canoe, while the advanced 
nations travel by the smoothly-graded turnpike, the far- 
reaching steel rail, and the magnificent steamer. What an 
immense disparity between the bark -canoe of the Ddnware 
and the palatial Hud.son river steamer, costing a million 
dollars ; or between the wooden sledge of the Esquimaux, 
drawn by dogs, and a Pullman or Wagner palace-car ! 

The power and grandeur of the Roman empire were il- 
lustrated and rendered permanent by her grand system of 
national roads, reaching to the farthest corners of the 
realm; and their excellence was such that the perfect turn- 
pike of the present day is compared with the famous Ap- 
pian Way, as a proof of its thorough construction. The 
strength of the ancient empires of the Iiicas and Monte- 
zunuis was in a great measure owing to their complete 
system of solid and enduring thoroughfares. 

The earliest notice tixkon of highways in the colonial legis- 
lature, as appears by any edition of the colonial laws, was in 
1091, when the general as.sombly directed surveyors of high- 
ways to be appointed. It is probable, however, that ante- 
rior to that time legislative provision had been made on 
the subject. Before 1083, highwaj's had been discussed 
before the governor and council, and the system of laws 
known as " the Duke's laws" has reference to th&se modes 
of communication. No subject on the statute book prior to 
1813 had claimed a greater proportion of legislation than 
the manner of making and repairing roads. Since 1799 
turnpikes have particip.itcd in these beneficial effects, and 
received the fo.stering care of the legislature. In 1721, 
road commissioners were appointed for the western part of 
Albany county, " from the bounds of the village of Schenec- 
tady to the Muquas country, on both sides of the river, and 
as far as Christians are settled, or hereafter may be settled." 



112 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Hemlrik ITuiise, Carl Hansen, and Captain Harnian Van 
Sl^k were llio conimissionors. In 1702, — the first year of 
Queen Anne, — Colonel Killian Yun Rensselaer, Major Der- 
rick Wessells, John Brunk, ami Evart Bancker were ap- 
pointed coniniissioners for Albany county. On February 
C, 1773, there were appointed highway commissioners for 
Tryon county ; and those in the German Flats district, then 
covering the present area of Jefl'orson County, were Marcus 
Petri, Nicholas Weaver, and John Cunningham. On the 
same day, the money to arise from the excise tax in Trjon 
county was apjiropriatcd for highway improvements. April 
6, 1784, the election of highway conniiissioners was pro- 
vided for in Montgomery, from three to five being author- 
ized, and " as many overseers of highways as needed." 

Eighty years ago the region of northern New York was 
a wilderness, inhabited neither by civilized nor savage 
beings ; and its only highways were the tortuous trails 
along which stealthily .stole the raiding- and scalping-partics 
of painted and hideous warriors of the fierce Iroquois and 
Algonquin. The changes wrought during the past three- 
f|uarters of a century are indeed wonderful, and a brief his- 
tory of the earlier projects in the line of internal improve- 
ments is useful and interesting. This chapter is largely 
made up from Dr. Hough's history of Jefferson County. 

Tlie presenting of the following petition by Arthur 
Noble and Baron Steuben to the legislature, in 1791, was 
probably the finst step taken in this .section looking towards 
improvement in the means of communication : 

" T'i the lltmttrtthU the Lc'jinl(tliin- uf the State nf New Yofk : 

" The|>etition of the sub.scrilttTsliumlil^' shewcth; That a line of road 
from the Little Falls, on the Muhawk river, to the falls on the Black 
river, wliich runs into Lake Ontario, would be attended with iufinito 
advantages to this State, not only by opening a trade with the iltmr- 
isliing settlcntcnt of Cadarufinc,* and that part of Canada, by which 
all goods and merchandise couM be transjjorted from New York for 
half ttjo expense that they arc by the present route by the river St. 
Lawrence, but that it would, likewise, very much enhance the value 
of a large tract of land that this Slate has to dispose of, on and near 
the said river, and very uuich facilitate the settlement of that c<iuutry. 
That it is humbly submitted to the legislature to appoint commis- 
8i<mers to c.\|ilore, lay out, and have said road made, and to appro- 
priate a sura of money or lands for that purpose, the distance being 
between fifty aud si.\ty miles ; and your petitioners, as in duty bound, 
will pray. 

"AimiUB NoBLK. 

"Steiibes." 

The committee to whom it was referred reported that the 
prayer of their petition ought to be granted, and that a bill 
be prepared and brought in, authorizing the commissioners 
of the land-ofhcc to set ai)art a tract of land fur tlie purpose 
of defraying the expense in exploring, laying out, and open- 
ing the proposed road. We have not been able to ascertain 
that this was done. 

THE FRENCH KOAD. 

Jacob Brown, at :i very early day, Imd taken active mca.s- 
ures for continuing the road wliicli the French .settlers had 
opened to the High Falls, while forming their settlement at 
the latter place, down the west side of the Black River 
valley to the St. Lawrence. The first settlers had found 



* Catara.pii : Fiontenne, now Kin^^ 



their way into the country by using the navigable channel 
of the Black river, from the High Falls to the present 
village of Carthage, or by the tedious and perilous naviga- 
tion of the lake, by way of Oswego. 

In anticipation of settlement, Rodolph Tillier had caused 
to be opened, at the expense of the French company, a route 
from the High Falls, east of Black river, to near the Great 
Bond, from which it continued in a line nearly direct to the 
present village of Clayton. A branch from this diverged 
to the head of navigation on Black River bay, but these 
roads, though cleared and the stumps removed, had no 
bridffex, and, consequently, were of no use to the early set- 
tlers. It is said, as an evidence of the incompetence of this 
agent for effecting these improvements, that, upon its being 
represented to him that bridges were indispensable to the 
road, he replied : that he had reserved fifty dollars for the 
very purpose. This road fell entirely into disuse, and it is 
doubtful whether a rod of it is now traveled. 

THE OSWEGATCHIE ROAD. 

The first traveled road in the county north of Black river 
owes its origin to Judge Nathan Ford, of Ogdensburgh, 
whose indomitable energy enabled him to encounter the 
difficulties of a new settlement with a success seldom eijualed. 
He was a man eminently distinguished for his zeal and 
enterprise in whatever related to internal improvements 
and the public welfare in general. In his correspondence 
with the landholders of Macomb's purcha.se he fref|uently 
urged the matter in the most forcible language, and as these 
letters will serve not only to convey an idea of the times, 
but also of the characteristics of the man, we will make 
from them a few extracts. 

To Stephen Van Rens.selaer he wrote, December 30, 1799 : 

'* You will allow me the liberty of stating my ideas upon the utility 
of a road being out through from some part of their townships ui)on 
the St. Lawrence to the Mohawk river. If this could be made a State 
object it would be productive of two good ctfects to the proprietor? : 
first, it would save them a considerable sum of money : and, second, 
it would hold out an idea to those who intend to emigrate of the real 
value of this country, a strong evidence of which wouUl be the legis- 
lature's interesting itself. . . . 

'* It is, in my o)>iniou, unreasonable to expect any very heavy and 
imjKirtant settlements to be made unless there is a road which will 
shorten the distance to Albany. I have taken much pains to ascertain 
the probable distance to .\lbany,and I dare venture it, as an opinion, 
that it will not overrun l.'iO miles from this very spot. I am confident 
it will fall rather short than otherwise. This road, once cut out, will 
immediately bo settled upon, and, if it should be nothing more than 
a winter road at first, the advantage would be immense. 

"The difficulty of getting to this country with families is beyond 
what is generally sujiposed. The present road through ftie Chateau- 
gay county accommodates the few who emigrate from the upper part 
of Vermont, but the immense Hood of people who emigrate to the 
westward go there because they have no choice. This road once 
opened as contemplated, the emigration would soon turn this way, 
not only because the dislaneo would be less than to the Genesee, but 
also because the lands are better and more advantage;»usly situated. 
If the legislature will not take up the business, I am fully uf opinion 
the proprietors will find their account in euttingout the road at their 
own expense. . . . 

"Vast numbers of the loading farmers in that country have assured me 
they would go to Aliiany in preference to Montreal, if it took them three 
days longer. lam confident the commerce tliat would flow into.Mbany, 
through the medium of this road, would very soon reimburse the Slalo 
for the expt^nse. Those who live on our own side of the river arc 
compelled from necessity to trade at Montreal. This is the case with 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



113 



myself. My innlination is to trade to Albany, but it is impossible, 
It is highly politic to prevent, if jiossiblc, tlie cimiiiierce of this 
country from falling into a regular system through Montreal; for, 
when people once form mercantile connections, it is vastly difficult 
to divert and turn the current into a new channel. I see no rational 
mode but having the roail cut, to secure to .■Vlbany so desiriible an 
object. I have taken the liberty of stating my ideas upon this sub- 
ject, which, if they i^houUl meet yours, I trust and ho]ie you will take 
such steps as will sc/ure a benefit to the State as well as promote the 
interest of the proprietors and settlers." 

Concerning this survey, Ford wrote, September 27, 1801, 
to Thomas L. Ogden, as follows : 

" Dear Sir, — I have most impatiently waited until the present time 
to give you that information upon the subject of the road, which I 
know you are anxious to receive. It is but a few days since Edsal 
finished the survey : and Captain Tibbctt's setting out for .Schenec- 
tady to-morrow affords me the earliest opportunity I have had. 
From the oast branch of Oswcgatchie lake to the Ox Bow, and from 
there on to the High Falls, Edsal runs a lino agreeable to the plan 
proposed by Mr. Morris; and, I am sorry to add, soon after leaving 
the Ox Bow, he came to a most intolerable swampy and ridgy ground, 
growing worse and worse as he progressed, and, before ho reached 
the High Falls, became so perfectly confident ol the impracticability 
of a road, as well as the impossibility of settlement, that he aban- 
doned the idea, went to Castorville, and from thence to the head of 
the Long Falls. From the information I had been able to collect 
from various quarters, 1 was apprehensive it would be impossible to 
obtain our object by that route, in consequence of which I directed 
Edsal, in case he should find it as ho really has, to go to the head of 
the Long Falls, and run a line from there to the Ox Bow ; and I am 
happy to tell you that an excellent road may be l^d that way, and 
without adding to the distance. And a further advantage arises by 
cros.-^ing the Black river at tho Long Falls : it is, we fall into the Black 
River road, which saves us the expense of cutting thirty miles. This 
I view as a great object, particularly so as our distance is not in- 
creased thereby. . . . 

" I have contracted with Edsal for making the road from Louis- 
ville to the cast branch of Black lake at sixteen dollars per mile; the 
road to be cut and cleared one rod; cradle-knolls and sides of ridges 
to be leveled; small crossways and bridges over small streams to be 
made. I have also contracted for eight miles of the road beyond 
cast branch, west, at the same terms, and expect to contract fur the 
whole soon. Where it falls into the road already cut in Madrid and 
Louisville, deduction is to be made, as much as the cutting of those 
roads cost. 

" From tho west line of Madrid to tho East Branch (Oswo- 

gatchie river) is 13 miles. 

From East Branch to Ox Bow 26 " 

From Ox Bow to West Branch of Oswegalchic lake (Indian 

river) IS " 

From West Branch to head of Long Falls (Carthage) 13 ** 

From Long Falls to .«halcr"s (Turin), (is good road) 30 " 

From Shaler's to .\ll)anv, through the Koval Grant and 

(11(1 .lobnstown .' ". 90 " 

Allow, that I may not be correct in tho lost statement 

(tlmugh I am ]irctty sure) 5 " 

180 miles.* 
" There will be the crossway ing and the bridging to bo done ; these 
two things will cost consitlcrable,,but running the road as I have laid 
it out will cost us certuiuly not more than half as much as it would 
to go by the High Falls. Edsal says he is confident that the road 
from Ox Bow to High Falls coulil not be made for a much less sum 
than two thousan<l dollars, and then it would bo through a country 
which would not settle; now we have a fine country all the way. 
Tultle has paid the money, and Edsal thinks he will be able to fur- 
nish part of the draft you gave me. I shall not want it all this fall, 
unless the fall should be a very fine one, in which case I hope to sec 
the greater part of the business of cutting done. I have put the peti- 
tion upon the subject of the county into the hands of Turner and 



•^ These distances are found to be as n)llows : Oswegatchie river at 
Ileuvclton to Ox Bow, nearly as above stated. From Ox Bow to In- 
dian river, 7 miles; from thence to Carthage, 10^ miles: from tlu-ncc 
to Shulcr's old settlement (now Cou.^tablcville), ;i2 miles. 



Tibbet for signatures, who say they will do all in their power to 
promote the thing. I shall bring it to Albany with me. 

"I hope I shall have the pleasure of meeting you this winter at 
Albany, and I hope you will in tho mean time do all in your power 
to help the thing forward. I expected to have heard from you upon 
the subject of the road from .Salmon river to the townships. 

" Pray, has the I'alroon consented to our road and subscribed, or 
docs he still cast a languishing eye to Schroon lake? 

"Be pleased to make my respects to Mrs. Ogden and your family. 

" Believe me to be, with every wish for your health and ha])pine88, 
"Your humble servant, 

" N. Ford." 

" Thomas L. Oijden, Enij., New York." 

This road from Salmon river, referred to, was a part of a 
system of roads that orij!;inated with George Scriba, Nathan 
Sage, and others, of Oswego county, that was designed to 
extend from the s:ilt-works to Redficld, and thence through 
as directly as possible to Ch;inipion and St. Lawrence county. 
A letter by Nathan Sage, before us, on this .subject, to Judge 
Hubbard, of Champion, at a later period (October 24, 1810), 
says,— 

"The first object is to open the shortest route to the Salt Spring.", 
and a communication to the (ienesee country, and those parts adja- 
cent to them. The people south and west are very anxious for this 
road, and will use all their influence. Mr. Scriba has petition." in cir- 
culation in those sections. I shall put some in circulation here, and 
hope you will endeavor to do all you can in your section. I look on 
this road as of the greatest importance to this part of the State, and 
make no doubt that if subscribers arc obtained, and some careful in- 
fluential man be employed to attend, and your members influence 
themselves, aid can be got by a lottery for this purpose." 

In a letter to Gouverneur Morris, dated September 27, 
1<S01, Mr. Ford recapitulates the substance of the previous 
one to Ogden, apologizes for tho necessity of going to the 
Long Falls instead of through the French lands, and adds : 

" You will please to say how. and in what proportion, the liberal 
subscription you have made shall be applied. I lament that the 
country through to the High Falls is so bad. Should the road be cut 
through the country will not admit of settlement, consequently the 
object that way must be abandoned. I have presumed you would 
not wholly withdraw your patronage, because there are your own 
lands, as well as part of the French lands, which will be materially 
benefited. I have contracted for about one-half the road from Louis- 
ville to tho Long Falls, and I expect to close a contract for the re- 
mainder very shortly. The great object of a road to this country to 
us all, and that route being the most practicable one, has induced me 
to hazard the completion of it upon the subscriptions we have ob- 
tained. I wish there had been a sum subscribed that would have 
justified a wider and better road ; but so it is, and we must make the 
best of it. My contract is to cut out trees eighteen inches ami under, 
sixteen and a half feet wide, cradle knolls, and side hills to be dug 
down, small crossways, and small bridges over small runs to be made, 
and stumps to be cut so low as not to obstruct a wheel, and large 
trees to be girdled. For doing this I give sixteen dollars per mile. 
Bridges and crossways are a separate thing, and must be the subject 
of future contracts. I hope to have much of the road finished this 
fall. 

" From the lower line of Louisville to the East Branch, which the 
road crosses about 3J miles from the Forks (site of the village of 
Heuvelton), 33 miles; from East Branch lo Ox Bow, 20 ; from Ox 
Bow to heail of Lung Falls, 2Pi ; from Long to Shaler's, 30 ; from 
Shaler's to AHjany, by the way of the lloyal Grant and Johnstown, 
90. I jiossibly m.ay not be correct in the last distance, but I am 
pretty confident I am ; but allow 5 miles, gives 210 miles. This is 
the distance upon this route lo Albany, by which your land is brought 
within 170 miles of Albany, which, I will venture to say, i.« the most 
practicable route that will be had to that city from the St. Lawrence. 
" I am, sir, as ever, your humble servant, 

" N. Fuiin. 
" The Hon. (i. Muri'iit, Knq." 



114 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



To Samuel Ogden Mr. Ford wrote, October 29, 1801 : 

" Dear Sir^ — I wrote you on the 27th of last month, whieh I hope 
yoa have received. In that I told you I was pushing at the road, 
and it gives me much pleasure that by a little extraordinary exertion 
I shall get the whole of it so far completed that I intend finding my 
way through with a sleigh this winter. If I could have but one 
month longer I would have it all bridged; but the season is too far 
advanced, and forbids my attempting it. I have spared no pains to 
get the road on the best ground. I was not satisfied with Edsal's first 
return of the road, and sent him back to explore the ground again 
between the Ox Bow and the head of the Long Falls, the result of 
which was better grountl and four miles saved in distance. My in- 
tention is to set out in .January with as many sleighs as I can muster 
and break the road through, and advertise the thing in all the 
northern papers, so as to get people traveling through this winter. 
The present opportunity only gives me time to tell how much I am, 
" Yours, 

" N. Foitn." 

To Samuel Ogden Mr. Ford wrote, November 29, 1801 : 

" It is with pleasure I announce to you my having finished cutting 
the road, and all the logs arc turned, excepting about eight miles, 
and the party goes out to-morrow morning to finish that ; after whieh 
I think the road may be said to be passable for sleighs, although there 
is considerable digging yet to be done, as well as crossways. If I 
could have had three weeks longer, I could now have pronounced it 
one of the best roads in any new country. I have had crossways 
made over the worst places, and a bridge over the west branch of 
Black lake (Indian river) eighty feet long, and I should have had 
the bridge over the east branch (Oswegatchie river), but I was fearful 
of being caught by the fall rains. That ia a bridge which must be 
twelve rods long. 

"If I live and have my health next summer, I will have that a 
road which shall be drove with loaded wagons, for I have no idea of 
putting up with such a thing as they have made through Chatauguay, 
which scarcely deserves the name of an apology for a road. However, 
I do not know but it will be good enough for the use that will be 
made of it, after ours becomes finished. I expect the ice will servo 
as a bridge over the East Branch this winter. From the East Branch, 
where the road crosses, I have cut a road to this place, and about the 
1st of January I intend to break the road through to the Long Falls 
(Carthage), and find my way to Albany by this new route." 

The road was at first opened by a subscription among the 
land-holders, and its continuation through Lewis county 
Wiis long known as the Oswegatchie road. The sums raised 
by these means proved inadequate to build the road of the 
character which the country demanded, and narrow, sec- 
tional, and local jealousies were found to embarrass the 
enterprise. 

It was next attempted, with success, to obtain State pat- 
ronage for this work ; and on April 9, 180-1, a lottery was 
created for the purpose of raising the sum of $22,000, to 
construct a road from Troy to Greenwich, and " from or near 
the head of the Long Falls, in the county of Oneida, to the 
mills of Natlian Ford, at Oswegatchie, in St. Lawrence 
county." The latter was to be si.\ rods wide, and Nathan 
Ford, Alexander J. Turner, and Joseph Edsoll, were ap- 
pointed commi.ssioners for making it. Owners of improved 
lands might rc(iuirc payment for damages. 812,000 of 
the above sum was appropriated for this road. The summer 
of 18(15 was devoted to tlie location and opening of the 
road, and on October 26, 1805, Judge Ford wrote: 

" I have just returned from laying out the State road between Og- 
dcnsburghand the Long Falls upon Hliick River, and I am happy to tell 
you we have made great alterations (from the old road) for the belter, 
also ns well as shortening the distance. . . . The difficulty I find in 



forming a plan how our lottery money can be laid out to the best ad- 
vantage, makes me wish for some abler head than mine, to consult, 
or those with whom I am associated in the commission. To contract 
by the mile is very difiicult, and to contract by the job, comprehend- 
ing the whole distance, is still worse. After consulting and turning 
the business in all the ways and shapes it is capable of, I proposed to 
my colleague the propriety of employing a man of reputation, who 
had weight of character equal to the jirocuriug of thirty good hands 
to be paid by the month, and he to superintend the business; the su- 
perintendent to be handsomely paid, and he to carry on and conduct 
the business under the direction of the commissioners. This plan we 
have adopted, and I trust I have found a man who is fully competent 
to the task,- and we shall make our engagements to begin on the 
25th of May." 

STATE ROADS. 

An act was passed March 26, 1803, for opening and im- 
proving certain great roads of the State with the proceeds 
of a lottery, to be drawn under the supervision of Philip 
Ten Eyck, Tliomas Storm, William Henderson, Mathi;is B. 
Tallmadge, and Jacobus Van Schoonhoven. The fund so 
raised was intended to be chiefly applied to the opening of 
roads in the Black river country, and was limited to fort}- 
one thousand five hundred dollars. 

Nathan Sage, Henry Huntington, and Jacob Brown 
were appointed commissioners for opening the road above 
mentioned, pa.ssing through Redfield, and these were, by 
an act passed April 9, 1804, authorized and empowered to 
make such deviations on said route as they deemed proper, 
notwithstanding the provision in the original act. 

Jacob Brown, Walter Martin, and Peter Schuyler were 
appointed under the act of March 26, 1803, to locate the 
road through the Bhick river valley, whieh has since, until 
recently, been known as the Sldfe road, and $30,000 were 
expended under that act. Silas Stow acted a short time 
as one of the commissioners, both on the Black river and 
the Johnstown section, with Brown, Martin, and Schuyler. 

By an act of April 8, 1808, Augustus Sacket, David I. 
Andrus, and John Meacham were empowered to lay out a 
public road four rods wide, commencing at sucli place in 
Brownville or Hounsfield as shall, in the opinion of the 
commissioners, best unite with the great road leading from 
Home to the river St. Lawrence at Putnam's ferry, and 
pursuing such route as in their opinion shall best accommo- 
date the public in general, to the village of Salina. 

By an act of April 2, 1813, the surveyor-general was 
" authorized and required to sell and dispose of so much 
of tiie unappropriated lauds of this State, on a credit of 
twelve months, lying in tiie county of Oneida, called the 
Fish creek land, as shall raise the sum of $1000 ; and the 
same is hereby appropriated for improving the road from 
Sacket's Harbor, on Lake Ontario, to the village of Rome, 
in the county of Oneida, being the road heretofore laid out 
by commissioners appointed by the State, and pay the same 
over to Henry Huntington, Clark Allen, and Dan Taft, who 
are hereby appointed su])erinteiidents to take charge of the 
expenditures of the said sum, for the objects aforesaid." 

An act was p;issed April 1, 1814, appointing William 
Smith, George Brayton, and Benjamin Wright to lay out 
a road from Salina to Smith's Mills (Adanisj, to intersect 



* Pavid Seymour, of Springfield, Vermont, the father of George N. 
Seymour, Esq., of Ogdcusburgh. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



115 



at that place the State road from Rome, through Redfield 
and Lorraine, to Brownville. The sum of $5000, derived 
from duties on salt and a tax on the adjacent lands that 
were to receive direct and immediate benefit from the road, 
was applied for its construction. The road was completed 
to Adams, and was long known as the Salt Point road, or 
State road. 

On the 17th of April, 1816, a State road was directed 
to be laid out from Lowville to Henderson liarbor, which 
was surveyed, but the whole of it Wiis not opened. It was 
principally designed to benefit lands in Pinckney and the 
other thinly-settled townships, but never became of public 
importance. 

A road from French Creek to Watcrtown was, by an act 
of April 1, 1824, directed to be made under the direction 
of Amos Stebbins, Azariah I)oane, and Henry H. Coffeen. 
It was to be opened and worked as a public road in the 
towns through which it passed, it being expected that the 
Commissioners would secure its location in such a manner 
as to secure the public interests only. 

An act of April 18, 1828, provided for improving the 
public road between Canton and Antwerp by a tax on lands 
to be benefited. 

By an act of April 19, 1834, Loren Bailey, Azariah 
Walton, and Eldridge G. Merrick were appointed to lay out 
a road along the St. Lawrence, from near the line of Lyme 
and Clayton to Chippewa Bay, in Hammond. The cost, 
not exceeding $100 per mile, was to be taxed to adjacent 
lands; and in 1836, 1838, and 1839 the act was amended 
and extended. 

A State road from Carthage to Lake Champlain was, by 
an act of April 4, 1841, authorized to be laid out by Nel- 
son J. Beach, of Lewis county, David Judd, of Esses, and 
Nathan Ingerson, of Jefierson counties. The road has 
been surveyed and opened the whole distance. Much of it 
lies through an uninhabited forest. 

The enterprise of individual proprietors led, at an early 
day, to the opening of extended lines of roads, among 
which were the Morris and Hammond road, the Alexandria 
road, etc. The tour of President Monroe in 1817 probably 
led to the project of uniting the two prominent military 
stations of Plattsburg and Sacket's Harbor by a military 
road, which was soon after begun. A report of John C. 
Calhoun, then secretary of war, dated January 7, 1819, 
mentions this among other national works then in progress. 
The labor was done by relief parties of soldiers from these 
garrisons, who received an extra allowance of fifteen cents, 
and a gill of whisky daily. The western extremity, from 
Sacket's Harbor, through Brownville, Pamelia Four Cor- 
ners, and Redwood to Hammond, and from Plattsburg to 
the east line of Franklin county, only were completed. The 
care of the general government ended with the opening of 
these roads, and the portion in this county has been main- 
tained as a town road. 

TURNPIKES. 

The " Oneida and Jefierson Turnpike Company" was 
incorporated April 8, 1808, for the purpose of making a 
road, by the most eligible route, from the house of James 
Tryon, in Rome, by way of David Butler's, in Redfield, 



and the south branch of Sandy creek, in Malta (Lorraine), 
and thence to Putnam's ferry, on the St. Lawrence. The 
persons named in the act were Nathan Sage, Peter Colt, 
Augustus Sacket, Jacob Brown, David Smith, and Eliphalet 
Edmonds. Capital, 4700 shares of $25 each. A com- 
pany with the same name, and a capital of 820,000, was 
chartered May 3, 1834, but never got into efficient opera- 
tion. The commissioners named were Elisha Camp, 
Thomas C. Chittenden, Clark Allen, Ira Seymour, Nelson 
Darley, and Alanson Bennet. 

" The St. Lawrence Turnpike Company," formed April 
5, 1810, of twenty-nine leading land-holders of northern 
New York, headed by J. Le Ray, built, in 1812-13, a 
turnpike from a point five and a half miles north of Car- 
thage to Bangor, Franklin county. They were in 1813 
released from completing the termini, which had originally 
been intended to be the Long Falls and Malone. The 
road was opened under the supervision of Russell Attwater, 
and built from the proceeds of lands subscribed for its 
construction along the route. During the war it was a 
source of great profit, but afterwards fell into disuse, and 
the company were, by an act of April 17, 1827, allowed to 
abandon it to the public. 

" The Ogdcnsburgh Turnpike Company," formed June 
8, 1812, capital, $50,000, and mainly sustained by David 
Parish, soon after built a turnpike from Carthage to Og- 
dcnsburgh by way of Antwerp, Rossie, and Morristown. 
This was also, by an act of April, 1826, surrendered to the 
public. Few persons better deserve honorable mention for 
their liberality in contributing to public improvement than 
David Parish, whose share of expense in opening the Og- 
den.sburgh turnpike was $40,000, and in the St. Lawrence 
upwards of $10,000. Mr. Le Ray is also equally deserv- 
ing of remembrance as the early and constant benefactor of 
these improvements, and his expenditures on these were 
doubtless greater than those of any other person. 

By an act passed March 30, 1811, the governor was to 
appoint commissioners to lay out two turnpikes. One of 
these was to pass from Lowville, by way of Munger's Mills, 
and Watertown to Brownville ; the other from Munger's 
Mills to Sacket's Harbor. 

On the 13th of February, 1812, Mr. Le Ray addressed 
the following memorial to the legislature : 

" To the Honorable, the Legislnlnre of the Stale of Xcio York : 

"The petition of James Le Ray de Cliauinont, rcspeotfully shewcth : 
That the St. Lawrence Turnpike Koad, leading from the Black River 
to the town of Malone, in Franklin County, is now opened the whole 
of the distance, and it is expected will he completed in the course of 
this year. That a direct road loading from the Black River, opposite 
the village of Watertown, and intersecting the River St. Lawrence 
in the town of Le Ray, would, in the opinion of your petitionerSf 
greatly promote the (luhlic convenience; that the country through 
which such road would have to pass is in a great measure unsettled, 
and the settlement anil improvement of which would be much promoted 
by a good road. Your petitioners would also beg leave further to rep- 
resent that tile road leading from Ihe village of Chaumont to the vil- 
lage of Cape Vincent, on Ihe river St. Lawrence, opposite Kingston, 
in Upper Canada, a distance of about eleven miles, passes through a 
very level and an unsettled tract of country, and is at present much 
out of repair, and during the greater part of (he year so miry as to 
be almost impassable ; that by reason of this road being in such 
situation, persons traveling through the Bl.ack River country to 
Upper Canada arc obliged, during the summer season, to submit to 



116 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



the inconvenience and risk of crossing Lake Ontario, — a navigation 
by no means safe, esj)eciany in o|i(-n boats ; that in ease the saiii road 
was so improved that it could be safely and conveniently passed by 
horses and carriages at all seasons of the year, the public conve- 
nience as well as the settlement and cultivation of that part of the 
country would, in the 0]>inion of your i>etitioner, be greatly pro- 
moted. 

"Your petitioner therefore humbly requests your honoral>Ie body 
to authorize him, by law, to make a turnpike road from the village 
of Chaumont, in the town of Brownville, to the village of Cape A^in- 
cent, on the Uiver St. Lawrence, and from the Black River, opposite 
the village of Watortown, to intersect the St. Lawrence Turnpike Road 
at or near where the same crosses the Indian River, in the town of 
Le Ray; upon such conditions and under such limitations and re- 
strictions as you, in your wisdom, shall think fit to impose. And he, 
as in duty bound, will ever pray, etc. 

" Jasiks Le Rav de Ciiahmont, 
" By his Attorney, V. Le Raij de Chaumont." 

The war which soon ensued diverted attention for a time 
from this improvement; but, on March 31, 1815, an act 
was pas.sed, empowering Le Ray to build the Cape Vincent 
turnpiice from that place to Perch River. Elisha Camp, 
Musgrove Evans, and Robert McDowel were named commis- 
sioners for locating it in sucli a manner as to best promote 
the public interests ; the usual provisions were made, as 
with companies, to obtain the right of wa\', and Mr. Le 
Ray was not compelled to build a bridge over Chaumont 
river. On the 12th of April, 1816, he was allowed to ex- 
tend the road to Brownville village. By an act of April 
21, 1831, this road was surrendered to the public, and with 
it ended the era of turnpikes in Jefferson County. 

PLANK-ROADS. 

Measures were taken for building plank-roads soon after 
tlie pa.ssage of the general law. The first one built was 
from Waterttiwn to Sacket's Harbor, whicli was completed 
in 1848. The company had been formed Au^'U.st 7, 1847. 
The first plank-road in.spectors were appointed Novem- 
ber 17, 1847, and were William Wood, Samuel Boyden, 
and Walter Collins. 

During 1S4!)-.51 numerous roads were constructed, which 
will be named in the order of their connection and locality. 
The " Lowville and Carthage Plank-Road," inspected Au- 
gust 4, 1849. The '• Cartilage and Antwerp I'lankRoad,' 
inspected November 13, 1849. The "Sterlingbush and 
North Wilna Plank-Road," just built, and connecting the 
last road with the village of Louisburgh, or Sterlingbush, 
in Lewis county, — tlie articles of association dated May 1(1, 
1853. The " Gouverneur, Somerville, and Antwerp Plank- 
Road ;" five miles, .seventy-two chains, and seventy links 
of this road in this county; inspected November 14, 1849. 
A continuous line of plank-roads connect this with Ogdens- 
burgh, Canton, and the depot of Canton and Madrid, on the 
Northern railroad. One mile from AntwiTp village tliis 
road connects with the " Hammond, Rossie, and Antwerp 
Plank-Road," which was formed January 23, 1850; seven 
miles in this county; inspected October 24, 1850; length 
twenty miles, pa.ssing through Rossie village, and connect- 
ing with the village and port of Morristown. Several very 
expensive gradings and rock-cuttings occur on this road. 
At the village of Ox Bow, in Antwi'rp, it connects with 
the " Evans' Mills and Ox Bow Plaiik-Koad," seventeen 
miles long ; completed in June, 1852. The " Pamelia and 



Evans' Mills Plank-Road" continues this route to Water- 
town, nine and three-fourths miles long ; completed June 15, 
1850. Antwerp is connected with Watertown by the fol- 
lowing roads : The " Antwerj), Sterlingville, and Great 
Bend Plank-Road," twelve and three-eighths miles long; 
completed August 27, 1849. The " Watertown and Great 
Bend Plank Road," ten miles; completed late in 1849. 

This passes through the villages of Black River and 
Felts' Mills. At the village of Great Bend this and the 
former road connect with the " Great Bend and Copen- 
hagen Plank-Road, " of which nine miles are in the county ; 
completed November 31, 1849. This road pa.sses through 
Champion village, and connects with the " Rutland and 
Champion Plank-Road," seven miles seventy-one chains 
long, which is laid on the former main road between 
Copenhagen to Watertown, to the line of the latter near the 
" Big Hill," three and one-half miles from Watertown vil- 
lage ; completed August 30, 1849. By the " Watertown 
Plank- and Turnpike-Road" this line is continued to 
Watertown village. This road, three and one-half miles 
long, was comjpleted September 11, 1849. The " Water- 
town Central Plank-Road," two miles long, completed 
August 11, 1849, was at first designed to connect with 
other roads, forming a line of plank-roads to Syracuse, but 
the completion of the railroad has indefinitely postponed 
this plan. The " Adams and Ellisburg Plank-Road," 
through these towns, was inspected June 17, 1849. It is 
continuous of roads to Syracuse, Oswego, etc. 

" The Dexter, Brownville, and Pamelia Plank-Road," five 
miles twelve chains long, connects Pamelia village with 
Dexter. It was finished October 5, 1850. It is continued 
by the " Dexter and Limerick Plank-Road" to the town-line 
of Lyme, towards Cape Vincent; completed in May, 1850. 
It also connects with the " Dexter and Hounsfield Plank- 
Road," wliich runs from Dexter to the Watertown and 
Sacket's Harbor road, near the latter place. It was in- 
spected August 13, 1849. 

A line of roads from Alexandria Bay to Watertown was 
projected, and mostly finished, consisting of the " Theresa 
and Alexandria Bay Plank-Road," twelve miles long; com- 
pleted December 5, 1849, and the " Theresa Plank-Road" 
towards Evans' Mills, of which about four miles were com- 
pleted July 6, 1852. The "Theresa and Clayton Plank- 
Road," between these places, was completed June 25, 1850. 
This road passes through La Fargeville. 

The completion of these roads has contributed much to 
the prosperit}' of the country, although some of them have 
not met the expectations of those who invested money in 
them. The railroads, finished and in progress, will so en- 
tirely supersede the use of several that they will never be 
rebuilt. As a general average they have cost about one 
thousand dollars per mile, and the companies have been 
formed in the localities directly interested in their con- 
struction. 

The /)/u(i/i;-road epidemic seems to have at one time and 
another afflicted nearly every portion of the Union ; but, 
like many other really impracticable schemes, has generally 
had only a short existence. The system has been entirely 
abandoned in Jeftersou County, and most of the lines have 
been transformed into graveled or ordinary turnpikes. They 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



117 



served a useful purpose for a time, no doubt, but improved 
turnpikes, and, finally, railways, have superseded them, and 
they are only remembered as thinirs of the past. 

Here and there a piece of scantling or a broken plank re- 
minds the traveler of their cxi.stcnce, as he rolls smoothly 
alonL' in a comfortable carria;.^e, or whirls swiftly by in the 
luxuriantly upholstered railway coach. 

RAILWAYS. 

The history of railway enterprises, connected with the 
region of northern New York, dates back to the very com- 
niencement of the system of .steam land transportation in 
the United States, and f()rms an int-ercsting chajiter to all 
who take an interest in the improvement and progress of 
the country. The following, upon the railways of the 
county, is mostly made up from Dr. Hough's history, and 
the pamphlet, edited by Hon. Charles R. Skinner, descrip- 
tive and .statistical, of Waterfown. 

The peoj)lc of Jefferson County early caught the spirit 
of improvement, of late years so strikingly evinced in the 
construction of railroads ; and that from Albany to Sche- 
nectady, the first one in the countrj', had hardly got into 
succe.<sful operation, when the project of gaining an access 
to market by this means was brought up for discussion ; 
and on the 17th of April, 1832, an act was passed incar- 
porating (he 

WATKRTOWN AND UOJIE RAILnOAD, 

which act was never allowed to expire, but was revived re- 
peatedly by the legislature, and, after years of patient and 
persevering efJbrt, this truly beneficial mad was opened. 
The company was clothed with powers to build a road from 
Rome to Watertown, and thence to the St. Lawrence, or 
Lake Ontario, or botii, with a capital of SI, 000,(100, in 
shares of SI 00. Work was to commence within three, 
and end within five years. The commissioners named in 
the act were Henry H. Coffeen, Edmund Kirby, Orville 
Hungerford, and William Smith, of Jefferson County ; 
Jesse Armstrong, Alvah Sheldon, Arteraas Trowbridge, 
and Seth D.Roberts, of Oneida ; and Hiram Ilubbell, Ben- 
jamin H. Wright, Caleb Carr, and Elisha Hart, of Oswego, 
who were to receive stock and appoint a meeting for the 
choice of tliirteen directors. On May 10, 183(5, this act 
was revived, and its duration extended the original term; a 
new commission named, which, with the addition of George 
C. Sherman, was, for JefU'erson County, the .same as before, 
and a clause in.serted requiring 8:^5,(100 to be expended 
within two years, and the work to be finished in four years. 
The provisions of the Attica and Buflalo railroad charter 
were made applicable to this. On May (>, 18.37, the charter 
was revived and amended, by dividing into sections, of which 
the_^/-s^ extended from the lake or river to Watertown; the 
secoixf, from Watertown via Adams to Salmon river; and 
the third, to Rome. The sum of S10,000 was rcr|uired to 
be expended within two years ; within four years, one sec- 
tion ; within six years, the whole road was to be done. 
Clarke Rice, Hermon Cutler, and Alvah Hazen were added 
to the commissioners. On May 17, 1815, the last two acts 
were extended, and the charter continued for the original 
term ; S25,000 were rp<|uired to be spent within two years, 



and the whole to be finished within four years. On the 
28th of April, 1847, the former time was extended one 
year, and the latter two years. Tiie capital was extended 
So00,U00, for the purpose of laying a heavy iron rail of at 
least fifty-six pounds to the yard. Having given a brief 
synopsis of the legislation concerning this road, we will 
now relate the progress of organization, surveys, and con- 
struction. 

Nothing was attempted towards effecting the objects for 
which the company was chartered till near the time when 
it would have expired by the limitation of the act. 

A numerous and respectable meeting of citizen.*, from 
Jefferson and Oswego counties, was held at Pulitski, June 
27, 1836, and a committee appointed to address the public 
on the subject of the Watertown and Rome railroad. The 
principal object of this address was to impress upon the 
public mind the importiince of immediate action and effi- 
cient exertion, with a view of .securing these permanent 
advantages, both individually and collectively, to the country. 
A belief of the impracticability of the work had become 
prevalent, to refute which the following facts were adduced, 
which are instructive as showing the progress that had then 
been made in this line of engineeiing: 

'^Ist. TTpon the Patcrson and Jcr^oy City Railroad, sixteen miles 
long, a train, with one enj;inc, had drawn forty jtasscngcrs around 
curves of 400 ftet radius, nnJ up grades of forty- five feet to the niile, 
at the rate of twelve miles an hour. lid. On the C'aniilen and Anihoy 
Railroad the daily cars carrle<l from fifty to one hundred and fifty 
passengers from twelve to filteen miles an hour up grades of forty 
to fifty feet. ,1d. On the Tialtiiiiorc and Ohio Railroad, an engine 
weighing seven and a half tons had drawn two cars, each thirty feet 
in length, and containing fifty jmssengers each, nj) grades of forty- 
five feet. 4th. It had lieen ascertiiined from experiment that a Balti- 
more engine weighing eight tons wouM draw fifty tons on a grade of 
fifty feet at the rate of ten miles :in hour. 5th. An elevation of two 
hundred and fifty-three feet per milo had hcen overcome by a loco- 
motive drawing a car of thirty-three passengers." 

A subscription was in circulation at this time to secure a 
preliminary survey ; a concession of the right-of-way was 
solicited, and the public generally was invoked to lend aid 
to this measure, so indispensable to the prosperity of the 
country. The committee were: William Smith, G. C. 
Sherman, and I. K. Bronson, of Watertown ; J. H. Wells, 
of Pulaski; and Lemuel Freeman, of Williamstown, who 
employed Mr. William Dewey to make a survey from 
Watertown to Rome, which was done with the aid of Robert 
F. Livingston and James Roberts, and the results reported 
in September, 183t;. The distance of the line surveyed, 
which pa.ssed through Pulaski, was seventy-six miles, forty- 
five chains ; the cost, with the strap-rail then used, was 
estimated at SG4()0.20 per mile, and the whole co.st, with 
nine turn-outs, S512,(jl5.1l.'). There wa.s no estimate made 
of station-houses and other appendages. On August 22 
an informal meeting was held at Watertown to report the 
progress of the survey and raise means to complete it. 
The press, in reporting thc.sc proceedings, awarded especial 
and merited prai.se to Mr. Wdliam Smith for the energetic 
and disinterested manner in which he was engaged in this 
measure. The report of the engineer was received at 
Pulaski September 22, and a committee of three in each 
town appointed to solicit subscriptions. The zeal and ability 
with wliieli Mr. Dewcv perfirrmed this survey deserve 



118 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



T 



especial commendation ; but the project was destined this 
time to fail in achievement, and the crisis in the money 
market, which followed in the wake of speculation that 
ensued, precluding all idea of progress, the railroad project 
was allowed to slumber for nearly ten years. 

At an early stage of these movements, an anxiety w;is 
felt in the towns of Brownville and Lyme, then including 
Cape Vincent, to secure the continuation of the road, and 
on May 13, 1836, an act was passed, incorporating the 
" Watertown and Cape Vincent Railroad," with a capital 
of 850,001), and the following commissioners named to re- 
ceive stock and organize the company : Jerre Carrier, 
Henry Ainsworth, Roswell T. Lee, Samuel Lockwood, Ed- 
mund Kirby, George C. Sherman, Isaac H. Bronson, and 
John Williams; who, in the fall of the same year, also em- 
ployed William Dewey to survey the line. This was accom- 
plished with the aid of Robert F. Livingston and L. N. 
Bowlsby, and estimated as feasible at §65.429.29 for grading, 
by the cheapest route ; and the total cost of grading 
and superstructure was placed at §145,965.88. Grades 
were found not exceeding thirty-three feet per mile, and 
the distance surveyed, twenty-five miles and nineteen 
chains. Stock to the amount of the capital was nominally 
subscribed, mostly in the localities to be directly benefited, 
but nothing further was done, and this project, as distinct 
from the former, was allowed to expire. 

In 1835 a charter was granted for a railroad in Canada, 
from Hamilton to Sandwich, and from Toronto to Sarnia, 
but both charters expired, and in 1845 both were renewed. 
In September, 1845, Sir Allen McNab procured, in Lon- 
don, subscriptions to the former of 85,500,000, of which 
8750,000 were paid down. This was the beginning of that 
system of Canadian railroads, which may be said to form a 
connecting link with this, by lines of steamers, and to con- 
stitute a part of the same system. 

In the spring of 1844, at a time when the attention of 
the public was not directed to this object, and it had appa- 
rently been forgotten, Mr. Dewey, who had taken an active 
part in the former surveys, began writing articles for the 
Bluck River Journal, upon the advantages of railroads ; he 
endeavored to revive the public interest in this measure. 
In July, 1844, two thousand copies of a pamphlet entitled 
" Suggestions urging the con.struction of a Railroad from 
Rome to Watertown," were printed and distributed bj' him. 
The subject gradually became the topic of conversation, and 
early in 1845 a meeting was held at Cape Vincent, which, 
on May 1, was followed by one at Mechanics' hall, in 
Watertown, at which a committee of correspondence was 
chosen, and the delegation from the county in the legisla- 
ture were in.structcd to u.se their influence in securing a re- 
newal of the charter. Meetings were soon after held at 
other places, which passed strong resolutions, and numerous 
committees were appointed to excite public attention to the 
object. On the 19th of September, pursuant to a call 
signed by two hundred influential citizens of Kingston, a 
meeting was Iield in that city, at which the mayor, Thomas 
H. Robinson, presided. The proposed railroad to Rome 
met with the cordial approbation of the meeting, and a 
proposition was entertained for procuring a charter for the 
Wolf Island, Kingston and Toronto Railroad, to form, with 



one from the latter place to Sandwich, a continuous line to 
Detroit. The subscriptions to stock having amounted to 
8925,000, and as the charter of the road would expire in 
May following, the commissioners issued a circular, De- 
cember 26, 1846, calling upon stockholders for authority to 
transfer their subscriptions to sections Nos. 1 and 2, from 
Cape Vincent to Salmon river, not with a view of construct- 
ing these first, but to enable tlie company to organize and 
choose directors, by whom the affairs of the road could be 
more effectually managed. No intention was expressed of 
commencing work on the road until enough was secured to 
complete it. 

On February 10, 1847, a numerous and enthusiastic rail- 
road meeting met at the Universalist church, Watertown. 
Spirited addresses were made, and a series of forcible reso- 
lutions passed in favor of the speedy commencement of the 
work. 

In March, 1847, it was announced tliat a sufiScient 
amount of stock had been taken, or transferred, to build 
sections one and two, and on April the stockholders 
completed their organization by electing the following per- 
sons directors, viz. : S. N. Dexter, Clarke Rice, William C. 
Pierrepont, Robert B. Doxtater, John H. Whipple, Orville 
Hungerford, Norris M. Woodruff, William Smith, S. Buck- 
ley, Edmund Kirby, Jerre Carrier, Thcophilus Peugnet, and 
Clarke Rice. 

Orville Hungerford was cliosen president, Clarke Rice 
secretary, and Orville V. Brainard treasurer. 

Immediately afler their election, the directors proceeded to 
obtain a renewal of the charter, with leave to increa.<e their 
capital, for the purpose of laying a heavier rail than was 
originally intended. A committee was sent to Boston and 
New York to solicit stock, but mostlj' without success, and 
a new effort was made at home. The proposed advantages 
of the road to the country were eloquently set forth in a 
circular by the directors, dated August 20, 1847, and an 
urgent appeal made to the public for aid. The sum of 
8150,000 was at this time needed. A sufficient sum having 
been subscribed to save the charter, a meeting of the stock- 
holders was held at the court-house on March 21, 1848. 
After several addresses by those who had been actively en- 
gaged in prosecuting the work, Mr. Lord, from the com- 
mittee on resolutions, reported as follows : 

" Whcrcnit, subscrijttions for stock in the Watertown, Rome and 
Cape Vincent Railroad have been obtained, sufficient in amount to 
authorize the organization of the entire line, thus dispensing with 
the division into sections ; and whereas, the stocklioldcrs consider 
this contemplated improvement of vital importance to the northern 
section of the State, through which it wilt pass, and that the businet<8 
from the country, from the lakes and from Canada, which will be 
drawn to it, must render the stock valuable ; therefore, 

** RenolFcdf That the entire line of the road, from Rome to Cape Vin- 
cent, be considered one and indivisible, and that the faith of this 
company is pledged to use all lawful and proper means for its speedy 
completion ; and that the directors be, and they are hereby requested 
to pass a resolution, li.\ing the northern terminus of the road at Capo 
Vincent, and enter the same in the books of the company. 

" Rfsotvpd, That the directors ]>roceed without delay to the speedy 
construction of said road, as indicated by the charter, from Rome to 
Cope Vincent. 

'• lUnulrrd, That wc will sustain said directors, in prosecuting such 
project, to our utmost liabilities, and with all our in6uence, and 
that we will exert every effort in our power to aid them in procuring 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



119 



tho balance of means requisite to the full accomplishoieDt of said 
object. 

" lieimlrnil, That in commencing a work of such magnitude, in an- 
ticipation of the great benefits which must result to our agricultural, 
manufacturing, and other interests, we should not hesitate nor permit 
.seeming difhculties to retard our progress, but pkrsevkrb until all 
obstacles arc overcome and the road completed." 

These resolutions were enthusiastically passed. 

On April 24, 1848, the directors employed Isaac W. 
Crane, of Troy, a civil engineer, to re-survey the route, who, 
the same day, orsranized three parties, under the charge of 
Charles F. Smith, Octave IJiaiic, and Henry Van A'leck, 
and about the u)iddle of July the field work of the survey 
was completed. The summit was found to be only one 
hundred and ninety feet above Rome, the heaviest grades 
towards the south being thirty, and towards the north 
thirty-five feet per mile. The estimated cost of superstruc- 
ture was $G0G2.4U per mile, and the totjil of grading, 
bridging, and fencing, S442,940.G2. The entire cost of 
the road, including engines, cars, depots, land, damages, 
etc., was estimated at 81,250,620. 

The viewing committee of the County Agricultural 
Society, in their report of September, 1848, say of the 
vast importance of this road, — 

'* The farming and other interests arc at this time making vigorous 
efforts to raise funds to construct a railroad from Cape Vincent to 
Komo. We are fully satisfied of its practicability, and feel safe in 
saying that now is the time to put forth united efforts for securing 
this alUimj>urtant object. We arc too apt to act as though our influ- 
ence was of no account in the accomjtiislinicnt of great public im- 
provements. Is it estimated that there are seven hundred and twenty 
thousand acres in the county of Jetferson. It is not a low estimate 
to make the benefits of tho road, if it were constructed, to reckon tho 
increased value of the products of the soil for the first five years at 
one dollar per acre. Is it too much to calculate that by the first five 
years' operation of the road, the value of the soil will be increased 
one dollar ])er acre? Now add tho increased value of the first five 
years' jiroducts of the soil ($720,0110) to the increased value of the 
soil ($720, (1(10), and we have $1,4411, 0(10, an amouut suflicicnt to con- 
struct the entire read. But it is thought, by those competent to 
judge, that if $600,000 were subscribed in this county, the remainder 
could be easily obtained in the cities. Farmers of Jefferson ! can we 
long slumber when such high interests are at stake, and neglect to 
come forth with united strength and reap the golden harvest that 
already waves in the breeze ? Already a favorable charter is secured ; 
capable and faithful officers are elected ; over $.'100,00(1 of the stock 
is taken in the county. All we no\v lack is at once to take an amount 
of stock equal to the direct and immediate benefit we shall receive, 
and its speedy construction is rendered certain." 

In November, 1848, work was commenced at Rome, and 
soon after at other important points, and the road was so 
far completed :(s to allow the passage of trains to Camden 
in the fall of 1849. On April 10, 1851, the Hon. AVm. 
C. Pierrepont was cho.sen president, in place of Orville 
Hungerford, deceased, and on the same dtiy a resolution was 
pa.ssed for extending a branch of tho road, from the located 
line up the river-bank, into the village of Watertown. 

On the 28th of May, 1851, the road was completed to 
Pierrepont JIanor, and a large party from Watertown, 
Rome, and other sections, a.-iseinbled to celebnite the era. of 
the entrance of the first railroad train into Jefferson County. 

The first engine reached Watertown, September 5, at 
eleven o'clock in the night, and on the 24th of the same 
month its coni|iIetion to tliat ]ilaee was again celebrated 



with festivities. On the 20th of November it was finished 
to Chaumont, and in April, 1852, to Cape Vincent; the 
cars commencing regular trips on the 1st of !May. 

The contract for building the road was taken by Phelps, 
Matoon, and Barnes, of Springfield, Miissachusetts. The 
rails are from the manuftictory of Guest & Co., Wales, and 
not a single bar has broken since the road has been in 
operation. 

The company, to obtain the means of completing the 
road, has issued three clas.ses of bonds, the first on the 1st 
of July, 1850, for $400,000, payable from 1858 to 1868, 
at the rate of 840,000 a year; the second, July 1, 1851, 
of 8250,000, one-half of whicli has been converted into 
stock ; and the third, of 8200,000, which was soon after 
converted into stock. 

EXTENSIONS AND CONSOLIDATIONS. 

In April, 1852, as before stated, the railway was com- 
pleted and put in operation from Watertown to Cape Vin- 
cent, twenty-five miles. The total length of the entire 
line was ninety-seven and a half miles, and its total cost 
$1,957,992. 

On the 8th of January, 1852, a company was organized 
to construct a road from Watertown to Potsdam Junction, 
a point on the Vermont Central Railroad, which latter ex- 
tends from Ogdensburgli to Rouse's I'oint, at the foot of 
Lake Champlaiu. The Potsdam branch, seventy-six miles 
in length, was completed in 1854, and up to 1860 was 
called the " Pot.«dam and Watertown Railroad." In the 
last-mentioned year it came into the possession of the 
Watertown and Rome Railroad Company. In 1861-G2 
the latter company put down a track from De Kalb Junc- 
tion, a jioiut on the Potsdam and Watertown road, to Og- 
densburgh, a distance of nineteen miles, and the roads were 
con.soliJated and the names changed by the legislature to 
the " Rome, Watertown and Ogdensburgli Railroad Com- 
pany." 

In 1866 the " Oswego and Rome Railroad," extending 
from Oswego eastward twenty-nine miles to Richland, on 
the Rome, Watertown and Ogden-sburgh Railroad, was jiut 
in operation and leased to the last-named road. 

" The Syracu.se Northern Railroad," extending from that 
city forty-five miles to Sandy Creek Junction, on the Rome, 
Watertown and Ogdensburgli Railroad, w;is completed in 
1870, and in 1875 was consolidated with the main line. 

" The Lake Ontario Shore Railroad, " running from Os- 
wego west to Charlotte (Rochester's port of entry) to its 
western terminus at Lewiston, on the Niagara river, one 
hundred and fifty miles, wa.s also merged in the Rome, 
Watertown and Ogdensburgli Riiilroad, in January, 1875. 

The consolidated lines make up an aggregate of four 
hundred and seventeen miles now under the control of the 
Rome, Watertown and Ogdensburgli Railroad Company, 
and forming one of the three most important lines of busi- 
ness in the State, and one of great value to the people of 
the northern and western counties. 

It tapis the great mining regions of this section, which it 
has aided very materially in developing, traverses one of 
the finest agricultural portions of the State, accommodates 
cxten-sive lumber districts, draws largely from Canada on 



120 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



the north, and reaches into the coal regions of Pennsyl- 
vania. 

The country through which it passes is generally well 
settled and comparatively prosperous. It serves directly 
the cities of Waterlown, Rome, Oswego, Syracuse, and 
Ogdensburgh, and niany thriving towns and villages along 
its lines. Since 1852 it has paid in dividends nearlj' three 
million dollars. Its capital stuck i.s $3,l-i7,.5U(). The 
annual report for 1875 shows the following classes and 
amounts of transportation : 

Tons. 

Forest jtroducts 77,734 

Animals 1S,7S(1 

Vegetable foiiil 74,C40 

Other agricultural produets 1 1,796 

Mnnufaelures 47,1)27 

Mcrcbandise 30,:{(i4 

Other articles 11 J, 392 

Total 37C,f)3.3 

Among the important items were 45,989 tons of lumber, 
7608 tons of cheese, and -ilG9 tons of butter. In 1873 
there were 81,509 tons of iron ore transported over the 
road. The number of passengers in 1875 was 564,200. 

During the summer .season the road maintains a line of 
steamers from Cape Vincent down the St. Lawrence river, 
among the Thousand Islands, to Clayton, Fishers Landing, 
and Alexandria Bay. The travel in this direction in the 
warm season is extensive, and annually increasing. 

For the fiscal year, — October 1, 1876, to September 30, 
1877, — number of tons (of 2000 pounds) of freight carried 
in cars, classified, were as follows : 

Pniducls of the forest 7.^,S79 tons. 

Products of animals 24,112 '* 

Vegetable food S2,9iiy " 

Other agricultural products Ill, 683 " 

Manufactures 26, ,^73 " 

Merchandise 31.312 " 

Other articles 1117, 3'JO " 

366,848 ■' 

Total movement of freight, or number of tons carried 
one mile, 26,732,738. 

OFFICERS. 

The first I'rcsidcnt and Superintendent Wius Orville Ilun- 
gcrford, who died before the comj)lction of the road. The 
succeeding Presidents have been, Hon. William C. Piorre- 
pont, Marcellus Masscy, and Samuel Sloan. The Superin- 
tendents succeeding Mr. Hungerford have been, Robert 
Doxtater, Job Collainer, Carlos Dutton, Addison Day, C. 
C. Case, and J. W. Moak. 

The present officers arc as follows : President, Samuel 
Sloan ; Vice-President, IMarcelhis IMassey ; Supcriiiti'iideiit 
R. W. & O. Division, J. W. Moak ; Superintendent L. O. 
& S. N. Division, E. A. Van Hcirne ; General Freight 
Agent, E. M. Moore; General Ticket Agent, H. T. Frary; 
Treasurer, J. A. Lawyer; Direetnrs, Marcellus Massey, 
Moses Taylor, Samuel Sloan, C. Zabriskie, William E. 
Dodge, P. R. Pync, John S. Barnes, G. Colby, J. S. Far- 
low, T. II. Camp, S. D. Hungerford, William M. White, 
Theodore Irwin. 

The general offices of the company are locatcil in Water- 
town, where, also, the road has large workshops, which give 



employment to over one hundred men. The total employees 
on the whole line number about twelve hundred men. 

The equipment of the road consists of 55 locomotives, 
50 passenger-coaches, 24 baggage and express, and 1200 
freight^cars. 

The Rome, Watertown and Ogdensburgh Railway, as now 
operated, with all its combinations, offers advantages and 
facilities for shipment which are unsurpa.ssed. It reaches 
the New York Central road at two important points, Rome 
and Syracuse. At the former city extensive docks have 
been eon.structed on the Erie canal. It has two termini on 
the St. Lawrence river, — Cape Vincent and Ogdensburgh, 
— at both of which points it owns superior and well- 
arranged docks, and has close ferry connections with Kings- 
ton and Prescott. The former is the terminus of the Kings- 
ton and Pembroke railway, which, when completed, will 
bring from one of the finest lumber regions of the conti- 
nent the productions of that section. Prescott is the 
southern terminus of the St. Lawrence and Ottawa Rail- 
road, from which vast quantities of freight are received. 
It touches two important points on Lake Ontario, viz., 
Oswego and Charlotte, near Rochester; and Lewiston, on 
the Niagara river. At Oswego the road owns valuable 
dock privileges. Here is also a bridge over the Oswego 
river, completed April 6, 1876. The completion of this 
bridge, with the opening of the road to Suspension Bridge, 
June 12, 187G, and the completion of the few remaining 
miles of the Portland and Ogdensburgh Railroad, will open 
a direct line from Portland, Maine, to San Francisco, accom- 
modating with immense advantages a large and productive 
territory in the northern part of the Union heretofore un- 
supplied, and not wholly developed. 

The following statistical table gives the principal data 
concerning this road. It is derived from the official map 
deposited in the State engineer's office : 



Milesof 
Main 
Track 



Total 
Acres. 



Cape Vincent | 5.9826 

Lvine ! 7.2674 

Urownvillc ' 8.67911 

Pamelia | 1.7879 

Watertown i 6.8843 

Adams 7.1212 

F.llisljurg 9.4591 

Sandy Creek 5.2793 

Kichhind 2.5818 

Albion 7.6227 

Williamstown 7.67211 

Ambov 4839 

Camden 11.1428 

Annsvillc 5.3244 

Rome 8.5360 



65. 

68. 
77. 
26. 
84 
83. 
87. 
46. 
25, 
77, 
75, 
4, 
96, 
65, 
100, 



856 

205 
475 
120 
590 
890 
240 
160 
490 
610 
816 
895 
120 
,566 
965 



Length in Miles of GfadeB. 



Ascent Descent 
South. South. 



.9585; 
1.992SJ 
2.0114 

.72181 
l.,8876i 
I.ISU 
1.0991 
1.2905 

.0922 
1.0112 

.1360 



3.1582 
2.3356 
4.5242 

.8765 
4.2754 
4.5329 
3.5837 

.7538 
1.4292 
3.8688 
2.8831 



Total 95.7253 1188.997 19.6012 38.2904 37.8339 



2.767S 1.6706 
1.0252 1.6IU0 
3.42591 2.7974 



1.8659 
2.9390 
2.1443 
.1896 
.7214 
1.4072 
4.7763 
3.5360 
1.0604 
2.0427 
4.6529 
.4839 
6.7044 
2.6982 
2.3127 



Elcrnlion nhn,r (/(/r.— Rome, 442 feet; Annsvillc, 430.24; Fish 
Creek (bridge), Taberg Station, 416.44; McConnellsvillc, 482: Cam- 
den, 523.5; West Camden, 538; Williamstown, 682.86; Kassoag, 
625.36: Sand Hanks, 580 ; Pineville, 546 ; Ccntrevillc, 552.2; Rich- 
land Dc|iot, 524.3; .Sandy Creek, 556 9; Piorrepont Manor, 587,8; 
Adams, 596; Centre, 600; Watertown, 409.8; lilack River Bridge, 
401: Urownvillc, 327.5; Limerick, 322.3; Chauinont, 289.2 ; Chuu- 
mont liridge, 269 : Thrcc-Milo Ray, 306.3 ; St. Lawrence river, at 
Cape Vincent, 250 feet. Ipon Burr's Slate map the elevation of 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



121 



Lake Ontnrio, above tide, is slated to be 231 feet, while the recent 
CauadinD railroad surveys inalte 208^ feet. 

THE UTICA ANII BLACK RIVER RAILWAY. 

The history of tlic prelimiriiiry operations looking to the 
construction of a road from a point on the Erie canal to 
Ojrdcnsburgh i-ia tlie Rlack River valley is so interestiiijr 
that we make the fullowiim extract;; from Dr. Ilouirh's well- 
written account, as given in his liistory of Jefferson County : 

In December, 1852, the plan of a railroad, from some 
point on the central line through the Black River valley to 
the St. Lawrence, began to be discussed, and a meeting was 
held at Lowville, January 8, 1853. A committee of five 
persons in each county interested was appointed to collect 
statistics and facts to report to future meetings, of which 
one was apj)oiuted at Theresa on the 20th and another at 
Boonville on the 2Gth of the .same montli. 

The meeting at Boonville was attended by those repre- 
senting the claims of Herkimer, Utica, and Rome, for the 
southern terminus, but the weight of interests represented 
was in favor of the first of these, and a compati}' was formed 
under the name of the " Black River Railroad Company," 
with a capital of $1,200,000, for the [lurpose of building a 
road from Clayton, on the St. Lawrence, by way of Car- 
thage and the west side of the Black river, to the valley 
of West Canada creek to Herkimer, a distance of about 
one hundred and twenty miles. The directors named were 
Benjamin Carver, Harvey Doolittle, and Linus Yale, of (ler- 
kimcr county ; Jonah Howe, Matthew Beecher, and Philip 
M. Schuyler, of Oneida countj' ; Ela Merriam, Seth Miller, 
Mo.ses M. Smith, Wni. L. Easton, and John Benedict, of 
Lewis county ; and Samuel J. Davis and Lewis T. Ford, 
of Jefferson County. 

It may be here noticed that, seventeen years previous 
(May 21, 183G), a company of the same name had been 
chartered by a special act to build a road from Clayton to 
Carthage. A preliminary survey was made the same year 
by R. F. Livingston ; the route pas.sed tlirough Evan's 
Mills and La Fargcvillc, was thirty-one miles in length, and 
was estimated to cost $220,015.62. Nothing but a survey 
was attempted. This effort on the part of Herkimer im- 
mediately e.xcited a spirit of rivalry at Utica and Rome, 
and three days after the Boonville meeting the " Black 
River and Utica Railroad Cuiniiany" was organized, with a 
capital of $1,000,000, for the purpose of building a road 
from that city to Clayton, a distance of about one hundred 
miles. The directors named were T. S. Faxton, Spencer 
Kellogg, John Bulteriield, JIartin Hart, Alfred Churcliiil, 
James V. P. Gardiner, Benjamin F. Ray, James S. Lynch, 
Wm. H. Terry, Hugh Crocker, Harvey Barnard, Jonathan 
R. Warner, and John D. Lclaud, all of Utica, except the 
la.st-named, who is of Deerfield. T. S. Faxton was chosen 
president, and J. S. Lynch secretary. Daniel C. Jenne was 
employed to survey a route, and report the proper estimates 
of cost. 

On the Sth of March a meeting was held at Lowville, at 
which a committee of three from each town, interested in 
the line from Boonville to the St. Lawrence, was appointed 
to examine the claims of the three southern points. 31r. 
Jenne reported the results of a survey from Utica to Boon- 
9 



ville, and estimated the cost, with c(|nipment, at 820,000 
per mile; and Mr. Octave Blanc, who had been engaged on 
a preliminary survey for Rome, also reported the result of 
his operation south of Boonville; and Mr. Wooster, of 
Herkimer, read the survey made by Mr. Jervis, in 1837, for 
the Herkimer and Trenton railway. 

Alter iiearing these several reports, the general commit- 
tee found theiusclve.s unable to decide the question, and 
appointed a sub-committee of eight, consisting of A. II. 
Barnes, of Martin.sburgh ; A. Joy, of Clayton ; H. Dewey, 
of Orleans ; Wm. L. E;iston. of Lowville ; Ela Merriam, of 
Leyden ; N. IngersoU, of Le Ray ; S. Sylvester, of Copen- 
hagen ; and A. A. Goodale, of West Turin, to visit these 
.several places proposed as points of junction with the cen- 
tral road, and report at the meeting to be adjourned to Car- 
thage on the 22d in.stant. . . . The committee of eight 
reported that, having met and organized at Rome on the 
14th, they resolved upon a series of (|uestions to be pro- 
posed to the railroad committees of Rome, Utica, and Her- 
kimer, to ascertain the cost per acre of fifteen or twenty 
acres tiir a depot, and the amount of stock that would be 
pledg(>d for each by persons south of ]?oonville. It was 
found that a connection could readily be obtained with the 
central road, and a spirit of liberality and accommodation 
was evinced by the officers of that line. 

At Rome a delegation presented the claims and prefer- 
ences of that place ; stated that the re(|uisite amount of 
land could be bought at a price not exceeding $251) per 
acre, and jiledged at least $300,000 in private subscriptions, 
besides what might be obtained from the village corpora- 
tion, which it was supposed would amount to 815(t,000 
more. 

At Utica, the committee found that a suflicient quantity 
of depot ground could be purchased on the canal at $200 
per acre. The sum of $250,000 was guaranteed b}' indi- 
viduals of Utica, and $100,000 was expected to be raised 
between that city and Boonville. A further sum from pri- 
vate means of $50,000, and $250,000 more from city bonds, 
was also expected, making $050,000. 

The committee also visited Herkimer, but, as it was un- 
derstood that that place had withdrawn its claims for the 
terminus, and that the company had been disbanded, no 
report was made upon that station. These facts the sub- 
committee submitted without expressing their preference of 
the claims of either. The general committee was in ses- 
sion two d.iys at Carthage, engaged in discussing the merits 
of the rival stations, but the two-third rule which they had 
imposed upon themselves prevented the requisite majority 
from being obtained. The first ballot was 22 for Utica, 22 
for Rome, and 2 for Herkimer ; and Rome afterwards gained 
a small majority; but finding it impossible to agree the com- 
mittee was discharged, and an association, styled the "Og- 
densburgh, Clayton, and Rome Railroad Company," was 
immediately announced as in the field, and pledged to build 
a road from Rome to Denmark, and thence to the St. Law- 
rence, at Morristown and Ogdcnsburgh, with a branch to 
Clayton. The Ogdcnsburgh and Clayton Railrcid Com- 
pany was formed February 19, 1853, with a capital of 
$2,000,000, and the following directors, viz, : Henry A. 
Foster, John Stryker, Edward Huntington, and Alva 



122 



HISTORY OF JEFFEESON COUNTY, NEW YOKK. 



Mudge, of Rome; Elijah B. Allen and Henry Van Rens- 
selaer, of Ofjdcnsbursih ; Augustus Chapman, of Mor- 
ristown ; Wm. L. Easton, of Lowville ; Seth Miller, of 
West Turin ; Alanson H. Barnes, of Martinsburg ; Sidney 
Sylvester, of Denmark ; Samuel J. Davis, of Wilna ; and 
Jason Clark, of Plessis. Henry A. Foster was chosen 
president ; Elijah B. Allen, vice-president ; James L. Leo- 
nard, of Lowville, treasurer ; Roland S. Doty, of Rome, 
secretary ; and Octave Blanc, engineer. 

At a meeting held at Watertown, April 21, a code of 
by-laws was adopted, and the following resolutions passed : 

" RennUed, That it is our intention to construct a. railroad, from the 
contnil line of railroad and Eric caniil, in the village of Rome, to the 
river St. Lawrence, in the village of Clayton, and also to said river 
St. Lawrence, in the village of Ogdcnsburgh, and touching the river 
at Morristown, so as to connect with the Northern Ogdensburgh Rail- 
road, and the Grand Trunk Railroad, tho By Town and Prescott 
Railroad, and the proposed Pembroke and Brockvillc Railroad in 
Canada. 

" lienolted, That in lowness of summit, easy grade, cheapness in 
cost of construction, facility of connection with the central line of 
railroad, and the Erie canal, and in having its termination at such 
points as to command the business of the country, and of Canada, 
this road has decided advantages over any other proposed line of 
railroad from the St. Lawrence river to the said central line and canal, 
and can iinj loill he built ; and that we unanimously pledge ourselves 
to the stockholders and to each other to push forward the enterprise 
to completion and without delay." 

This claim of superiority is, of course, contested by the 
rival route, as well as that now finished. The plan of con- 
necting Ogdensburgli with some other road, by a line south- 
west from that place, had come up for discussion while the 
Totsdam and Watertown Railroad was in course of organi- 
zation, but nothing was then effected. It was nest pro- 
posed to connect that place with the road last named, in the 
town of DeKalb, but the present project has superseded 
there. 

Both the Utica and the Rome routes have been surveyed 
and located, and the most active efforts have been made to 
secure subscriptions along the linos of each, which, from 
Boonville to Theresa, a distance of about sixty miles, nearly 
coincide, and repeatedly cross each other. Both routes 
have been let to responsible parties, and subscriptions suffi- 
cient to warrant the undertaking have been secured by 
each. 

An act was passed May 27, 1853, making it lawful for 
the common council of the city of Utica to borrow, on the 
faith and credit of that city, any sum of money not exceed- 
ing 8250,000, for a term not exceeding twenty years, for 
the purpose of aiding the construction of this road. A 
similar power was granted to the trustees of tho village of 
Rome, to the extent of raising 8150,000, for the Ogdens- 
burgh, Carthage and Rome Railroad, the bonds to bear the 
corporate seal of the village, and their management to be 
intrusted to Roland S. Doty, Harvey Brayton, William L. 
Ilowland, Gordon L. Bissell, and Eri Seymour, who were 
styled the " Commissioners of the Railroad Fund of Rome." 
Both of these acts have since been confirmed by large 
majorities at elections held for that purpose.* 

The ceremony of breaking ground for the Black River 

* The vote at Rome stood 4i0 to I, in favor. 



and Utica Railroad took place at Utica, August 27, at 
which addres.scs were delivered by Governor Seymour, ex- 
Governor Hunt, and other distinguished gentlemen, and 
the occasion was celebrated by military parade and general 
festivities. This road was contracted Augu.st 10, to be 
graded in 1854. The Rome road was let November 7, to 
be graded and ready for the superstructure September 1, 
1854. 

The Utica and Black River Railway was opened to 
Booneville, Oneida county, a distance of thirty-five miles, in 
1855. In 18(38 the line was put in operation to Lowville, 
the prasent county-seat of Lewis county, a flirther distance 
of twenty-four miles. In 1872 it reached Carthage, six- 
teen miles farther. The original plan to construct a line to 
Clayton, Morristown, and Ogdensburgh, on the St. Law- 
rence river, was not immediately carried out. While the 
division between Lowville and Carthage was in course of 
construction, a company was organized in Watertown, under 
the title of " Carthago, Watertown and Sackets Harbor 
Railroad Company," and a road constnicted in 1872, from 
Watertown to Carthage, eighteen miles, which was com- 
jiletcd about the time the Utica and Black River Com- 
jiany reached the same point. Upon tho completion of 
the road from Watertown to Carthage, it was leased to the 
Utica and Black River Company. In 1873 the latter 
company extended a line to Clayton, and in 1874 the Car- 
thage, Watertown and Sacket's Harbor Company com- 
pleted a road from Watertown to Sacket's Harbor, which 
was in the same year leased to the main line. 

BLACK RIVER AND MORRISTOWN RAILWAY. 

The first step in this important line of road was taken on 
the 29th of January, 1870, when a public meeting was 
called at Morristown to take the mctter into consideration. 
Other meetings were held soon afler at Hammond Corners, 
Redwood, and Theresa, to feel the public jiulse, and test the 
feasibility of procuring aid in the way of private subscrip- 
tions, and by means of corporation bonds. 

On March 22, 1870, articles of association were filed with 
the secretary of State. The capital stock was fixed at 
$600,000, and Philadelphia, in Jefferson County, and Mor- 
ristown, in St. Lawrence county, were made the lermini of 
the road. The length of the proposed line was thirty-seven 
miles. 

Individual subscriptions to the amount of 840,000 were 
soon raised, and all of the t«wns on the line executed and 
exchanged their bonds for stock in the company. The 
various amounts were as follows: Philadelphia, 815,1100 ; 
Theresa, 81)0,000; Alexandria, St;0,()tH) ; llaniinond, 
800,000 ; Morristown, 820,0(t0. 

A portion of the tax-payers of the towns of Hammond 
and Morri.stown contested the legality of the acts bonding 
their respective towns, and upon a final submission of the 
matter to the court of appeals the acts as concerning these 
two towns wore set aside. Sub.ser|uently, in the spring of 
1872, the State legislature ratified the acts of these towns, 
and confirmed the validity of their bonds which had been 
issued and delivered to the company. This legislative ac- 
tion settled all i|ue.-iti(iTis as to the validity of the bunds, and 
put a stop to all further conteution. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



123 



On April 18, 1870, the directors named in the articles 
of ;issociiition met at lloJwuud, and completed the orj^aniza- 
tion of the company. David Bearup, of Theresa, was 
elected President, which office he still holds; and Hon. W. 
W. Butterfifld, of Redwood, wa-s elected Secrettiry and 
Trua.surcr. Henry S. Wiiite, of Redwood, suljsciiuently 
succeeded Mr. Butterficld :is Secretary and Treasurer, and 
was in turn succeeded by Alfred A. Holmes, the present 
incumbent. 

The company proceeded at once to make a preliminary 
survey of the route, and in September, 1870, contracted 
with Harry Abbott and William Ellis for the entire con- 
struction of the road. The contractors entered upon the 
work about the 20th of September of the same year, but, 
after doing considerable grading and bridging, abandoned 
the work in the fall of 1871. The company proceeded 
with the construction, and on the 9tli of December, 1872, 
the road was opened for traffic from Philadelphia to Theresa, 
a distance of eight miles, and by the l;;st of October, 1873, 
the work was nearly completed. On the 29th of October 
of this j-ear the company contracted with the Utiea and 
Black River Railway Company to complete the road, giving 
that company the use of the road for eight j'ears, and trans- 
ferring to them the unexpended balance of $500, 000 in 
bonds issued by the Black River and Morristown Company. 
Under this contract the road was completed and opened to 
Bedwood in November, 187-1, and to Morristown in 
November, 1875. The bonded debt of the company is 
§500,00(1 ; the amount of stock, $371,000 ; and they have 
no floating debt. 

The total length of the road, including its branches, is 
one hundred and sixty-nine miles. It passes near the 
Shurtlifl" iron-ore beds and through a thickly-settled and 
prosperous region. 

The business of this road for 1875, the la.st report we 
have, is indicated by the following statement showing the 
tonnage : 

Tons. 

ProJiict? of the forest U,SU2 

Animals S(,63.3 

Vit'ctahlc food n,'J3y 

Otbur agricultural products 11,8-10 

Manufactures 22,218 

Jkrchaiulisc 12,288 

Miscellaneous 22,-tJ6 

Total 105,074 

Passengers carried in ISTa 245,8-1" 

This road connects at Utica with the New York Central 
Railway, the Midland Railway, the Utica, Clinton and 
Binghamton Railway, and the Delaware, Lackawanna and 
Western Railway, giving direct communication with the 
anthracite coal-fields of Pennsylvania. 

Its two tenni'nl on the St. Lawrence give it facilities for 
a large Canadian trade from Gananotjue and Brockville, 
both located on the Grand Trunk Railway of the Dominion. 
Brockville is also the terminus of the Brockville and Ot- 
tawa Railway, and of the Ridcau Canal, both connecting 
with extensive timber districts. 

At Sacket's Harbor the road has superior advantages for 
the transhipment of grain and lumber from the west. At 
all llie northern termini it has excellent shipping advantages. 



At Carthage and Utica it connects with the Black River 
Canal. 

Officers. — The present officers of the company are : Pres- 
ident, De Witt C. West, of Lowville ; Vice-President, John 
Thorn ; Treasurer, Isaac JIaynard ; Secretary, W. E. Hop- 
kins ; General Superintendent, J. F. Maynard ; Generid 
Ticket Agent, Tlicodore Butterficld ; General Freight 
Agent, Charles Ilackett ; Directors, James Sayre, T. S. 
Faxton, E. A. Graham, I. Maynard, R. Wheeler, John 
Thorn, William J. Bacon, L. Lawrence, A. J. Williams, 
A. G. Brower, all of Utica ; D. C. West, Lowville ; D. B. 
Goodwin, Waterville ; and R. L. Kennedy, of New York. 

An account of the old Sacket's Harbor and Elli.sburg 
Railroad will be found in the history of the respective 
townships through which it passed. This road ran from 
Pierrepont Manor to Sacket's Harbor, a distance of eighteen 
miles, and was opened for traffic June 1, 1853, and con- 
tinued to be operated until 1862, when for various reasons 
it was abandoned, and the people of Sacket's Harbor were 
without railway facilities until the opening of the branch 
of the Utica and Black River Railway in 1875. 

A company called the Sacket's Harbor and Saratoga 
Railroad Company was incorporated in April, 1848, for the 
purpose of building a road from the first named point via 
Watertown, Carthage, and Castorville, and through the 
wilderness to Saratoga, and eventually to Boston, Massa- 
chusetts. A portion of the eastern end has been completed 
from Saratoga to Johnsburgh, in Warren county. 

TELEGRAPH LINES. 

The first line of telegraph was put in operation in 1850, 
under the name of O'Reiley's Merchants' Line, operating 
upon the Bain principle. It was erected along the stage- 
road from Oswego via Pulaski, Adams, Watertown, and 
Theresa, to Ogdensburgh, at each of which points offices 
were opened. The line was soon afterwards purchased by 
the jMorse line, and operated under Professor Morse's prin- 
ciple. During the summer of 1853 a telegraph was built 
by citizens of Sacket's Harbor along the direct plauk-road 
from Watertown to that place. 

About 18G0 the Montreal Telegraph Company estab- 
lished their lines on the south side of the St. Lawrence, 
and about 1870 bought out the United States Telegraph 
Company, then operating in Jefferson County ; and since 
that time have been doing business in this region. The 
principal office of the company is at Montreal, and they 
have a caiiital of two million dollars, and connect with all 
portions of the United States and with the cable companies 
throughout the world. 

This company is connected with all the railway lines in 
the county except the Utica and Black River, and all the 
railway business is done by them, including the running of 
trains. 

The Dominion Telegraph Company, whose headijuarters 
are located at Toronto, commenced business in Jeffijrson 
County about 1872. Their lines generally follow the main 
turnpike-roads, and they have offices at all principal points. 

Both the Canadian lines make connections with Amer- 
ican lines at Oswego. The Utica and Black River Railway 
Company operate an independent line. 



124 



HISTORY OF JEFFEllSON COUNTY, NEW YOKK. 



THE HLArK RIVKR AND CANAL. 

Although this channel of communication has, since tlie 
era of railways, becimie of less importance than formerly, 
and may eventually he abandoned as a means of travel and 
transportation, yet its importance when first projected, and 
for some time subse(|uent to its completioUj makes its history 
a necessity in this connection. 

The chaptor given in Dr. Hough's work, compiled from 
the State engineer's reports, and other authentic sources, is 
so complete and exhaustive that we give it nearly entire: 

"The incorporation of a company for improving the navij^ation of 
Black river to Urownville village h:is been noticed. The river was 
dcclarcti a pulilic hij^hwaj' from High Falls to Carthnge, by an act 
passed March 16, 1S2I, which also authorized road commissioners to 
forbid the crossing of bridges faster tlian a walk, within fifty miles 
of its mouth. On the 2Sth of March, 1S2S, the 'Black River Canal 
Company' was formed. This company organized, and caused a sur- 
vey of a canal to he made, from Kome to the High Falls, by Alfred 
Cruger, but did nothing more. This mny be considered the first step 
towards the Black River canal. . . . The former act having expired, 
another was passed, April 17, 1832, incorporating the Black River 
company for the purpose of connecting, by railroad or canal, the Eric 
canal, at Rome or nerkimcr, with Ogdensburgh, Cape Vincent, or 
Sacket's Harbor, including the improvement of Black river, from 
the High Falls to Carthage, for steam navigation. The capital was 
limited to $iK)0,(KlO, in shares of $50 each. . . . The persons named 
in the act were Vincent Ic Ray dc Chaumont, Eli West, Samuel 
Allen, Ela Collins, John W. Martin, Jerre Carrier, Elisha Camp, 
John Brown, Abram Parish, Charles A. Mann, George Varigh, Ralph 
Chipp, John Felt, Isaac W. Bostwick, Homer Collins, .James Mc- 
Vickar, Peter Schuyler, (5eorgc Brayton, and Benjamin P. Johnson. 
This comjiany was so far organized as to buUd a steamboat on Bhick 
river, at Carthage, which was called the 'Cornelia.' It was built, in 
1S32. by Paul Boynton, for the company, at a cost of $000(1, with a 
keel ninety feet long, and a breadth across the guards of twenty-two 
feet. She had t^vo upright high-pressure engines often horse-power 
each, built by N. Starbuck & Son, of Troy. Being found to draw 
too much water, one engine was taken out. The first trip was Sep- 
tember 22, 1S."2, to Lowville, where she grounded, and was got off 
with much difliculty. The boat continued to run the ensuing season 
to the High Falls, with an hourly speed of six and one-half miles, 
frec|uently getting aground, and jiroving to be too large for the river, 
and, eventually, nearly a total loss to the iiroprietors, of whom Mr. 
Le Kay was the principal. 

"A thrilling incident occurred on the first trip of this boat to the 
Falls. The man at the tiller wishing to show the party on board 
and the spectators on shore the qualities of his craft, steered up so 
near under the falls, that, ns he turned, the spray from the torrent 
deluged the deck, and the boat itself came within a few feet of being 
brought umlcr the fall. Fortunately there was a heavy pressure of 
steam up at the moment, and they escaped with a thorough drench- 
ing. This? attempt proved the practicability of navigating the river 
forty-two and a half miles; but no subsequent attempt was made 
until the summer of 1853, when the * Enterprise,' a canal-boat, tem- 
porarily fitted up by (J. H. Gould for the purpose, with a stcrn-whcel, 
was rigged out at (he High Falls, and made a few trips. 

*' On the 22d of April, I S3 1, an act was passed authorizing the sur- 
vey of a eanal, from below the High Falls to the Eric canal, with a 
navigable feeder, and an impniveuient of the river to Cartilage. 
Having ascertained the feasibility of this route, on the lUth of April, 
ISSfi, an act was passed providing for the construction of the Black 
River Canal, and Eric Canal Feeder, of which the river was to be a 
part. Work was soon after commenced, and more or less, except 
during the "suspension," prosecuted since, till at present we almost 
realize this lung-expected and long-di-ferred connnuniciition witli the 
great markets, which, from being anticipated by railroads, will pos- 
sess niueh less importance than was formerly attached to it. Still, 
for the lumber and mineral products of a portion of the county it 
will afford a valuable exit, and will contribute to the public welfare.^ 

" >!mtiv iiiLrc-'ting topographical details havi- ln-fn obtniuiMl in the 

e AVritlen about 1SS3. 



course of these surveys which possess permanent interest. The fol- 
lowing is a concise descrijition of the canals, as given in the report 
of the State engineer and surveyor for 1851 : 

" * This canal diverges from the Erie canal at the village of Rome, 
Oneida county, following up the valley of the Mohawk river and its 
tributary, the Lansing Kill, to the summit level, a distance of twenty- 
three miles; thence crossing the dividing ridge between the Mohnwk 
and Black rivers, about two miles, to the village of Boonvillc ; thence 
descends into the valley of the Black river, and at the distance of 
ten and one-third miles it enters said river below the High Falls, in 
the county of Lewis; thence it follows the river, by slack-water 
navigation, a distance of forty-two and one-half miles, to the village 
of Carthage, in the county of Jefferson, making the whole length of 
the canal and river about seventy-eight miles. 

"'A navigable feeder of ten miles in length is constructed iVoui the 
Black river, entering the canal at the village of Boonville, which is 
designed for n feeder to the Black River canal, and also for the Eric 
canal. Add to the canal, river, and feeder two miles of navigation 
on the reservoir above the State dam. making in all ninety miles of 
navigation when the whole work is finished, 

'•'Prom Rome to B»t>uville. a distance of tweuty-five miles, there 
are seventy locks, overcoming an elevation of six hundred and ninety- 
three feet. . . . From Boonvillc to the High Falls, a distance often 
and one-third miles, there are located thirty-nine locks, with a de- 
scent of three hundred and eighty-six feet. . . . 

'"On the whole line of canal, feeder and river, there will be one 
hundred and nine locks, five aqueducts, eleven waste- weirs, eighteen 
culverts, thirty-three road- bridges, thirty -six farm -bridges, three 
change and tow-path bridges, two guard-locks, one dam and bulk- 
head, three dams, thirty-three luck-houses, six stoj)-gatcs, two draw- 
bridges, and the Delta feeder.' 

"At the time when the work was suspended, in 1812, the section 
work south of Boonville was mostly done, c.vcept on five sections; 
forty-seven locks were mostly finished, except framing and hanging 
gates, and a large amount of other work was more or less completed ; 
but during the five years that the labor was suspended, a great part 
of the timber was so injured as to become almost useless. North of 
Boonville, .about six miles of section work had been let, of which two 
were completed, and the others well advanced. Two locks were nearly 
finished, and the feeder had been about half done. Two culverts were 
built upon it, ami the materials in part delivered for the guard- 
lock and dam. The value of m.aterials on hand, at that time, was 
$00,383.80, of which $20,000 worth were made available, and the 
remainder was a loss to the State. 

'* In 1851, the eanal had been brought into use as far as Port Ley- 
den, and such is the forwardness of the remainder, that its completion 
to Carthage ajipears not distant. During the dry season of 184H, all 
the wa'cr at the head of the feeder was used, and still there was a 
deficiency of 7000 cubic feet per minute. This led to a plan for insur- 
ing a supply by constructing dams at the outlets of some of the lakes 
above this point, which receive the drainage of many thousanil acres. 

" The descent of Black river from the High Falls to Carthage is nine 
and one-quarter feet in low water, and twenty-three feet in high water ; 
as at such times the rise at the former place is twenty-two feet, and at 
Carthago but eight feet. The quantity of woter passing the falls at 
its lowest stage is about 30,000 cubic feet per minute, and is not ma- 
terially increased until it receives the Otter and Independence creeks. 
Among the several plans that were prnjmsed to improve the channel, 
that of constructing a dnm and lock near Iudei>eudenec creek is said 
to have been decided upon. A dam is also to be built at the village 
of Carthage, above the present dam, where the river is about 700 feet 
wide, and from three to four feet deep in low water, with a rock 

bottom. t 

"In 1837, the pi-ojcct of extending the Black River canal from 
Carthago to i^gdensburgh, or some point on the St. Lawrence, began 
to be discussed : and in the fall of 1S3S meetings were held at Water- 
town, Evans' Mills, Theresa, and other j)laces. Petitions, memorials, 
and statistics were forwarded to the legislature, and on May 2, 1839, 
a bill was passed authorizing a survey of the several routes proposed. 
This labor was intrusted to Edward H. Brodhead, who, in the sum- 
mer of 1839, surveyed a route from Carthage to Clayton, from Car- 
thage to Sacket's Harbor, from l^arthagc to Ox Bow, and thence, by 
improving the Oswegatchie to Ogdensburgh, and another branch of 



f This dam was aftorirards constracted. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



125 



this route to Oouvcrnoar, and thence near the river to Ogdensburgh. 
By these surveys Carlhagc was founil to lie 4SI) fict almvo the lake. 

"These surveys created a lively interest throughout the central 
and northern parts ot the county, and a convention from St. Law- 
rence and a part of .JctTerson counties met at (louvcrneuron the 27th 
of June, l.s:i!l, at which a series of resolutions were passed reasserting 
the claims of northern New York upon a share of the State patron- 
age, and the wants of this section for a cheap and direct access to 
market. The report of Mr. Brodhead, with an accompanying map, 
was suhmitted to the legislature in 1840.* and provi.iion was made 
for the selection of one of the routes surveyed by three disinterested 
men from the 1st, 2d, Sd, or Sth senate districts; but a change of 
policy in relation to the minor puldic works, which also suspended 
the larger, put an end to the discussion by postponing it indelinitely. 
The cxjierience at |Mesent had in relationto railways renders il prob- 
able that the subject of a canal beyond Carthage will never bo 
revivotl. 

" On the I2lh of April, ISIS, the ' W.../- /tieer Sleamhaal Cumpnny' 
was chartereil lor liltcen years, with a capital of $20,001), to build one 
or more boats to navigate the river, subject to such tolls as might be 
imposed. The persons named in the net were Amos Buck, Harrison 
Blodget, Jliram .MeCollom, Dean S. Howard, Lyman R. Lyon, .\ltiurn 
Foster, Alfred Latbrop, Walter Nimorks, Eli West, Charles Dayan, 
James Smith, Wni. V. Strong, Elijah Ilorr, and Reuben Rice. A 
subscription was circulated, but nothing was accomplished by this 
euntpany. 

"By an act of April 15, ISlC, the Oswegatchic was declared a 
highway from its month to Strecter's Mills, the present village of 
Wegatchie. On the oth of April, ISo.'i, Indian River was declared a 
public highway for floating logs in Antwerji, Philadelphia, Le Ray, 
and Theresa, and the usual penalties were imposeil for obstructing 
the channel. 

LAKE NAVIGATION. 

" From the earliest period of our e.vistence as a State, the St. Law- 
rence was regarileil as a natural outlet for the great chain of inland 
lakes, for which it served, in a great measure, as the channel of trade 
until the construction of the Erie canal. Both the French and the 
English had built vessels on this lake while the supremacy of its 
waters was with them. ,\ small but thriving conimeree had arisen 
before the war, and during that period a formitlabic naval force sjirung 
into existence that was opposed by a similar one fitted out at Kings- 
ton, and the hostile fleets upon Lake Ontario, at the close of the war, 
were increasing in number of sail and an.ount of force with a rapidity 
that has had few parallels in naval annals. 

"At the conclusion of peace these fleets were gradually broken up 
or converted to commercial purposes, and almost immediately after 
t'le application of steam to navigation, which had already assumed 
importance on the Hudson and other waters, began to be applied to 
the lakes. 

"The subject having been examined in the summer ,and fall of 
1815, articles of agreement were drawn up, dated January 2, 18IG, 
between Harriet Fulton .and Wm. Cutting, of New York, executors of 
Robert Fulton, and Robert R. Livingston and Edward P. Livingston, 
of Clermont, owners of the right and privilege of eteaniboat navigation 
iu the State by special act of the legislature, on the one part, and Chas. 
Smyth, Joseph C. Yates, Thomas C. Duane, and David Boyd on the 
other part, by which the latter acquired the solo right to navigate 
boats and vessels {steamships and vessels of war excepted) by steam 
on all or any of the waters of Lake Ontario within the State of New 
York, and the full and exclusive right of emjiloying such inventions 
and improvements, to which the grantors, or any of them, had, or 
hereatter might ha^■e, right or title by patent, etc. 

" It was proviiled and stipulated that but one boat should be em- 
]doyed at a time on any route to bo established ou the said waters, by 
virtue of this contract, without the consent iu writing of the grantors, 
and until the net proceeds of the one boat should exceed twenty per 
cent, per annum. One boat was to be built within two years. The 
grantees ])aid ten dollars on the execution of the agreement, and 
covenanted to pay annually (deducting ?1500 from the gross receipts 
of each year, and the current expenses of running the boat) one-half 
of all moneys rcccivctl above twelve per cent, on the investment. 
The S1500 was to be withdrawn annually until it should amount to 
?l 2.1100. wliiib was to constitute a sinking fund for rebuilding the 

» .\ssembly Documents, 1840, No. 23:!. 



boat. Should the grantees acquire from the British government any 
privileges for the navigation of the lake, they were to be shared 
equally by the contracting parties, and these I>rivilege8 were not 
transferable. Ajqilication was to be nnide for the incorporation of 
an association, to be styled the * Ontario Sitnttiboiit Cnm^mttii,' with a 
capital of $200,000. 

"On the Glh of February, ISlfi, a petition from Charles Smyth, 
David Boyd, Eri Lusher, Abraham Van Stantvoord, John J. Do 
Gratf, and their associates, was presented, in which the essential facts, 
above stated, were given, and an act of incorporation solicited. A 
bill was (ircparcd and passed the House, but did not become a law, 
in consequence of the early adjournment of the legislature. August 
16, of the same year, Eri Lusher and Charles Smyth became, by as- 
signment of De Graff and Boyd, partners in the enterprise, and a 
boat was commenced at Sackct's Harbor the same summer, after the 
model of the ' Sea Horse,' then running on the Sound near New York. 
She was one hundred antl ten feet long, twenty-four feet wide, and 
eight feet deej), measuring two hundre<l and thirty-seven tons. Tho 
boilers arc said to have been seventeen feet long and three and n half 
feet in diameter, with a cross-head engine, and cylinder of twenty 
inches diameter, and three feet stroke; wlieels eleven feet four inches 
across, and capacity of engine, tweuty-onc horse-power." 

An ajipliaitioii was iiiaJc to the State logislaturo for an 
act of incorporation, in December, 181 G, but it did not 
succeed. 




First Stritiiihaat oit the GrettI L'ikitf 1816. 

" Early in 1817, the steamer ' Ontario' was completed and performed 
her first trip, being everywhere greeted with the most lively demon- 
strations of joy. Bonfires, illuminations, and mutual congratulations 
of friends bespoke the satisfaction with which this achievement was 
regarded, and the event was hailed as a »c>r cm in the commerce of 
the lakes. Weekly trips from t)gilensburgh to Lewistown were first 
attempted, baton the 1st of July, 1817, the owners advertised that, 
finding the trip of about six hundred miles too extensive to he per- 
formed within that time, it .would be altered to ten days. The fare 
through was fixed at fifteen dollars. Cajitain Francis Mallaby, U. S. 
N., was her first master. The ' Ontario' continued to run, seldom ex- 
ceeding five miles an hour, until lS;i2, when she was broken uji at 
Oswego. 

"The monopoly of steam navigation on the waters of the State, 
granted by repeated acts of the legislature to Robert R. Livingston 
and Robert Fulton, gave rise to much litigation; and in a suit of 
Ogden against Gibbons, commenced in the Court of Chancery, Sep- 
tember 27, 1810, il was decided in favor of the grant.f 

" .\n ajipeal was matle to the Court of Errors. J and the ease was 
finally decided in the Supreme Court of the I'nited Slutes.J in Feb- 
ruary, 1824, th.at the act was ' repugnant to the clause of the Consti- 
tation of the United States which authorizes Congress to reguluto 
commerce, so far as the said acts prohibit vessels, licensed according 
to the laws of the United States, lor carrying on the coa>ting trade, 
from n.avigating the s.aid waters by means of fire or steam.' 

" The ' Ontario' was the first steamer built on a water subject to a 
swell, ond determined the interesting problem whether steamboats 
were adapted to the navigation of open seas, as woU as sheltered 

f Johnson's Chancery Reports, iv. 148. 
+ Cowen's Reports, iii. 7I.'i. 
J Wheatons Reports, ix. 1. 



126 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



riverp. The 'Frontenac' was built soon after, at Kingston, and the 
first steamer appeared on Lake Eric in 1818. 

"The *M:irtha Og<lcn' was built in 1819, at Sacket's Harbor, and 
continued in use until los^t in 1832, under the following circuui8tancc8 : 
The boat had left Oswego on the afternoon of November 12, when 
she encountered a gale, and, being unable to regain the port, started 
for Sacket's Harbor; but aleak having sprung, the tires were jiut out, 
and her sails were raised. The wind prevented her from doubling 
Stony Point. Both anchors were thrown out in eight and a half 
fathoms, which held from four till eleven r.M., wlien they separately 
parted, and she soon after struck and bilged in ten feet of water. 
There were on board six hands and twenty-two passengers. With 
much peril, a man at length reached the shore, eight rods from the 
boat, rallied the inhabitants, built tire;*, and in the morning a line was 
passed to the shore, and the whole company on hoard were safely 
drawn ashore in a three-buHhel htfnket, rigged upon aline, with a Dutch 
harness. Captain Vaughan was the last one to leave the wreck, which 
went to pieces during the day. She was owned by S. *fe L. Dcnison, 
of Sacket's Harbor, and proved a total loss. This wreck occurred at 
Nutting's Bay, on the coast of Henderson. 

"The 'Sophia,' 'Bobbins,' 'Black Hawk' (afterwards the ' Dol- 
phin'), ' Brownville' (afterwards the ' William Avery'), ' Charles Car- 
roll' {afterwards the * America'), and ' Paul Pry' were steamers on the 
lake and river, built at an early period, and previous to 1834. 

"January 28, 1831, an act was passed constituting Joseph Denison 
and his associates a corporate body under the name of the ' Ontario 
and St. Lawrence Steamboat Company,' with a capital of $100,000, 
and limited in duration till May 1, 1850. The affairs of the company 
were to be managed by fifteen directors, of whom the first were to 
be Joseph Denison, Kilward Benson, (Jerrit Smith, Elias Trowbridge, 
Theophilus S. Morgnn, Ricliard L. De Zeng, Horatio N. Walton, 
Josiah T. Marshall, John T. Trowbridge, Frederick Bushncll, Elisha 
Camp, Jacob Arnold, William Baron,- John C. Bush, and Samuel 
Denison. 

"The place of business of the company was to be fixed at Oswego, 
and its transactions limited solely to tlie navigation of the Ontario and 
river St. Lawrence. This company built at Og'lensburyh the steamer 
' United States,' which, for size and amount of accommodation, far 
surpassed any boat that had been previously run by Americans on 
this water. She was launched in November, 1831, and came out on 
her first trip July 1, 1832, under the command of Elias Trowbridge. 
Her dimensions were as follows: length, 142 feet; width, 26 feet 
beam, and bb feet over all ; depth of hold, 10 feet j engines, low pres- 
sure, with a 40-inch cylinder and 8-feet stroke. Cost, $.')0,000. She 
continued running on the through line, from Ogdcnsburgh to Lewis- 
ton, till 1838, when, having become obnoxious to the Canadians from 
the use made of her at the affair at the Wind-mill, near Prescott, she 
was run upon the lake only afterwards, until 1843, when she was 
broken up at Oswego, and her engines transferred to the ' Rochester.* 

"The following boats have since been built ou this lake: 

"'Oswego/ at that place, 1S33, of 28fi tons. After running six 
years her engines were transferred to the 'St. Lawrence.' 

'"Jack Downing,' built at Carthage in 1834, by Paul Boynton, 
and drawn on wheels to Sacket's Harbor; very small. Afterwards a 
ferry-boat. 

"'Oneida,' of 227 tons; built at Oswego in 1830; owned by Henry 
Fitzhugh, of O.-^wego, E. B. Allen and G. N. Seymour, of Ogdcns- 
burgh. In 184o fitted up as a sail vessel, and lost on Lake Erie. 

"'Telegraph,' 100 (ons; built at Dexter in 1830; owned by parties 
at TJtioa, Watertown, and Sacket's Harbor; afterwards changed to a 
sail vessel, and burnt on Lake St. Clair. 

" ' Express,' built in Pultneyville in 183U. IL N. Throop first mas- 
ter and part owner. Laid up in 1860. 

"'St. Lawrence,' 402 tons; enrolled at Oswego in 1839; rebuilt in 
1844, and increased to 434 tons; cost, $50,000. Laid up at Clayton 
in 18 JO. Length, 180 feet; beam, 23 feet; hold, II feet. 

"'George Clinton' and 'President,' small boats, built at Oswego 
about IS42. 

"'John Marshall,' a small steamer, wrecked in a storm off the 
mouth of Sandy creek, October 18, 1844. Several other boats of 
iuin^>r class have at vari<»u8 times run upon the lake and St. Law- 
rence river. 

"The corporation that built the atcutnor ' United States' never at- 



' B iron" in the act ; probably WtUniin iUv-ou. 



tempted any other boat. About 1812 the * Ontario Steara- and Canal- 
Boat Company' was formed at Oswego, and in that year built the 
' Lady of the Lake,'of 423 tons; used on the through line until 1S52, 
when she was chartered as a ferry, from Cape Vincent to Kingston, 
in connection with the railroad. She was the first American boat on 
this water with state-rooms on the upper deck. 

"'The Rochester' was built at Oswego by the same company in 
1843; of 354 tons, and run on the through line till 1848, since which 
she has run from Lewiston to Hamilton. 

'"The Niagara.' of 433 tons, built at French Creek by the 'St. 
Lawrence Steamboat Company,' which had been formed soon after 
that at Oswego. This boat is still in use in the 'American Mail Line ;' 
has a length of 182 feet; beam, 27i feet; total breadth, 47 feet; depth 
of hold, 7i feet; wheels, 30 feet in diameter.f 

"'The Cataract,* built ^t Clayton in 1847; measures 577 tons; 
length of keel, 202 feet; breadth of beam, 27* feet; across the 
guards, 48 feet; depth of hold, 10 feet; wheels, 30 feet in diameter. 

"'Ontario' was built in 1847, at Clayton. Extreme length, 240^ 
feet; breadth of beam, 32 feet; and over all, 54S feet; depth of hold, 
12 feet; cylinder, 50 inches in diameter and 11-feet stroke; tonnage, 
900; cost, $80,000. 

"'Bay State,' built at Clayton, and came out on her first trip in 
June, 1849. She has a tonnage of 035. Length, 222 feet; breadth 
of beam, 31^ feet, and over all, 58 feet; depth of hold, 12 feet ; cylin- 
der, 56 inches in diameter and 11-fcet stroke; wheels, 32 feet in 
diameter. 

" ' The Northerner,' built at Oswego, by G. S. Weeks, and came out 
in May, 1850. Tonnage, 905. Length, 232 feet; beam, 30i feet'" 
extreme breadth, 58 feet; depth of hold, 12i feet: wheels, 32 feet in 
diameter; cost, $95,000; cylinder, 00 inches in diameter and 11-feet 
stroke. 

"•The New York,' the largest steamer on the lake, was built in 
1851-52, at Clayton, by John Oades, the builder of the others at this 
place, and came out on her first trip in August, 1852. Tonnage, 994. 
Length, 224 feet ; beam, 32^ feet ; entire breadth, G4 feet. Engines, by 
U. R. Dunham A Co., of New York; cylinder, 60 inches in diameter 
and 12 feet stroke. Wheels, 64 feet in diameter, and cost about 
$100,000. 

'* In 1848 the two companies above named, which were generally 
styled the Utica Company and the St, Lawrence Company, united 
into one, and assumed the name of the 'Ontario and St. Lawrence 
Steamboat Company,* having a capital of $750,000, and the follow- 
ing officers: E. B. Allen, president; E. B. Allen, G. N. Seymour, H. 
Van Rensselaer, A. Chapman, E. G. Merrick, S. Buckley, H. Fitz- 
hugh, A. Munson, T. S. Fa.\ton, H.White, L.Wright, directors; 
and James Van Clevc, secretary and treasurer. 

" This company is the owner of eleven steamers, in daily use 
during the summer season, as follows : 

"* Express Line,* from Ogdcnsburgh to Lewiston direct, touching at 
Clayton and Cape Vincent, a daily line of two steamers, from May 
till October, viz.: 'Bay Slate,' Captain John Ledyard, and 'New 
York,' Captain R, B. Chapman. 

"* Mail Line,' from Ogdcnsburgh to Lewiston, touching at Pres- 
cott, Morri:?towu, Brockville, Alexandria Bay, Clayton, Kingston, 
Sacket's Harbor, Oswego, Genesee River, and Lewiston. A daily 
lino of three steamers, viz.: * Catj-ract,' Captain A. D, Kilby ; 
'Niagara,' Captain G. B. Estcs ; 'Ontario,' Captain H. N. Throop. 
In 1852 the steamer ' Northerner,' Captain R. F. Child, formed one 
of this line. * 

" The ' American Line,'fr4)ni Ogdcnsburgh to Montreal daily, viz.: 
' British Queen,' Captain J. La Flamme; ' British Empire,' Captain 
D. S. Allen; 'Jenny Lind,' Captain L. Moody. From Cape Vincent 
to Kiugt^ton, the 'Lady of the Lake,' Captain Root. From Lewiston 
to Hamilton, the ' Rochcfrter,' Captain I. i^Lison." 

Tliis foinpany contitmed to operate their lines until 
1858, when the competition of the Grand Trunk railway 
so seriously affected their business that itii affairs were 
placed in t!ie liands of a receiver, and tlie property sold to 
a new company, styled the *' American Steamboat Com- 
pany," whose muna'^ers were E. B. Allen, Samuel Buckley, 



t 185L 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



127 



Augustus Chapman, James G. Averill, and George N. 
Seymour. 

*' In safety, regulnrity, and ili.«|)atch, these boats will compare with 
those on any inland water in the Union; and such has been the skill 
and care exercised in their nianagcinent, that not a single life has 
been lost, or injury to passengers occurred from accident, upon these 
or any of the steamers owned and run upon the American side of the 
lake. The melancholy accident that befell the 'Ocean Wave," a boat 
with a British license, and running in connection with the Nortliern 
railroad, in the spring of lS5.'i, is entirely without parallel uj)on this 
lake, and was said to be due to a faulty construction. 

" The steamers upon this lake are characterized for the perfection, 
neatness, and convenience of their arrangements, and their routes 
for attractive and beautiful scenery; and the throng of pleasure- 
seeking tourists that pass up and down the St. Lawrence during the 
summer season is constantly increasing. 

" The steamer ' Bay State,' during the season of 1S52, ran 47,310 
miles, equal to si,\teen times across the Atlantic, and her wheels 
performed 5,000,000 revolutions. No accidents or delays whatever 
occurred. The duty performed by the other boats would doubtless 
compare with this. 

" The ' I'assjiort,' ' Magnet,' ' Maple Leaf,' ' New Era,' ' Arabian,' 
' Lord Klgiu,' ' St. Lawrence,' * Boston,' and other boats were running 
upon regular lines in 1S63, some of thtm from Montreal to Hamilton ; 
and the * Champion,' ' Highlander,' and ' May Flower' formcil a tlaily 
line betAvecn Cape Vincent and Hamilton, touching at the principal 
ports on the north shore of the lake. 

• "A submarine railway at Ogdeusburgh is destined to confer great 
benefits upon the navigation of the lake, by affording the means for 
taking the largest class of steamers and vessels out of the water for 
repairs." 

For some years lines of steamers ran in connection with 
the various railways, but at the present only small pleasure- 
steamers on the St. Lawrence, and lines of ferries to Cana- 
dian ports, are connected with them in Jefferson County. 
The Northern Transportation Company's heavy propellers, 
which formerly connected at Cape Vincent, h:tve been 
changed to Kingston and the north channel of the river, 
and connect lower down at Ogdensburgh and other ports. 
For further account of .ship-building and lake navigation, 
see history of Hounsficld, Cape Vincent, Clayton, and 
other mariue towns. 

rOST-ROUTES. 

Post-routes began to be established as early as 1806, and 
were added to as the country became more densely settled 
and roads more plenty, until the region of northern New 
York was as well supplied as other and older portions of 
the commonwealth. The earliest mails were undoubtedly 
carried on horseback, and all the routes, of course, up to 
the advent of railways, were over tlie common roads of the 
country. At the present time nearly all the mails come 
into and leave the county by rail, and nearly every section 
is accommodated by daily mails. In this connection we 
furni.sh a list of the post-routes of the county from 1806 
down to 1851, with the date of the formation of each by 
act of Congress : 

April 21, 1806. From Ilarrisburg, through Williams- 
town (Dc Kalb), Ogdensburgh, Potsdam, Ciiateaugay, to 
Platt.sburgh. From Rome, through Redfield, Adams, by 
Smith's Mills, to Sacket's Harbor, and from thence to 
Chaumont. 

April 28, 1810. From Utica, by Whitestown, Rome, 
Camden, Adams, and Sacket's Harbor, to Biownville. 
From Utica, by Trenton, Steuben, Loyden, Turin, Lowville, 
Harrisburg, 0.x Bow, De K;db, Canton, Ogdensburgh, 



Lisbon, Hamilton (Wiiddington), Madrid, Potsdam, Ches- 
terfield ( Lawrence), Malone, and Chetango (Chateaugay), 
to Plattsburgh. From Harrisburg, by Champion, Water- 
town, and Rrownville, to Port Putnam. 

April 30, 1810. From Wiliiainstown, by Richland, El- 
lisburg, and Henderson, to Sacket's Harbor. From Brown- 
ville to Cape Vincent. 

April 20, 1818. From Denmark, by Le Raysville, to 
Wiliia. 

March 3, 1821. From Turin, by Harrisburg, Copen- 
hagen, Tylerville, Pinckney, and Rodman, to Adams. From 
Watertown, by Le Raysville, to Antwerp. 

May 8, 1822. From Champion to Alexandria, by Felt's 
Mills, Le Raysville, Evans' Mills, Theresa, and PIcssis. 

March 3, 1825. From Watertown, by Adams and 
Mannsville, to Sandy Creek ; and from thence, by Rich- 
land, etc., to Syracuse. 

March 2, 1827. From Ellisburg, by Smithville, to 
Sacket's Harbor. 

May 24, 1828. From Watertown, by Evans' Jlills, 
Philadelphia, Antwerp, Gouverneur, De Kalb, and Heu- 
ville, to Ogdensburgh. 

June 15, 1832. From Watertown, by Brownville, La 
Fargeville, to Cornelia, at the mouth of French Creek ; 
thence, by Depauvillc, to Brownville. From Heuville, by 
De Peyster, to Ox Bow. 

July 2, 1830. From Watertown, by Burrvillc, to Rod- 
man. From Carthage, through Great Bend, Le Raysville, 
Felt's Mills, Lockport, and Huntington's Mills, to Water- 
town. From Theresa, by the Glass-Works and South 
Hammond, to Hammond. 

July 7, 1838. From New Haven, by Port Ontario and 
Lindseyvillc, to Ellisburg. 

August 31, 1842. From North Adams, through Field's 
Settlement, to Watertown. 

March 3, 1845. From Wilua, by Natural Bridge, to 
Diana. 

March 3, 1847. From Antwerp, by Shingle Creek, 
Fowler, Fullerville, Edwards, and Russell, to Canton. 

August 14, 1848. From Copenhagen, by Boynton's 
Corners, Worthville, and Jacksonville, to Lorraine. From 
La Fargeville, by Sliantyville, Parker Settlement, Theresa, 
Ox Bow, and Wegatchie', to Gouverneur. 

Septoinber 27, 1850. From Pierrepont Manor to Sacket's 
Harbor, by railroad. From Adams Centre to Sacket's Har- 
bor, on the direct road. From Natural Bridge to Diana. 
From Evans' Mills to O.v Bow. From Lowville, by Har- 
risburg and Pinckney, to Rodman. 

March 3, 1851. From Great Bend, by Evans' Mills, to 
French Creek (Clayton). 

POST-OFFICES. 

The following list .shows. the present post-offices in the 
county, arranged by towns, alphabetically : 

Adiims. — Adams, Adams Centre, Smithville. The latter 
is on the line between this town and Henderson. 

Alexandria. — Alexandria, Redwood, Plessis. 

Anlwerj). — Antwerp, Ox Bnw. 

Bioiciivillc. — Brownville, Dexter, Perch River, Lim- 
erick, Pillar Point. 



128 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Cape Vincent. — Cape Vincent, St. Lawrence, Rosiere. 

Chionpion. — Chonipion, Groat Bend, South Chanipion. 

Clayton. — Clayton, Dejiauville, Thousand Tshuid Park. 

Ellisiurg. — Ellisburg, Rural Hill, Pierrepont JManor, 
Mannsvillo, Belleville, Woodville. 

Henderson. — Henderson, Bishop Street. 

Honnsfield. — Sacket's Harbor, Stowell's Corners, Galloo 
Islands, Ea.st Honnsfield. 

Le R'ty. — Le Ra3svillc, Evans' Mills, Black River, San- 
ford's Corners. 

Lorraine. — Lorraine, Allendale. 

Lyme. — Chaumont, Three-Mile Bay, Point Peninsula. 

Orleans. — Orleans Four Corners, Omar, La Fargeville, 
Stone Mills, Fisher's Landin<r. 

Philadelphia. — Philadelphia, Sterlingville. 

Rodnutn. — Rodman, East Rodman. 

^»^/ai^(/.— Rutland, South Rutland, Felt's Mills. 

lliercsa. — Theresa. 

Watertown. — Watertown (city), p]ast Watertown, 
Burr's Mills. 

Wilna. — Wilna, North Wilna, Carthage, Natural Bridge. 

IF'vr/A.— Worth Centre, Wortliville. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

NARRATIVE OF A TRANS-CONTINENTAL BALLOON VOYAGE 
FROM ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI, TO HENDERSON, JEFFERSON 
COUNTY, NEW YORK, JULY 1, 1859. 

On the evening of July 1, 1859. the balloon " Atlantic" 
ascended from St. Louis, Missouri, with Prof. John Wise, 
of Lancaster, Pennsylvania ; John La Mountain, of Troy, 
New Yurk ; 0. A. Gager, of Bonningt()n, Vermont; and 
William Hyde, with the intention, if possible, of reaching 
the Atlantic coast. During the night they passed over the 
States of Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, and the next forenoon 
obIi<juely over Laku Erie, passing between Buft'alo and 
Niagara Falls. When over Lake Ontario they were caught 
in a hurricane. Their ballast was nearly cxhaustt^'d, and 
they were swept along near the surface of the waves, in the 
greatest peril, and often with the prospect of a speedy death 
before them, until at length the sliore appeared. We copy 
the following from the narrative of Mr. Wise: 

" At 7.20 P.M. wc set sail from the Wiishin;;tun Sijiiarc of St. Louis, 
and our course nt startln;^ was north of east. At 8..'i0 p.m. the shades 
of evoDing shut from our view the noble eity of St. Louis, ancl the 
'Father of Water?/ though it continued light until afternine. Before 
I went to slceji we hud mounted to a height at whieh the balloon be- 
came comjiletely distended, and where we found the eurrent due east. 
Mr. Ltt Mountain projiosed to take the lower current, as long as it 
would take us but a few jioints north of east, and I told him to do as 
ho deemed beat, and report his reckoning in the morning. After 
biilding the party in the boat good-night, I coiled myself up in the 
bhmketM, and luid down as best I eould, and in a few minutes was 
eound asleep, and knew of nothing but repose until ll.lJtt p.m. At 
this time Mr. La Mountain again mounted fur the ujiper current, being 
desirous of making a little more easting; ho hailed mc to open the 
valve, as the halloon had beeome so tense, and the gas was rushing 
from the neck with a noise; but receiving no answer from me he aus- 
|)eeted that I was being smothered in the gas, and lie admonished Mr. 
(iitger to mount to my ear by a rope proviiled for that purpose, and 
Mr. (iftgcr found me breathing spasmodienlly ; but a good shaking, 
and the removnl of the n«'ck of the balloon from my face, brought me 
back to a knowledge of what was going on, and I resolved not to 
sleep more during the night. The whole dome of heaven was lit up 
with a mellow, jihosplioresccnt light, the st:irs shone with crystalline 



brilliancy, and the milky way looked like an illuminated stratum of 
cumulus clouds. Whenever we crossed water the heaven-lit dome 
was as visible below by reflection as above. At 3 .\.m., Saturday, wc 
came to a general conclusion that we were somewhere over the State 
of Indiana or Ohio. At 4 a.m. we jjassed a city, but eould not make 
it out. At 5 A.M. we discovered Lake Erie ahead of us. At 6 a.m. 
we passed Toledo, and about an hour afterwards we lowered on the 
margin of the lake, a little north of Sandusky. After a few moments* 
consultation and a review of our ballast, we determined to risk the 
length of Lake Erie. Just as we emerged upon the lake a little steam 
screw, that was propelling up a river or bay, headed for our track, 
and some one on board of her quaintly cried aloud to us, * That is the 
Lake ahead of you.' La Mountain cried back, 'Is it Lake Erie?* 
and the answer was, * Yes, it is, and you had better look out.* We 
mounted up until the balloon was filleci, and the barometer fell to 23°. 
Mr. La Mountain suggested that wc could make the city of Buffalo 
by sailing but a few hundred feet above the lake, and I accordingly 
opened the valve until we gradually sank to within five hundred feet 
of the water. This was the most interesting part of our voyage. 
We overtook seven steamboats, passed mutual salutations, and would 
soon leave them flitting in our rear. At twenty minutes past ten a.m. 
we were skirting along the Canada shore, and passed near the mouth 
of the Welland canal, and I soon began to mount for a more easterly 
current, so as to take Buffalo in our track; but we circled up into it 
between Buffalo and Niagara Ealls, crossing Grand Island, leaving 
Buffalo to the right and Lockport to the left of us in our onward 
course. 

"Finding ourselves in the State of New York, but too far north to 
make the city of New Y'^ork, it was agreed that we would make a 
landing near Rochester, detach the boat, leave Mr. Gager and Mr. 
Hyde, and Mr. La Mountain and myself would pursue the voyage to 
a point at Boston or Portland. Accordingly we descended gradually, 
but before we got within a thousand feet of the earth we found a most 
terrific gale sweejiiug along below. The woods roared like a host of 
Niagaras, the surface of the earth was filled with clouds of dust, and 
I told my friends certain ilestruction awaited us if we should touch 
the earth in that tornarlo. The huge 'Atlantic' was making a ter- 
rific swoop earthward ; already were we near the tops of the trees of 
a tall forest, and I cried out excitedly, ' for God's sake, heave over- 
board anything you can lay your hands on, La Mountain!' and in 
another moment he replied * all riglit,' standing on the side of the 
boat with a shaft and wheels, intended for the working of the fan- 
wheels, and ready to heave it over, should it become necessary. Wo 
were fast running on to Lake Ontario; and oh, how terribly it was 
foaming, moaning, ami howling ! I said, * La Mountain, 1 have one 
hundred and titty pounds of ballast in my car yet, and a heavy 
valise, with a lot of provisions.' 'Well, if that won't do, I will cut 
up the boat for ballast, and we can keep above water until we reach 
the opposite shore,' which was near a hundred miles ofl" in the direc- 
tion we were then going. Everything now indicated that we should 
perish in the water, or on the land, and our only salvation was to keep 
afioat until we got out of the gale, if we could. By this time Mr, 
Gager and Mr. Ilyde had clambered into the basket with me. Mr. 
Hyde said, very coolly, ' I am prepared to die, but I would rather die 
on the land than in the water.' I said, ' What do you say, Mr. Ga- 
ger?' Ho replied, 'I would rather meet it on the land; but do as 
you think best.' Our carpet-bags, our instruments, the express-bag, 
our provisions, were all ready to go and go they did, one after 
another, until we were reduced to the express-bag, and that went 
overboard at last. \Ve were swooping at a fearful rate u])on the 
turbulent water, and, in another moment, crash went the boat upon 
the water sidewise, staving iu two of the planks, and giving our 
whole craft two fearful jerks by two succeeding waves. La Mountain 
threw over the cxjtress-bag and the last remaining ballast, and cried 
out, * Be easy, gentlemen, I'll have her afloat once more.' In another 
moment we wore up a few hundred feet again, and the steamer 
* Young America' was tacking across our track. I now proposed to 
swamp the boat and balloon in the lake, and trust to being picked 
up by the ' Young America,' but the desire was that we should make 
the shore and try the land, and as we crosseii the bow of the steamer 
they gave us a hearty hurrah. We were now within lifleen miles of 
the shore, the gale was raging below. I saw by the swaying to and 
fro of the lofty trees into which we must inevitably dash, that our 
worst perils were at hand ; but I still had a blind hope that wo would 
be saved. Wo struck within n hundred yards of the water, among 



HISTORY OF JKFFEllSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



129 



some scattered trccp, our hook, which was of inch and a quarter iron, 
breaking like a ()ipe-8leni at the first eateh of it in a tree, and we 
hurling through ihc tree tops at a terrific rate. After dashing along 
in this way for nearly a mile, crashing, and breaking down trees, wo 
were dashed most fearfully into the boughs of a tall elm, so that the 
basket swung umler, and up through tlie crotch of tho limb, while 
the boat had caught in some other branehes, but in another moment 
the ' Atlantic' puHi'd up her huge jjroportions, and at one swoop away 
went the limb, basket ami boat, into the air a hundred feet. This 
liiub. which was about eight inches thick, and weighed no less than 
eight hundred ])ouuds, proved too much for the * Atlantic,' and it 
brought her sudilenly down upon the top of a very tall tree, and col- 
lapsed her. It was a fearful plunge, but left us dangling between 
heaven and earth in the most sorrowful-looking plight of machinery 
that can be imagined. None of us were seriously injured, the many 
cords, the strong hoop, and the close wicker work, saving us from 
harm. Wo landed upon the farm of Mr. T. 0. Whitney, in tho town 
of Jlcnderson, Jefl'cr8<m County, New York." 

Tlie balloon "Atlantic." after making the remarkable 
trip fioin 8t. Louis to Henderson, was repaired, and ex- 
hibited i'nr a time in Watertown. August 11, 1859, Mr. 
La Mountain made an excursion alone from the public 
square in Watertown, and landed on the farm of C. Trini- 
erman, near Perch lake. There was much fault found 
with the acid used in making the gas, and the excursion 
wa.s deemed a partial failure. A few days after he went 
up from Saratoga Springs, and landed a hundred miles 
away, in two hours from the time of starting. Returning 
to Watertown, Mr. La Mountain made another ascension 
from the public square in Watertown, with Mr. John A. 
Haddock, one of the editors of the AVkj Ymk Refurmer, 
which, on account of the long absence of the aeronauts, ex- 
cited extraordinary interest. Ascending about half-past five, 
the}' disappeared from view a few minutes after, and were 
last seen, passing at a great elevation, over Antwerp. They 
descended about eight in the evening in a wilderness, which 
proved to be about one hundred and fifty miles north of Ot- 
tawa, in Canada, and three hundred miles north of Water- 
town. After four days without food, in trying to float by 
the aid of a raft down to some inhabited place, they found 
a lumbering station, where they were kindly received. Mr. 
Haddock returned to Watertown after thirteen days' absence. 

A TORNADO 

passed over a portion of the town of Antwerp, in Jefferson 
10 



County, and a portion of St. Lawrence and Essex counties, 
on the 20tli of Se](tember, 1845, which was very destruc- 
tive in its effects, though fortunately no lives of liunian 
beings were lost by it. The Jijj'eisoiiiaii, of September 30, 
in that year, contains a very graphic account of the work 
of destruction, from which this account is condensed. The 
tornado struck the earth and began its work about a mile 
east of Antwerp, and when it reached Fowler, in St. Law- 
rence county, its track was about three-fourths of a mile 
wide, and incre:ising, until, at the end of eight miles, the 
width was one and a half miles, covering an area in Fowler 
of four thousand acres, and in Edward of six thousand 
acres. In all this distance and area not a tree or building 
was left standing. On the Pitcairn road, and on one paral- 
lel to it, and about two miles distant, running through 
Emerson and Streetcr settlements, sixteen buildings, com- 
prising dwellings, barns, and a school-house, were instantly 
swept away, but no serious injury resulted to the inmates. 
Large trees and like heavy objects were twirled about in the 
air like straw. Large and well-tilled farms were so cov- 
ered with the wreck of forests, the expense of clearing it 
away was more tlian the original cost of clearing tliem 
up in a state of nature. The cyclone traveled at the rate 
of fifty miles an hour. Cro.ssing the great forest lying be- 
tween the Black river and Lake Champlain, it burst upon 
a village and extensive iron-works near Keesville, E.ssex 
county, and swept them away as with a besom of destruc- 
tion. A feather-bed was carried sixteen milas, and depos- 
ited unhurt, save from the rain and hail, which followed 
close on the track of the hurricane. A man traveling 
along the road, with a yoke of oxen and a wagon, was 
completely hemmed in by falling trees, brought from more 
than eighty rods distant. He escaped without serious in- 
jury, but his team was so entiingled and bound in by the 
trees they were not extricated until after several hours of 
hard work. A framed school-house, with the teacher and 
scholars inside, was moved entirely from its foundations, 
while a log one was carried away from over the scholars' 
heads, every log of it. down to the floor on which the 
children sat. The hail which followed was very heavy, and 
composed of great ragged pieces of ice. 



VILLAGE AND CITY OF WATERTOWN. 



The city of Watertown, the civil and commercial capi- 
tal of Jefferson County, New York, one of the most thriv- 
injr counties of the Empire Stale, is fineh' located on the 
Black river about seven miles from its junction with Lake 
Ontario. The river divides the city into two unequal por- 
tions, the bulk of the place being on the southern side of 
the stream. Two large islands, Becbee's* and Sewall's, 
besides several smaller ones, are encompassed by the various 
channels within the city limits. Of these Beebee's con- 
tains about five, and Sewall's fifteen acres of land, or rather 
land and rock, for underneath the scanty covering of soil 
lies the formation known as the Trenton limestone, com- 
posed of three stratifications, individually known as "Tren- 
ton," " Black Kiver,"' and " Birds-eye," which comprise a 
large share of the surface, or outcropping strata of the 
county. The river is spanned by eight sub-stantial bridges 
(counting the various channels) within the city, six of 
which are of wood, or wood and iron combined, including 
the railway bridges, and two of iron ; the latter on Mill 
street, near the centre of the city. 

One of tliese iron bridges, a remarkable and unique 
structure, upon the suspension plan, was designed and con- 
structed by Mr. Gilbert Bradford, a local engineer and 
mechanic of distinguished celebrity. (See history of manu- 
factures in this work.) The islands and banks of the river 
are mostly occupied by the various manufactories for the 
distance of a mile or more, nearly all of which are very 
conveniently connected with the tracks of the railway lines 
which centre here. The main body of the town is beauti- 
fully situated on a broad-spreading plateau, running back to 
the terraces of limestone which mark the ancient shores of 
Lake Ontario. The city is remarkably well built, more 
especially in the line of dwellings, which for number, ele- 
gance, and comfort are not excelled by those of any city in 
the Union. 

The place has all the necessary and characteristic elements 
of a large city, including fine, broad, and well-paved streets, 
grand hotels, extensive printing establishments, costly 
churches, good schools, gas- and water-works, a well-ordered 
fire department, a competent police force, two great rural 
cemeteries, excellent bands, a good opera-house, extensive 
and imposing business blocks, and heavy manufactures. It 
is the centre of a very extensive trade in nearly all descrip- 
tions of merchandise and manufactured goods, and transacts 
a very large business in dairy and other agricultural produc- 
tions. 

ADVANTAGES AND ATTRACTIONS. 
1. Its unsurpns.sed and almost unlimited water-power, 



^ Furmcrly called Cuwen's islaiul. 



furnished by Black river, which falls nearly 112 feet within 
the city limits. 

2. It is located in the most fertile and productive portion 
of northern New York, and in one of the most thriving 
and prosperous agricultural counties in the State. 

3. It is the virtual centre of a railway system which has 
its outlets at favorable points in the interior of the State, 
and at the best ports on the " great lakes of the north." 

4. It therefore posses.scs the advantages of railway com- 
petition, all competing lines expressing and showing a liberal 
spirit towards all manufacturing enterprises. 

5. It is situated in the mid.st of vast and valuable mineral 
deposits, chief among which are inexhaustible beds of the 
finest iron ore to be found in the United States, many of 
which are in full and successful operation. 

6. Within the limits of the city lie portions of a ridge 
of limestone miles in extent, which, it has been demonstrated, 
has no superior as a Jinx for use in the reduction of iron ore. 

7. It lias direct railroad communication with the vast 
coal regions of northern Pennsylvania, by two competing 
railroad lines. 

8. It has direct railroad communication with the lum- 
bering interest of adjoining counties, with lake and river 
ports, receiving lumber from the west, and with the great 
pine forests of Canada. 

9. It is within ten miles of one of the best harbors on 
the great lakes, with which it is connected by rail, thus 
affording direct communication by water with the grain, 
lumber, and mineral industries of the northwest. 

10. It is situated in the midst of the most productive 
tanning interest of the State, — Jeficrson and adjoining 
counties being large producers of live stock, and the mate- 
rial for reducing hides to leather. 

11. The government of the city is ba.scd on the strictest 
ideas of economy consistent with safe and sure progress, 
and the spirit of the people is decidedly in favor of every 
measure intended to make the rate of taxation low. The 
officers of the city are pledged to carry out this idea. 

12. Statistics show that it is one of the healthiest cities 
in the Union, subject to no contagious diseases, and free 
from prevailing sickness. The rate of mortality for 1875 
was one in seventy. 

l.S. It.« public school sy.stcni has been placed upon a 
satisfactory foundation, and aflbrds excellent educiitional 
facilities. 

14. The cost of living is much less than in the large 
cities. 

15. Its social advantages are numerous, the tone of 
society healthy, and the morals of the community beyond 
dispute. 



lao 



HISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YOKK. 



131 



16. Its gi-eat wealth, which is just now scekinn; invest- 
ment ill desirable and well-cunductcd nianufacturinj^ pur- 
suits. 

It is 250 miles northwest of New York city, 147 miles 
west-northwest of Albany, 72 miles north of Home, 90 
miles northwest of Utica, G9 miles north of Syracuse, GO 
miles northeast of Oswepo, 7G miles south of Ojiden.sburgh, 
with all of which cities it has direct and unbroken railroad 
connection. It is also 10 miles east of Sacket's Harbor, 
one of the finest harbors on Lake Ontario, and 25 miles 
southeast of Cape Vincent, a fine port on the St. Lawrence 
river, 0])posite King.ston, Ontario, and one of the ]iroinincnt 
outlets of a flourishing Canadian tra<le. With biith the 
last-named points Watertown has direct railroad connection. 
It is also connected by rail with Clayton, a thrivinir village 
on the St. Lawrence river, opposite (jananofjue, wliii-h is 
also an outlet of Canadian trade ; and with Morristown, a 
prosperous village a few miles farther down the river, 
opposite Brockville, Ontario. Kingston, Brockville, and 
Gananoque, with Prescott, opposite Ogdensburgh, are im- 
portant points on the Grand Trunk Kailway of Canada. 
Kingston is the terminus of the Kingston and Pembroke 
railroad, penetrating a productive lumber country. Brock- 
ville is the terminus of the Brockville and Ottawa railroad, 
and also of the Rideau canal, both passing through impor- 
tant lumber districts. Prescott is the terminus of the St. 
Lawrence and Ottawa railroad. 

It will be seen that nothing can be more favorable than 
the geographical location of Watertown. cumniercially con- 
sidered. It is an element of .strength which cannot be well 
overlooked by those who look at the question of location 
with commercial eyes. 

The city is situated in the very heart of one of the richest 
agricultural regions in the State, to which fact is largely due 
the substantial growth, thrift, enterprise, and prosperity 
which have become its recognized features with tho.se who 
know its history best. Its prosperity is second to no city 
of its size in the United States. It is, in fact, the leading 
commercial city of northern New York. 

ORGANIZATION, SURVEY, AND SETTLEMENT. 

The town of Watertown was organized from Mexico 
March 14, 1800, and comprised at that time townships 
Nos. 1, 2, and 3, or Hounsficid, Watertown, and Rutland. 
The name of the town was probably suggested by the 
great amount of water-power at the rapids where the city 
now stands. It is not on record who suggested it. 

By the erection of Hounsfield and Rutland the original 
limits have been reduced to their present outline. Up to 
1869 the village of Watertown formed a part of the town- 
ship. In that year the village was erected into a city, and a 
portion of the town of Panielia was at the same time included 
in the chartered limits. The town was surveyed in 1796 
by Benjamin Wright, and subdivided into fifty-two lots, 
ranging in size from 450 to 625 acres, and having a total 
area of 26,485 acres. A subsequent survey, by Robert 
McDowell, gave 26,607 acres. In 1801 the town was 
again subdivided by Joseph Crary, under the direction of 
Silas Stow. Upon the division of these town.s, this, with 
Adams and Lowville, fell to the share of Nicholas Low, 



under whom it was settled. The first agent employed wa.s 
Silas Stow, who was followed, in 1804, by Morris S. Miller, 
and in March, 18U6, the latter was succeeded by Lsaae W. 
Bostwick, Esq., of Lowville. Mr. Wright suiveyed the 
'• Black River Eleven Towns," and made a report accom- 
panied by remarks upon the soil, timber, water-power, etc. 
The following is an extract from his remarks upon this 
town : 

*'Townsliip No. 2, on Black river, i-s situated about throe miles 
from tile iiHiutli of tlie river. This river is navigable for l)atoiiu.\ 
about one and three-quarter miles, but yet with Cf>n.'*idcrablc diffi- 
culty, it may be a.seended two and a half miles. The soil of this 
tonnship is excellent in general, and, indeed, thero is very little but 
what might be truly called first quality. Timber — maple, beech, 
bass, elm, ash, butternut, and some |)inc, of excellent quality. 

** There are excellent mill-seats along Black river, where they 
are noted on the map, and many more which it is impossible to 
note with eertiiinty, as the river the whole distance on the town is 
very rapid, except at the northeast corner, for about three-quarters 
of a mile. The river is very rocky along the whole distance, ami ap- 
pears to be a bed of limestone rocks. Along the banks of Black 
river, opposite Xo. 2 township, is cedar and hemlock, and, in some 
place?, white pine, for about twenty or thirty rods, and from thenco 
it rises to very handsome land, and timbered with maple, bass, beech, 
etc. 

"At the northwest corner is some flat rock, which lies about eight 
inches under the surface, and which is full of large cracks, open 
about ten or twelve inches." 

Of the lots upon which the village of Watertown has 
been built, he remarked : 

7. " This is a very gtpod lot, and has excellent mill-seats on the 
river, without cxjicnsive dams, and with the greate.-t safety to the 
mills. 

8. "This is a very good lot, and is well timbered; has fine mill- 
seats, anil land of the first quality; some few stone and some pine 
timber. 

9. " (Above village.) This is an excellent lot, some beauiiful land 
along the east line, and some pine timber on the south ; some maple, 
beech, bass, elm, anil iron-wood. 

10. "(Corner lot.) This is an excellent lot ; has a fine flat along 
the beach, \vhich is very fine soil." 

Simultaneously with the organization of the town, settle- 
ments were commenced by Henry Coffeen and Zachariah 
Butterfield, wlm arrived in March, ISOII. They had vis- 
ited the country the jtrevious autumn and purchased farms. 
They were from Schuyler, Oneida county, and brought 
their families and began their settlements on the site of 
Watertown village. Coffeen arrived a little in advance of 
Butterfield, coming tJtVt Lowville, with his family and house- 
hold goods upon an o.\-slcd. He had purchased parts of 
lots 2, 3, 13, 21, and 165 ticrcs on the westerly part of lot 
No. 7, now covered by the city. He erected his hut on the 
ground just west of the Iron Block, and Butterfield settled 
on the spot now covered by the Merchants' Exchange, 
newly erected on the corner of Wa.shington street and the 
Public square. Oliver Bartholomew* arrived in town in 
March, 1800, and settled one and a half miles from the 
present village of Brownvillc. Simeon and Benjamin 
Woodruff and others visited the town, with the view of 
settlement, and in the ensuing winter but three families 

* Deacon Bartholomew was born in Connecticut, October 20, l",i7 ; 
served through the Revolution ; scttleil in Oneida county in 1704. and 
died in Watertown, ,Iune IS, 1S.'>0. In 1S0.3 he assisted in forming 
one of the first Itaplist churches in the county. 



132 



HISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YOllK. 



wintered in town, viz. : Coffccn, Bartholomew, and Butter- 
field. The land books of Mr. Low show the following list 
of purchasers, some of whom may not have been actual 
settlere : 

"17'J9, Mny lf>. John Whitney, 4.'>0 acres on lot .''.at $2.50 per acre; 
this prohably reverted. In October, E. Allen, Silas AMtn, S. ami 
B. Wootlrutr, Jas. Kogcrs, 0. liartliolonicw, Thoii. Delano, Elisha 
Gustin, Z. Butterlield. In LSOO, llcinnn IVMit, Thos. and John Saw- 
yer, John Blevan, Abrain Fisk, AVni. Laiiipson, Joseph Tuttle, N. 
Jewell, J. AVait, Abram Jcwett, Ilart Massev. Joseph Wadley, Jona- 
than IJentlev. J. Sikes, S. Norris, Chas. (.Jalloway, Jonathan Talcott, 
Josiah Beutley, Frend Dayton, John Patrick, David iient, Luther 
Detnining, Kphraini Edwards, Tilson Barrows, Tiionias IJuttcrfield, 
J. and li. Slebbins, Asaph Mather, IJenj. Allen, E. Lazelle, litnry 

Jewctt, Lewis Drury, S. Fay, Stanley, ,TanK's Glass, Ira Brown, 

W. 1'. and N. Crandall, Calvin Brown, Aaron Bacon, Bennct Kice, 
Thomas II. Biddlecom." 

During the following season many of these persons, who 
were mostly from Oneida county, settled, and, in 1802, 
Jonathan Coweu* began the erection of a grist-mill at the 
bridge that crosses to Beebce's Island. The extraordinary 
water power which this place picseuted afl'orded ground 
for the expectation that it would become the centre of a 
great amount of business. The first deeds were given 
August 20, 181)2, to Elijah Allen, Jotham Ives, David 
Bent, Ezra I'arker, William Parker, Joseph Tuttle, and 
Joseph Jloorc.t 

During the first summer of the scttleinent, it being en- 
tirely impossible to procure grinding at any mills nearer 
than Canada, a stump standing on the Public sijuare, a few 
rods east of the American Hotel, had been formed into a 
mortar, and, with a spring-pole and pestle attached, served 
the purpose of a graiu-mill to the settlement. This primi- 
tive implement, suggestive of rustic life and the privations 
of a new colony, relieved the pioneers, in some degree, from 
the necessity of long journeys to mill, through a pathless 
forest. The hardships of this early period had a tendency 
to create a unity of feeling and sympathy from the strong 
sense of mutual dependence which it engeiitlered, and which 
is recalled by the few survivors of the period with emotions 
of gratitude for the manifest mercies of Providence. These 
hardy adventurers were mostly jjoor. They possessed few 
of the comforts of life, yet they had few wants. The need- 
ful articles of the household were mostly made by their 
own hands, and artificial grades of society were unknown. 
The first death of the settlement is thus described by J. P. 
Fitch, in the preface of the first village directory, published 
it. 1840: 

" Late at the dose of n still, sultry day in suintner, Mrs. I. Thorn- 
t(»n, the wife of one of the young settlers, gave the alarm that lier 
husband had not returned from the forest, whither he had gone in the 
afternoon to procure a piece ol timber. Immediately every luan in 
the settlement answered to the call, and hastened to the place di-sig- 
natcd for meeting, to concert a jtlan for search. Here all armed them- 
selves with torches of lighted pine-knots, or birch-bark, and calling 
every gun in the place into use for tiring alarms and signals, started 
out in siimll companies into the forest, in all directions. After a 
search of several hours, the preconcerted signal-gun announceil that 
the ' lost was found." All hurried to the spot, and u]ion the ground 



* Cowen was a millwright, and an undo of Judge Eseck Cowen, of 
Saratoga county, lie <lied near Evans' Mills, November 27, 1840, at 
the age of 80. 

I The majority of these fettled outaidc the village. 



where now i-tands the Black Kiver Institute, crushed beneath a trie 
which he had felled, lay the lifeless body of their companion. Ho 
was laid upon a bier hastily ])repared for the occasion, and conveyed 
through tlie gloom of midnight, by the light of their torches, back to 
his house. What must have been the emotion of the bereaved young 
widow when the mangled corse of her husband, so suddenly fallen a 
victim to death, was brought in and laid before her! She did not, 
however, mourn alone. As the remains were borne to their last rest- 
ing pl.ace — the first grave that was opened in Trinity Church-yard — 
it needed no sable emblems of mourning to tell of the grief that hung 
dark around every heart. Each one of the little company, as he re- 
turned from performing the last duties to his departed companion, 
ftll as if from his own family one had been taken. A similar inci- 
dent occurred a short time after, in the death of a child which was 
killed by the falling of a tree, on the present site of the court-house ; 
thus designating with blood, as one can imagine, the location of the 
halls of justice and science in our village, and consecrating tho 
ground of each by a human sacrilicc." 

In 1802 an inn was opened by Dr. Isaiah Massey, and 
settlers began to locate in every part of the town, which, in 
September of that year, numbered 70 or 80 families. A 
dam was built by Cowan in 1802, and in 1808 he got in 
operation a small grist-mill. During two or three succeed- 
ing years, John Paddock, Chauncey Calhoun, Philo John- 
son, Jesse Doolittle, William Smith, Mcdad Canfield, Aaron 
Kejcs, Wm. Huntingdon, J John Hathaway, Seth Bailey, 
Gershon Tuttle, and others, several of whom were me- 
chanics, joined the settlement, and, at a very early day, a 
school-house was built on the site of the Universalist church, 
which served also as a place of religious meetings. In 1805, 
John Paddock and William Smith opened the first store in 
the place, their goods being brought irom Utica in wagons. 
An idea may be had of the hardships of that period, compared 
with modern facilities, from the iiict that in March, 1807, 
seventeen sleighs, laden with goods for Smith and Paddock, 
were twenty-three days in getting from Oneida county to 
Watertown by way of Kcdlicld. The snows were in some 
places seven feet deeji, and the valleys almost impassable 
from wild torrents resulting friun tiie melting of snows. 
The winter had been reinaikable for its .severity, and the 
spring for destructive floods. 

In 1803 a bridge was built below the village, near the 
court-house, by Henry Cofleen and Andrew Edmunds, over 
which the State road afterwards passed, and in 1805 the 
dam was built below the bridge, at which, the same year, a 
saw-mill was built on the north side, and in 180G a grist- 
mill, by Seth Bailey and Gershom Tuttle. A saw-mill was 
built on the Watertown side by 11. & T. Potter, a little 
below, and a saw- and grist-mill soon after by H. H. Cof- 
feen, since which time many mills have been erected along 
the river. 

The first brick building erected in the county was built 
by William Smith, in the summer of 180(!. It was two 
stories in height, with a stone basement, ^Ir. Smith work- 
ing upon it with his own hands. The bricks were manu- 
liictnrcd by Eli Rogers, on the puint of land l)etween the 
mall and Franklin street. The site of this building is now 
occupied by Washington Ilall. 

It is a singular fact that the village of Watertown, in 
common with the whole county of Jefierson, while it vies in 



J Died at Watertown, May 11, 1842, aged 85. He was a native of 
Connecticut, and cauie to Wuterlowu in 1804. 



HISTORY OF JKFFEUSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



133 



wealth and enterprise with the most favored jiortioiis of llio 
State, owes very little if anything to iniimrtud eaj)ital. In 
most instances the wealth now existing has been ai-i(nired 
on the spot, liy those who at an early pariod were thrown 
ujion their tJWn immediate exertions for support; and from 
the ashes of the timber that covered the land, and the 
fii-st crops which the virgin soil yielded in kind profusion, 
they received the first impulse, which, seconded by in- 
dustry, prudence, aud sagacity, has not failed in bringing 
its reward. With a strong conviction that the place would 
at a future time become an important village, Jonathan 
Oowen, Henry Coflcen, Zechariah IJutterfield, Jesse l)oo- 
little, Medad Cantield, Aaron Kcycs, Hart JIa.ssey, and 
Isaiah Massey, who owned property adjoining the present 
public scpiare and Washington street in Watertown, held, 
early in 181)."), an informal meeting, and agreed to give for- 
ever to the public for a public mall a piece of land twelve 
rods wide and twenty -eight long, and another, running south 
at right angles to this, nine rods wide, and about thirty-two 
long. They then directed to be niade by John Simons, a 
surveyor, a map of the premises, which was done, and de- 
posited in the town clerk'.s otTiee, but this was afterwards 
lost. An attempt was subsequently made to resume the 
title, and sell portions of the public scjuare, but the (Question 
having come into the courts, was decided by Judge Nathan 
Williams in favor of the public, as Mr. Cowen, the claimant, 
although he had never deeded land on the public square, 
had acknowledged its existence by his bounding certain 
conveyances upon it.* In the same year the site of the 
court-house was determined by the commissioners appointed 
by the governor for that purpose, not without the most 
active influences being used at Brownville; and it is .said to 
have been located in its present site, at some distance below 
the business portion of the village, by way of compromise. 

U. S. AUSEN.VL. 

An act of 1808 directed 500 stand of arms to be de- 
posited at Champion, the destination of which was, by an 
act of March 27, 181)11, changed to Watertown, and an 
arsenal erected in that year. The arsenal was built under 
the direction of Hart Massey, Esq., collector of the district 
of Sacket's Harbor, at an expense of S191().;)0. It has 
given its name to the street on which it stands, which was 
previously called Columbia street, and was maintained by 
the State as an arsenal until sold under the act of April 9, 
1830. The brick of which it was built were furnished by 
Abraham Jewett, at a cost of S33'J.G3 ; the stone were cut 
byThaddeus Smith and Joseph Cook, at a cost of $110.80 ; 
and the lime furnished by David Staflbrd and Benjamin 
Goodale, at 22 cents per bushel. 

In Watertown, as in other sections, the manufacture of 
potash formed the first means of realizing cash, and many 
paid in whole or in part for their lands by this means. In 
1808 nine thousand dollars worth of this staple was ex- 
changed, the market being at that time in Montreal. In 
1870 the firm of Paddock & Smith purchased 28UU bar- 
rels, averaging SIO per barrel, making for that period the 
enormous aggregate of §112,000. The embargo which 

*■ See Paige's Chauuery Ueports, iv., p. .*>I0, 



preceded the war did not prevent but rather increased the 
trade by the high prices that it created, but the declaration 
of war entirely prostrated that and every otlier energy of 
the country, exc(!pt that the military operations of that 
period re((uired large supplies of provisions and forage for 
the armies on the frontier. At Watertown bodies of troops 
were stationed for short periods, and the sick were often 
sent thither for that attendance which could not be secured 
at Sacket's Harbor. In 1811 tlie citizens had adopted 
measures for securing tlic benefits of an academy, and 
erected on the site of the First Presbyterian church a brick 
building for that purpose, which will be again mentioned in 
our account of academies. This building was used as a 
hospital for a considerable time. 

Soon after the war there occurred in this village an event 
which excited extraordinary interest throughout the country, 
and of which many accounts have been published, more or 
less approximating to the truth, but none to our knowledge 
giving the full and correct details. Had the subject de- 
pended upon us alone to give it publicity, it might have 
been properly pa.s.sed over as one of those events that should 
be forgotten, in charity to the memory of the dead, and 
feelings of surviving relatives ; but as it has been so often 
repeated that we do not imagine it in our power to give it 
wider notoriet}", and knowing that the public would expect 
a notice of the event, we have labored to procui'c a correct 
version. The narrative may effect a useful purpose, by ex- 
hibiting the extent to which one error leading to another 
will betray one, at the same time serving as an instructive 
lesson to warn against any deviation from the path of honor, 
or the listening to suggestions that compromise principle. 

Samuel Whittlesey, J'jSi|., a lawyer of fine abilities, and 
whose moral and religious standing in the community was 
above suspicion, although " unequally yoked" to a woman 
of vicious proclivities, had settled in Watertown as early 
as 1807. He was a member in good standing of the Con- 
gregational (now Presbyterian) church, and being a Demo- 
crat in politics, was honored with office from the appointing 
power. In 1814 he was the candidate of that party for 
member of Congress, and though defeated by Moss Kent, 
it was not for lack of popularity with the people composing 
his party. He wius appointed brigade paymaster of the 
militia, by Governor Tompkins, for the purpose of paying 
off the State militia who had been called into the service 
on the frontier during the war. Jiison Fairbanks and Pcrley 
K eyes were his sureties, and this last fact is the apology for 
giving a detailed history of that affair in connection with 
Mr. Fairbanks' biography. 

After the war had fully closed, the militia began to look 
with anxiety for the time to come when they should get 
their pay for services in the defense of their country. Mr. 
Whittlesey went to New York to obtain the necessary funds, 
and received at the Mechanics" Bank in that city §35,000, 
with wliicli he returned, honestly intending, as there w;is 
reason to suppose, to pay out the bust dollar to the persons 
for whom it was designed. 

Mrs. Whittlesey's evil genius had suggested to her to go 
along, ostensibly for the purpose of visiting some friends, 
but, as afterwards seemed more likely, to watch for some 
(tpportitniti/ ichich iiiii//t/ lani iiji. An indefinable desire 



134 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



to be where the money w;is possessed her, and she persuaded 
hor luisbaiid that it was eminently jiroper for her to bear 
him company. On their way back, at Schenectady, she 
claimed to make the discovery that their trunk liad been 
broken open and some $87<tO of the money taken. Her 
oppoitiDiit)/ for possessing herself of a portion of that 
money had come, indeed, as she phinned, and slie had 
wickedly abstracted it, as will appear in the scr|nel. Jlr. 
Wliiltlcscy was confounded and overwlielnicd. What could 
be done ? was the anxious inquiry. 

By decrees she began to hint, darkly, "that it mattered 
little what was done ; that tlioy were ruined beyond any 
liope of escape ; that it would be utterly impossible to sat- 
isfy a carping, uncharitable world ; tliat they would un- 
doubtedly be charged with embezzling the money, and 
forthwith prosecuted for the amount ; that it would sweep 
away every dollar of their hard savings, upon which they 
had depended as a store for old age and decrepitude, etc." 
In his distraction and perplexit}', this reasoning sounded 
so like logical deductions that he was obliged to assent to 
the terrible array of consequences. She continued to inti- 
mate '• that if there was no way of escape, if they uuist 
be ruined beyond hope of redemption, in character and 
property ; if all must go to satisfy the inexorable demands of 
arbitrary law ; if men would have no mercy, and God him- 
.self had left them to buffet the waves of relentless fate, then 
there was an instinct which prompted her to lay hold of 
aiiythin'.' that promised to alleviate their terrible condition." 
She whispered it in his ear, " take the balance of the money 
and flee to some distant island or country, where among 
strangers, with money in their pockets, they could hope to 
escape utter starvation." She succeeded in getting him in 
her toils and then fastening him there. 

On his reaching home he gave out that his money had 
been received and would be paid over as soon as the neces- 
sary papers and pay-rolls could be prepared. In a few days 
he completed his arrangements, and started on horseback 
for Trenton, with his money in a ])air of old-fashioned port- 
manteaus, which were placed in the ordinary way across 
the .saddle-seat. At the several ]>laces where he stopped on 
the way he took pains to announce to the people that he 
would be back on a given day and pay to such persons as 
were entitled by their services and vouchers. His appear- 
ance at the time was natural and careless, too much .so, as 
was thought by .some, for a man who was in a position of 
so much rc.si)on.sibility. But he had been well in.structed, 
no doubt, by his evil c/enius, and he enacted his part as well 
as could be expected from a man who was naturally honest, 
and who was out of his clement, ami had such a ciushins 
sense of damning guilt resting on his soul. 

He reached Trenton, and ]iut u[) at the jjublic-house 
owned by Orren Ives, but whiili was in charge of Henry 
D. Cadwcll, Esip, niiw i.f imr village. He left his hor.se 
under the .shed, as tlidugh lie was guiiig fartlu'r, and had 
him fed, with the saddle and Jiortmantcau all on. He called 
for dinner, and after dinner he went into the street, and 
finally to the barn, but soon came in again with haste, 
a]>parently in the greatest possible consternation and alarm, 
bringing the saddle-b.igs with him, and declaring " //mt fir 
hud been rolibed of hin moniij, mid iiiti'ind/iiii/ lltnl It iiinsf 



have hien dune since he tens (it that hoiis 



Mr. Cadwell 



tried to convince him that it was impossible, but in vain. 
He then ran over to Dr. Billings' lor advice, not choo.sing 
to rest under the imputation of crime, and persuading him 
to come and examine into the circumstances. 

Dr. Billings cheerfully undertook to satisfy Mr. Whittle- 
sey that whoever had got his money, it was not any person 
belonging to the house at Mr. Ives'. The portmanteau 
was exhibited in the mean time, and the slit on the undei 
side, where it was supposed the money must have been ex- 
tracted, was particularly and critically inspected to see 
whether it was a fresh cut or otherwise. Mr. Whittlesey's 
attention was very soon called by Dr. Billings to the fact 
that the action of the portmanteau on the horse's loins had 
heated him, and produced a free perspiration, and that the 
lather thus created had penetrated the slit in the leather, 
staining the edges, and leaving a gummy substance on the 
inner surface, which he peeled off with his thumb-nail. 
The slit was evidently cut, at some time, with a knife, and 
was seven or eight inches in length. There were some 
packages of old newspapers put in to supply the place, but 
the money was gone. 

He returned home to communicate the terrible catas- 
trophe to his family, and his two friends who were his 
sureties, and who must necessarily be involved in the 
general ruin which seemed inevitable. As a natural con- 
sef|uencc, the event became the absorbing topic in every 
family, and the tlicnie of a wide circle in all the counties of 
the State. 

Rewards were offered, and staring hand-bills posted for 
the apprehension of the bold thief, but all in vain. Messre. 
Fairbanks and Keycs conversed with him freely, and without 
seeming to hesitate in taking his version of the story, which 
was, briefly, " That the money was all in one j)ackage, just 
as he had received it from the bank ; that he put it in one 
end of the portmanteau, with some changes of linen in the 
other end ; that he then took them on his arm, and pro- 
ceeded to put them across the saddle, and iunncdiately 
mounted his horse, sitting on the bags ; and he thought he 
had exercised a very careful supervision over them up to 
the time when he missed the money, after arriving at 
Trenton village." 

He exhibited the portmanteau first to Mr. Fairbanks, 
and then to Mr. Keyes, at two separate interviews, and 
each made such an examination of tliem as they could do 
without betraying any suspicions that their confidence in 
the integrity of the Whittlesey family was weakened. Mr. 
Fairlnmks' interview with Mr. W. lasted an hour, during 
which time the best method of procedure in eflbrts to detect 
the thief and recover the money was freely discussed. 
With the view of being able to answer the inquiries which 
would be made, .Mr. Fairbanks took an exact diagram of 
the slit in the bags on a piece of paper, and found the 
length of it seven and a half inches, with what appeared to 
be pin-holes in the edges of the cut in the leather, as if they 
were made by pinning the edges together to keep the slit 
from being readily discovered. 

Whittlesey told him that the principal reason why he 
took all the moiuiy with him was, '■ that his wnmcn were 
UMwilliiig that any portion of it should be letl with them. 







PHOTOS. BY GENORON. 



MRS. WILLARD IVES (deceased). 



MRS. WILLARD IVES. 




ResiOENCE or HON. WILLARO IVES. 



HON. WILLARD IVES, 
of Watertown, Jefferson County, New- York, is a man whose 
history, simple and unpretending, is identical with that of a 
large class of the most useful members of society. He is, iu the 
best sense of the word, a farmer. Blessed with a competence 
which places him beyond the apprehension of want, the owner of 
extensive and valuable farming lands, lying contiguous to the 
ttourishiug city of Watertown, he prosecutes the occupation oi 
agriculture with his own hands, thus giving a practical repudiu 
tion to the anti-republican a.ssumption, that " labor is degrading 
and at war with true dignity." That the sympathies of Mr. 
Ives are pre-eminently with the producing classes is evidenced, 
not, as in too many instances, by mere empty professions, but 
by the high force of practical example. 

The subject of this notice is of New England extniction. 
His grandfather, Mr. Jotham Ives, who was of Welsh de 
scent, was born in Cheshire, Connecticut, in 1743 ; removed 
early in life to Torriugton, Litchfield county, where ho spent 
his days almost exclusively in agricultural pursuits. His third 
son, Titus, was born in December, 1778. In 1801 (at the 
early age of twenty-three) Titus Ives removed to Watertowu 



U)wnship, New York, which he made his permanent home. 
The fertile and wealthy region now known as the '• Black River 
country," was at that time an almost .unknown wilderness, and 
to Mr. Ives belongs the credit of having been one of the pioneers 
by whose perseverance and energy pleasant fields and thriving 
villages haye been carved out of that unbroken wilderness. 

Willard Ives, the subject of this notice, was bom July 7, 
1806, in the town of Watertown, and lived on the farm taken 
up by his father, when he first came to the county, until the 
year 1850. He was limited in the means of education to the 
indiflFerent common schools afforded by a new country, and 
the Immble district school-house, with the exception of a short 
time spent at Belleville and an academy in Lowville. He was 
married December 27, 1827, to Miss Charlotte, daughter of 
Samuel and Lucy Winslow, of Watertown, but formerly of 
Vermont. She was amiable in her disposition, devoted to the 
wiilfarc of the church she so much loved ; a consistent Chris 
lian woman, a faithful wife. Her long-continued ill health 
finally brought her to a premature grave. She died in the year 
18(51, aged fifty -five years. 



For his second wife he married Miss Lucina M., daughter of 
Zepheniah and Sally Eddy, of Philadelphia, Jefferson County, 
but formerly of Osw^o county. Her father was a native of 
Rhode Island. She is a lady of more than ordinary intellectual 
ability, and shares the happiness and comfort of her husband 
in the declining years of his life. 

Devotedly attached to the faith and discipline of the Meth- 
odist denomination of Christians, he was selected in 1846 by 
the Black River conference to represent it in the World's con- 
vention, held that year in London. In the discharge of the 
duty so assigned him, he visited Europe, and spent much of 
the year 1846 abroad. After his return he was chosen presi- 
dent of the Jefferson County Agricultural Society, a position 
for which his close attention to agricultural science has pecu- 
liarly qualified him. 

In the year 1840 he was first connected with the bank of 
Watertown as director, and, subsequently as president. In 
1848 his friends presented his name to the public as a candi- 
date for Congress. He was always, from his earliest political 
action, strongly attached to the principles of the Democratic 
party, and, like the great mass of that party in this State, found 
himself unable to concur in the recommendations of the Balti- 
more convention. The county of Jefferson, forming the Nine- 
teenth congressional district, is of doubtftil poUtical complexion, 
and had been, for ten years previous, represented more than one- 
half of the time by a Whig member. 

In the campaign of 1848, the supporters of General Cass 
for the presidency drew off from the old Democratic organiza- 
tion in the county about two thousand votes ; and yet with this 
great defection, such was the popularity of Mr. Ives, that he 
came within less than three hundred votes of defeating hi.s 
Whig competitor. 

In the year 1852, being again placed in nomination by his 
party to represent it in Congress, he was elected by a majority 
of some seven hundred votes. 

Mr. Ives was the chief instigator in the establishment of the 
orphan asylum at Watertown, and interested himself largely 



in obtaining subscriptions for the same, which, added to the aid 
afforded by the State, left that institution free from any incum- 
brance from its beginning. 

He has been, and still is, a large contributor to the support 
of the seminary at Antwerp bearing his name. Mr. Ives was 
one of the originators and organizers of the Syracuse Univer- 
sity, and, with Bishop Jesse T. Peck and others, founded an 
institution destined to be among the first in the United States. 
He has been one of the trustees since its organization. He 
has been connected with the Jefferson County Bible Society 
nearly the entire time since its formation as contributor, and, 
for the past thirty years, a part of the time as its president. 
In early life he took a deep interest in Sunday-school work, and 
has labored earnestly for the propagation of that interest, and 
also as a co-laborer in the social meetings of his church. 

At the general conference held in Brooklyn, New York, of 
the Methodist Episcopal church, the first in which lay members 
had a representation, he was a delegate. He was one of the 
incorporators of the " Thousand Island Camp Meeting Asso- 
ciation," which in so short a time has become a place of great 
religious interest, and since its organization he and his wife 
have spent much time at that popular resort. His zeal seems 
not to wane so long as he can assist in putting forward any 
enterprise looking to the building up of good society, and 
the propagation of Christian principles among men. He is 
identified with the Agricultural Fire Insurance Company, of 
Watertown, as a director ; also director and president of the 
Watertown Fire Insurance Company ; and is also president and 
one of the stockholders of the Merchants' Bank, of Watertown, 
and holds the same position in the Davis Sewing Machine Com- 
pany, of the city of Watertown. 

It is seldom the biographer is able to record the sketch of a 
man whose life seems so whoUy devoted to the best interests 
of his fellow-men as does Mr. Ives', and to the rising generation 
many useful lessons may be given by a careful perusal of this 
brief biography of one of Jefferson County's citizens. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



133 



for that they would be all the time fearing that the}' might 
be robbed in his absence." His story was unifornily con- 
sistent with itself, and was undoubtedly well conned. Mr. 
Keycs, in the moan time, had been sent for. Mr. Fair- 
banks met him on the way, and passing him rei[uested him 
to call at his shop as soon as he should have closed the 
interview at Mr. Whittlesey's. 

When they met an hour afterwards, and compared notes, 
they found tliemselves perfectly agreed as to the probability 
of Mr. Whittlesey's guilt in the matter, and they decided 
at once on their course, which was to seem to have the 
most unqualified confidence in the truth of Whittlesey's 
.statements, and of his honesty, and then trust to time and 
their ingenuity to unravel the plot and to secure the money. 

Another object which they conceived to be important to 
them, in the relation they sustained to the government, 
was to persuade Mr. Whittlesey to secure them with his 
real estate, so far as it would go, against their liabilities ; 
on the principle that it was only just to them that he 
should freely yield up what he had, to make up so large a 
sum, and which was above their ability to meet. They 
met a day or two afterwards at Whittlesey's hou.se, and 
suggested the above matter of a conveyance of his property 
to them ; to which he very cheerfully agreed, thus con- 
firming them very much in their suspicions that he had 
that large sum, which he supposed he was going to fall 
back upon, and with which his little property seemed of 
very little moment in the comparison. It was a circum- 
stance that thoy weighed well. The security amounted to 
about §2000 in cash value, though Mr. Whittlesey esti- 
mated it as high as §5000. 

Aft«r they had effected their object in securing them- 
selves as far as could be done out of Whittlesey's property, 
they made their arrangements for the most perfect espionage 
upon the movements of the Whittlesey family, for the pur- 
pose of obtaining some clue to the present whereabouts of 
the money. A part of the plan was to spend most of their 
evenings at Whittlesey's, in mutual plans for ferreting out 
the rasciil who had so successfulij' robbed him, and thus 
ruined them all. They soon discovered that the sleeping- 
room of Whittlesey and wife was in a chamber on the back 
end of the house, and that a position on the roof of the 
wood-house, where it united with the house, would possi- 
bly give them favorable opportunities for eavesdropping. 
Fairbanks had a light, short ladder, which he procured for 
the purpose, with which one or the other of them climbed 
to the position selected, while the other kept them occupied 
in the pa.ssage-way to the front door in leave-taking, or 
after-thoughts and suggestions which had occurred to him. 

After a while it was arranged that Fairbanks should go 
to New York, ostensibly to take a pri.soner to the State's 
prison, but more particularly for the purpose of ascertain- 
ing from the officers of the bank what sized package the 
§35,000 made, so as to form a better conclusion whether 
such a package could by any po.ssibility pass through such 
an aperture as was made in the portmanteau. Another ob- 
ject was to see Chauncey Whittlesey, the eldest son of the 
family, and ascertain by an interview with him why he was 
in New York at the time his father was there, he being at 
the time assistant-surgeon, or surgeon's mate, in the United 



States navy. He xscertaincd to his satisfaction, however, 
that he was ashore on leave, while his vessel was on a short 
cruise ; and that he was quite short of pocket-money ; and 
that he was in no way connected with the plot. 

Mr. Fairbanks then came home and had an interview 
with Mr. Keyes, who had kept a regular wutch on the roof 
of Whittlesey's wood-shed during his absence, and had 
overheard enough to satisfy himself that their suspicions of 
liim were well founded. There was no question of the 
money being in the possession or under the control of Mr. 
and J[rs. Whittlesey. 

In the mean time Whittlesey and his wife had been busy 
in efforts to get small parcels of these bills into the hands 
of various individuals, — innocent parties, — with a kind of 
vague, indefinite hope that it might be found upon them, 
and thus have a tendency to divert public attention from 
themselves. With that end in view they made small de- 
posits of that particular money on the premises of various 
individuals. 

Marked bills amounting to S400 had been dropped on 
the road to Sacket's Harbor, and were found by a Mr. Gale, 
who counted and sealed them before witness ; and afti^r the 
disclosure brought them forward. Marked bills had also 
been left on the premises of Mr. Chillus Dotj', of Martins- 
burgh, at whose place Mr. Whittlesey stayed overnight 
on his way to Trenton with the money ; and after- 
wards — when he had been forced to disgorge the large 
balance — he proceeded on horseback to repossess himself of 
it ; as he reluctantly admitted to the late Dr. Amasa Trow- 
bridge, who insisted on knowing where he had been riding 
so hard as to jade his horse so much. Marked bills were 
also found on the premises of Joseph Shelden, who kept a 
tavern in Martinsburgh, and which were afterwards returned 
to the sureties. 

It was also during the absence of Mr. Fairbanks in New 
Y'^ork, with the State's prisoner, as before related, that Cap- 
tain Seth Otis, of this town, disclosed to Mr. Keyes the 
fact that he had received of Whittlesey §100 in bills of 
the same bank, in payment for that amount of money 
which he had some time before loaned, on call, to him. He 
stated that he had at first felt unwilling to give them up, 
because he did not feel able to lose that amount of money. 
But Mr. Keyes very soon made him easy on that score, 
assuring him that they would give him their equivalent in 
gold ; for that they were the only clue that he had been able 
to get to the missing money ; charging him, however, as he 
valued his friendship, not to divulge a syllable to mortal 
man or woman on the subject. 

This last fact, together with little namele.ss appearances 
of the guilty parties, added to what had been gained by 
eavesdropping, had had the effect to confirm them in the 
belief that they had the money, and hence that there was no 
time to be lost in an effort to " circumvent the cunning old 
sarjpetU," who was the chief plotter in all this complicated 
ruin. But precisely where the money was was the great 
question. 

Keyes had overlieard enough to satisfy himself that any 
effort to recover it must needs be made very soon, as they were 
evidently concocting a plan for flight to parts unknown, 
within a very short period, and he had heard noises that 



13G 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



indicated the boxing up of goods in the house at late hours 
ill the night. 

A number of schemes were proposed and discussed be- 
tween them, having reference to operating on Jlr. Whittle- 
sey's fears, in order to frigliten him into a disclosure of the 
place of deposit ; but there were objections to each and all, 
until Keyes suggested that in his experience as a raf'tuian 
he had found that nothing seemed to take the pluck and 
courage out of a man like partial drowning ; and he had 
come to the conclusion that it was a kind of torture they 
could graduate and prutract at their pleasure, by selecting 
a pit filled with water for the purpose. He had just such 
a place in his mind, on liis own farm, as would answer their 
purpose. Tliey proceeded together to tlie place, and made 
their preparations accordingly. Tlieir scheme succeeded 
admirably; they got Whittlesey to the place without ex- 
citing his suspicions, and charged hiiu with the theft of the 
money. 

Whittlesey .surveyed his two friends with calmness and 
seeming self-possession, and calling God to witness the truth 
of his allegations, he proceeded to reiterate his oft-told tale. 
Keyes thereupon seized him, and, with a little of Fairbank.s' 
help, placed him in the water. After being strangled a 
little they allowed him to scramble out. Being again in- 
terrogated, and assured if the money were restored uo legal 
proceedings would be instituted, he again protested his 
innocence most solemnly, and with a calmness most unac- 
countable. 

They proceeded to plunge him in a second time, and 
held liim there until to their amazement he appeared dead! 
They however succeeded in restoring him to consciousness, 
and then repeated to him that they had availed themselves 
of means of knowing for a certainty the fact of his having 
the money under his control, though they could not lay 
their hands upon it. They told him that their minds were 
fully made up, and that it depended entirely on himself 
whether he survived the process to which they had re.sorted, 
in their desperation, to save tliem.selvos from ruin. After 
prolonging this kind of talk until he had so far recovered 
as to make it safe to repeat the proci^ss, Mr. Fairbanks 
turned to Mr. Keyes and said, " Y^ou help me put him in 
once more; then give me what money you have got, — take 
care of yourself for your family's sake. I have no family 
and want no witnes.ses of the concluding part of this pro- 
cess. I will write you from Kingston and toll yiiu where 
to direct a letter to me. " They then shook hands and ten- 
derly took leave of each other, when Mr. Keyes gave Fair- 
banks some $1M) and walked off. Fairbanks informed his sub- 
ject that his time had come. His arms were jiinioned behind 
him in such a way that he could offer no resistance, and 
finding things looking de.sperate and himself sinking again 
in the water, he cried out, " I'll own it 1 I'll own it 1" 
Keyes was immediately called back, and they proceeded to 
jiut him in a position to give tluni the inl'urmation they so 
much coveted. 

He said the money was in his wife's possession, and cither 
under a tile in the hearth of a chamber, which he described, 
or in his wife's bed-room in another chamber ; that it had 
been sometimes in the cellar in a place which he described, 
but always in licr custody and under hrr special control. 



He said he never should have been guilty of this wicked- 
ness but for the fact of his having been robbed at Schen- 
ectady of §8700, for which he was wholly unable to account, 
and which he had never spoken of before or advertised, 
because his wife had persuaded him of the impo.ssibillty of 
satisfying the public that any robber would have taken only 
part of an entire package of money and left the largest 
share. 

After Whittlesey had made this disclosure, it was agreed 
that Keyes should go to the house and get possession of the 
money, while Fairbanks should stay in charge of the cul- 
prit; that if Keyes did not find it he should come back, 
and, from a corner of his barn, which could be seen from 
their po.sition at the water-hole, give a signal which would 
be understood, after which, " dead men tell no tales." After 
Keyes had gone for the purpose of seeing whether the 
money was where he had described, Fairbanks asked the 
old man whether he had sent him on a fool's errand, but 
was answered that he had told all he knew. He protested 
that there was the $8700 spoken of before, which he knew 
nothing about, and intjuircd an.xiously whether they in- 
tended to hold him responsible for that sum. In about an 
hour Keyes caiue back and released his friend and their 
prisoner. Whittlesey bogged hard to be released on the 
spot, and Keyes was disposed to let him go, but Fairbanks 
was determined to restore him back to his own dwelling 
where he had taken him from. Keyes ])roceeded imme- 
diately again to where he had left the money, with Dr. Paul 
Hutchinson and John M. Canfield, while Fairbanks and 
Whittlesey proceeded more deliberately thnmgh the main 
streets, Washington and Court, to the residence of Mr. 
Whittlesey, which was directly opposite the Clerk's office 
on Court street. 

We now go back to say that Mr. Keyes had procured 
the assistance of Messrs. Hutchinson and Canfield as he 
went to the house for the purpose of an interview with 
Mrs. Whittlesey in order to get possession of the money. 
Seeing them approach .she fled to her chamber, and on their 
knocking for admission, she replied that she was changing 
her dress and would meet them shortly. As it w:\s not the 
time or place for much etiquette, INIr. Keyes rudely burst 
open the door, and on entering found her reclining on the 
bed, and disregarding her expostulations of imjn-opriety, 
proceeded to search, and soon found between the straw- and 
feather-beds upon which she lay a jiair of i|uilted drawers, 
when .she exclaimed, " You've got it ! My God ! Have I 
come to this?" The drawers bore the initials of Colonel 
Tuttle, of the United States Army, who had dii'd a short 
time before in that house under very suspicious circum- 
stances. They were fitted with two sets of buttons, for 
either herself or hrr liusban<l to wear, and contained about 
thirty parcels of bills, labeled, " For my dear son C, 250 of 
5's ; for my dear daughter I';., 150 of o's, " etc., amounting 
to §15,000 I'or her five children, the remainder being rc- 
.served for her own u.se. The garment also contained a most 
extraordinary document, which might be called her will, 
and about which she expressed the most urgent solicitude, 
imploring that it might be destroyed, by the earnest appeal 
that " You have children its well as I." It was soon after 
]iulilislud ill the p:i]jcrs, and was as follows: 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



137 



" It is my last and dying request that my children shall have all 
the money that i.s contained in tlic papers which have tlieir names 
on, — which is $;{0U() for each, and let there be pains and caution and 
a great length of time taken to exchange it in, God and my own 
heart knows the misery I have sulFercd in consequence of it, and that 
it was much against my will that it should be done. I have put all 
that is in the same bank by it, that I had from prudence and a great 
number of years been gathering up, and when I used to meet with 
bills on that bank in your possession, or when I could I used to ex- 
change others for them, as I supposed it was the best and most per- 
manent iiank. You know the reason of your taking this was that 
we supposed tliat from the look of the small trunk being broken, and 
the large one being all loose and the nails out, that we were robbed 
on the roail of $87U0. You know that I always told you that I be- 
lieved that it was done in the yard, where you, as I told you then, 
put the wagon imprudently in Schenectady. Oh, how much misery 
am I btirn to see through alt your iinjiroper conduct, which I am 
forced to conceal from the world for the sake of [ny belove.l oflVpring's 
credit, and whereby I have got enemies umleservcdly, while the pub- 
lic opinion was in your favor! IJut it fully evinces what false juilg- 
mcnts the world makes. Oh ! the ttod who tries tiie hearts and 
searches the veins of the children of men knows that the kind of 
misery which I havo suffered, and which has riled and soured my 
temper, and has made me appear cro.^s and morose to the public eye, 
has all jirocccded from you, and fixed in my countenance the mark 
of an ill-natureil disposiiioii, which was naturally formed for loves, 
friendships, and all other refined sensations. How have t falsified 
the truth that you might appear to every advantage, at the risk and 
ill-opinion of the sensible world toward myself, when my conscience 
was telling me I was doing wrong; and which, with everything else 
I have suffered since I have been a married woman, has worn me 
down and kept mo out of health ; and now, oh now, this last act is 
bringing me to my grave fast. I consented because you placed mo 
in the situation you did. 

"In the first place, you were delinquent to the Government of $1800 
or SI 900. Then this almost $tH100 missing, I found when you como 
to settle that you never could make it good without sacrificing me 
and my children, was the reason I consented to the proposal. I did 
you the justice to believe that if the last sum had not been missing, 
that you would not have done as you did. IJut I am miserable ! God 
grant that my dear children may never fall into the like error that 
their father has, and their poor unfortunate mother consented to. 
May tlie Almighty forgive us Ijoth, for I forgive you all you havo 
made me sufler." 

On counting the money it was found to embrace a part 
of tlie sum which was supposed to have been stolen at 
Schenectady, and no one was more surprised than Wliittle- 
sey liimsclf, to find that lie hail been robbed at that place 
by his own wife. 

The fame of this discovery soon spread, and it was with 
difficulty that the people were rcstraineil from evincing their 
joy by the discharge of cannon. In the mean time 3Ir. 
Whittlesey liad been placed under guard in the room with 
his wife utitil further search, and here the most bitter 
criminations were exchanged, each charging the other with 
crime, and the wile upbiaiding tlie husband with cowardice 
in revctilitig the secret. The guard being withdrawn for a 
moment in the coiifu.sion that ensued, Mrs. Whittlesey pas.sed 
from the house to cross the old cemetery on the lot in rear 
of the site of Trinity Church, where, on passing the grave 
of her son, Samuel Gilbert, a lad of some fifteen j-ears, she 
paused, /altered, and fell back, overwhelmed with tiwfu! 
emotions, but a moment after, gatliering new energy, she 
hastened on, rushed over the high batik near the ice-cave, 
and plunged into the river. Her body was found floating 
near the Lower Bridge, and efforts were made to restore 
life, but it was extinct. 

The futioral of Mrs. Whittlesey was attended by Kev. 
Danijl Banks, who preached from the Si.Ktli commandment 



as a text, and read the hymn in Watts' collection commen- 
cing with " Death, 'tis a melancholy day." She was buried 
in the cemetery back of the Kpiscopal church, beside her 
son, and near Colonel Tuttle, wliom she was supposed to 
have poisnned. 

Mr. Whittlesey remained in town nearly a year, and then 
moved to Indiana, where he afterwards became a justice of 
the peace and a county judge, and by an exemplary life won 
the respect of the eoniiiiunity ; and although the details of 
this affair followed him, yet the censure of opinion rested 
upon the wife. 

(Congress, on the 11th of January, 1821, passed an act 
directing the Secret;iry of the Treasury to cancel and sur- 
render the bond given by Whittlesey, and indorsed by Fair- 
banks and Keyes, on condition of the latter giving another, 
payable with interest in two year.s, for the balance remain- 
ing unaccounted for, — thus virtually closing up a business 
arrangement which had been a continued occasion for anx- 
iety and trouble to them through successive years. 

It was at a time in the history of our country when men 
doing business with the Government were very properly held 
to a strict accountability for every dollar of the people's 
money, and they paid the utmost farthing. 

In speaking of the Whittlesey matter, within a few years, 
to the author of the history of Jefferson County, Mr. Fair- 
banks said : 

"Before we executed our jdan we had positive evidence of his 
knowledge of the transaction, and of his guilt ; and, on the strength 
of that, wc did not expect to proceed to extremities further than to 
frighten him until he informed us where the money was secreted. 
But his stubbornness held out much longer than wc supposeil it would 
or could. When we put the evidence of his guilt before him in such 
a plain manner his looks were evidence of it. M'e informed him that 
thorc was no doubt about it, and I believe that there is not one ease 
in a thousand where evidence was so palpable as in this case. But 
liynch Law is a dangerous one, and I would not advise it. But with 
other guilty parties who have stolen from me and been detected, I 
believe I have used more niild and lenient measures. I have probably 
caught twenty persons pilfering from me, and I have always made 
them give me a confession in writing, and then promised them, that 
as they had relations who would be disgraccil by their bad conduct, 
that I would keep it a profound secret until they committed the crime 
again, when I would prosecute them. I found this plan the surest 
method of reforming them." 

VILLAGE INCORPORATION. 

The village of VAitertown was incorporated April 5, 1816. 
The act jirovided for the election of five trustees, who were 
to po.ssess the powers and immunities usually vested in sim- 
ilar corporations. These extended to the formation of a fire 
department, the construction of water-works, regulation of 
markets, streets, etc. ; the building of htty scales, super- 
vision of weights and measures, and whatever related to 
the preservation of health or the suppression of nuisances. 
Three assessors, a treasurer, collector, and five fire-wardens 
were to be elected. Fines, not exceeding 82.5, might be 
imjxjsed. The annual election was to occur on the first 
Monday of May, and the trustees were to choose one of 
their number for president, ;ind some proper person for 
clerk. The president, with the advice of the trustees, was 
to appoint a company, not exceeding twenty, of firemen, 
and to enforce, in the name of the trustees, the ordinances 
and regulations which they might establish. The village 



138 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



of Watcrtown was constituted one road district, and ex- 
empted from the jurisdiction of the town commissioners. 

On April 7, 1820, an act was passed altering the bounds 
of the village and amending the charter ; and on April 
17, 1826, and April 20, 1831, the charter was still further 
amended. March 22, 1832, the trustees were empowered 
by an act to borrow a sum, not exceeding S2000, to im- 
prove the fire department of the village, and supply it with 
water to be used in fires, and April 21, 1832, the doings 
at an election were confirmed. An act was passed April 
23, 1835, granting additional powers to the trustees, re- 
pealing former provisions of the charter, and authorizing 
the erection of a market. The village charter was amended 
by an act of April 10, 1852, by which its bounds were in- 
creased, the district included directed to be divided into 
from five to seven wards. A president, three assessors, a 
clerk, treasurer, collector, and two police con.stables were 
to be elected annually, and one trustee to each ward, of 
which there are five. Elections are held on the first Mon- 
day of March, and the powers and duties of the trustees 
were much extended. 

The first village election was held at the house of Isaac 
Lee, in May, 1810, David Bucklin, Esq., presiding, and the 
following officers were chosen : Tiraotliy Burr, Egbert Ten 
Eyck, Olney Pcarce, Mariaiius W. Gilbert, and Norris M. 
Woodruff, trustees ; Reuben Goodale, William Smith, Or- 
ville Hungerford, assessors ; Micah Sterling, treasurer; Seth 
Otis, collector ; Jabez Foster, Samuel Watson, Jr., Rufus 
Backus, William Fletcher, Joseph Henry, fire wardens. 

Following is a list of presidents during the existence of 
the village: 1810, Timotiiy Burr ; 1817, Lsaac Lee ; 1818, 
Orren Stone; 1819, William Smith; 1820, Egbert Ten 
Eyck; 1821, Olney Pearcc ; 1822, David W. Bucklin; 
1823-24, Orville Hungerford; 1825-20, Olney Pearcc; 
1827-31, Norris M. Woodruff; 1832, Jason Fairbanks; 
1833-35, 0. Hungerford; 1830, Ja.son Fairbanks; 1837- 
38, Dyer Huntington ; 183!), David D. Otis ; 1840, George 
C. Sherman ; 1841, William Wood ; 1842-43, William H. 
Robinson; ISU, Bjnjamin Cory; 1845, D. Huntington ; 
1840, Orville Brainard ; 1847, Stephen Boon ; 1848, Peter 
S. Ilowk; 1849-50, D. D. Otis; 1851, Jo.shua Moore; 
1852, K. Hannahs ; 1853-54, Joseph Mullin; 1855, Ran- 
dolph Barnes; 1856-58, Henry H. Babcock ; 1859, Am- 
brose W. Clark ; 1800-03, Henry H. Babcock; 1804-05, 
John M. Carpenter; 1800, George A. Bagley ; 1807, 
Wilbur F. Porter; 1868, Lysander H. Brown; 1869, 
Edmund B. Wynn. 

The trustees, at their first meeting, divided the village 
into five wards, to each of which a fire warden was to be 
assigned, and each was to be supplii'd with four ladders. A 
scries of regulations providing again.st fires and making pro- 
visions for tlie several objects named in the charter was also 
adopted. A fire company was organized May 28, 1817, 
and at a meeting of freeholders called for the purpose June 
10, the sum of S2(l() was voted for the purchase of a fire- 
engine. February 0, 1818, §500 was voted to assist in build- 
ing a bridge near Newel's brewery. May 4, 1818, a com- 
mittee of three appointed to confer with the supervisors 
concerning the purcha.se of a.bcll for the court-hou.se. Oc- 
tober 27, 1823, a plan for a cemetery, previously purchased 



of H. Mxssey, was accepted, and on D.:eemb2r 6, 1825, the 
lots, one rod square each, were balloted for, each taxable 
resident being entitled to one share. To non-residents 
lots might be sold, thcproceeds to be ap])lied to the build- 
ing of a tomb. A hook-and-ladder company was voted to 
be formed in May, 1820. 

At a meeting held November 24, 1831, the inhabitants 
advised the trustees to purcha.sc a new fire-engine, and the 
sum of ?50 was directed to be drawn out of the village 
treasury, and presented to Messrs. Barrttt and Parker for 
their prompt and efficient exertions with their new engine 
at the late fire in the village. A fire company, to be at- 
tached to the engine belonging to the Jefferson Cotton 
Mills, was formed August 0, 1832. Dyer Huntington was 
at the same time appointed chief engineer, and Adriel Ely 
assistant engineer of the fire department.* 

On June 19, 1832, a special meeting of trustees was held 
to adopt measures to prevent the spread of the Asiatic 
cholera, which was at that time spreading terror through- 
out the country. Sobriety, regularity, temperance, and 
cleanliness were recommended as the most efficient prevent- 
ives of the disease. One trustee, one fire warden, one phy- 
sician, and three citizens were appointed in each ward to 
take efficient measures for enforcing sanitary regulations. 
A special meeting of citizens convened at Parson's hotel 
on the next day, and after the reading of several papers 
from Albany, Ogdensburgh, and Prescott, a " committee of 
health," consisting of twelve persons, was appointed, and 
Drs. Trowbridge, Crawe, Wright, Green, Goodale, Sykes, 
Bagg, and Safford were named as a committee to consult 
with the health committee. The State and national legis- 
latures were petitioned for a law preventing the landing of 
foreigners, and for powers similar to those given to cities. 
The surrounding towns and villages were invited to co-op- 
erate in the adoption of sanitary measures. Three days 
after the passage of the act of June 22, for the preserva- 
tion of the public health, the following persons, viz.: Ma- 
rianus W. Gilbert, Levi Beebee, John Sigourney, Orville 
Hungerford, William Smith, Norris M. Woodruff, and 
Peleg Burchard, wore appointed a board of health, and Dr. 
I. B. Crawe was elected health officer. On the 3d of May, 
1833, the board of health consisted of William Smith, 
Levi Beebee, P. Burchard, N. M. Woodruff, and John 
Sigourney. Dr. I. B. Crawe, health officer. On intelli- 
gence being received from Jlontreal of the reappearance of 
the cholera, a special meeting of trustees was called, Au- 
gust 1, 1834, and a new board of health appointed. 

In compliance with an act of 1832, and in pursuance of 
the proclamation of the governor, the trustees of Water- 
town, June 19, 1849, organized a board of health, to adopt 
sanitary regulations as preventives of the Asiatic cholera, 
then ravaging some sections of the Union. 

A census of Watertown, taken in April, 1827, gave 
1098 males and 041 females; a gain of 500 in two years. 
There were 321 buildings, of which 224 were dwellings ; 3 
stone churches (Methodist, Universalist, and Presbyterian) ; 
court-house and jail ; clerk's office ; areenal ; 1 cotton-fac- 
tory with 1300 spindles, another (Beebee's) then building; 



• See under head " Fire Department." 




ff£5 or &. BRADFORD, 30 STATE Sr.'MATERTOWN.N.Y. 




/?K/DENcc or T. A.SMITH ,WATERTowN,t^. y 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



139 



1 woolen-factory ; 3 paper-mills ; 3 larjre tanneries ; 3 flour- 
infiniiljs; 1 furnace; 1 nail-factory; 2 macliine-shops; 2 
fulling-mills; 3 cardinir-machincs ; 2 distilleries ; 1 ashery ; 

2 pail-factories ; 1 sash-factory ; 2 chair-factories ; 1 hat- 
factory ; 4 wagon-shops ; 2 paint-shops ; 4 cabinet^ and 
joiner-shops; 8 blacksmiths ; 4 tailor-shops; 7 shoe-shops; 

3 saddle- and harness-shops ; 8 taverns ; 15 dry-good stores; 
2 hardware-stores; 2 hat-stores; 2 book-stores; 2 leather- 
stores ; I paint-store ; 2 druggists ; 2 jewelers ; 2 weekly 
papers ; 7 public schools ; 6 physicians, and 1(1 lawyers. 

In 1829 an association was formed for boring for water 
on Factory sf|uare, and a hdlo two and a half inches in di- 
ameter was drilled to the depth of 127 feet, when water 
was obtained that rose to the surface, and, having been 
tubed, has since discharged fexeopt in very dry seasons, 
when it requires pumping) a c<ii)ious viilunie of water, 
slightly charged with suli)liur and iron. The cost of the 
work was about $800. On Sewall's island a similar well 
WiLS bored, which at eighty feet discharged water and in- 
flammable gas ; but upon being sunk further these were 
both lost. 

Black river, within the distjince of a mile, passes over 
four dams, at each of which are numerous establishments, 
but at none of them is the full amount of water-power 
used. The facility with which dams can be constructed, 
and the security that can bo given to buildings erected 
upon them, from the bed of the river being solid rock, 
gives additional value to these privileges. The four dams 
were built in 1803, 1805, 1814, and 1835, and none of 
them have been impaired by the spring floods. The river 
is crossed by three bridges, of which the lower one was 
fir.st erected. Soon after the beginning at Factory Village, 
one was erected there ; and one over the cascade, near the 
ruins of Beebee's factory, in the summer of 183G. This 
consi-sted of a single arch of timbers, and was built by 
Hiram Merrill, fur the two towns it connects, at a cost of 
S7G4. In the fall of 1853 the present elegant bridge was 
erected, the old one having decaj-cd .so as to render its use 
unsafe. 

The business of the place early centered around the pub- 
lie square, especially at its west end, and on Court and 
Washington streets; and in 1815 John Paddock erected a 
three-story block, which was the first edifice of its size and 
class in the town. The corner of Washington and Arse- 
nal streets became, at an early day, the site of a two-story 
wooden tavern, and was occupied until 1827, when an as- 
sociation of citizens desiring to have a hotel in the place 
that should compare with those of the first class in cities, 
was formed under the name of the Watertown hotel com- 
pany, having a capital of 820,000. In the .same year they 
erected the American Hotel, and this establishment con- 
tinued to be owned by the company until burned in 1849, 
when the site w;ts sold for 810,000, and the present build- 
ing of the same name was erected on its site by individual 
enterprise. 

Watertown has been repeatedly devastated by fires, some 
of which produced a decided check to its pro.sperity, while 
others acted beneficially by removing rubbish that would 
otherwise have disfigured the village for time indefinite, 
and fmni which the place recovered with an elastic energy 



characteristic of a progressive age and people. On Feb- 
ruary 7, 1833, a fire occurred which burned the extensive 
tannery and oil-mill of Mr. J. Fairbanks, the paper-mill 
and printing-office of Knowlton & Rice, and a morocco- 
factory and dwelling of Kitts & Carpenter; loss about 
$30,000. The destruction of Beebee's factory, July 7, 
1833, has been above noticed. On December 22, 1841, 
the Black River woolen-mills, in Factory Village, were 
burned; also elsewhere mentioned. On March 21,1848, 
a fire occurred in an old stone shop, near the Union mills, 
which spread rapidly to the buildings on the island oppo- 
site, and to others above, which, with the bridge, were rap- 
idly consumed ; and two men, named Leonard Wright and 
Levi Palmer, perished in the flames, having entered a 
woolen -mill for the purpose of rescuing property. Among 
the buildings burned were the ]ia]ier-mill of Knowlton & 
Rice, the satinet-factory of Mr. Patridgc, occupied by W. 
Conkey, a row of mechanics' shops on the island, etc. This 
fire threw many laborers and mechanics out of employment, 
and was seriously felt by the public. Contributions for the 
sufferers were raised in the village, and nearly SHOO were 
distributed among them. 

Early in the morning of May 13, 1840, a fire occurred 
in the rear of the American Hotel, corner of Arsenal and 
Washington streets, whieh swept over a considerable por- 
tion of the business part of the village, and consumed an 
immense amount of property. The American Hotel, Pad- 
dock's block. Woodruff's iron block, and all the buildings 
on both .sides of Court street, as far down as the clerk's 
office, were burned. The Episcopal church, three printing- 
offices, about thirty extensive stores, the post-office. Black 
River bank, Wooster Sherman's bank, Henry Keep's bank, 
town-clerk's office. Young Men's A.ssociation, surrogate's 
office, and many dwelling-houses were in the burnt district. 
This was by far the most disastrous fire that ha.s occurred 
in the county, and nothing more fully proves the enterprise 
of the place than the quickness with which it recovered 
from the disaster. While the flames were still raging, 
preparations for rebuilding were made by purchasing mate- 
rials, and laborers were seen pulling the bricks, still hot, 
from the smouldering ruins, and laying the foundations of 
new and larger buildings on the site of the former. The 
sites of the burnt buildings were, in many instances, sold 
/or a greater sum thun the sawe, with the bnihliiiffs on 
them, would have previoits/y brought. During the ensuing 
summer the village exhibited an industry' among masons 
and carpenters which had never been equaled, and the ex- 
ternal appearance of the village has been decidedly improved. 

On September 24, 1850, a fire occurred on Sterling street, . 
from which the burning shingles were wafted to the steeple 
of the Universalist church, and when first noticed had kin- 
dled a flame not larger than that of a candle ; but before 
the place could be reached, it had enveloped the spire in 
flames, beyond hope of arresting it, and the building was 
consumed. With the utmost exertions of the firemen and 
citizens of the village, the fire was |)revented from extend- 
ing farther. January 27, 1851, Perkins' Hotel, on the site 
of the Merchants' Exchange, was burned, with a large block 
on Washington street, adjacent. The loss was estimated at 
about .S25,0O0. 



140 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



In the autumn of lSt)2, six different fires occurred, on 
six successive Friday evenings, and at vcr}' near tlie same 
hour ut' tlie day, all evidently incendiary, which created a 
great amount of excitement. Among the buildings burned 
was the old ^- Siit/nr-IIoii.fe,' on the corner of Mas.sey and 
Coffeen streets, built by Henry Coffeen. Several dwellings 
were also fired in various parts of the village, and a por- 
tion of them consumed. Tlie two fires mentioned in the 
succeeding paragraphs occurred during the time spoken of. 

October 16, 18.')2, a fire occurred on the opposite, or west, 
side of Wa.shington street, which consumed all the build- 
ings south of Paddock's block, viz. : Hungerford's block. 
Citizen's bank, and Sherman's block. The loss was esti- 
mated at about 814,000, of which the greater part was 
insured. Jlechanics' llow, below the Union mills, was 
burned November 5, 1852; loss about $20,000, of which 
between 86000 and 87000 were insured. From fifty to 
sixty mechanics were thrown out of employment; and one 
young man, Hudson Hadcock, perished in the flames while 
endeavoring to rescue property. 

On the evening of July 23, 1SG.3, a fire broke out in the 
extensive foundry, car-factory, and machine-shop of Horace 
W. Woodruff, Esq., on the north bank of the river, oppo- 
site Beebec's Island, which, with all its contents, was rapidly 
consumed. About seventy men were thrown out of em- 
ployment by this calamity, which was felt by great num- 
bers indirectly concerned in the works, and by the public 
generally. On the night of December 11, 1833, a fire 
consumed the building erected for a tamiery, but used as a 
sash- and butter-tub-foctory, on the south side of Beebec's 
Island, adjoining the bridge, and owned by Jlessrs. Farn- 
ham & Button. 

Soon after the fire of 1849, Norris M. Woodruff erected 
the spacious and elegant hotel that adorns the north side 
of the s(|uare, and there arose, simultaiicou.-;, from the ashes 
of the former, a range of buildings, extending down Court 
street and on Washington street, fronting upon the public 
mall, that I'or architectural beauty have few superiors. 
I'romiueul among these are the Paddock buildings, includ- 
ing the Arcade, which, from its containing the post-oflice, 
telegraph -(jffice, etc., has become a point of much impor- 
tance. This building extends from Washington to Arcade 
street, is roofed with gla.ss, and contains, on each side, both 
on the ground floor and a gallery, a range of stores and 
offices, the whole of which are airy and well lighted. At 
all seasons this affords a dry and comfortable promenade, 
and is a place of much resort. 

CITY I.NCOUPOR.VTION. 

Watertown was incorporated as a city under an act pa.ssed 
Jlay 8, 1869. The original charter has been twice 
amended, to wit, on .\pril 27, 18711, ami .Vpril 2S, 1.S71. 
The limits of the village were greatly enlarged upon its 
erection into a city, and made to include a large area taken 
from the town of l^unelia, embracing all the built-up por- 
tions upon the right bank of the river and extensive tracts 
besides. The total area occupied by the city approximates 
65011 acres, nearly three-fourths of which is upon the south 
si<lc of ]ilack river, and originally constituted a part of 
Town No. 2, of the " Black River Eleven Towns." 



GE.S'ERAL APPEARANCE AND CHARACTERISTICS. 

Watertown, as it is, is a thrifty, enterprising, and pros- 
perous city, the county-seat of a prosperous county, the 
leading city of northern Now York, a source of pride to 
her citizens, and a monument of what energy and industry 
have done for her. Situated in the centre of a fertile 
and productive region, she possesses important commer- 
cial advantages, given her by nature, unexcelled any- 
where. Her people have made diligent use of these, not 
only enriching themselves thereby, but increasing her 
strength, adding to her influence, and multiplying her at- 
tractions. Peopled by an industrious population, many of 
whom have grown up with her growth and .strengthened 
with her strength, her progress and development bear evi- 
dences of an industry and a progressive spirit which have 
made fertile fields of her forests, trained the rushing waters 
to do their bidding, overcome all obstacles, taken advantage 
of every opportunity to increase her stability, made the 
most of every inducement offered, and established herself 
and her industries upon a strong and safe foundation. 
Beautiful in hereelf by nature, the labors of her citizens 
have preserved that beauty to her. She is yet young in 
her progress, but no other city excels her in beautiful loca- 
tion, handsome streets, bountiful shade, elegant public and 
private buildings, or hospitable people. Evidences of wealth 
and strength, industry, energy, and intelligence, everywhere 
abound, the ready proofs of a healthy and wide-awake com- 
munity. Her water-power is practically unlimited, her 
manufitctures iuiportant, her school system in the front 
rank, her.railway advantages excellent, her banking institu- 
tions believed to be among the soundest in the State, her 
commercial industries numerous and active, her business 
men generally noted for enterprise, and her facilities for 
extending her influence and increa.sing her usefulness com- 
paratively unlimited. 

With these are connected and interwoven a generous 
social life, a friendly spirit, cordiality, hospitality, excellent 
newspapere, prosperous churches, and all the elements which 
make a refined, agreeable, and attractive couunuiiity. The 
wisdom of the founders of the city is deinoustiatcd in the 
pro.spcrity of the present. 

POPULATION. 

In 1800 there were 119 voters, and in 1801, 134 voters 
in what was then the town of Watertown, according to the 
first official " count' ever made of the voting population of 
the then '' far west Black River country." The census re- 
turns of 1807, the fiist formal figures obtained, gave the 
number of legal voters with property qualifications only. 
The following table will give an idea of the steady growth 
of the village and city: 



180(1.. 
1W)1.. 
ISUT.. 

Idlcj.. 



U9 

1.14 

231 

1,841 

1814 if,4i8 

18:iU a,7CI) 

W>!> J.-I-Ht 

I8:)0 4,7(H) 

1835 4,«» 



f.,027 

5,4Ja 

7,201 

7,557 

7,567 

1805 -. 8,104 

187U* 9,:i36 

l»75t 10,041 



1840.. 
1845.. 
1850.. 
1855.. 
1860.. 



® City onlv. 

f There ij* every reason to believe tliat the census of 1S75 was 
hastily taken anil incorrect, ami n private census, tak< n in 1876, 
places the |inpulutiou at over 11,000. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



141 



FIRE DEPARTMENT.* 

Watcrtown ha.s just reason to feci proud of and confi- 
dence in her fire department, and we feel disposed to 
enumerate it among her attraction.s. It is certainly a just 
claim that no otlier city of its size can boast a more effect- 
ive fire organization, while it is equally true tliat many 
cities containing five times her population cannot surpass, 
even if they equal her. 

The original charter incorporating the village of Water- 
town (April 5, 181Uj provided for the election of five fire 
wardens, each of whom was supplied with four ladders. 
Each owner or occupant of any building was obliged to 
furnish one or two buckets, according to the size of the 
structure, and to have thorn properly marked, and kept in 
a convenient place for use. It was also "ordained' that 
on an alarm or cry of fire every male inhabitant of fifteen 
years and upwards should repair to the place of the fire 
" forthwith" and put himself under the directidu of the 
fire wardcn.s. A fine of one dollar was imposed for " dis- 
obeying orders." Each warden was furnished with a white 
staff seven feet long by which to "distinguish" himself in 
time of fire. 

The first fire company was organized May 28, 1817, and 
on September 27 following, at a meeting of the " free- 
holders," the sum of S2U0 was voted towards the purchase 
of a first-class fire-engine. The " Cataract" was purchased 
soon afterwards, the county and village .sharing equally in 
the expense. The same meeting authorized the formation 
of a hook-and-ladder company, and William Smith was its 
first captain. August G, 1832, the second engine company 
was formed, and attached to the fire-engine belonging to 
the Jefl'erson cotton-mills. This company was No. 1, and 
the one previously organized, Cataract Company, No. 2. 
l)yer Huntington was chosen chief engineer, and Adriel 
Ely a.ssistant. In 1832 there was a double engine-house 
built — one story, of wood — wliere Firemen's Hall now 
stands. In April, 1835, Neptune Engine Company, No. 3, 
was formed, with the first brake-engine u.sed in town. In 
August, 1835, company No. 1 was disl)andod. In 1837 
Neptune Company became No. 1. In 1839 the depart- 
ment was reorganized, and contained Neptune, No. 1 ; Cat- 
aract, No. 2; and Hook-and-Ladder, No. 1. In 1842 a 
company was organized to take charge of the engine for- 
merly belonging to No. 1. This company disbanded in 
1845, and the same year — a new engine having been pur- 
chased — a new company was formed, and called Jcfi'erson 
Hose, No. 3. Cataract Company, No. 2, was disbanded 
about this time, its engine having been damaged. In 
June, 1848, a new engine was purchased for No. 1, and in 
July of the same year Central Ho.se Company, No. 2, was 
organized, taking the old machine of No. 1, which was 
called " Rough-and-Ready, ' and which was stored in barns 
or sheds as place could be found. The.se companies exist 
under the same names at the present time, and are doing 
excellent service, as the fire-record of the city proves. On 
the 10th of April, 1850, the fire department was chartered 
by act of the legislature, and the status of the active branch 
of the department at the present time (November 1, 1877) 

- lion. C. R. Skinner, in " Commcrciiil Advantascs of Watcrtonn." 



is as follows: Neptune Engine and IJose Company, No. 1, 
organized April, 1835; forty-four members ; present Fore- 
man, A. Miller; 2d Assistant, Duff La Fave ; Secretary, 
Charles Harris ; Treasurer, Tliomas Henderson. Central 
Steamer awl Hose Company, No. 2, organized July, 1848 ; 
fifty-three members; present Foreman, J. Chase, Jr. ; 1st 
Assistant, A. J. Moore; 2d Assistant, H. E. Tyler; 3d 
Assistant, M. MeMannis; Secretary, F. H. Dean; Treas- 
urer, H. J. Barber; Engineer, J. Hartigan ; Fireman, S. 
Ryan. Jiffcisi/n. Iloiv Compmiy. No. 3, organized 1845; 
fifty-two members; present Foreman, F. E. Hunn ; 1st 
Assistant, E. C. Van Namee ; 2d Assistant, F. L. Baker; 
3d Assistant, George Hannahs; Secretary and Treasurer, 
H. Stimpson. John Hancock Uook-and-Laihler Com- 
pany, No. 1, organized June 10, 1817; forty-three mem- 
bers; present Foreman, A. D. Seaver; 1st Assistant, C. G. 
Witt ; 2d Assistant, W. H. Cole ; 3d Assistant, (}. Tliomas ; 
Secretary, J. J. Spencer ; Treasurer, J. M. Hutchins. There 
are also four companies of " exempt firemen," with a total 
membership of over one hundred and seventy. 

Neptune company occupies a substantial brick building 
on Factory street, and Central company a similar building 
on Goodale street, both owned by the department. The 
JeflTerson and Hancock companies occupy Firemen's Hall, 
on Stone street, built by the village in 1854. The city 
pays the regular expenses of the organization, including 
rent, etc. On January 11, 1S51, the department was in- 
debted to the amount of fifty-six cents. It has now an 
ample fund on hand, received chiefly from taxes on in- 
surance companies outside the State doing business therein, 
for the support of disabled firemen. A statement, incor- 
porated in the historical preface to the printed by-laws of 
the department (edition of 18G7), shows the amount of the 
several appropriations made to the department by the vil- 
lage of Watertown from 1848 to 1857 inclusive — the date 
of the last appropriation — to have been S1400, while the 
expenditures for disabled firemen, uniforms, and absolute 
necessaries amounted to §2201.09, leaving a balance paid 
by the department, from funds received from other sources, 
of §8G1.G9. The department has al.so erected two engine- 
houses, and on February 8, 1875, by resolution of its di- 
rectors, decided to jniruliaso a first-class steam-engine for 
especial use along the river, at important manufacturing 
points not easily reached by fire-hydrants. A Silsbury ro- 
tary engine was purchased for S4000, and has already done 
eft'cctive service. The same summer the city placed in the 
court-house tower a fire-alarm bell weighing 4000 pounds. 
The above-recorded facts would seem to argue that Water- 
town is well protected against extensive or dangerous fires, 
especially as the reservoirs described elsewhere furnish at 
all times a j)lentil'ul supply of water for fire purposes by 
means of one hundred fire- hydrants placed at convenient 
points about the city. 

The following is a list of chief engineers of the depart- 
ment since its formation, as far as can be ascertained : 
1832-37, Dyer Huntington ; 1838, Asher N. Cores ; 1839, 
W. H. Robinson ; 1839 to 1848, records destn.yed ; 1848- 
51, N. JM. Woodruff'; 1S52-53, N. Farnham ; 1854-G5, 
Fred. Emei-son ; 18GG-G7, S. B. Hart; 1SG8-G9, T. C. 
Chittenden; 1870-71, G. L. Davis; 1872-73, J. M. Car- 



142 



UISTORY OF JEFFEllSOxV COUNTY, NEW YOllK. 



penter ; 1874-75, W. S. Carlislo ; 1876, R. L. Utley ; 1877, 
H. A. Smith. 

The staff of the department for 1877 is as follows : Chief 
Engineer, H. A. Smith ; First Assistant Engineer, E. W. 
Knapp ; Second Assistant Engineer, 0. F. Graves ; Treas- 
urer, C. li. Sicinner ; Secretary, R. C. Scott; Directors, 
No. 1, J. E. Bergevin, R. C. Scott; No. 2, J. Chase, Jr., 
J. A. Quencer ; No. 3, F. E. Hunn, C. R. Skinner; Ilook- 
and-Laddcr, A. D. Seaver, C. A. Kelsey ; Exempt Co. A, 
C. II. Von Brakle, T. S. Graves ; Exempt Co. B, S. B. 
Hart, G. Hardy ; Exempt Co. C, James Smith, John 
BrittoD. 

WATERTOWN WATER-WORKS. 

As early as May 22, 1821, a plan fur supplying the vil- 
lage with water was discussed, and action was taken to- 
wards the erection of reservoirs, but the measures were not 
carried out. June 14, 1828, the sum of 850 was appropri- 
ated by tlie trustees for tlie pur]iose of boring for water on 
Factory Square. At the annual meeting in 1829, the pro- 
ceeds of licenses in the First Ward were applied towards pro- 
curing water for the village. Jlay 21, 1829, the .sum of 
$200 was voted for the purpose of boring fur water, and in 
pursuance of this object an artesian well was commenced 
on Public Square. After it had been sunk many feet a 
steel drill was maliciou.sly droppc^d into it, thereby stopping 
the work. 

In 1829, an a.ssociation was funned for boring for water 
on Factory Square. A hole two and a half inches in diam- 
eter was drilled to the depth of 127 feet, when water was 
obtjiincd, and having been tubed, discharged for many years, 
until about 1800, a copious voluiue of water slightly charged 
with suljihur and iron. On Sewall's Island a similar well 
was bored into the rock, which at 80 feet discharged water 
and an inflammable gas, but being drilled deeper these both 
were lost. 

April 10, 1826, the Watertown Water Company was 
incorporated, but nothing definite resulted, and a similar 
result I'ollowed the incorporation of the AVatertown Water- 
works, April 11, 1845. But in 1853 (March 22), L. 
Paddock, G. C. Sherman, I. H. Fisk, and H. Cooper were 
incorporated as the Water Commissioners of the village of 
Watertown. These citizens gave a joint bond of $60,000, 
and were empowered to borrow on the credit of the village 
850,000 fur a term of thirty y(!ars. Soon after their ap- 
pointment, the commissioners contracted with J. C. Wells 
for the construction of a pump-house and reservoir, the 
latter to be 1511 by 250 feet at the water line, and twelve 
feet deep, projieily made, with two centre walls for filtering. 
The reservoir was located about a mile southeast of the vil- 
lage, on a lot of six acres, upon the brow of the limestone 
ridge, 180 feet above the village, and was given a capacity 
of two million gallons. The sit« of the reservoir commands 
a superb view of the city and surrounding country, which 
forms a picture in the summer of exquisite beauty, only to 
be excelled by the same landscape in the trojiical hues of 
the autumn. 

On the 23d of November, 1853, the water-works wore 
completed, and the water for the first time was |iuinpcd into 
the reservoir and let into jtipes communicating with resi- 
dences and fire-hydrants. An experiment then made 



showed that water could be thrown 120 feet perpendic- 
ular. No serious fires have devastated the city since the 
completion of the reservoir, but the growth of the city, and 
the increasing demands of its people, led the water commis- 
sioners, in 1871, to construct still another reservoir. This 
was located by the side of the former, and was completed 
in 1873. Its dimen.sions are 250 by 200 feet, and its 
capacity four and a half million gallons. The water is 
distributed to residences and one hundred fire-hydrants 
throughout the city by sixteen miles of water mains and 
pipes. 

The present Board of Water Commissioners is consti- 
tuted as fulluws : President, R. Van Namee ; Secretary, C. 
A. Sherman, J. F. Moffett, J. C. Knowlton, C. A. Holden ; 
Superintendent, Parson T. Hines; Clerk, N. P. Wardwell. 

WATERTOWN GAS-LIGHT COMPANY. 

Early in 1852, measures were taken for supplying the 
village with gas-light. Messrs. Walworth, Nason, and 
Guild had, by a village ordinance passed September 9, 
1851, secured the exclusive privilege of supplying the vil- 
lage with rosin gas for ten years, and February 27, 1852, 
an association, styled the Watertown Gas-Liglit Company, 
was organized, with a capital of 820,000. In the same 
year the principal buildings in the business portion of the 
village were supplied, and during the summer of 1853 
pipes were laid through many of the principal streets and 
to private houses, and a proportionate addition was made 
to the manufactory. Other parties having succeeded to 
the ownership of the capital stock of the company, on July 

I, 1874, the company was reorganized, and the capital 
stock increased to 8100,000. The company has, at the 
present time, about eight miles of mains laid down in the 
city, and supplies from 20,000 to 25,000 cubic feet of coal- 
gas on an average, daily, throughout the year. "There are 
ninety-nine street-burners in the city, and the principal 
bu.siness blocks and dwellings are also supplied by the com- 
pany. The present officers of the company are as follows : 
F. T. Story, president and treasurer ; E. Q. Sewell, vice- 
president ; Joseph S. Green, secretary and superintendent ; 
Directors, F. T. Story, E. Q. Sewell, A. C. Beach, and T. 

II. Camp. 

TIIK SUSPENSION BRIDGE. 

One of the things of which Watertown is justly proud 
is the suspension bridge. It spans the north channel of 
Black river, and is 175 feet long, 20 feet wide, and 40 
feet above the surface of the water. It has four towers 
constructed of \ builer-plate and 17 ^ feet high. The four 
cables are 6.68 inches in circumference. The anchorage is 
very secure, being drilled eight feet into the .solid rock, and 
having one compound anchor, consisting of a -sulid bar of 
iron six inches in diameter to each. The chief points of 
interest in this bridge, and what Mr. Bradford, the builder, 
claims as superior to others of the kind, is the material of 
which the towers are constructed, — being of iron instead 
of stone. There is an aperture at the base of each tower, 
and an outlet at the top, so as to allow a free circulation of 
air, for the purpose of regulating the expansion and con- 
traction, and to establi-sh a uniformity with the expansion 
and contraction of the cables. Aside from the question 








Q.C.BlfADLEY. 



MffS. G.C.Bradley. 




I^isiocscc or &.C.BHADLLY, 4-,-^^ 




F^ESIDENCE of JOHN A.SHEF^MAN, 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



143 



of the greater economy of the towers, it is believed tliey are 
of greater strength and durability. But their chief excel- 
lence over stone is their suseej)tibility of e.xpansicin and 
contraction by the influence of heat and cold. Tliis i.s a 
di'sideratum of no slight importance. The tension of wire 
cables is greatly increased in severe cold weather, the towers 
remaining nearly the same height when built of stone, but 
in this the towers will contract by cold at the same time 
the cables do, lessening their height as the cables shorten, 
and relieving them of any increased strain. In warm 
weather, as the cables expand the towers reciprocate, in- 
creasing their height as the cables IcTigthen, — thus in either 
cold or warm weather presenting almost the same tension 
on the cables. Tiio other jioint in which an improvement 
is evident is the side-bracing and trussing. This is inge- 
niously adjusted so as to bring the weight of a crossing 
team on all parts of the cable alike, very much increasing 
its capacity. The strain on the cables is but little, if any, 
gi-eater when a team is in the centre of the bridge than 
when near the end. 

Tiicse two points in this bridge differ from all other sus- 
pension bridges, and have entitled Mr. Bradford to the 
honor of contributing largely to the world's stock of useful 
knowledge. The bridge has been thoniughly tested by the 
wear and tear of twenty years' use ; and that it will endure 
till an earthquake or .some other convulsion, or the cor- 
roding tooth of time shall destroy it, there exists no rational 
doubt. 

THE PUBLIC SQUARE, 

a view of which forms the frontispiece of the history of 
this city, is a feature of the city at once useful and attract- 
ive. It consists of an open mall, comprising nearly ten 
acres, the gift to the village, in 1 805, by the owners of ad- 
jacent lands. The present has adorned it, but the past 
made it possible to have it for adornment. It is surrounded 
by the finest buildings in the city, and is entered by sis of 
tlie most important streets in the corporation. It is laid 
out into two large oval parks, shaded with forest-trees, and 
sodded as lawns, with a smaller one between tl\e two, con- 
taining an elegant fountain rising from the centre of a 
circular limestone basin. Spacious driveways pa.ss com- 
pletely around the three ovals, the larger ones being pro- 
vided with neat stands, wherein on pleasant summer evenings 
the city band discourses exijuisite harmony to adniirini; 
crowds, which pack the broad streets and sidewalks in car- 
riages and on foot. Here, in the very heart of the city, 
amidst its dust and bustle, the lawyer leaving his bri(;f, the 
physician liis diagnosis, the minister his sermon, the banker 
his statements, the merchant his invoices, and the laboring 
man and woman the drudgery of daily toil, may come and 
<(uaff generous draughts from nature's brimming cup, and 
fill their souls with the melody of singiug birds, rustling 
leaves, and rippling waters, and return each to his appointed 
task refreshed and re-invigorated. 

PUBLIC BUILDINGS, BUSINESS BLOCKS, ETC.* 

One of the most prominent features of Watertown as a 
city, and the characteristic which attracts the attention of 

* From Mr. Skinner's pain|ihlcl. 



visitors, is the elegance and substantial beauty of its public 
buildings and business blocks. In this respect it yields 
none of its claims to attention, and while it excels nearly 
every city of its size, rivals if not equals the appearance 
of many larger municipalities. The exhibit illustrates 
in a high degree the enterprise of those under whose direc- 
tion the buildings were erected, the taste and skill of our 
architects, the growing demands of business, and tells its 
own story of wealth and development. 

In other portions of this work will be found full descrip- 
tions of the manufacturing c.stalili.shments, together with 
the churches, hotels, and schools of Watertown. Our ob- 
ject here is to note the most prominent of the notable 
buildings which adorn Public Square and the principal 
streets. 

In this connection it seems proper to quote Dr. Hough's 
oj)inion on this subject, expr&ssed in 1854, in his admirable 
history : 

" The taste which has been e.xhibited within two or three years in 
the erection nf private dwellings cannot fail of being noticed and 
admired by strangers, and this, if continued, will soon render Iho 
village as conspicuous among the inland towns of the Stale, for the 
classic elegance of its private as well as its public buildings, as it 
has already become for the immensity of its water-power, and the 
extraordinary combination of facilities for tnanul'acturing purposes 
which it jjossesscs." 

Jefferson County Court-Hocse is one of the finest 
of our public buildings, and is situated at the corner of 
Ar.senal and Benedict streets. It is surrounded by spacious 
grounds, inclosed by a handsome iron fence. The building 
was erected in 1862, at a cost of $50,000. It is built 
of brick and stone, is two stories high, and 100 by 50 
feet. During the present year provision has been made 
for ornamenting the yard with trees and shrubbery. The 
court-room and supervisors' room are among the finest and 
largest in the State. The building is supplied with water 
and gas throughout. It contains the surrogate's oflBce, and 
the county clerk's oflice is located in the rear. 

The Winslow Block, the most attractive of our busi- 
ness blocks, occupies the angle formed by Franklin street 
and Public Square. It was erected by Hon. Norris Winslow, 
in 1874. It fronts 174 feet on the Square, and 194 on 
Franklin street, and varies in width from 12 to i:^0 feet. 
It is five stories high, built substantially of brick, and is 
admirably arranged for business purpo.ses. The first floor 
contains eight stores, and there are also several others on 
the second floor. The remainder of the building is devoted 
to oflices, halls, and private rooms. The three upper stories 
are reached by a broad stairway, and contain an arcade 125 
feet long and three stories high. It may here be said with 
truth that this building is another and a durable monument 
of the industry, enterprise, and public spirit of its founder. 
No man has done more for the substantial good of Water- 
town in the erection of public buildings and private resi- 
dences, and he deserves the good will and esteem of every 
citizen. 

Washington Hall stands at the corner of Washington 
street and Public .S(|uarc, and is one of the finest and most 
conspicuous structures in Watertown. It was built in 
1853, on the site of Perkins' hotel, and the site of the 



; 



144 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



second dwelling erected in the city. It was built by Walter 
and Gilbert Woodruff, and came into the possession of John 
A. Sherman in July, 1859, who has since owned and im- 
proved it. The building is of brick, 90 by 120 feet in size, 
and three stories high. Tiic first floor is occupied by 
eight stores, the second story by offices, and the third is 
devoted to one of the finest halls in tlie State, capable of 
seating 1200 persons, with standing room for 300 more. 
Its heiglit is 37 feet, and it b elaborately frescoed. The 
stage is 40 by 46 feet. 

TuE Agricultural Insur.vnce Cojipany's Block, 
located on Washington street, near Washington Hall, is tlie 
best and most substantial ofiice building in northern New 
Y'ork. It was erected in 1873, at a cost of 850,000. It 
is 26 by 103 feet, three stories high, and basement. The 
walls are brick, with a handsome marble front, surmounted 
by a figure of " Ceres." It was erected by John W. 
Griffin, and is occupied by the Agricultural and Watertown 
Fire Insurance companies. 

TuK DooLITTLE k Hall Block is situated on Public 
Square, a short distance east of the Woodruff House. It 
was built, in 1871, by L. D. Doolittle and R. II. Hall. 
It is of brick, three stories, and presents a front of ninety 
feet. It is occupied by five stores, several offices, and a 
liall. The present owner is 11. H. Hall. 

The Van Namee Block is one of the most promi- 
nent of the private blocks. It is of brick, four stories, 
built in 1873, by Richard Van Namee. The first floor is 
occupied by Van Namee Brothers' pharmacy, the remainder 
for offices. 

The Streeter Block is located on the corner of 
Public Square and Mill street, fronting on each about ninety 
feet, and is three stories, with basement and attic. There 
are seven stores in the building; erected in 1843, by dif- 
ferent parties. It is a handsome and bu.sy block. 

The Rome, Watertown and Ogdensburgh Rail- 
way Dei'OT, m rear of the Woodiiitt' House, is a tasty 
structure of brick, arranged in two divisions. Tiic offices 
of the company are located in this building. 

The Paddock buildings arc mentioned on another page. 

Scripture & Clark's Carriage Repository, on 
Arsenal street, was erected in 1876. It is one of the most 
tasty of the smaller blocks. It is constructed of wood and 
covered with iron. 

The so-called Iron Block, on the north side of the 
Public Square, a fine brick structure, four stories in height, 
and cue of the most siglitly in the city. 

V. S. Huiihard's Bi,ock, at the corner of Public 
Scjuare and Franklin street, is one of the best private 
business blocks in the city. 

TuE Fairkanks Block is a triangular structure, situ- 
ated on Arsenal and Court streets. It is of brick, four 
stories high, built by Ja.son Fairbanks. 

Adjoining the Paddock buildings on the south are four 
imposing business blocks, including Masonic Halh Union 
Bank is located in one of these buildings, and the National 
Rank and Loan Company occupies and owns the corner on 
the south. Adjoining the Iron Block, on the west, is the 
Merciiants' Bank building; the Safl'ord and Hayes blocks 
extending north on Court street. Several other fine blocks 



are located on Court street. Mechanics' Hall, erected by 
Hon. N. Winslow, and Carpenter's block, are located on 
Factory street. 

The Jeffer.son County Orphan Asyb'iM! on Franklin 
street, is a tasteful structure of brick, and surrounded by a 
pleasant grove. About 30 orphans are here cared for and 
taught. The institution is alily managed, and more than 
maintains itself.* 

The Jefferson County Poor-House and Insane Asylum is 
pleasantly located on jMain street, just outside the city limits, 
on the bank of Black river. The buil<lings are large and 
commodious, built of stone and brick, and stand near a 
handsome grove. Connected with this institution is a 
productive farm, managed in the interest of the county. 



In this connection we speak only of a few of the hotels 
of the present day. Some account of those erected in for- 
mer years, beginning with the first, erected by Dr. Isaiah 
Massey, in 1802, will be found in jireceding pages. Water- 
town enjoys a well-earned reputation both as to the number 
and e.xcellence of her hotels. No other city surpasses her 
in this respect, — a fact which the traveling public will be 
found to admit. 

The Woodruff House, one of the finest hotel buildings 
in the State, was built soon after the great fire of 1849, by 
Norris JI. Woodrufl^. It stands on the north side of Public 
Square, facing one of tlie parks, and presents an imposing 
front of one hundred and twenty feet. It is five stories high, 
substantially! milt of brick, surmounted by a tower which rises 
over one hundred feet from the sijuare. Its handsome appear- 
ance is not excelled anywhere outside of the larger cities. It 
is handsomely furni.shed, and is the architectural pride of the 
city. Its first floor is occupied by eight flourishing stores, 
and an an'hway extends through the centre, constituting the 
principal walk and driveway to the Rome, Watertown and 
Ogdensburgh railniad depot, in the rear. Messrs. Buck & 
Sanger, the proprietors, have conducted the house since 
1869, and are extensively known as gentlemanly landlords. 
The attractive illustration shown on another page, hand- 
some as it is, hardly does full justice to the fine appearance 
of the building. 

The Cuowner House, on Court street, was built in 1853, 
by J. D. Crowner. Its main part is 87 by 50 feet; wing, 60 
by 30 feet. It is built of brick, three stories high, and is 
conveniently and pleasantly located, and offers excellent ac- 
commodations. Messrs. S<ilon and George II. Wilder are its 
proprietors, and are deservedly popular with the public. 

The American Hotel was erected soon after the fire of 
1849, liy T. W. Wheeler, on the corner of Arsenal street and 
Public S(|uare, fronting about one hundred feet on the former 
and fifty feet on the latter, conforming to the Paddock build- 
ing adjoining. It makes an imposing architectural dis]>lay. 
It is of brick, four stories high, and is admirably arranged 
for a hotel building. It is at present conducted by Messrs. 
Buck it Sanger, of the Woodruff House, and enjoys a wide 
reputation as an excellent hotel. 

The Hanchett House, on Court and Arsenal streets, 

* Soo genorftl history of the countj. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



145 



enjoys a fair .share of public patronage. It is now known 
as the Globe Hotel. 

Thk KiKiiv IIousK, located on Court street, is a three- 
story brick building, conducted by Messrs. A. M. Harris & 
Son, and is a most popular caravansary. 

TlIK Crrr Hotkl, on Court street, recently eidarued by 
its jirDprietor, ^Vnl. M. Roach, and tin; H.vkkis n(ii:8E, on 
Public S([uare, Hehncr and J^arisli, pruprietors, are also 
among others worthy of mention. 

OLD LANDMARKS. 

The following notices of two vciuu'uble institutions we 
clip from the cttrrespondence of Solon Massey : 

Till-: "OLU COI'FKKN IIiH SK." 

" The recent fire of Saturday night (October 4, lS5(i), which burned 
tlie old Coffeon House, has removed from our midst nnothor of those 
time-honored landmarks whicdi for a balf-centnry had served to 
designate its particuhir locality in the western portion of our village. 

** The old white house that for so mnny long years stood conspic- 
uously in the very centre of the wide street called Madison street, and 
which was the pioneer house in all that portion of the villnge, serving 
as a point to reckon from in calculating the latitude and longitude fur 
nearly two generations of men, has disajiiu'ari'il forever from the map 
of our village. In its day it was the pride of the village, displaying 
more of arcliitcctural and mechanical beauty in its proportions and 
workmanship than was usual in the very best class of pioneer Imuses, 
and was certainly the admiration of all the youths of tlic village and 
its vicinity, 

" Its site was one of rare beauty, — in the imnieiliate neigljburliood 
of the ])lace selected for the court-house and jail, and overlooking a 
large extent of country, as well as the course of the river. 

" Judge t'olTeen had succeeded in getting the county-seat at Water- 
town, and the stake for the court-house and jail on the site now {18J6) 
occupied by them ; and he flattered himself with the ho})e and expec- 
tation that he could draw oflf a fair proportion of the future popula- 
tion of the village to the high and eimimauding ground surrounding 
the court-house. He might have succccled. ])nssibly, had it not been 
for the hobl which the ' old spring in the ui:ill' hud on the choice and 
affections of the people. 

" No expense was spared, however, in the erection and embellish- 
ment of his own mansion, and in the plans which he devised for beau- 
tifying that part of the village. 

" His house was to bo the common centre around which, he confi- 
dently Ijelieved, would cluster a fair proportion of the business — 
slores, shops, and offices — as well as the private residences of a future 
city, and it was therefore adapted to meet the necessities of such a 
population as well as the traveling public, as a first-class hotel. 

''For m:tny years it was used for such ])urposes, and rented to 
various individuals, who tried their skill in an effort to divide the 
patronage of tiie people with the two public-houses on the mall or 
square. iJut it was all in vain. Mr. Cuffecn became embarrassed in 
his pecuniary matters, and other things combined to chill his ardor and 
disappoint his expectations, and in ISIU he abandoned this field of his 
early ambition for a resilience in the new and promising State of Illi- 
nois, where he died within the first year. 

*' Tlie old mansion has been for many years the jiroperty of Jason 
Fairbanks, Esq., and been occupied by an average of five or six 
families most of the time for the last twenty years, and though it 
may have been a itocuniary loss to its proprietor, yet it had become 
one of those old houses which could be well spared but for its early 
nssuciatioDS.'' 

THE OLD FAILING IIOTKI,. 

" When an obi and venerable building, which for nearly sixty years 
bad been a ' landmark,* and which had been known to the public at 
large as a ' Traveler's Home,' is for any cause either taken down to 
make room for * pn»gress,' or is destroyed by the elements, it seems 
fitting and apjiropriate that a passing notice should be made, and its 
long history jiassed in review. So it seemed to us when we made a 
note of the passing away and the destruction by fire of the old 
* Kuicrson House,' on State street, a lew years ago, and afterwards of 

11 



the old ' Judge Cuflfccn House/ which etood in the centre of the street 
now known :m Masscy j^trect, l»ut then as Mu(li.-<un Square; and alno 
of the old ' Potter House,' on Leit[)er street, in the western part ot' (he 
village. So it seems peculiarly approjiriate at this juncture that a 
brief farewell notice should be taken of the 'Failing House,' which, 
longer than either of the others just meutioned, had stood out in 
bold relief, occupying its place on the hill, — ' the observed of all ob- 
servers;' but wliieh in nn evil hour has succumbed to the devouring 
clement, having been burned to the ground on the night of the 7lh of 
February, ISfiS. 

" Wo propose saying some things about it which may jiossibly in- 
terest some of your readers. 

".Soon after the organization of our county of Jefferson, and the 
sticking of the stakes for tlic site of the court-house and jail on Court- 
house hill (which last act was done in a spirit of compromise between 
the rival villages of Watertown and Brownville), the people on the 
norlh siilo of the river began in earnest to build up (lie litile village 
of Pamclia, with the view of rivaling Watertown in those business 
facilities which are supposed to promote the prosperity of the eom- 
munity, as well as to induce accessions to the population. 

"Willi this view a dam was thrown across the river, and mills 
and clolhing- and earding-works were erected and put into snecessful 
operation. Somewhat )iroujinent among the inhabitants on the I'a- 
nielia or lirownville side of the river was a man of the name of Sam- 
uel Mack, a skillful mcclmnie, who thought he saw an eligible site 
for a public-house, or house of entertainment for people attending 
court, as well as the traveling public, just on the hill at the norlh 
end of the bridge, in that town, and he set abi.-ut erecting a building 
of large proportions and of somewhat imposing architecture, which 
he designed to make a kind of hcaibiuarters for court people, ond the 
nucleus about which a viUage might grow up (o be a formidable rival 
to AVatcrtown. 

" The house was of two stories, with a piazza projecting at each of 
the two stories, from either of which the view of the river and of the 
court-house grounds ojiposite was good. 

"It was kept but a short time by Colonel Mack, and then was 
leased, ami passed through the hands of John W. Collins, who was 
also a prominent pioneer of the town of Brownville, ami who tiled in 
that house, to David Haven, who occupied it at the time of the com- 
mencement of the War of 1S12; then of a Mr. Asa Harris, through 
the latter part of that brief war and for some years afterwards, during 
which it was military headquarters for any troops who happened to 
be stationed in this immediate vicinity. 

" It was afterwards owned and occupied by .Taeob Cramer, who 
sold it to Warner Failing in 1831. Mr. Failing, as is well known, 
was for many years a ]ii>pular laudlonl, familiar with all that class 
of persons who hailed from the Mohawk river, and who s|ioke Iho 
Dutch as (heir vernaeular. Ho it wa.s who in Itsjy ren<jvated and 
greatly improved the buildings, adding a complete basement story to 
them, and painting them limini. Since Mr. Failing became super- 
annuated it had been purchased by Mr. Alfred Lock, who in his turn 
made some valuable iuijirovements, particularly in the rear attach- 
ments. — kitchen, family rooms, sheds, etc., — by which the premises 
appeared very much rejuvenated, enlarged, and iuijiroved. 

*' He had made arrangements to rent the premises to Orrin Pearee, 
and to vacate them for awhile, aud had made up a farewell dance on 
that night. They were in the midst of the hop, and the table was all 
set preparatory to the supper, when at about ton o'clock a fire was 
discovered in the jieak of the roof, supposed to have originated from 
a stove-pipe in one of the chambers. The fire companies were on 
band in good time, but as there was but one stream of water available 
the lire was not subdued until the main upright part of the house 
was demolished; though the outbuildings were saved, together with 
most of the furniture. 

"So far as tavern accommodations for the public are concerned, it 
is a matter of small moment to Watertown or Pamelia whether that 
particular house is taken away or not, but, as a landnnirk of the olden 
limes, the inhabitants will regret the absence of their old-time ac- 
quaintance." 

CITY OFFICERS. 

Tlie following is a list of city officcfs to the present time : 

Mayor, 18G9-71, G. W. Flower; 1872, Gilderoy Lord; 

1873-74, W. r. Poller; 1875, Bradley Winslow ; lS7(n 



146 



lIISTOlir OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Levi H. Brown; 1877, W. F. Porter; Recorder, 18G9- 
77, Lubaii 11. Aiiisworth; City Clerk, 1869-70, Edward 
M. Gates; 1871, A. D. Seaver; Treasurer, 1869-70, Louis 
C. Greenleaf; 1871, J. A. Queneer ; Chamberlain,* 1872, 
George Smith; 1873-75, Byron D. Adsit ; 1876, Charles 
A. Settle; 1877, John L. Phelps; Street Couiinissioner, 
1869-70, Jacob Hermes; 1871-72, Stephen Clark; 1873- 
74, J. Quonccr, Jr. ; 1875, Joseph IMiscr; 1876, Ei^bert 
T. Butterfield; 1877, Joseph Miser; Overseer of the Poor, 
1869-71, Clark Wetherby ; 1872-75, Solon B. Hart; 
1876, Daniel !McCormick; 1877, James H. Wood; Justice 
of the Peace, 1869, '70, '71, '72, '75, '76, Lysander H. 
Brown; 1873-74, Thomas Baker; 1877, H. H. Wilbur. 
The city government for 1877 is as follows: Mayor, W. 
F. Porter; Chamberlain, John L. Phelps; Recorder, Laban 
H. Ainsworth ; Overseer of the Poor, James H. Wood ; 
Street Commissioner, Joseph Miser; Aldermen, 1st ward, 
N. Whiting, Thomas Barber; 2d ward, George Smith, C. 
A. Waterman ; 3d ward, T. A. Smith, W. W. Slierman ; 
4th ward, R. B. Richardson, E. A. Green ; Justices, Ly- 
sander H. Brown, Hiram H. Wilbur; City Attorney, C. 
H. Walts; City Surveyor, F. A. Hines; Commissioners of 
Deeds, Jason Fairbanks, L. A. Winn ; Policemen, Chief, 
Miles Guest; Wm. ^IcCutcheon, Charles G. Champlin, 
Thomas Jlillington ; Pound-Master, Stephen A. Tyler; 
Sealer of Weights and Measures, C. Partello; Board of 
Health, N. Whiting, president; George Smith, secretary; 
T. A. Smith, R. B. Richardson ; Health Officer, Dr. J. M. 
Crawe ; Assessors, S. 0. Gale, H. B. Cooke, C. W. Acker, 
N. Burdick ; Supervisors, 1st ward, J. C. Streeter ; 2d 
ward, J. C. Knowltoii ; 3d ward, T. C. Chittenden ; 4th 
Ward, C. W. Sloat; Water Commissioners, R. Van Namee, 
president; C. A. Sherman, secretary ; J. F. Moffett, J. C. 
Knowlton, C. A. Holden, Parson T. Hines, superintendent ; 
N. P. WardwelL clerk. 

BLACK RIVER — ITS SOURCE AND ITS TRIBUTARIES.-j" 
Black river has its source almost in the very heart of 
the Adirondack wilderness, — a region abounding in forests, 
and containing hundreds of lakes. The actual source of 
the river is a small lake in Hamilton county, situated in a 
direct line about one hundred miles from Watertown. In 
its winding course the river must traverse a much greater 
distance. Within its first twenty-five miles it receives tlie 
outflow of numerous lakes of various sizes, most prominent 
of which are the South Branch, North Branch, Chubb, 
Bisby, and Gull lakes. The latter is 2018.88 feet above 
tide-water. These lakes, with their outletting streams, 
drain a large portion of Herkimer county, and the north- 
eastern portions of Oneida county. 

About thirty miles from its .source Black river receives 
the contents of Moose river, a formidable rival, which has 
its source in Lake Fonda, in the northwestern part of Ham- 
ilton county. It flows across Hamilton county, and unites 
with Black river at Port Leyden, Lewis county. Moose 
river is not far from fifty miles in length, and among a 
score of others receives the contents of Moose lake (2239.21 



* The office of chamberlain hag, since 1872, combined the offices of 
clerk antl trcnsurer. 

■f Hon. CharlL-s U. Skinner, in " )Vtitci-tuiru, AVtc )'or/." 



feet above tide-water). Lime Kiln lake, the Fulton chain, 
comprising the 4th, 7tli, and 8th lakes, so called. Shallow 
lake, etc. 

A few miles fiirther on Black river receives Fish creek, 
which latter is the outlet of Brantingham lake. Besides 
other smaller inlets, near the last mentioned, its next con- 
tribution is received within a few miles, when Independence 
river empties into it the cuntents of a lake of the same name, 
situated near the eastern boundary of Herkimer county. 

Ten miles farther on, at Croghan, Lewis county. Black 
river receives the contents of Beaver river, which has its 
source in Smith's lake, in the extreme northern part of 
Herkimer county. This river is the outlet of almost innu- 
merable smaller lakes, among the more prominent being 
Albany, Rock, Burnt, and Salmon lakes, and the Red 
River chain. 

There are other considerable streams entering Black river 
from the south, and it is hardly more than a fair estimate 
to say that the river, with its numerous branches, drains a 
territory of 2000 square miles, or 1,280,000 square acres. 

It must thus be seen that the river at Watertown must 
be of formidable proportions, and possess all the jiower and 
importance claimed for it. 

The action already taken by the legislature of the State 
to preserve the region of the Adirondacks as a ''State Park " 
is very important in securing for all time to come an ample 
supply of water, not only for the Black river, but for tiie 
sources of the Hud.'^on river on the south, and the numer- 
ous tributaries of the St. Lawrence river on the north. The 
measure is one which deserves the attention and encourage- 
ment of all who can realize the importance of the immense 
advantages to be realized from its successful accomplish- 
ment. The protection and preservation of the forests and 
wilds of this region will not only jireserve and perpetuate 
to the northern rivers the advantages they now possess, but 
will secure to genuine .sportsmen a boundless field for their 
enjoyment. 

It is a well-known fact that streams which have their 
sources in the wilderness are more even in their flow 
throughout the year, and less subject to freshets and 
droughts, than are those whose water-sheds are smooth or 
cultivated land. Nature seems to have provided the bogs 
and rooty jingles of the northern forests to hold like a 
sponge the superabundance of water from the melting 
snows of spring, and to let them out for us, little by little, 
as our needs require, instead of sending the whole volume 
down upon us at once, the result of which would be as 
serious as recent instances in the New England States, 
where civilization has encroached so boldly upon the moun- 
tainous districts of their river sources. 

Black river, rising as it does in the midst of almost 
eternal springs, stretching out its arms and fingers in every 
direction into the mountain defiles, draining from each a 
constant and steady supply of water from mountain lakes 
and springs and meadows, gives abundant assurance of a 
never-ending power, which gathers its force from a thousand 
sources, and in its fullness hurls it pa.st our city, over rocks 
and ledges, and which tem])tingly invites the water-wheel, 
and tlic varied industries of the nation, to come and avail 
themselves of its strength and majesty. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



147 



For several miles above the city the river flows rapidly 
over a solid bed of Trenton and bird's-eye limestone, raak- 
in;.: the water pure and healthy and well aerated for sup- 
plying the city ; but coming as it does from a granite region, 
the water is almost as soft as the purest rain-water, which 
renders it especially well adapted for use in the mnnu''aeture 
of cotton and woolen fabrics. The rocky nature of the bed 
and banks of the river in the vicinity of Watertown is the 
fullest guaranty against all disasters arising from the wash- 
ing away of banks, or the underminir)g of dams. 

THE W.ATKK-POWKR OF BLACK RIVER.* 

Upon the organization of the Manufacturers' Aid Asso- 
ciation, it was decided that a careful and scientific survey 
be made of the river upon whose power we base in so large 
a measure the distinctive attractions of our city, with a 
view of ascertaining, in a definite and unmistakable manner, 
the exact measure of the power derived from the river in 
its passage through the corporate limits of Watertown. To 
this end a systematic survey was made by Frank A. Hinds, 
civil engineer, assisted by Fred. W. Eames, two gentlemen 
well calculated and abundantly r|ualified to do the work 
assigned them. We quote the following from Mr. Hinds' 
report : 

"I hiive made a .survoy of Black river throiigbnut tlio extent of 
the city of Watertown, and, in accordiince with your wishes, here- 
with submit a report of that survey, together with a map and ]>rotilc. 
A level was carefully taken of the water fr»mi the point where tlie 
river enters the city at its ea.*Jteru limit to the point where it leaves 
it at its westerly houndary, a distance of less than two miles, includ- 
ing in detail ail the numerous falls and rapids, both improved and 
iinituprovcil. The whole amount of fall within tliis distance I have 
found to be 111.75 feet. Eighty-three feet of this noticcaltlc fall is 
included between the upper and lower railroad bridges, as seen by 
the accompanying ma]». 

" There are five distinct falls between the ])oints named. The river 
was gauged at a point about two miles above the city, where its course 
is straight and level for a considerable distance, and it was found to 
deliver 5S)G,72S cubic feet of water ]>er minute. This measurement 
was taken on the 22d of March, and although the water was very 
little if any higher than the ordinary winter flow, and the ice still un- 
broken, a deduction equal to one-third was made, to insure a safe es- 
timate of the fair working average of the year. This allowance gives 
an average delivery of 397,819 cubic feet per minute. This, multi- 
plied by 62.;i and 111.75, and divided by 33,000, gives 83,928 as the 
average actual horse-power for the whole river in its passage through 
the cutire city. If a still further allowance is made of two-thirds of 
this amount for leakage, clearance, friction, and unavoidable waste, 
we still have 27,976 horsepower, which may be regarded as effectual, 
and available to turn machinery." 

MANUFACTURING INTERESTS. 

The basis of the prosperity of Watertown as a manufec- 
turing city is her excellent water-power. At an early day 
the utilization and improvement of the natural advantages 
thus presented was commenced by the erection, first, of a 
grist-mill, and subse(|uently of more extensive manufac- 
turing enterprises, some of which still remain in operation. 
It maj' be well here to give a brief summary of the early 
manufactories, as far as existing records and personal re- 
search have enabled us to procure the necessary data. 

In 1808 a paper-mill was built above Cowan's grist-mill, 
by Gurden Caswell, who came in from Oneida county a few 



* Hon. Chas. R. Skinner, in " W.itcrtown. X. Y.' 



years before. Other paper-mills were constructed by him, 
and he was undoubtedly the most extensive of the pioneer 
manufacturers. In 1824, Knowlton & Rice cimimenced the 
business which is still continued by Knowlton Brothers, 
whose establishment will receive further notice under the 
proper classification. 

Tlie manufacture of cotton and woolen goods has held 
(|uite a conspicuous position in the industries of the place. 
The extracjrdinary prices to which cotton fabrics had ari^seii 
led to the tiirnialion of the " Black River Cotton and 
Woolen Manufacturing Company," which was formed De- 
cember 28, 1813, with a capital of SIUO.OOO. The pro- 
mntei°s of this scheme were Hart Massey, William Smith, 
Jabez Foster, M. W. Gilbert, John I'addock, Egbert Ten 
Eyck, Amos Benedict, William Tanner, Jason Fairbanks, 
and Perlcy Keyes. The building (of stone) was erected in 
1814, at a cost of 872,000. Local history relates that there 
w;is at this time considerable prejudice against the use of 
machinery in place of hand-labor. Spafford, in his Ga- 
zel/eer of iVc/o Yor/c, s;iid : '• The automaton habits and 
the moral tendencies of these establishments will be better 
understood fifty years hence." It may be said that the 
fifty years have elapsed, and that the more the world sees 
of '• automaton habits'" in munufacturing enterprises the 
better it likes them. This mill w.as carried on by the com- 
pany for three years ; was a few j'ears subsequently sold for 
S7000, and passed into other hands, and was destroyed by 
fire in 1869. 

In 1827 the "Jefferson Cotton Mills" were crectod on 
Beebee's island by Levi Beebce, who came hero from Coop- 
erstown. New York. They were constructed of stone, 250 
by 65 feet, and three stories high, with ba.sement and 
wings. It was intended for ten thousand spindles, and its 
value was estimated at §200,000. On July 7, 1833, the 
building was entirely destroyed by fire. The site of this 
factory is one of the most eligible in the State for hydiaulic 
purposes. 

The" Watertown Cotton-Mills Company," with SI00,000 
capit;il, was formed January 10, 1834, Isaac II. Bronson, 
Jason Fairbanks, Samuel F. Bates, John Sigourney, and 
Joseph Kimball as tnistecs. This as.socialion continued sev- 
eral years, and was replaced by the " Watertown Cotton 
Company," with a capital of 812,000, formed January 7, 
1846, with E. P. Tliroop Martin, Daniel Lee, S. Newton 
Dexter, 11. Holcomb, and John Collins trustees. The 
company occupied the building already mentioned, con- 
structed in 1814, and ran fifty looms with ])roportionate 
machinery. 

The " Hamilton Woolen- Jlills Company" was formed 
February 10, 1835, with a capital of 850,000, by Henry 
D. Sewall, George Goulding, John C. Lashar, Simeon 
Boynton, and John Goulding. On the 10th of March 
following the capital of the company was increased to 
8100,000, under the name of the Hamilton .Manufacturing 
Companj". Mr. Sewall built a dam and factory, and the 
latter went into operation in the spring of 1836. It was 
designed for five sets of cards, with the necessary ma- 
chinery. In May, 1842, this mill was bought by the 
j " Black River Woolen Company," which had been formed 
November 7, 1836, with a capital of 850,000, the trustees 



148 



HISTOKY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



being I. H. Broiisnn, S. N. Dexter, 0. Huiigerford, John 
Williams, Hiram Ilolcomb, and Daniel Lee. This com- 
pany also erected a factory, which, after several years' suc- 
cessful operation, was destroyed in 1841. The mill was 
afterwaids repaired and put in operation by Loomis & Co., 
employing seventy hands. 

The " Waterlown Woolen Company" was formed Feb- 
ruary 4, 1834, with §100,000 capital, with I. H. Bronson, 
John A. Rodgers, John Williams, S. Newton Dexter, and 
H. Holcomb as trustees. 

The " Watertown Woolen Manulacturing Company" was 
formed December 24, 1835, with J. Williams, I. II. Bron- 
son, H. Holcomb, D. Lee, and Silas Claik as trustees, and 
a capital of $25,000. The two last-named companies existed 
a few years, but no record exists of what was accomplished. 

The " Williams Woolen Company" was formed November 
7, 1S3G, with a capital of $10,000, and was in operation 
many years. I. H. Bronson, S. N. Dexter, J. AVilliams, 
n. Holcomb, and Charles Weber were the promoters of the 
organization. The premises were changed to a tannery. 

The first tannery on an extensive scale was built by Jason 
Fairbanks, in 1823. It was afterwards burned, and rebuilt 
in 1833. Two other large tanneries were built before the 
year 1827. 

The first machine-shop for the manufacture of iron into 
castings and machinery was built by N. Wiley, in 1820, and 
the first foundry by R. Bingham. 

In 1823, George Goulding commenced the manufacture 
of iron, and in 1825 William Smith engaged in the same 
pursuit. The former was engaged on Norton's (now Sew- 
all'sj island in making mill-gearings, factory machinery, and 
to a less extent steam-engines. Afterwards, for many years, 
the firm existed its Goulding, Bagley & Sewall, and the 
business is now continued by the last two gentlemen. Their 
flourisiiing foundry is described elsewhere. Mr. Smith was 
heavily engaged in manufacturing mill-gearings and cast- 
ings, stoves, hollow-ware, and agricultural implements, on 
Boebee's island. The site of his first foundry is now occu- 
pied by Gildcroy Lord for a similar pur])iise, and does a 
large bu.siness. Smith's second foundry is still standing at 
the western end of the island. 

In 1841, Cooper & Woodruff built on the north side of 
the river, opposite Beebec's island, a foundry and machine- 
shop, and manufactured factory machinery, mill-irons, and 
steam-engines, afterwards turning their attention to the 
hnilding of railroad cars. Tliese extensive works were 
liurncd July 22, 1853, occasioning a severe loss to the pro- 
prietors and the public at large. 

PRESENT MANUFACTURES. 

The Watertown Spring Wagon Company s Mamifactort/ 
is located in the Winslow Industrial Building on Factory 
square. The building, which is the largest and best ap- 
pointed in this si^ction of the State, was erected in 1870 
by Hon. N. Win.slow, and was for several years occupied 
by the Davis Sewing-Machine Co. The building is 283 by 
55 feet, four stories high, and built of brick. The black- 
smith-shop is located at the left of tlic main building. The 
company was organized in December, 1875, with a cajiital 
of 875,000. The establishment now employs 100 men, 



and expects to turn out during the present year about 2500 
spring wagons, which find a ready sale in all parts of the 
country. They are made of the most durable material, 
and their good reputation is based on their lightness and 
strength. The manufactory is situated uear the shore of 
Black river, commanding a fine water-power, — over 200 
horse. The industry is a credit to the city, and will be- 
come one of its most successful institiitions. The people 
of Watertown were called upon to decide in April, 1876, 
whether this company should leave the city or remain in it. 
They showed their good .sense and appreciation of a real 
benefit by promptly taking the amount of stock required 
to retain it, and the company is on a sound basis. Mayor 
Levi H. Brown is president; A. Palmer Smith, vice-presi- 
dent ; and Jerome Bushnell, secretary and treasurer. The 
directors are Hon. A. C. Beach, Hon. N. Winslow, W. G. 
Williams, E. M. Gates, C. A. Clark, R. Marcy, G. L. 
Davis, and tlie ofScers first named. R. C. Morse, superin- 
tendent. 

The Davis Seicing- Machine Cumpunj/'s manufactory 
is very eligibly situated on Sewall's Island, near the finest 
water-power on the river. The company was organized in 
18G8, with a capital of 8150,000, which has since been 
increased to $500,000. It formerly occupied the building 
on Factory square now used by the Watertown Spring 
Wagon Company. In 1875 the company erected a build- 
ing of its own, which it now occupies. The main building 
is two .stories with attic, and is 175 by 40 feet; the wing is 
of the same height, 40 by 30 feet ; the office is one story, 
50 by 30 feet ; all the buildings being of brick. The com- 
pany manufactured in 1875 §300,000 worth of machines, 
all of which found ready sale. The number of employees 
is 175. The assets of the company are about 81,000,000. 
No royalty is now paid on the machines. The company 
has branch offices in Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago, Mil- 
waukee, San Francisco, Erie, Pennsylvania, Ravenna, Ohio, 
and other points, and was thoroughly represented at the 
Centennial exhibition of 187G with some of the finest 
machines in the world. The machines have an excellent - 
reputation for simplicity and utility. The present officers 
are as follows: Hon. Willard Ives, president ; Hon. George 
A. Bagley, vice-president ; Levi A. Johnson, secretary and 
treasurer. Directors, C. D. Wright, 11. W. Eddy, G. Lord, 
R. Van Namee, H. M. Stevens, A. H. Sawyer, J. F. Mof- 
fett, J. M. Carpenter, G. B. Massey, and G. H. Sherman. 

The Watertown Steam-Engine Company originated in 
1850 by Messrs. Hoard & Bradford, who were prior to that 
time in the employ of Z. Goulding & Co., among the 
pioneers in foundry machinists' business in Watertown, the 
former as book-keeper, the latter as manager. The nucleus 
around which the present extensive establishment developed 
was a small rented shop, where Messrs. Hoard & Bradford 
manufactured a few portable engines for general mechanical 
use, and of Mr. Bradford's invention. At fii-st quite a 
prejudice existed against these engines, and they were stig- 
matized as " death-warrant.s," and other derogatory epithets 
were applied to them, significant of insecurity. To over- 
come this they put up one of the engines in the newspaper 
office of John A. Haddock, wlio had been induced to pur- 
chiisc a Napier press. He had taught a little girl to feed 





ji/II^S. J.T.GOTHAM. 



' C-tHOROH.FHOroCRAFH€R, J 
W4TSPT0VW*, H. Y. 



J. T. GOTHAM. 




I^EsiDENCE of JENE.RY T. GOTH AM, STATE ST. WATE/fTOWf/, N. Y. 



^^^ 






i, ■'. iSi J> .T *■ ti 




TAGGARTS & DAV/S' PAPC/? MfLLi, ra/>fvu/. 



>l^ ■ ^^B-^^^. ■ ^.^.^^..^.^J,■^^H^^uaf;^^^^ 




irj Of Manila °AP£ff, /Vtn'5 Paper. 8l°aplr Flour Saci'.s 

10 V/ N, N. Y. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



149 



the press, and Mr. Bradford had initiated a small boy into 
the iu3'steries of rutiiiin^ the engine. It so happened that 
soon after the engine had been put up Horace Greelej' came 
to Watertown to lecture. While dressing himself on the 
morning following his arrival in town, he glanced across the 
street and saw in flaming chai-acters on an immense board, 
"John A. IlADnocK, Steam -Power Press." He 
straightway proceeded to the office. It being early in the 
morning, the only persons there were the juvenile engineer 
and the youthful feeder. The former just had his hand on 
the throttle as the great journalist opitned the door. That 
he was surprised to see papers being struck off as fast as 
could be done with his ponderous machinery in New York, 
and that, too, by a boy and girl, is shown by his letter to the 
Tribune, oC July 13, 1850: 

"The Ite-st thinj^ I saw in "Watertown was the turnout of two thou- 
sand people on a wiUl, stormy night to hear a dry talk on teniperanco. 
The next liest was a new portable -steam-engine, invented and manu- 
factured there Ijy Messrs. Hoard A Bradford. The two-horse engine 
I e.Kaniincd was running a Napier power-press briskly, while burn- 
ing as mueh fuel as a common kitchen range. Certainly, a ton of pea 
coal would suffice to run it a fortnight, day and night. The time 
must be at hand when every thrifty farmer, with nearly every mo- 
ehnnie, will have such an engine of his own, and chopping straw, 
turning grindstone, cutting wood, churning, threshing, etc., will have 
ceased to be a manual and become a mechanical operation. 

" Printing (press-work) by hand must rapidly disappear before the 
approach of this engine, which will bo running on wheels and driving 
a scythe before it, or drawing a plow behind it, within five years. Wo 
have hardly begun to use steam yet." 

On the 1st of January, lS.")l,the firm moved into works 
that occupied the ])re.sent site, and two years thereafter BIr. 
Bradford retired, leaving Mr. Hoard .sole proprietor. The 
latter conducted the business successfully up to the coui- 
mencement of the war, when he procured a contract from 
the government for a large number of guns, and converted 
the engine- works into a gun-manufactory. In 18G5 the 
present company was formed, under tlie title of " The 
Portable Steam-Eugine and Manufacturing Company,' with 
a capital of S40,IK)0. On the 11th of January, 1872, the 
title vv:is changed as at present, and the capital increased 
to 8100,000. June 17, 1873, the capital was increased 
to 8iOO,000. The company turns out about four hun- 
dred engines annually. It employs one hundred men ; 
uses annually 1000 tons of cast and wrought iron, a large 
portion of the ca.st iron being of that ])rodueed in this 
vicinity. The sales reach nearly every State in the Union, 
the Canadian Provinces, Cuba, and South America. The 
present officers are Charles A. Sherman, president; John 
C. Knowlton, vice-president ; S. F. Bagg, secretary ; 
Charles A. Sherman, Gilbert Bradford, Talcott H. Camp, 
Lsaae P. Powers, John C. Knowlton, llichard E. Hunger- 
ford, and D. W. Baldwin, directors. 

PAPER-MILLS. 

Taggarts & Davis' Paper and Paper-Bag Manufactory is 
located at the present time in the Angell buildings, at the 
lower dam. The building wa.s erected by sections, in 1843- 
45, by Wm. H. Angell, at a cost of §100,000, it is said, 
and used for several 3'ears fur milling and distilling purposes. 
Mr. B. B. Taggart & A. H. Hall commenced the manufac- 
ture of p.iper bags on Beebee's island, in 18G4, producing 



about 2000 bags per day. In the spring of 1860, the firm 
of West, Palmer & Taggarts (W. W. and B. B. Taggart) 
bought the two lower sections of the Angell property, and 
put in machinery for making manilla paper, with a capacity 
of one and a half tons per day. In the fall of 18GG, the 
other three sections of the mill were burned out, and the 
firm, then West & Taggarts, in 18t37, bought the walls of 
the building, and refitted them with four new engines, and 
a Fourdrinier paper-machine, and commenced the manufac- 
ture of print, in addition to manilla paper. The firm 
changed again in 1870, West selling out his interest to 0. 
R. Davis. The buildings, a view of which is shown else- 
where in this work, are of stone, except the wood-pidp 
mill, which is of wood. The main building is 2ll0 by 75 
feet, three stories, the west wing 75 by 40 feet, two stories, 
and the wood-pulp mill 30 by 50 feet, two stories. A frame 
store-house adjoins the works 120 by 30 feet. A railroad 
track 2000 feet long connects the establishment with the 
R., W. & O. 11. R., running from Watertown to Cape Vin- 
cent, making the handling of supplies and products a com- 
paratively easy matter. The present equipment of the 
establishment is most complete. Thirteen turbine water- 
wheels furnish the motive power ; 5 of which are Leffel's, 
of 100 horse-power each, the other eight wheels ranging 
from 30 to 50 horse-power. In the paper-mill proper there 
are a rotary boiler for cleansing the rope 24 feet long and 
7 feet diameter, weighing 30,000 pounds; ten stone drain- 
ers, 15 by 18 feet; eight engines, two of them Jordan's; 
one double cylinder, and one Fourdrinier paper-machine ; 
two wood-pulp machines, — Volter's patent, capacity one ton 
per day of dry pulp ; a steam-boiler, for drying purposes, 
22 feet long, 5 feet diameter, with 100 tubes. The wood- 
pulp grinders are of 100 horse-power, the stones making 
200 revolutions per minute. In the flour-sack manufac- 
tory two tubing machines are used, having a capacity of 
75,000 sacks per day, but which are run but half the time. 
Three printing-pres.ses are used to print the brand on the 
sack, — one Potter and two Babeock cylinders. The estab- 
lishment employs 20 girls who fold the bottoms of the sacks, 
and do it very expertly too. The whole number of em- 
ployees is 75. About three tons of news and two tons of 
manilla paper are turned out each day, — -the former, at the 
present time, all going to the New York Tribune, which 
is about one-half of the daily consumption of white paper 
of that great journal. Twenty thou.saiid flour-saeks arc 
also turned out complete and ready for shipment in bales of 
1000 each. The white paper is shipped in rolls of about 
1000 pounds weight, the sheet me;isuring 47 inches wide 
and five miles long, and contains 40 per cent, of wood and 
60 per cent, of rags. An artesian well, 163 feet deep in 
the solid roek, supplies the engines with pure water, which 
is pumped therein by a Watertown pump, a No. 3 Barber. 
Iron-clad doors close everj' opening in the partition walls, 
which latter are of stone, two feet thick, and also cover 
every gangway and stairway in the building, and which 
doors, by a simple contrivance, regulated on the first floor, 
shut of themselves. Messrs. Taggarts & Davis buy their 
raw material from all parts of the country, — the rope 
coming jirineipally from the west, and the rags from New 
York.' 



150 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



A fire which broke out December 24, 1876, burned out 
the cast section, starting in the machine-shop, which i.s run 
in cdnncctioii with tho mill, and stopped the work for two 
weeks only, the enertry of the proprietors repairing all dam- 
ages in tliat time. The business of this establishment ag- 
gregates 8300,000 per annum. They have an inexhaustible 
water supply, the same being estimated at 3000 h<n-se-power 
at their dam, giving them a large surplus for any other 
enterprises they may choose to engage in. The Hall .system 
of .sprinklers for fire defense also connect directly with the 
city water-works, a hydrant of which stands a few feet from 
the building. The pipes are so arranged that the floor of 
any room can be flooded in a few minutes from the hydrant. 

Knowlton Brothers' Paper-]M ill, located on Mill street, at 
the first bridge leading to Bocbee's island, occupies the site 
of the paper-mill first erected in 1808. The business was 
conductud for many years by Knowlton & Rice. The main 
building is 130 by 60 feet, three stories high, besides base- 
ment and attic. An artesian well, drilled one hundred feet 
in the rock in 185(5, is still in use at this building, giving 
the purest water obtainable. The mill was formerly occu- 
pied in manufacturing writing-paper exclusively ; it now 
confines itself to the production of book and colored papers. 
The quality of the paper made is nowhere surpassed. It is 
one of the oldest and soundest institutions of the kind in 
Watortown. A magnifieent water-power equal to 200 
horse drives the machinery ; fifty persons are employed, 
and three tons of fine paper are tiu-ned out daily. Messrs. 
George W., Jr., and John C. Knowlton are its present 
owners and efficient managers. 

The Remington Paper Company occupies fine buildings 
on Sewall's i.sland, about 100 feet square, built of brick. 
The business was established in 18(55, with a capital of 
$84,400. Seventy persons are employed, 800 horse-power 
used, and in 1875 the business amounted to $220,000. 
The company manufactures news paper wholly, using (in 
1875) 400,000 feet of spruce and poplar lumber. About 
6 tons per day is the average product, shipped mostly to 
New York and San Francisco. The trustees are A. D. 
Remington, president; George P. Folts, vice-president; 
and F. Emcr.son, secretary. The business is one of the 
most extensive in Watertown. 

'J"he Watertown Paper Company's building is located on 
Sewall's island, at tin; upper dam. This company was in- 
corporated in 1864, with a capital nf $20,000, gives em- 
ployment to twenty-five men, and uses 150 horse-power of 
water. The main building was liurned in 1874, rebuilt of 
brick in 1875, and the company now turns out 900 tons of 
news paper per aninim. The main portion of the mill is of 
brick, 52 by 108 feet, two stories and a basement. The 
wing is of wood, 25 by 50 feet, one story. 

FLOUKINO-MILLS. 

The Union Mills are located on Mill street, and occupy 
a portion of the site of the first mill erected in the city by 
Jonathan Cowan. The present building was erected in 
1835 by C. P. Moulton, and is now conducted by H. W. 
Sliead and I. A. Graves, the former of whom is the oldest 
miller on the river in point of years consecutively spent in 
the business. It is of stone, (55 liy 75 fiu^t, and four sturies 



high. The machinery is run by seven turbine water-wheels, 
representing about 120 horse-power. They manufacture 
about 250 barrels of flour per day, besides custom work. 
The mill is sup]ilied with the La Croi.K machinery, and 
makes a specialty of first-class flour. Four men, besides 
the proi)rietors, are employed. These mills have been three 
times struck by lightning, and more or less severely injured ; 
several builditjgs in close proximity have been burned, com- 
pelling the most heroic eflbrts on the part of firemen to save 
the mills from destruction, and yet the " Union" stands in- 
tact, having survived all disasters by flood and fire. 

The Jfffcrson Milh, A. C. Hanchet, proprietor, were 
erected, in 1855, by Moulton & Symonds. They operated 
the mill until 1862. In 1863 tho present projirietor pur- 
chased the mill, and has since conducted the business. The 
structure is of brick, with stone basement, 43 by 75 ; the 
machinery is run by seven water-wheels, — three turbine 
and four Parker, — representing about 100 horse-power; 
capacity 200 barrels per day. They use Silver Creek and 
Fulton & Burdick machinery, and employ five hands. 

Catitriut Mills, built by C. P. Moulton in 1839 ; busi- 
ness now ovrned by E. Settle & Son ; established in 1871 ; 
capital, $20,000. Fifty horse-power is used, and the busi- 
ness of 1876 amounted to $80,000. The capacity of the 
mill is over 15,<I00 barrels annually, besides custom work. 
It is situated at the north end of the suspension-bridge. 

Tiic Excdslor Mill, on River street, near Mill, was erected 
in 1845, by Moulton & Simonds. It is now owned and 
conducted by Allen H. Herrick. Capital, $25,000 ; em- 
phiys from 5 to 8 men ; manufactured $32,000 worth of 
flour and feed in 1876, and has a capacity for nearly three 
times that amount. It is run by six turbine water-wheels, 
representing 100 horse-power, and is located near one of 
the best and .safest powers on the river. 

Crescent Mills, built by Fuller, Isdell & Willard in 1870, 
at the Factory square dam, and is now owned by Wilson 
& Isdell. It contains four runs of stone, operated by 50 
horse-power, and has a capacity of 5(t barrels of flour and 
80 bushels of coarse feed per day. Three men are employed 
beside the proprietors. 

V. I'. Kiinliiill's I'cinl- liinlijj Mill, near Factory s(iuare, 
was established in 1847; capital, $10,000; employs 4 
hands; uses 150 horse-power of water; produced $45,000 
in 1871), with capacity for nearly three times that amount. 
The same gentleman uses $4000 capital in the manufacture 
of straw-board, — established in 1874; employs 5 men; and 
produced $3500 worth in 1876. 

City Mills, built in 1876 by Gu,stavus Cook, on the 
site of the Fuller mill, at the lower dam, which mill was 
burned with the Eagle mill in 1871. D. N. Bosworth 
bought the mills in July, 1877, and the firm is now D. N. 
Bosworth & Co. The mills have three runs of stone, with 
about 75 horse-power, and a capacity of 25 barrels of flour, 
besides doing a large custom work. The mill is very com- 
pactly built and well ecpiiiiped. Three men are employed 
besides the proprietor. 

The Eiiijle Mills were built by Henry H. Cofli'cn very early 
in the history of manufactures of Watertown, at the luwer 
dam, and were partially carried away by the flood in the 
Black river in 1860, occasioned bv the breaking of he 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



151 



dam of the Erie canal reservoir at North lake. Tlie mills 
were then owned by Convis & Flynn, who repaired thorn, 
when ill 1871 tlicy were destroyed by fire, toj^ether with 
the Fuller mill, which wa.s also damaged somewhat by the 
flood, and which stood on the site of the City mills. 

THE T.\NNERIES OF WATERTOWN. 

The tanning business of Watertown and vicinity is of an 
old date, extending far back among the oldest trades in ex- 
istence here. The first tannery erected in Watertown on an 
extensive scale was built by Jason Fairbanks, in 1823, and 
since that date the interest has been an important one to 
Watertown, as well ;us to this section of the State. Mr. 
Fairbanks commenced the saddle and harne.ss business in 
1808, in company with C. McKnight, and Fairbanks con- 
tinued it forty-four j-ears. In 1810 he added shoemaking 
and tanning to the business, and was for many years con- 
nected with carriage- manufacturing and merchandising. 
During this time he employed over five hundred appren- 
tices. Fairbanks' tan-yard was upon the site now occupied 
by S. Pool's residence, on State street. The second tannery 
built by this industrious and enterprising pioneer was located 
near Factory square, and continued to do a large business 
under various managements until destroyed by fire in 1874. 
Mes.srs. Holt & Beecher carried on the tanning business for 
many years on Beebee's island, near the smaller bridge. 
Tills tannery wa,s twice destroyed by fire. In 1844 the ex- 
tensive tannery, now occupied and conducted by Farwell, 
Hall & Co., located at the lower dam, was built by Messrs. 
Fisk & Bates. A good business has been carried on here 
since that year, and much profit has followed the enterprise. 

Farwell, Hall & Co. — This business was established in 
1837, by Messrs. Milton Clark and George Burr, and is 
located between Beebee's island and Factory square. It 
was devoted principally to the sheep-skin and morocco line. 
Farwell, Hall & Co., in their two tanneries, tan 3000 hides 
and 40,000 skins annually, rough and finished. Sales 
principally in northern New York, Vermont, and Boston. 
The old tannery has been in continuous operation for forty 
years. Tiie firm now run both at their full capacity. 

George Parker tt Son. — The present tanning business 
of George Parker & Son was founded in 1854, and was run 
for nearly twenty years by B. F. Ilotchkin & Son. The 
tannery is located in Fairbanks street, near Factory square. 
They tan GOO hides and 8000 skins annually, rough and 
finished, and sell priucipally in northern New York and 
Bo.stoii. The full capacity is 800 hiiles and 10,000 skins. 

Gates & Gillell. — The tannery now operated by this 
firm was built in 1868, upon the north .side of the river, on 
Sewall's island, near the upjier dam, by Messrs. Millington 
& Burt, and the tanning of hides and skins was conducted 
here for many years. It is now devoted to wool-pulling and 
sheep-skin tanning. This taiinerj' is of brick, and is con- 
sidered by the trade as a model of convenience. 

BREWING AND MALTING. 

Andrew Newell was the first brewer iu Watertown, and 
operated here in the early days, and was succeeded by Peter 
lla.ss, who continued the business for many years. Peter 
Seibert is at present the brewer of the city, having begun 



the business in 1867. His manufacture is for retailing 
only, and produces lager beer exclusively. P. Mundy's 
Malt-House was erected in 1875, and is located on Court 
street, near the bridge. It is built of brick, is 183 by 40 
feet, three stories, and a double ba.sement sunk into the 
rock. Its capacity is 40,000 bushels of malt per annum. 
Mr. Mundy enqiloys eight men in his well-equipped estab- 
lishment, and .ships his product mostly eastward to New 
York and Boston, and buys his barley of the farmers of 
Jefferson County. 

MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTORIES. 

The Hitchcock Lnnp Company was incorporated .\pril 
19, 1872, with a capital of 815,000, which has been in- 
creased to $50,000. The object of the company is to 
manufacture lamiis for railroa<Is, shipping, manufactories, 
residences, etc., burning animal, fish, vegetable, and heavy 
oils. Sixteen mjn are now employed in perfecting special 
tools and elaborate machinery for conducting the work. 
The works are located on Factory street, near Mill, and are 
run by water, 20 horse-power, and will give employment 
when in full operation to 75 men. Much of the machinery 
is of the finest and most perfect description. John M. 
Sigourney is president ; F. T. Storey, vice-president ; T. 
C. Chittenden, secretary ; J. A. Lawyer, treasurer ; Robert 
Hitchcock, superintendent. 

Bagley & Sewall's extensive machine-shop and foundry 
is situated on Sewall's island, at the second dam, and occu- 
pies about 30,000 square feet of flooring, besides store- 
houses, etc. The business was established by George 
Goulding, in 1823. The capital is about $75,000. Forty 
persons are employed and 80 horse-power used; six hundred 
tons of iron are utilized annually. The products consist of 
steam-engines, scwing-juaoliiues, castings, mill-gearing. 
Green's rotary pump, etc. ; and a business of nearly 
$100,000 is annually done. G. A. Bagley & E. Q. 
Sewall comprise the firm. 

The Eames Vacuum Brake Company began work in 
July, 1875; capital, 8500,000. Its works are located on 
Beebee's island. It is a power brake, the force employed 
being the pressure of the atmosphere, applied by evacuating 
the air from a cylinder. It is automatic in its character, 
instantaneous in its work, and perfectly under the control 
of the engineer. It can be operated on anj' part of the 
train, and in case of accident instantly applies itself. It is 
regarded by railroad men as the simplest, most durable, and 
economical brake in existence. The oflicers of the company 
are: Fred. W. Eames, president; Hon. F. W. Hubbard, 
vice-president ; Charles D. Bingham, secretary ; S. T. 
Woolworth, treasurer. It is now in use on the Rome, 
Watertown and Ogdcnsburgh railroad of New York ; New 
York and Manhattan Beach railroad. New York ; Long 
Island railroad. New York : Boston, Revere Beach and 
Lynn railroad, -Ma.ssachusetts ; Boston, Winthrop and 
Shirley Point railroad, Massachu.setts ; Evansville and 
Torre Haute railroad, Indiana ; Cincinnati, Wab;isli and 
Michigan, Indiana; Toledo and South Haven, Michigan; 
Callao, Lima and Oroya railroad, Peru, South America ; 
Cardenas and Jucero railroad, Isle of Cuba. 

H. II. Babeock & Sons' Pump Manufactory occupies 



152 



HISTORY OF JEFFEESON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



extensive buildings on the west side of Factory Square. 
The business was establislicd in 1847; capital, SGO,flOO ; 
value of manufactured goods in 187G, §58,000, with 
capacity for double the amount of business. The works 
are run by water, 80 horse-power; 13 men are employed ; 
000,000 feet of white pine lumber were used in 187C. The 
sales are mostly in the Eastern and Middle States. It is 
one of the most flourishing industries of Watertown. Con- 
ducted by Messrs. H. H., II. P., and G. II. Babcoek. 

The cotton-j"arn mill, o})erated by the Remington Paper 
Company, is situated on the south side of the river, near 
the upper dam. It was established in 1875, on a capital 
of 815,000. Forty persons are employed, GO horse-power 
is used, and the mill is capable of producing §25,0. worth 
per annum. The product is shipped to New York. 

Gilderoy Lord's foundry is situated on Mill street. Bee- 
bee's island. Plows, cultivators, lionse-rakes, etc., arc made. 
The capital of the concern is §50,000; 12 hands are em- 
ployed ; annual product $30,000, and 25 horse-power. 

Y^ork & Moore, manufacturers of sa.sli, doors, and blinds, 
established their business in 1870, with a capital of §10,000. 
Employ 20 hands, use 50 hoi-se-jiower, and did §25,000 
worth of business in 1876, using 100,000 feet of lumber. 

L. Case & Son manufacture sash, doors, and blinds, grain- 
sejiarators, etc. Established 18G9; capital, §8000; enipluy 
20 men, use 120 horse-power, and do an annual business of 
$20,000, using 130,000 feet of lumber. 

Lewis, Henrich & Rounds, manufacturers of furniture. 
Established in 1871; capital, 817,000 ; employ 20 men; 
use 50 horse-power; manufactured, in 187G, 840,000 
worth, using 85,000 feet of lumber. Their works are 
situated near Factory stiHict. The firm manufactures much 
of the wood-work for the Davis Sewing-machine Company. 

Service, Georges & Du Bois, manufacturers of furniture. 
Business established by Service, Ceorges & McGillis in 
1865, as at present, in April, 187G; capital, §18,000; 
hands employed, 10; products, §28,000 per annum. 

Jlill & Jess, confectioner}', cigars, and bakery ; established 
in 1863; cajiital, §35,000; employ 25 persons; use 10 
horse-power ; manufacture 400,000 cigars annually ; use 
2000 barrels of flour in the bakery. Did a business 
amounting to §70,000 in 187G. Works in Factory S(iuare. 

George C. Chambers, cigar-manufacturer. Business estab- 
lished in April, 1875 ; employs 13 hauds,and makes 200,000 
cigars per annum. Works in Ar.senal street. 

H. V. Caldwell & Co. manufacture confectionery and 
cigars, employing 11 men. 

Baker & Chittenden, manufacturers of cigars. Iilstablished 
1851 ; employs ten men ; product, 125,000 cigars annually. 
In former years have made as high as one million cigars 
per annum. Charles AVeidner, manufacturer of cigars. 
J. A. Qucnccr, cigars and tobacco ; three men employed. 
Gustave Meyer, cigars and tobacco, 8-} Court street. 

W. Allingham & Co. manufacture boots and shoes ; 
business established 1876 ; capital, §3000. Employ 14 
hands; capacity, §23,000 worth per annum. I'roduct sold 
ea-st and west and in local market. 

Ilolden and Tildcn, manufacturers of tin-ware. Business 
established in 1852, by Gnudnow. Ilolden & Cci,, with six 
peddlers. In 18G5 the firm chanu'cd to lluodiiow fc IInMen, 



and in 187t) to the present name. The firm have estab- 
lished two branches of their business, one in Syracuse and 
the other in Potsdam. The three establishments keep sixty 
wagons on the road, whose drivers canvass the greater por- 
tion of northern New York and a portion of the central 
counties of the State. These peddlers buy annually eight 
hundred tons of rags and old brass, copper, lead, tallow, 
hides, and pelts in proportion. The works of the house in 
Watertown are situated at the corner of Arsenal and Mas- 
sey streets. 

Gates & Spratt, established in 1872, employ twelve men, 
and do a business of about §40.000 per annum, in tin, cop- 
per, and sheet-iron ware, roofing, plumbing, and furnace 
work. Their establishment is on Public square. 

L. Quencer, bakery, Nos. 3 and 4 Arsenal street. George 
AV. Bassinger, bakery, 71 State street. 

Holbrook Patent Blind-Hinge Manufacturing Company, 
W. G. Williams, secretary, east side Factory square. J. J. 
Bragger,Son & Beflrey.bra.ss-fminders, steam- and gas-filtere. 
No. 5 Public S([uare. D. S. Robbins, G2 Factory street, 
and F. Schneible & Co., 68 Court street, candle-manu- 
facturers. 

The carriage- and .sleigh-manufacturers embrace the fol- 
lowing : Charles W. Acker, 42 Factory street ; George 
A. Adzit & Son, 6 Le Roy street, corner JIain ; A. L. 
Darling, 10 Franklin street; Emerich & ^leader, y2 and 
94 Court street ; Eli Hamlin, 53 Factory street ; Horton & 
Dodge, 16 Cofi'een street; J. A. & II. H. Potter, 14 Fac- 
tory street ; A. W. Vancuughnet, 156 JIain street ; William 
Wilson & Co., 12, 14, and 16 Water street. 

The coojierages are those of John L. Putnam, 19 Pine 
street, and W. Tucker, 9 Front .street. 

The uiarble-cuttei-s and dealers arc: H. F. Ferrin, estab- 
lished in 1852, 39 Court street; sales 1877, §108,000. 
Foster M. Ferrin, established 1856, 3 Jackson street. J. 
M. Ferrin, the father of the two last named, established the 
business now pursued by his sons in 1840, having been 
engaged in the same business for twenty-six years previously 
in Vermont. George Van VIeck also is engaged in the 
same line at 70 Court street, where he established his busi- 
ness in 1872. 

Planing-niills and moulding-manufacturers: Graves & 
Van Doren, 23 and 25 Mill strict ; Sloat, Greenleaf it Co., 
11 Eames street, Beebee's island (an extensive lumber- 
yard in connection), and A. Frost, 28 31 ill street. 

Other nianufacluring establishments are : V. R. Harvey, 
sash, doors, and blinds, 8 Mechanic street ; Charles Partello, 
saw-manufacturer, 47 Public scjuare ; J. A. Fosgate, .saw- 
mills, 17 Fairbai'k.s street; J. IL Henderson, tile- and .sewer- 
pipe, 100 Areenal street ; Sampson & Roughsedgc, file- 
works, 26 Factory street; Tyler, Harmon & Co., foundry, 
19 Factory street ; Harbottle & Howard, manufacturers of 
Howard's hot-water carving-tables, 38 Public si|uare ; and 
F. Ryne, 35 Factory street, and Leopold Py, 27 i Factory 

street, dyers. 

BANKING. 

The earliest movement towards the establishment of a 
bank in Jeflfci-son County was made in 1807. A petition 
was sent to the Legislature praying for a loan to the county 
of §150,000 on good landed security, in bills of credit (o 




EDWARD S. MASSLr. 




Residence or EDWARD S . M ASSEY, floSO MissEr ST..WAT[ifTow»J i 




V. S. HUBBAIfO'S BLOCK,, 



RESiDCNce or \OLNEY STOW ^UBBAf^D. 

J(o 1 Statc St , kV/Tf/fTowv, A Y. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



153 



be iiiadu a legal tL'tider. This was not granted, upon the 
pti-ouiid that tlie Coiistitutinn of the United States pro- 
hihited State goveriiinents I'mni making anything but gold 
and silver eoin a legal tender. In 1808 tiie State loan of 
$10,I};{'J.8G was received by the county, and in 1837 the 
United States deposit of 5130,779.80 for loans to the peo- 
ple, as fully described elsewhere. 

THE JEKFEU.SON COUNTY BANK 

was the first banking institution organized in Jefferson 
County. Its projectors were the pioneers in the business 
enterjirise of this section of tiic State, who were determined 
to develop its resources, and felt tlie need of a bank to 
facilitate exchanges. 

The bank was incorporated by an act pa.ssed .\pril 17, 
181(), on a petition from John Brown, Roswel Woodruff, 
Jlliphalet Edmonds, David I. Andrus, Ethel Bronson, 
Jabez Foster, Egbert Ten Eyck, Iloel Lawrence, Frederick 
White, Abel Cole, and others, to continue until January 1, 
1832, with a capital not exceeding $400,000, in shares of 
SIO each. Elisha Camp, of Ilounsfield, Jesse Hopkins, 
of Henderson, Ebenezer Wood, of Kllisburg, .labcz Foster, 
of Watertown, Clark Allen, of Lorraine, Samuel C. Ken- 
nedy, of Rodman, Ethel Bronson, of Rutland, John Uur- 
kee, of Ciiampiou, Thomas Brayton, of Wilna, Silvius 
Hoard, of Antwerp, Mu,sgrove Evans, of Le Ray, John 
Paddock, of Brownville, and Elipbalet Edmonds, of Adams, 
were aiipointed to ajiportion the stock and locate the site of 
the banking-house. These met at Watertown, and after a 
prolonged and exciting strife between Watertown and 
Brownsville, tlie latter, uniting with other interests, suc- 
ceeded in getting it located at Adams. The first directors, 
elected June 20, 1817, were John Paddock, Iloel Law- 
rence, Ebenezer Wood, Clark Allen, David I. Andrus, S. 
F. Hooker, Elisha Camp, Frederick White, David Hale, 
Samuel C. Kennedy, John Cowles, Eliphulet Edmonds, 
and Joseph Sterling. The first president was J. Paddock. 

The bank went into operation with a paid-up capital of 
only §.")0,(I00, and such was tlie scarcity of mone}-, only a 
fraction of the amount was paid into the bank at the time 
of its opening business. 

The bank did not succeed at Adams, and, after a tempo- 
rary suspension, was in 182-t, by an act of the Legislature, 
removed to Watertown. The directors, by this act, were 
rei|uired to own at least S-jOO stock. The charter was 
further amended April 14, 18.j0, and the capital was in- 
creased to §80,000. May I!), 183G, the capital was in- 
creased from §80,000 to §200,000, and commis.sioners 
appointed to receive subscriptions in shares of ten dollars 
each. In 1837 an ineffectual effort was made to get this 
act repealed. lu 1828 it became one of the safety fund 
banks, and remained such until 1853, when it was reorga- 
nized under the general banking laws of the State. In 
18G5 it became a National Bank, and remains such to the 
present time. 

Through all these yoai-s, reaching from 1824 to 1877, 
this institution has been prominent in affording financial 
a.ssistanco and encouragement to any enterprise calculated 
to fo.ster the general .good, and its stockholders have re- 
ceived a fair return for their nmnev invested therein. 



Its presidents have been, John Paddock, 1816; Jabez 
Foster, 1817-19 ; Ethel Bron.son, 1820-25 ; Jabez Fo.stcr, 
1825-26 ; Perlcy Keyes, 1826-33; Micah Sterling, 1833 
-34 ; Orville Hungcrford, 1834-45 ; Norris >I. Woodruff, 
1845-54; R. Lansing, 1855-56; H. Camp, 1857-77. 
The cashiei-s have been, James Wood, 181()-20; 0. Hun- 
gcrford, 1824-33; 0. V. Brainard, 1833-66; Myers 
Thompson, 1866-71 ; S. T. Wcjolworth, 1871-77. During 
the long period of time while Mr. Hungcrford and Mr. 
Brainard were the cashiers, they were the able chief finan- 
cial officers. Since 1857 T. H. Camp has occupied that 
position. 

The present directors are T. II. Camp, R. Lansing, P. 
Mundy, W. C. Pierrepont, J. C. Sterling, A. M. Farwell, 
Levi II. Brown, 11. E. Hungcrford, L. A. Johnson, G. R. 
Massey, and J. C. Kuowltun. Robert Lansing is now the 
director longest in office, and has been prominent as vice- 
president, having given considerable attention to the bank, 
although he declined to continue as its chief officer. The 
last quarterly .statement, published October 1, 1877, gives 
the following exhibit : hians and discounts, 8408,048.68 ; 
capital stock, surplus, and undivided profits, §207,009.91 ; 
circulation, 886,370; deposits, §291,991.88. 

A public meeting was held at Watertown, November 27, 
1832, at which strong resolutions were passed in favor of 
the formation of a now bank, and a committee, consisting 
of J. Fairbanks, N. M. Woodruff, L. Paddock, E. Ten 
Eyck, John Fay, L. Beebee, J. Sigourney, William Ruger, 
and L. G. Hoyt, were appointed to draft a petition for a 
charter for an institution to be called the " Watertown 
Bank." The measure failed of accomplishment, and a 
second bank was not established in Watertown until after 
the passage of the general banking law in 183S. 

THE B.\.Nlv OP W.VTEllTOWN. 

A meeting of citizens of the county was held in De- 
cember, 1838, for the purpose of organizing a bank under 
the general law. O. Hungcrford, L. Paddock, N. M. 
Woodruff, W. H. Angel, and II. I). Sewall, were appointed 
to arrange the articles of association. The Bank of ^Vate^- 
town was accordingl}- formed, commencing operations Jan- 
uary 26, 1839, with §100,000 capital, the first president 
being L. Paddock, and the first cashier W. H. Angel. 
The presidents were L. Paddock, Willard Ives, John L. 
Goldsmid, T. C. Chittenden, and W. H. Angel. The latter 
succeeded to the principal ownership of the bank, the capital 
of which was about §50,000. It closed up its business alter 
the commencement of the War of the Rebellion, under the 
laws of the State. 

TUE NATIUN.VL HANK AND LOA.N COMPANY 

Wiis organized as a State bank by George C. Sherman, Jan- 
uary 20, 1839, under the name of the Watertown Bank 
and Loan Company, with a capital of 8100,000. ^Ir. 
Sherman also organized in January, 1S49, the Merchants' 
Exchange Bank, but soon atk'r merged it in the fir.st-iiauied 
institution. The State bank was reorganized August 8, 
1805, under the national banking law, with its present name, 
with George II. Slu;rnian, president ; Charles A. Sherman, 
vice-president ; and N. P. Wardwell, ea.>liier, with a capital 



154 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



of 875,000. The officers remain unchanged at this writing. 
In 1853 the lianic erected the elegant banking-house on the 
corner of Washington and Stone streets, which it still oc- 
cupies. This bank has remained in the family of George 
C. Sherman since its first organization, the sons succeeding 
to it as a portion of their patrimony, and conducting it 
with the efficient management of its founder. The last 
published statement of the bank shows its capital and sur- 
plus and undivided profits to have been, on the first day of 
October, 1877, S95,370.(J3; its circulation, $56,200 ; its 
deposiU!, 8175,316.05; its loans and discounts, §199,285.17, 
and its real estate, etc., was valued at 822,130.50. 

THE BL.\CK RIVER B.iNK 

was opened May 25, 1844, with a capital of 8100,000, of 
which Loveland Paddock owned nine-tenths, the remainder 
being held by Oscar and Edwin L. Paddock. It continued 
to transact buiiniss until 1868, when it went into voluntary 
liquidation, and closed up its business. 

THE NATIONAL UNION BANK 
of Watertown was organized as a State bank under the 
name of the '■ Union Bank," June 10, 1852, with the fol- 
lowing incorporators and stockholders : Henry Keep, George 
S. Goodalc, A. M. Woodruff, Walter N. Woodruff, Abner 
Raker, who subscribed 82000 and upwards to the capital 
stock of 8100,000; Washington Genet, Orrin C. Utley, 
Loveland Paddock, Daniel Lee, J. H. Dutton, E. Q. Sewell, 
who subscribed 81000 each; W. K. Hawks, John White, 
and John C. Sterling. The first election was held August 3, 
1853, at which a board of thirteen directors were chosen, who, 
at their first meeting, elected Henry Keep president, W. K. 
Hawkes vice-president, and George S. Goodale cashier. On 
August 16, 1853, W. K. Hawks was elected president, and 
was succeeded by Abner Baker, August 7, 1855, John White 
being elected vice-president at the .same time. August 4, 
1856, S. B. Upham was chosen ca.shier, and has served in 
that position ever since. On October 4, 1858, Merrill Co- 
burn was elected president, and James K. Bates vice-presi- 
dent. August 8, 18G5, the State bank was reorganized 
under the national banking law, with its present name, and 
the same officers as last named. Since that date the offi- 
cers have been as follows : Presidents, 1865 to July 9, 
18G9, .Merrill Coburn ; July 9, 1869, to January, 1877, 
Alanson Skinner; January 9, 1877, to present time, Gildc- 
roy Lord. A'icc-Prtsidents, 1865 to 1873, James K. Bates ; 
January 14, 1873, to January 9, 1877, Gilderoy Lord; 
January 9, 1877, to present time, John A. Sherman. 
Cashier, 1856-1877, Samuel B. Upham. The last pub- 
lished statement of the "National Union," dated October 
1, 1877, gives the following exhibit: Loans and discounts, 
8330,276.88; real estate, etc., 832,291.83 ; capital stock, 
surplus, and undivided profits, 8193,821.70; circulation, 
894,500 ; deposits, 8258,446.39. 

THE JEFFERSON COUNTY .SAVINGS BANK 

w;ls incorporated April 5, 1859, with twenty-two trustees 
named in the act, thirteen of whom met some time before 
the l.st of July rolli>wing and elected permanent officers, as 
follows : James I. Steele, president ; Fred. Emerson, vice- 



president ; John L. Marsh, secretary and treasurer ; Lafay- 
ette J. Bigelow, Peter Ilaas, and Merritt Andrus, loan com- 
mittee. The trustees adopted a code of by-laws, and 
limited deposits to a minimum of twenty-five cents, none less 
than one dollar to draw interest, the latter being established 
at five per cent. In 1861 there was a general reorganiza- 
tion, and a new board of trustees was elected, who elected 
new officers, except vice-president. The deposits at the date 
of the last published report in July, 1877, amounted to 
8423,822.55, and the loans and discounts to 8392,666.99. 
The officers of the bank have been as follows : Presidents, 
1859-61, James I. Steele; 1861-77, A. M. Farwell. 
Vice-President, 1859 to present time, 1877, Fred Emerson. 
Secretaries, 1859, John L. Marsh; 1860, Reuben Treat; 
1861, Henry W. Hubbard; 1861-77, George H. Sher- 
man. Treasurers, 1859, John L. ^larsh ; 1860, Reuben 
Treat; 1860, Henry W. Hubbard; 1861-77, Charles N. 
Ely. Present board of Trustees, Robert Lansing, A. M. 
Farwell, Gilbert Bradford, S. B. Upham, John L. Baker, 
W. Hubbard, George H. Sherman, Fred. Emerson, D. B. 
Baldwin, R. E. Hungerford, George B. Phelps. 

THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK 

was the first bank organized under the n.itional banking- 
law in Jefferson Count}', and among the first in the State, 
being No. 73, there being at the present time over two 
thousand. It was organized June 8, 1863, the banking- 
law being passed in February, 1863. The founders of this 
bank were Loveland Paddock and his sons Oscar and Edwin 
L. Paddock, the senior Paddock being its president from 
the organization of the same until his death, when he was 
succeeded by Edwin L. Paddock, who Wiis previously the 
vice-president. Oscar Paddock was the cashier from the 
organization until the elevation of Oscar L. to the presi- 
dency, when he (Oscar) was made vice-president, and 
George L. Woodruff was chosen cashier, and still remains 
at his post. Frank Smith is at present assistant cashier. 
The last published st^itement, dated October 1, 1877, makes 
the following exhibit: Loaiis and discounts, 883,409.99 ; 
capital, surplus, and undivided profits, 8180,437.14; circu- 
lation, 886,700; deposits, 850,861.38. 

merchants' BANK. 

The above-named institution was first opened in 1865 
by Hon. Norris Winslow, as an individual banker. The 
first cashier was John F. Lawrence, who held the office for 
about a year, when he was succeeded by John F. Moffett. 
This bank did a flourishing and prosperous business for the 
ensuing five years, when it was organized as a banking 
institution, under the State laws, with the same title, on 
April 1, 1870, with the following incorporators and stock- 
holders : Willard Ives, S. Pool, Henry W. Eddy, Andrew 
Smith, John Johnston, George B. Phelps, George W. Wig- 
gins, G. W. Candee, Norris Winslow, Judah Lord, Curtis 
Goulding, Jerome Ives, L. C. Greenleaf, Lotus Ingalls, 
John F. Moffett, Sidney Coojier, and John M. Carpenter, 
with a paid-up capital of 8150,000. The first election 
was held April 4, 1870, at which a board of nine directors 
was chosen, viz. : Norris Winslow, Willard Ives, Henry W. 
Eddy, Andrew Smith, Sidney Cooper, George B. Phelps, 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



155 



S. Pool, John M. Carpenter, ami John F. Moffott, who, at 
their first meeting, elected the t'ullowiiig officers: Norris 
Winslow, president ; Willard Ives, vice-president ; and John 
F. ^loffott, cashier. The capital stock was increased .May 20, 
1872, by a unanimous vote of the directors, from 8150,000 
to $300,000. This was owing chiefly to the largely-increas- 
ing business caused by the confidence of the community in 
the management of the institution. Mr. 'NVin.slow held the 
position of president until October 12, 1874, when he was 
succeeded by lion. Willard Ives, who has since served in 
that capacity. The vacancy caused in the vice-presidency 
by Mr. Ives' accession to the presidency has been very ably 
filled by Silvanus Pool since that time. 'Mr. John F. Mof- 
fctt has been the cashier from the formation of the bank up 
to the present time. 

The present board of directors arc as follows : Wil- 
lard Ives, Silvanus Pool, Henry W. Eddy, John M. 
Carpenter, Isaac A. Graves, I. L. Hunt, Jr., Henry 0. 
Kenyon, Jerome Ives, J. F. Moflett. The last published 
statement, dated September 22, 1877, gives the following 
exhibit : Loans and discounts, S5S7,!)82.74 ; real estate, 
828,(552.25 ; capital, §300,000 ; surplus and individual 
profits, 831,926.93; deposits, $409,530.97. 

INDIVIDUAL B.VNKS. 

Woostcr Sherman's Bntih% Waterlown, opened January 
8, 1842, and now discontinued. Henry Kei-p's Bunk, 
Watertown, opened September 28, 1847, discontinued. 
Mccliani'cs' yia»/i-, AVatertown, by Henry Keep, begun Sep- 
tember 17, 1851, had no office for discount and deposit. 
Capital 820,000, and now discontinued. Citizens' Bank, es- 
tablished by Keep at Watertown, August 1, 1850, afterwards 
removed to Ogdensburgh, and in August, 1852, at Fiiltun, 
Oswego county. Frontier Bank, established by Keep at 
Watertown, removed, in the spring of 1851, to Pot.sdam. 

The total banking capital of the present, employed in the 
city, aggregates the sum of $1,009,406 ; the deposits foot 
up the hand.some sum of 81,609,969.82; while the loans 
and di.scount.s on the same date (October 1, 1877) amounted 
to 82,001,670.45. 

INSURANCE. 

Watertown capitalists have invested largely in the forma- 
tion of insurance companies, and have realized handsome 
profits from the investments made. The companies now 
existing here have all been sueeossful and prosperous, and 
have an excellent rei)utation at home and abroad. 

TllK .IKFFEUSON COt:NTY MUTl'AL I.N.SURANCE COMPANY 

was formed by a special act, March 8, 1836, by which Al- 
pheus S. Greene, Jas<m Fairbanks, Orville Hungerford, 
George C. Sherman, Eli Farwell, Norris M. WoodrulT, 
Tliomas Loomis, Lsaac II. Bronson, John Saftord, Edmond 
Kirby, William Boom, Joel Woodworth, and Joseph Shel- 
don and their a.ssociates, were incorporated during a period 
of twenty years. The directors named in the act met on 
the 17th of March, elected Norris M. Woodruff, president; 
A. S. Greene, vice-president; Robert Lansing, secretary; 
N. M. Wondruff, A. S. Greene, J. Fairbanks. G. C. Sher- 
man, and E. Farwell, executive couiTuittee. The affairs of 
his company have been closed several years. 



THE AORICLLTURAL INSURANCE CO.MPANY. 

In August, 1851, a meeting of farmers of Jefferson and 
Lewis counties was held at the village of Evans' Mills, for 
the purpose of organizing an insurance eoni]>any to take 
risks exclusively upon i'arm property. At that meeting the 
following gentlemen were named as a board of corporators, 
viz. : Aldcn Adams, Ira A. Smith, Harri.son Blodgett, John 
C. Cooper, Gideon S. Sacket, Isaac Munson, Evelyn F. 
Carter, Jcseph Fayel, Lovcland Paddeck, Wolcott Steele, 
Wm. P. Babcoek, Ashley Davenport, Ira Beaman. Hiram 
Dewey and Levi Miller. At a sub.se(|uent meeting Alden 
Adams was elected president; Isaac Mun.^on, vice-presi- 
dent; U. A. Wright, secretary; and E. B. Fowler, general 
agent. 

There was much delay in perfecting its organization, 
which was finally completed, mainly through the persistent 
energy of E. B. Fowler, who was the real founder of the 
Mutual company, in March, 1853. From this time until 
May, 1S55, the company issued only about fifteen hundred 
policies. In January, 1855, John C. Cooper was elected 
president, in place of Alden Adams, and by special act of 
the legislature the office was changed from the village of 
Evans' Mills to the village of Watertown ; and on May 3, 
of that year, Lsaac Munson was elected secretary in place 
of U. A. Wright. After the removal of the office to 
Watertown the busiuess began gradually to increase, and 
the company to prosper, ])erha|)S beyond any other mutual 
insurance company in the State, and continued to do so 
until 1802, when, in consequence of the failure of the 
greater uuuiber of the mutual companies in this State, and 
the closing up of their business by collecting and prosecuting 
their premium-notes, it became extremely difficult, where 
the company was not well known, to obtaiu premium-notes 
sufficient to keep the capital of the company intact. At a 
meeting of the directors a proposition was made to change 
from a mutual to a stock company. This requiring the 
con.seut of two-thirds of its policy-holders, it was deemed 
best to defer the change for one year. In the mean time, 
the recjuired number of policy-holdcre having signed a 
petition, the change was effected January 9, 1803. 

During its existence as a mutual, the Agricultural paid 
all its losses promptly, never taxed its premium-notes, and 
accumulated in ten years a surplus to the amount of 
845,572. Having over ■? 10,000,000 at risk, the superin- 
tendent of the insurance department decided that this fund 
could not be divided, but must be held sacred to carry out 
the risks in force, while the capital paid in by the stock- 
holders must be security for future policy-holders. Afler 
this decision every effort was made by the directors to in- 
duce the old policy-holders to take the new stock, so that 
the ownership might not change, but with a preference to 
them of over sixty days in which to take the stock. But 
advertising and the personal effort of the officers were of 
little avail, so that less than one-third of the stock was 
taken by the old policy-holders, and the company com- 
menced its new career under the old officers, but to a large 
extent with new owners. The following increase each year 
in the number of policies issued will show the energy with 
which the business was conducted, and the popularity of 
the company : 



156 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Tear. 


No. Policies. 


Year. 


No. Policie 


1853 


888 


1861 


3/A\ 


1854 


(W9 


1862 .... 


3,874 


1855 


1106 


1863 .... 


4.210 


1856 


1440 


1864 .... 


9,l:tO 


1857 


1724 


1865.... 


14,671 


185S 


2US9 


18(Hi 


18,377 


1859 


-iXA 


186; .... 


23,S)5 


ISfiO 


:il2.i 


1868 


25,040 



Year. No. Policies. 

1869 26,9U1I 

1870 :i,V>"0 

1871 41..'>80 

1872 48,395 

1873 59,837 

1874 40,9.^9 

1875 43,837 

1876 41,002 

Total policies issued '. 460,093 

This couipaiiy has now been in existence a quarter of a 
century, has during that time paid S2,325,150 for losses, . 
has always mot them j>romptly, and has accumulated cash 
assets to the amount of about §1,100,000. It has erected 
for itself the finest marble-front office in northcru New 
York, in which it is still prosecuting its business with its 
wonted caution and success. Not only have the.se results 
been obtained by this company, but out of its prosperity — 
or in consequence of it — has grown up in this city a large 
insurance interest. The Wateitown Fire Insurance Com- 
pany was really an outgrowth of the Agricultural, and the 
success of these two companies induced the organization of 
others, until there are now over 82,500,000 invested in 
this enterprise in this city. What is a little remarkable in 
the history of this company is the fact that sis of the 
original fifteen corporators are now living, and the present 
vice-president, secretaiy, and general agent are among the 
number. They have been for twenty-five years and still 
are actively engaged in furthering the interests of the com- 
pany, with a view of placing it upon a basis of safety and 
solidity, that it may remain a monument to their zeal and 
energy, and continue an honor to the county, and one of its 
permanent institutions, long after their labors in its behalf 
•shall have ended. 

John C. Cooper, Esq., whose watchful care over the 
interests of the company as its president for twenty-two 
years was unceasing, died in January, 1877, and the 
vacancy was filled by the election of John A. Sherman, the 
former vice-president. 

No less to be mentioned for energetic effort and efficient 
management, and one who has done more to enlarge the busi- 
ness of the company than any other person, is its present 
secretary, I.saac Munson, who has given his life-work for 
the good of the company, and who will be honored and 
remembered as one of its mo.«t useful members. 

Favorable mention might also be made of the present 
general agent, Hiram Dewey, and othcre, who have been 
most able financiers and managers. 

TIIK WATERTOW.N FIIIE INSURANCE COMPANY. 

This company was organized December 7, 18G7, in less 
than seven week.s from the date of the first proposition to 
incor|)orate a company to do exclusively a dwelling-house 
business. 

The corporators were men of experience in the insurance 
business, and to such an extent did they command public 
confidence that the capital was all subscribed in twenty-four 
hours after the books were opened for subscription to the 
full amount proposed in the charter, to wit, 8100,000. 
It commenced its business cautiously in a comparatively 
circumscribed locality, and kept extending its lines :is the 
confidence of both stockholders and policy-holdere seemed 
to demand, until its business luus attained large proportions 
fur a comjiany confining its business to a specialty on 



dwellings and contents. In less than ten years this com- 
pany has grown from 8100,000 to about 8750,000, steadily 
growing in the confidence of its patrons. The following 
table will .show its steady uniform increase : 

Policie.s I.sitod. A^iseta. ] Policies Issued. Assets. 

During Drc. 1867 139 8101,234.21 I During 1872 23,892 S4;i8,890.54 

1868 3.961 124,084.66 '• 187.1 :M,9I2 55|-,,84il.90 

" 1869 5,S81 148,.'>31.47 " 1871 36,4(H) 018,941.51 

" 1870 7,717 171.753 98 " 1875 36,890 694,07"i.63 

" 1871 15,016 333,693.13 | " 1876 36,9:10 725,819.08 

At the first election of officers Hon. Norris Winslow was 
elected president, Jesse M. Adams secretary, and Henry 
S. Munson general agent. Mr. Winslow resigned his 
position as president in 1870, and Hon. Willard Ives was 
elected to fill the vacancy. Chiis. II. Waite was elected 
general agent iu 18G8 and still retains his position, as also 
does Mr. Adams, who have carefully watched over its in- 
terests, iissisted for the hist few years by U. S. Gilbert, the 
vice-president. 

The business of the company has ever been strictly con- 
fined to private residences and their contents, although the 
charter was changed the present year to give a little more 
latitude in regard to its risks, but no change to any extent 
has been made nor any contemplated. The organization 
of this eumjiany has been one of the fortunate enterprises 
of Watertowu, as proved by its success. Not only has it at- 
tained this steady uniform growth until it has become the 
largest moneyed corporation in the city, with one exception, 
but it has every year made liberal dividends to its stock- 
holders, and loaned nearly $500,000 upon bond and mort- 
gage in the county. It has received nearly 82,000,000 fur 
premiums and paid nearly 81,' '00, 000 for losses, and no 
one month's losses have ever yet exceeded its premium re- 
ceipts. Its prospect is such that all may well be proud of 
it, and abroad, as well as at home, it reflects a credit upon 
the euterpri.ses of Jefferson County. Its present directors 
are Hon. Willard Ives, Isaac JIunsun, Hiram Dewey, 
John A. Sherman, J. M. Caiitield, II. M. Stevens, E. F. 
Carter, J. R. Stebbins, U. S. Gilbert, F. H. Munson, C. H. 
Waite, J. JI. Adams. 

NOKTIIERN INSURANCE COMPANY OP NEW YORK. 

This company was organized as the '• Black River In- 
surance Company," in March, 1872, and is the only 
Watertown company transacting a commercial business. 
It is not confined to dwellings and farm property, but 
insures .stores, merchandise, inanufactuiing establishments, 
mills, etc. The company was organized after the Chicago 
fire of October 9, 1871, had made many vacant places 
in the insurance ranks, and its projectors had naturall}' 
bright visions of future good. The Boston conflagration 
in November, 1872, however, found the company scarcely 
established, and ill prepared to withstand the heavy losses 
entailed by that disaster. The Black River paid over 
$80,000 to Boston suflerers, the stockholders voluntarily 
paying into the funds an amount e<|ual to twenty-five per 
cent, of the cai>ital stock. The year 1S73 w;is not a suc- 
cessful one for the Black River, and the stockholders were 
called upon for an additional subscription of tweut3'-five 
per cent., which was cheerfnily responded to, and thence- 
forward the success of the inslilutiun was assured. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



157 



Early in 1875 the name of tlie company was changed to 
its juesent one, as it was found, after due trial, that the 
original title, tlunigh locally pojiuiar, was provocative of 
unfriendly criticism and diAtrust among distant communi- 
ties where agencies were planted. 

The company is now one of tlic c>tal)li.shed institutions 
of the county ; is well known and di.scrvcdly popular in all 
th(3 principal cities from the Atlantic to the Pacific ; its 
reputation for fair and honorable dealing being second to 
none. Its assets now reach the respectable figure of almost 
8400,01)0, and its net surplus (or undivided profits) over 
all liabilities is over S.'jO.OOO. 

The first president of the Black River was Loveland 
Paddock, and its directoi'S and stockholders comprised most 
of the leading men of Watertown. Mr. Paddock died 
during the summer of 1872, and was succeeded in the 
office by his son George F. Paddock, who remained the 
president until January, 1875, when he was succeeded by 
the present popular and enterprising president, Hon. Gilde- 
roy Lord, to whose unswerving faith and business tact much 
of the later success of the company is due. 

The present oflicers and directoi-s are as follows : Gilde- 
roy Lord, president ; W. W. Taggart, vice-president ; A. 
H. Wray, secretary. Directors, John L. Baker, Henry M. 
Ball, C. A. Ilolden, G. W. Knowlton, Jr., Gilderoy Lord, 
Jose])h Mullen, Josejih ^luUen, Jr., Pearson Mundy, Lsaac 
P. Powers, George II. Sherman, H. G. P. Spencer, Wm. 
W. Taggart, B. B. Taggart, Samuel B. Upham, George L. 
Woodruff, A. H. Wray, all of Watertown ; R. P. Flower 
and Reuben S. Middleton, of New York City ; A. F. Barker, 
of Clayton ; and Henry Spicer, of Perch Ilivcr, Jefferson 
County. 

THE nO.MESTE.\D FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY. 

This company was organized in 1873. Its business is 
confined to farm buildings and property, detached city and 
village residences, and takes no hazardous risks of any 
description. While the company is comparatively a new 
cue, it hits met with a success somewhat remarkable. The 
report of the companj', January 1, 1877, shows that its 
assets were §271,865.80, and since 187-1 it has not failed 
to make its semi-annual dividend. Its present officers are 
Hon. Allen C. Beach, president, who has filled the position 
from the organization; John C. Sterling, vice-president; 
Charles F. Sawyer, secretary ; Myers Thompson, treasurer. 

THE EMPIRE STATE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, 

of Watertown, w;is conceived and projected by John Shel- 
don, of Watertown, and was incorporated in April, 1869, 
and commenced issuing policies in June following. The 
first officers were, James A. Bell, president ; Loveland Pad- 
dock and Ezra B. Cornell, vice-presidents ; John Sheldon, 
secretary and treasurer. In January, 1870, George B. 
Phelps succeeded to the presidency, and continues in that 
po.sition at the present time. The business of the company 
was run successfully and economically under the direct 
management of John Sheldon, secretary and treasurer, and 
at the end of three years, or July 1, 1872, the assets had 
reached over $350,000, policies to the number of 6000 
having been issued. In August, 1872, the directors re- 



solved to discontinue business by reason of large losses by 
death, and the financial depression which was already bur- 
dening the resources of the country, and entered into an 
arrangement with the Life Association of America, of St. 
Louis, Missouri, to assume the carrying out of its policy 
contracts, and also to reimburse the stockholders. 

Since that arrangement all the policies have been trans- 
ferred to the association, or otherwise closed out, leaving 
the company at this time (October, 1877) with an orgim- 
ization merely. 

The company, while running, had a record of which it 
could well feel proud, and undoubtedly much of its success 
was owing to the large business exjieriencc of George B. 
I'helps, president, and of Messrs. T. H. Camp and Isaac 
Miuison, of the board of directors. 

A BOARD OF FIRE UNDERWRITERS 

was organized in 1866, and reorganized in 1872, and is 
now in operation, with D. 31. Bennett as president, and 
Charles B. Fowler secretary, the latter having served since 
its first organization. 

TRADE. 

The first merchants to bring a stock of goods to Water- 
town were John Paddock and William Smith, who brought 
their wares from Utica in wagons and opened their store in 
1805. In March, 1807, seventeen sleighs, laden with goods 
for tlie.se pioneer tradesmen, were twenty-three days in 
getting from Oneida county to Watertown by way of Red- 
field. A census of the village in 1827 gave twenty-eight 
mercantile establishments of various kinds. The city di- 
rectory of M. M. Kimball for 1877-8, gives the number 
of mercantile houses as one hundred and seventy-four. 

A summary of the business of the present, of the city 
of Watertown, admits of the following classifications: 1 ac- 
countant, 5 agricultural-implement dealers, 2 architects, 2 
artists, 53 attorneys, 4 bakeries, 6 banks, 10 barbers, 7 
blacksmith-shops, 1 blind-hinge manufactory, 3 binderies, 
5 book and job printing-offices, 5 dealere in books and 
stationery, 10 boot- and shoe-dealci-s, 9 boot- and shoe- 
makers, 3 dealers in bottled lager (wholesale), 1 dealer 
(wholesale) in bottled soda and ginger ale, 1 brass-foundry, 

1 brewery, 1 brick-yard, 2 candle-factories, 5 carpet-dealers, 
10 carriage-, sleigh-, and wagon-factories, 1 carriage-reposi- 
tory, 7 cigar- and tobacco-manufactories, 9 dealers in clothing 
and gents' furnishing goods, 2 dealers in coal, salt, and 
cement, 2 dealers in coffins, robes, and plates, 6 confectioners, 

2 coopers, 2 dealers in crockery, glass, and china ware, 1 
cotton-yarn factory, 7 dentists, 8 dress- and cloak-making 
establishments, 7 dealers in drugs, medicines, etc., 9 dry- 
goods houses (1 wholesale), 2 dye-works, 1 vacuum-brake 
manufactory, 1 express office (American), 1 dealer in fire- 
and burglar-proof safes, 4 dealers in oysters and fish, 2 
florists, 1 flour- and feed-dealer, 1 flour-sack manufactorj-, 5 
foundry- and machine-shops, 8 fruit and vegetable garden- 
ers, 3 furniture-manufacturers, 7 gas-fitting and plumbing 
establishments, 1 grain-dealer, 6 flouring- and grist-mills, 26 
grocery and provision houses, 1 gunsmith, 4 hardware 
houses, 5 harness and trunk dealers, 4 hat, cap, and fur 
dealers, 2 dealere in hides and felts, 11 hotels, 1 manu- 



158 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



factory of carving-tables, 3 ice doalei-s, 4 insurance com- 
panies, 10 insurance agents, 1 intelligence office, 10 dealers 
in jewelry, watches, and clocks, 2 justices of the peace, 4 
dealers in ladies' furnishing goods, 1 dealer in ladies' sani- 
tary goods, 1 lamp-manufactory, 3 laundries, 1 dealer in 
leather and findings, 1 Limburger cheese dealer, 3 dealers 
in lime, land-plaster, etc., 5 livery and sale stables, 3 lum- 
ber-dealers, 1 malt-house, 3 marble-dealers, 12 meat-markets, 

1 (firm) dealer in mechanics' tools, 6 merchant tailors, 10 
milkmen, 11 niilliners, 2 music and piano houses, 7 music- 
teachers, 2 news depots, 5 newspaper offices (3 weeklies, 2 
dailies), 1 notions and jewelry house, 10 nurses, 10 dealers 
in ornamental hair-work, 2 niaiiuraeturers of ornamental 
iron-work, paint-sluips, 4 paper-manufactories, 1 pattern- 
and mudei-makcr, 1 pawnbroker, 1 pearl-barley mill, 2 
pension and claim agents, 3 photograph galleries, 19 phy- 
sicians, 2 piano-tuners, 4 dealers in picture-frames and 
chromos, 5 planing-mills and moulding-manufactories, 2 
plow-factories, 3 pump-manufactories, 2 pop-corn dealers, 1 
post office, 4 restaurants and boarding- and diningsaloons, 

2 railroad stations, 2 salt-dealers, 4 sash-, door-, and blind- 
factories, 1 saw-manufacturer, 2 saw-mills, 1 scrivener, 3 
secondhand stores, 1 sewing-machine factory, 2 sewing- 
machine agents, 2 sextons, 6 dealers in silver and plated 
ware, 2 electro-platers, 2 shirt-manufactories, 2 soap-facto- 
ries, 2 dealers iti sportsmen's goods, 2 steam-engine manu- 
factories, 1 stair-builder, 10 stove dealers, tinsmiths, etc., 
4 tanneries, 2 telegraph offices, 2 ticket agencies, 1 tile and 
sewer-pipe manufactory, 3 dealers in toys and fancy goods, 
2 umbrella-re]iairers, 2 undertakers, 1 file-works, 3 wine- 
and li(|uor-dcalers, 1 wool-carding and cloth-dressing estab- 
lishment, 1 wood-engraver, 3 wood-yards. 

The ca[iityl invested in the business enumerated above 
is approximately as follows: 

In inanufaclurcs s$1.2S.'i.n00 

In tnulc 52,117,000 

Iiisuninc-e — ca|iit»l nnii surplus 2..')00.000 

Daiikinj! 1.00i),4fiB 

H:iilr(i:i.l ciipilal in the city f 2:!;i,'.l6I 

Total §7,145,427 

The shipments of the Rome, Watertown and Ogdcns- 
burgh railroad fnjm the station at Watertown, for the year 
ending Sept. 30, 1877, aggregated 11,210 tons, of which 
there wore 1017 tons of butter and cheese, 1356 tons of 
flour and wheat, and 3499 tons of paper. 

SIX DECADES I.\ THE 1>0ST-0FPICE OP WATERTOWN. 

During the administration of President Monroe, from 
1S17 to 1S24 inclusive, the Watertown post-office was kept 
on the corner of Court street and the Public Square, on 
the site n<iw occupied by the Jlerchanls' Bank. Here Dr. 
Henry H. Sherwood officiated as postmaster, and inter- 
spersed his official duties with the sale of drugs and medi- 
cines until 1825, when he was succeeded in the office by 
Daniel Lee, an ap]ioititec of John Quincy Adams. Mr. 
Lee removed the office temporarily to the Fairbanks cor- 
ner, and thence to the old Symonds store, near where the 

* Esliinulei* of comnipreiul report?. 

■f A? tt.'iscsscil by the county for tu\ation. 



Union National Bank office now stands. In 1829, Alpheus 
S. Greene was appointed by President Jackson, and the 
post-office again occupied the Fairbanks corner until the 
erection of the old American block in 183.5, when it was 
removed to the corner basement of that building. Mr. 
Greene kept the office here until 1839, when he gave way 
to Mr. Alvin Hunt, an appniiitment of President Van 
Burcn. In 1841, John F. Hutchinson was appointed post- 
ma.ster by President Jnhii Tyler, and soon after removed 
the office to the west store of the old American block on 
Arsenal street. In 1845, Pears(jn JIundy was appointed to 
the office by President Polk, and kept tlio same in the last- 
named place until the spring of 1849, when the building, 
office, ;ind its contents were destroyed by the fire that laid 
waste the business portion of Watcrtown.^a conflagration 
still spoken of as the great fire, an account of which is 
given elsewhere in this work. Philo S. John.son, an 
appointee of President Zachary Taylor, succeeded 31 r. 
Mundy, and on Saturday evening, the 29th of May, 1849, 
Mr. Johnson called upon Mr. Mundy and made arrange- 
ments for the transfer of the post-office property, and Mr. 
Mundy s interest therein also, which amounted to several 
hundred dollars. The transfer was to be made the next 
Monday morning; but at two o'clock on the next morning 
(Sunday), within one hour of the changing of the night 
mail from Sacket's Harbor to Utica, the same being 
brought through by coach, the Watertown post-office was 
in flames; and so complete was its destruction, Mr. Mundy 
had scarcely more to pass to his successor than the title of 
his office. However, the new postmaster, assisted by the 
one he had displaced, gathered together the fragments that 
had escaped destruction and opened an office on the east 
side of Washington street, in a building situated near the 
present site of 1). B. Sanford's store, in Wa.shiiigton Ilall 
block, where it remained until the completion of the Pad- 
dock Arcade in 1850, when it was removed to its present 
location, where it has ever since remained. Wni. H. Si- 
gourney was Mr. Johnson's successor, and served during 
the administrations of Presidents Pierce and Buchanan. 
In 18t)l, Levi Smith was appointed by President Lincoln, 
and held the office until March 1, 1870, During his 
official term the office was considerably enlarged by the 
addition of the store known as Rand's New.s-room, and 
remodeled and improved generallj'. Mr. Smith was suc- 
ceeded by Wm, G. Williams, the present incumbent (by 
whose courtesy this sketch has been prepared), who held 
the office until April 1, 1874, when he was succeeded for a 
few weeks only by Alexander Campbell, whose health would 
not permit him to discharge anj' of the duties of the office 
excejit to attach his signature to official jiajiers. On Mr. 
Campbell's decease, April 28, 1874, Jlr. Williams was 
reappointed. In 1873 the office was again remodeled, and 
supplied with new distributing cases and efficient appliances 
to facilitate the distribution of mails and meet the growing 
needs of the community. 

To give an approximate idea of the growth of Water- 
town, and the increasing business of the office, a statement 
is annexed showing its business from July, 1876, to July, 
1877. During this year there were sent from this office 
520,176 letters, 105,570 postal cards, 175,500 j)ackages 



HISTOKY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



159 



and pieces of second-class matter, sucli as newspaper pack- 
ages from offices of publication, etc. ; 85,250 pieces of third- 
class matter, such as circulars, hooks, samples, mercliaiidise, 
etc. ; making a total of 880,496 pieces, the total weight of 
which was 117,000 pounds. There were 2842 pieces sent 
daily, weighing 1575 pounds. There were registered 590 
domestic and 207 foreign letters, and of such there were 
received 2013, and 3403 pas.sed through the office in 
transit to other puints. of which a record was made. There 
were issued during the year money-orders amounting to 
$30,725.07, and there were paid orders amounting to 
$71,025.07. During the same time stamps, stamped en- 
velopes, and postal cards were sold to the amount of about 
$17,000. During the year named over 14,000 lock-pouches 
and 1500 sacks were sent from the office to convey mails 
dispatched, and about the same number received, and of the 
same weight. Jloney-orders were first issued from this 
office November 1, 1864, and the number of the first year's 
issue was 292. The total number issued to date (Novem- 
ber 1, 1877) is 20,115, 3(100 being Lssucd during the last 
year. Mr. Bruce F. JIartin is the assistant postmaster of 
this office, and four clerks are regular!}' employed therein, 
fifteen mails being received and fifteen dispatched daily, 
except Sunday. 

THE SCHOOLS OP WATERTOWN. 

The first school-house in Watertown was a barn, and the 
oldest school-teacher was a little girl. In the summer of 
1802, two years after Henry Coffcen and Zachariah Butter- 
field made the first settlement within the present city, Sally 
Coifeen, a daughter of the foruuT, only fourteen (jr fifteen 
years old, began a school fur the still younger cliiKlren of the 
four or five families who then constituted the population of 
Watertown village, in a barn on the site of the " Despatch" 
block, on Arcade street. The same year her sister, bearing 
the peculiar name of Heiress Coffecn, took her place, occu- 
pying a log house on the Adams road, now Washington 
street, where she taught for three summers. A Mr. Good- 
rich taught there one or two winters, being the first male 
teacher in the village. These were all private schools, 
there being as yet no public organization. 

In 1804 a school district was organized, embracing the 
whole town of Watertown (which then included Houns- 
field) except the Burrville district. A small frame school- 
house was immediately begun, on the road to Champion, 
its site being now occupied by the Tlnivcrsalist churc'li on 
the public square. It was not completed until 1S05, when 
there were a dozen or fifteen families in the settlement, and 
other districts had already- been organized in the town. It 
was at the top of a steep hill, and the west end was upheld 
four feet above the ground by pine logs set on end. The 
onlj' seats were pine boards fastened to the wall and run- 
ning around three sides of the single room. 

The first teacher in this primitive temple of education 
was a Scotchman named McGregor, still remembered for a 
sternness as forbidding, though in a different way, as that 
of his namesake, the celebrated Rob Roy. He was suc- 
ceedud by an itinerant minister named Leavenworth, who 
preached and taught for two years. He was followed by 
Roswell Babbitt, and he by a Mr. Laidlaw. In those times 



children used to come, in summer, from the Cold creek 
neighborhood on the east, from Watertown Centre on the 
south, and from the Parker settlement on the west. In 
winter only the boys and occasionally some of the large 
girls made these toilsome trips through the snow. But cue 
after the other these .sections were detached from the original 
district, until the latter wa.s reduced to the immediate 
vicinity of the thriving village. 

At the little school-hou.'^e on the hill was held, in 1807, 
the first court in Jelforson County ; the presiding justice 
being Hon. Smith Thom]]son. After the adjournment of 
the real tribunal a sham one was organized, in which the 
fondness of our forefathers for rough practical jokes found 
ample vent. One after the other the principal citizens of 
the county were convicted of murder, arson, chewing gum, 
burglary, and vi failing to smuggle potash into Canada. 

The school-house walls witnessed punishments which had 
better be imagined than described, and if any one was left 
unconvicted of crime, it was because he was too insignificant 
to invite attention. 

Mr. Laidlaw taught about 1810. In that year the pub- 
lic-spirited villagers determined that something should be 
done for the cause of higher education. Two thousand five 
hundred dollars was raised by subscription, a lot was pur- 
chased, and in that and the following year a two-story brick 
building was erected for an academy, which .stood on the 
east side of Washington street, on the ground now occupied 
by Academy street. The war, which broke out in 1812, 
and perhaps other causes, prevented the academy from 
being opened, and the building was frequently used as a 
hospital during that conflict. 

In the district school, Mr. Laidlaw was succeeded by an 
eccentric and unfortunate individual, named Jeremiah 
Bishop ; more frequently called " Long-legged Bishop" 
by the irreverent portion of his .scholars. He taught 
school while confined to the jail-limits for debt, and was 
somewhat famous in old times as a road-maker. Desiring 
to go frequently from the school-house across the jmblic 
square to a spring in front of the site of the Woodruff 
House, and the way being overgrown with thistles and 
weeds, he sprinkled thickly with salt a space about three 
feet wide between those two points, so that the cattle and 
sheep which then roamed on the stpiare would '■ eat out" 
the desired pathway. There is some di.spute about the 
result of the experiment, but for the honor of science we 
prefer to credit those who say that this ingenious plan was 
followed by a brilliant success. 

Mr. Bishop was succeeded by Mr. Cowen, and he, in a 
short time, by Joel Everett, a very efficient teacher, who 
kept the school during the greater part of the AVar of 
1812. These were precarious times for schools in this 
vicinity ; for, when the men were called out in arms, the 
school-boys had to take their places at home as far as practi- 
cable, and, besides, everybody was in a state of more or 
less excitement lest a successful invasion by the British and 
Indians should compel them to flee from their homes. 
Some of the most aged people in the city still recollect how 
Mr. Everett used to come into school in the morning, 
anxiously inquiring of the scholars if they had heard any 
news from Sacket's Harbor. Mr. E. tau^rht until 1810. 



lUO 



HISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Ill that year Watertowii was incorporated as a village, 
and divided into two school districts, Washington street 
being the line between them. Exhausted by the war, the 
people felt no disposition to go on with the academy enter- 
prise, which was involved in debt, and the upper story of the 
building was used for several years as a district school-house 
for the eastern district ( which became district No. 3 
of the town of Watertown); the old frame- school-house 
being akindoned. Avery Skinner, then a youth of twenty, 
afterwards one of the most prominent men of Oswego county, 
taught there from 1817 to 1823; an cxtreuKly long period 
for a district school of that era. Rev. Daniel Banks also 
taught a select school in the lower story of the same build- 
ing for several years after the war, suj)plying to some 
extent the lack of an academy. 

For the western district (No. 2), the sites of the Arsenal- 
street school and the Melhodist parsonage were purebascJ 
in 1817, for two hundred and fourteen dollars, and a one- 
story brick school-house erected for six hundred and ninety- 
six dollars. 

The academy (that is, the building originally intended 
for that purpose) was sold on a mortgage, in 1821), to the 
" Watertown Ecclesiastical Society," who erected the First 
Presbyterian eburcli on the same lot, somewhat west and 
south of the former structure. The eastern district was 
then divided on the line of State street. The district north 
of that street, which retained the name of No. 3, pur- 
chased a wooden building on Factory street and fitted it up 
as a school-house. The upper story of the academy was 
occupied by the school of the southca.stern district (No. 8), 
with Mr. Skinner as teacher, until 1823, when a stone 
school-house was erected on the site of Grace church, on 
St<'rling street. These three districts remained as thus or- 
ganized as late as 1 S40 ; the school-houses remaining the 
same, except that the wooden one on Factory street was 
replaced by a brick one about 1 830. 

In 182G or 1827 the old brick academy building was 
taken down, and the material used to erect a brick structure 
on Clinton street, for the Wa.shington Fc'male Academy. 
Miss Northrop and Miss Hooker were succe.s.sively princi- 
pals there, with competent assistants; and fnmi 1828 to 
1837 the .school bore a liigh reputation, being attended by 
all the young ladies and "big girls" of the first families of 
the amiiitious village, with many from the outer regions. 

In 1831 and 1832 a determined effort was made to estab- 
lish a good high eehool for young men and boys. An or- 
ganiz.ition was effected, and the stock was promptly taken 
by the principal citizens of the place. Micah Sterling, Eg- 
bert Ten Eyck,Orville Ilungcrford, Jason Fairbanks, Love- 
land Paddock, Norris M. Woodruff, and Henry D. Sewall 
subscribed ten shares each ; nine others took five shares 
each; one took four shares; five, three shares; nineteen, 
two shares ; and twenty-six, one share each. The first 
trustees were the gentlemen just named (except Mr. Wood- 
ruff), together with Thomas Baker, Reuben Goodale, Al- 
pheus S. Greene, Justin Butterfield, William Smith, Joseph 
Goodale, Jo.seph K indole, Geo. S. Boardnian, and John 
S.ifford. A commodious stone building was erected in a 
liandsome grove on Academy street, and on the I'Jth of 
S,'ptember, 1832, La Rue P. Thompson opened the first 



terra as principal. There were not enough students assured 
to justify the employment of an assistant. It was a boys' 
academy, and the only girls who ever attended it were two 
daughters of William Smith, who had a small room by 
themselves, and whose father obtained this privilege as a 
special favor, in order that Mr. Thompson might supervise 
the classical education of the elder. After Mr. Thompson, 
Mr. Samuel Belding and Mr. Joseph Mullin, now one of 
the ju.stices of the supreme court of the State, were prin- 
cipals of the institution. It had a very moderate amount 
of jiro.sperity, and never received the visitation of the 
regents. 

In February, 1S.J6, the Watertown presbytery adopted 
resolutions proposing to unite with the Black River Con- 
gregational association in fduiidiiiga high school of a marked 
religious tendency. A joint conimittee of the presbytery 
and the association, at a meeting held the following month, 
unanimously agreed to the proposition, and recommended 
Watertown as tlie best location. On the 25th of JLiy of 
the same year the Black River Literary and Religious In- 
stitute was incorporated by the legislature, the first trustees 
being Martus Smith, James H. Monroe, Eli Farwcll, Jason 
Clark, George S. Boardman, Hart Mas.scy, Rowell Kinney, 
Craft P. Kimball, Elisha Camp, Lewis A. Wicks, Henry 
Jones, George W. Knowlton, Ebeuezer H. Snowden, John 
Covert, E. M. Adams, Elisha P. Cook, David Spear, Chas. 
B. Pond, Artemas Crittenden, John A. Cathcart, David 
Granger, Abel L. Crandall, Roswell Pettibone, and Wm. 
Chittenden. They were authorized to establish a seminary 
in Watertown, the annual income of which should not exceed 
four thou.sand dollars, to electa faculty, and to till vacancies 
in their own number. Tlicy adopted a constitution, ac- 
cording to which the board consisted of twenty-four mem- 
bers, — six Congregational and six I're.sbyterian clergymen, 
and of six Congregational and six Presbyterian laymen. 
When a vacancy occurred a person of the same class and 
sect as the late member was to be appointed in his place, 
and the presbytery or association of the late member's de- 
nomination was to have the sole power of nominating his 
successor. A board of visitors, appointed by the trustees, 
was authorized, besides exercising general supervision over 
the school, to administer to the faculty a juescribed con- 
fession of faith and a pledge of religious fidelity. 

The first fiiculty consisted of Rev. J. R. Boyd, principal ; 
Rev. John Covert, vice-principal ; and Mrs. John Covert, 
preceptress. A lot on the corner of State and Mechanic 
streets was immediately purchased for $-1500, a wooden 
building for temporary use was erecttid, and the school was 
opened in September, 183G. In the spring of 1837 the 
permanent building was begun, and in 1838 it was com- 
pleted. It was forty by seventy feet, two stories high be- 
sides the basement, built of stone and brick, and cost 8G500. 
The institution was received under the visitation of the 
Regents in January, 1838, and received a .share of the 
literature fund while it continued in operation. 

The former academy, which had always been feeble, 
speedily went down before the rivalry of the new institu- 
tion. A large majority of the stockholders in the former 
soon assigned their interest to the latter. The academy was 
suspended in 1838 or '3U, and in 1811 its corporation was 




'"* 




^RS.J.G.MARBOnLE 



J. G.jiARBOlTLL. 




RcsiOENCE or J.G.HARBOITLL, No.7 STATLST.,WATcifTowN,N.Y. 




W« Wow/iffD. 



I^rsWm. Howard. 




RiSiOLNCi or Wu. HOWARD, fh.60 Stat£St,Wai[Rtowm. fJiw 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



IGl 



dissolved by the legislature. The female academy also 
ceased to exist, as the institute had departments for both 
males and females. 

From 1838 to 18G4 the general educational .sy.steni 
remained substantially the same, primary education being 
furnished by the district schools, and higher education by 
the Black River institute, the name of which, however, was 
changed in 1S4G to '' Jeflei-son County Institute." 

Notwithstanding the apparently narrow sectarian biusis 
on which the institute wa.s founded, it met with marked 
success. It.s scholars were numbered by hundreds at a 
time. During the year 1853 it had over five hundred ; two 
hundred and sLvt^'-four males, and two hunilred and fifty- 
eight females. Tiie first principal, Kev. J. R. Boyd, con- 
tinued until 1848, when he resigned to re-enter the ministry. 
Rev. D. M. Linsley was the principal from 1848 to 1853, 
when he was succeeded by Rev. Alvan I'arnielee. In its 
palmy days there were no less than eight assistants. 

In regard to the common schools during the period above 
mentioned (1838 to 18C4), several new districts were 
foriued ; but it would not be interesting to particularize 
their exact dates, as the district system has been substan- 
tially done away with. This system becaiuc less and less 
satisfactory, and many private .schools were patronized by 
the citizens. In 1804 there were twenty-nine teachers em- 
ployed. The number of children of school age in the vil- 
lage was 2G33, while the number registered in the district 
schools was only 1287, or forty-eight per cent. This and 
other evidences of the failure of the district schools to 
meet the wants of such a village as Watertown cau.sed a 
general demand for a system of graded schools. The proper 
representations were made to the legislature, and on April 
21, 1805, an act was pa.sscd establishing such a system. 

The law provided that there should be nine commi.ssioners 
of common schools, holding office three years, their terms 
being so arranged that there should be three elected each 
year, and the commissioners in their joint capacity being 
styled the " Board of Education of the village (now city) 
of Watertown." It was made the duty of the board to 
establish and discontinue schools as they might deem best; 
to build, |)urchase, and repair school-houses ; buy and keep 
in repair furniture, apparatus, books, etc. ; to employ and 
remove all teachers as they should deem best ; to pay 
them their wages, and to maintain a general superintendence 
over the schools, adopting such regulations for their man- 
agement as they should think best. They were not allowed, 
however, to sell the school-houses, but could report the de- 
sirability' of sale to the village trustees. The latter were 
required to raise by tax the amounts which the board of 
education might certify were necessary for the purposes 
just named; provided, however, that the amount expended 
for teachers' wages and contingent expenses should not be 
less than twice, nor more than sis times, the sum appro- 
priated by the State during the previous year. The hoard 
of education was also made the trustees of the school 
libraries, and invested with various minor powers not neces- 
sary to mention here. 

The trustees of Jefferson County In.stitute were also 
authorized to lease or transfer the institute property to the 
village, in trust for school purposes, and the high school 
12 



under the board of education was made subject to the vis- 
itation of the regents of the university, and allowed to share 
in the Slate funds devoted to higher education. So long as 
the institute buildings should be leased (o the village, the 
tru.stces of the in.stitute were authorized to appoint two 
members of the board of education, in addition to the nine 
elected bj' the people. In accordance with this law, com- 
missioners were duly elected, and the board of education 
was organized. The institute leased its property to the 
village for a high school ; it has ever .since been thus lea.sed, 
and tin; institute has continued to appoint two uicmbei-s of 
the board of education ; it.s own organization being, of 
course, maintained to enable it to do so. A .system of 
graded schools was at once organized, the higher English 
branches being taught in the high school, together with a 
sufficient knowledge of the languages to prepare a pupil for 
college. The active management was confined to a super- 
intendent, appointed by the board, the same person being 
usually the clerk, though at present the principal of the 
high school is superintendent. In 1875 the system was re- 
organized, being modified in some particulai-s, though re- 
taining the same general features as before. 

The .system now provides for three departments, — the high 
school, and the grammar and primary schools. The first 
is taught in the building of that name, the litst two in the 
common-school houses. Each of the three covers four 
years or grades, making the whole course of an average 
scholar through the city schools cover twelve years. But 
no scholar can advance from one grade to another until lie 
or she shall have passed a prescribed examination. The 
studies range from the simplest lessons in reading and 
spelling up to a complete knowledge of arithmetic, grammar, 
and the other ordinary English branches, in the last term 
of the eighth year. 

In the high school there are three courses, each covering 
the four ycai-s of attendance there. The English courec 
embraces algebra, geometry, astronoui}', mental philo.sophy, 
civil government, and similar studies. 'The English and 
French, German or Latin course comprises most of the 
studies in the English course, together with either one of 
the languages just named. Finally, the classical course 
gives some of the principal English studies, combined with 
Latin and Greek sufficient to prepare a student for college. 

The total number of children registered in the public 
schools during the school year ending in May last was 1 [)4'J, 
being about sixty-eight per cent, of the whole number of 
school age in the city, the average attendance being 1311. 
Considering that just before the establishment of the board 
of education only fort^'-cight per cent, of the whole num- 
ber of children in the village attended the district schools, 
as before stated, it is plain that the new system has found 
marked favor with the people. 

Since its inauguration the following gentlemen have been 
the presidents of the board of education during the years 
named, it being understood that the year of service in each 
ca.se extends till June after the end of the year here given : 
Theodore Babcock, 1865, 'GO, and '07 ; Allen C. Beach, 
1868; Theodcn-e Babcock, ISG'J; Beman Brockway, 1870, 
'71, '72, '73, '74, '75, and '70 ; William W. Taggart, 1877. 

The board of education and principal officers are now as 



162 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



follows : William W. Tacgart (president), C. A. Holden, 
Hauiiibal Smilh, S. C. Knickerbocker, E. Q. Scwall. Wil- 
liam S. Carlisle, Charles R. Skinner, Heury H. Smith, John 
Lansing, Jnhn H. McKay, William G. Williams; Super- 
intendent, W. K. Wickes ; Assistant Superintendeot and 
Clerk, Fred. Seymour. 

The schools are in a very flourishing condition, financially 
as well as otherwise. The income for the year ending Maj-, 
1877, was: From city tax, §23,500; from State, §7241.84 ; 
from tuition fees of non-resident scholars, §1401.83; total, 
§32,143.07. The expenses for the same period were: For 
teachers' wages, §18,177.07 ; other expenses, §10,545.88. 
Total, §28,722.95. The total number of children in the 
city between the ages of 5 and 20 years, according to the 
State Superintendent's report for 1875, was 3211. 

We close with a list of the various schools, with their 
teachers and salaries, etc. : 

HicH School. — Building erected in 1838 ; 230 sittings; 
value of school property, §17,750. W. K. Wickes, A.M., 
principal; salary, §1000. R. S. Bosworth, teacher of nat- 
ural -sciences and mathematics ; salary, §900. Miss Cor- 
nelia M. Johnson, French and English literature ; §850. 
Miss Anna B. Maier, drawing and German ; §700. Miss 
Jennie M. Haas, higher English ; §440. Miss Fanny 
John.son, §140. Miss S. T. Goodenough teaches drawing 
in the common schools ; s;ilary, §320. 

Arsenal Street School. — Present building erected 
in 1856. Value of school-property, §13,900. Principal, 
Mrs. U. J. Walker ; salary, §000. Assistants, Carrie R. 
Haas, §380 ; Eliza B. Howk, §320 ; Clara Failing, §300 ; 
Eliza Bull, §300 ; L. H. Holbrook, §400 ; Anna Van Os- 
trand, §280; Carrie Van Ostrand, §280; Florence A. 
Thornton, $280 ; Kate M. Walker, §260. 

Lamo.n Street School. — Present building erected in 
1853; enlarged in 1871. Value of school-property, §21,000. 
Principal, Sophronia T. Lewis; salary, §000. Assistants, 
Mary M. Phelps, §380 ; Belle Pleader, §280 ; M. S. John- 
son, §300 ; Anna A. Wood, §440 ; Emma A. Tolles, §300 ; 
H. Delle Hutchins, §300; Ella McCarty, §280. 

MuLLi.N Street School. — Present building erected in 
1807. Value of school-property, §6000. Principal, Anna 
M. Halloran ; salary, §380. Assistants, Libbie Halloran, 
8300 ; Eliza J. Nonis, §280 ; Carrie A. Klock, §200. 

Academy Street School. — Present building erected 
in 1831. Value of school-property, §0806. Principal, 
Mrs. Mary E. Barrows; salary, §460. A.ssisfants, Polly 
Felt, §320; Mary E. Hay, §320; E. B. Smith, §300; 
Jennie R. Farnham, §200. 

Boon Street School. — Building erected in 1874. 
Value of school-property, §15,000. Principal, Lou M. 
Wood ; salary, §440. A.^sistants, Mary O'Connor, §280 ; 
Leilla Kcl..^cy, §280 ; Mary McCormick, §280. 

Cooper Street Schooi^-Bcilding. — Erected in 1858. 
Value of school-property, §3500. Principal, 31 i.ss Rebecca 
McConnoll; salary, §3S0. Assistant.-*, Nettie Thompson, 
$280 ; Sarah Chelli.s, §300. 

Bradlev Street School. — Building erected in 1824. 
Value of school-property, §025. Teacher, Malitta Ileiider- 
.son, §280. 

Factory Street School— Building erected in 1823. 



Value of school-property, $675. 
Hemenway ; salary, §250. 



Teacher, Miss I. B. 



For the early history of Watertown schools, embodied 
in this sketch, we are principally indebted to the report for 
1873, made by D. G. Griffin, Esq., then superintendent. 
Mrs. Jason Fairbanks and others have also given us con- 
sideratile information on those points. The facts regarding 
the academies are mainly drawn from Dr. Hough's history, 
while for the late and present conditions of the schools we 
are indebted to the reports of Superintendents GrifiBn and 
Beal, and the aid of the present assistant superintendent, 
Mr. Seymour. 

public-school library. 

The only public library of any particular moment in the 
city of Watertown is that one opened to the public by the 
board of education, in connection with the public schools, 
in the year 1875. The books, which numbered then 2728, 
were such as had been accumulated during previous years 
by the library-fund appropriations from the State ; but no 
particular system had been adopted, or care taken, for the 
management of the same. During the year named the 
library committee arranged shelves and proper conveniences 
for the protection of the books, and the library was opened 
to the public October 4 of the same year. Stringent rules 
were adopted for the return of books, which have proved 
beneficial. Master Cyrus H. Cole, a pujiil of the ni';h 
School, was appointed librarian, which oflice he still fills 
with credit to himself and satisfaction to the board of edu- 
cation and the public. His register, on June 20, 1870, 
showed 652 names of different persons drawing books. 
The volumes now number 3600. From October 4, 1875, 
to July 19, 1870, 3787 books were drawn. The selections 
have been judiciou.sly made, and comprise the standard 
works on history, travels, and fiction, with a goodly assort- 
ment of juvenile works. The compilers of this work are 
under obligations to the librarian for many courtesies re- 
ceived at his hands. 

WATERTOWN CHURCHES. 

first PRESBYTERIAN. 

The history of this church dates back to June, 1803. It 
was organized by a New England missionary. Rev. Ebene- 
zer Lazelle, in the barn of Caleb Burnham, at BurrvillCj 
the point first settled in the town. The church, at its forma- 
tion, was composed of the following persons : James Thomp- 
son, Gershom Tuttle, Thomas Sawyer, Ilinman, Joel 

Goodale, Henry Jewett, Mrs. Sarah Pettit, Sarah Tuttle, 
Susannah Sawyer, Jerua Eno, Cloe Baily, Hannah Eddy, 
and Sarah Taylor. 

It was organized as a Congregational church, and in June, 
1804, six additional members having been received, Thomas 
Sawyer and Solomon Calkins were elected deacons. Meet- 
ings were held in various places : at the house of John 
Blevin, the ball-room of Col. Tuttle, the wagon-shop of 
Deacon Sawyer, the school-house, and other houses. AVhen 
no minister was present a sermon was read, the reader being 
generally Dr. Brainard, the father of 0. V. Brainard, or 
Judge Strong. Though there was no settled minister, the 



HISTORY OF JEFFKRSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



163 



cliurcli onjoyed tlie services of various missionaries, and 
fontiiiued to increase, consisting in 1811 of fiftj--four mem- 
bers. 

During this pcrind tlie village of Watcrtown at tlic river 
increased rai)idly, and the people, feeling that they could not 
go to Burrvilie to church, began to liold Sabbath services 
in the "school-house on the hill," the present site of the 
Univor.salist church. These meetings were under the 
leadership of Mr. Samuel Boswortli, and Judge Foster 
was chosen chorister. On February 11, 1811, an effort 
was made to organize a society that should unite both 
parts of the town, and the following persons were elected 
trustees : Tilly Richardson, John Sikes, Thomas Sawj'er, 
and William Fellows, representing Burrvilie ; Ilart M;;s.scy 
and Amos Benedict, representing Watertown Village ; and 
Aaron Brown, Watertown Centre. A vote was taken at 
that meeting that it was expedient to erect a meeting-house 
at or near the centre, so as to accommodate both ends of the 
town ; but the breaking out of the War of 1812 postponed 
the whole matter, and prevented the accomplishment of 
what would have been a mistake. The organization fell 
through, and nothing was done till 1814. 

On the 25th of May in that year " The Watertown 
Ecclesiastical Society" was formed, which still continues to 
be the corporate name of the society. Jabez Fo.ster, Orrin 
Stoue, and Hart Massey were elected trustees. Thomas 
Sawyer and Theodore Redfield were afterwards added to 
the board. 

July 27, 1815, a call was made to Rev. Daniel Banks 
for half his time, on a salary of four hundred dollars. The 
church at Burrvilie was at this time removed to Water- 
town, and, forming a part of the Watertown Ecclesiastical 
Society, united with the people of the village in this call. 
The church in Rutland gave Mr. Banks a like call, and he 
Wiis installed pastor of the two churches October 25, 1815. 
His preaching services in Watertown were held for two years 
in the old frame "court-house on the hill," where now 
stands the jail. In 181", that buikling being injured by 
fire, the congregation met in the brick academy which had 
been erected in 1811 on the site of the First church. 

On the 11th of October, 1819, the society voted to erect 
a church on the academy lot. A building committee was 
appoiuted, and a stone church was built in the summer of 

1820, under the immediate supervision of Judge Foster, at 
a cost of $!)()00. It was dedicated June 1, 1821. It was 
indeed an imposing structure for that day, and was the first 
church erected in tlie town. 

Immediately after taking possession of this house, the 
church changed its form of government and elected a bench 
of ciders, consisting of Job Sawyer, Tiieophilus Redfield, 
William Brown, James Stone, Jeronimus Van Nest, Hart 
M;L-isej', William Huntington, Asaph Horton, and Ania.-ia 
Herrick. February 28, 1821, Mr. Banks resigned his 
pastorate, and on the same day the church was received 
under the care of the Presbj'tery of St. Lawrence. 

On the 31st of May the society extended to George S. 
Boardman, a student from the Theological Seminary of 
Auburn, a unanimous call to become their pastor, and he 
was ordained and installed by the Presbytery on July 26, 

1821. Dr. Boardman's pastorate of sixteen years was 



laborious and fruitful. He received 505 members into the 
church, and 39-t were removed. He left a membership of 
233, although three churches had been organized during 
his ministry, chiefly from the first church. In 1830 a 
Congregational church was formed, for which twenty mem- 
bers were dismissed. This church lived but a short time. 
In 1831 the Second Presbyterian churcli was organized. 
Thirty-five members were dismi.sscd at its formation, and 
ten soon after. In 1836 the Burrvilie Congregational 
church was organized, and fifteen members were dismissed 
for that purpose. 

On the 26th of June, 1837, the sixiicly extended a 
unanimous call to Isaac Brayton, a student from Auburn 
Seminary, and he was ordained and installed as pastor of 
the church on the 31.st daj' of August. Dr. Br.iyton's 
long pastorate of twenty-six and a half years was eminently 
judicious. His ministry, like his life, was quiet, conserva- 
tive, uniform, and successful ; and 470 were added to the 
church during his ministry. 

On the 12th of January, 1864, Dr. Brayton requested 
of the Presbytery of Watertown a dissolution of the pas- 
toral relation between himself and the First church of 
Watertown, on account of his own health and the health 
of his wife. 

In May following a call was extended to Rev. J. Jer- 
main Porter, of St. Louis, who began his labors as pastor 
July 1, and was installed by the Presbytery of Watertown 
on the 6th day of October, 1864. 

Dr. Porter is still pastor of the church, which is in a 
flourishing condition, and now numbers 408 members ; 348 
have been added during his ministry of thirteen years. 

In 1867, a beautiful and convenient parsonage, situated 
on Clinton street, was purchased at a cost of $3500. The 
old stone church, erected in 1820, was demolished in 1850, 
having done service just thirty years. The brick church 
in which the congregation now worship was finished in 
April, 1851, having been built under the immediate super- 
vision of P]dward S. Ma.s.sey, and was dudicated Aj>ril 10. 
It is a bcautil'ul and commodious structure, 63 by 100 feet, 
and h;is sittings for 1000 persons. A tall, symmetrical 
spire, surmounted by a gilded cross, springs from a central 
tower. Tlie frescoing of the main auditorium is singularly 
chaste and beautiful. A door on either side of the pulpit 
communicates with a beautiful chapel in the rear, connected 
with which are parlors, Sunday-school library-room, cloak- 
room and kitchen for social gatherings. About 816,000 
have been expended during the hist few years for various 
improvements on church and chapel. 

From an examination of the reports of this church for 
the last ten years, made annually to the general assembly, it 
appears that the congi-cgation have expended and contrib- 
uted for all jHirposes the aggregate sum of $98,356, or an 
average of $9835 a year. 

The following is a list of the ruling elders who have 
served the church from the beginning : William Brown, 
William Huntington, Jeronimus Van Nest, Horace Hunt, 
Buckley Steadman, Chauncey D. Morgan, Elias Hagar, 
F. R. Farwell, Hart .Massey, Theoph. Redfield, Amasa 
Herrick, Solon Massey, Eli Farwell, J. L. Rice, Henry 
H. Kellogg, George B. Massey, James Stone, Asaph Hor- 



164 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



ton, Jol) Sawyer, Jeremiah Holt, Albert P. Brayton, John 

C. Sterlinsr, II. E. Conger, John C. Kuowlton. 

The fullowiiig have served the church as trustees from 
and after the organization of the Watertown Ecclesiastical 
Society : Jabcz Foster, Oroii Stone, Theopliilus lledfield, 
Job Sawyer, William Huntington, Israel Symonds,Noah W. 
Kinniston, laiac H. Bronson, Adriel Ely, Jeremiah Holt, 
David D. Otis, Abner Baker, Daniel I.*e, William K. 
Hawkcs, S. B. Upham, John C. Sterling, D. II. Yale, B. 

F. Hofchkin, David M. Bennett, Fred. Baker, Jolin C. 
Knowlton, Richard E. Hungerford, W. W. Ilorrick, W. 
W. Taggart, J. P. Moulton, A. M. Farwell, Hart :Masscy, 
Thomas Sawyer, Timothy Burr, Orville Hungerford, Dyer 
Huntington, Eli Farwell. Silas Clark, Lewis B. Sandifdrth, 
John Safford. 0. V. Brainard, Thomas D. Huntington, Jo- 
siah W. Baker, Isaac H. Fisk, Talcott H. Camp, Edward 
S. Massey, Samuel F. Bates, Alexander Campbell, M. H. 
Merwin, W. V. V. Rosa, George B. 3Iassey, Volney P. 
Kimball. Levi A. Johnson, Norris Winslow, John Lansing, 

G. W. Knowlton, Jr., and H. Dean Waite. 

The Sunday-school of this church was organized in 1821 , 
and was held in the gallery of the new stone church. It 
is said to havc'been the first Sunday-school organized north 
of Utica. The first library was purchased in 1832, at a 
cost of S30.25. The following gentlemen have acted as 
superintendents: Timothy G. Seward, John C. Sterling, J. 
B. Tyler, Horace Hunt, C. P. Leonard, H. Johnson, D. D. 
Otis, Silas Clark. Alexander Campbell, Oriin Stone, J. L. 
Rice, M. M. Merrill, Adriel Ely, Elias IIagar,and John C. 
Knowlton. 

The present officers of the Sundaj'-school arc as follows : 
John C. Knowlton, superintendent; T. H. Camp, assistant 
superintendent ; George B. Massey, secretary and treasurer; 
A. L. Upham and N. P. Wardwell, librarians. Infant de- 
partment: Miss Elizabeth A. Clark, teacher; 3Iiss May 
Johnson, assistant. 

THE STONE STHEET PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 

wa-s formed July 20, 1831, by the Rev. Abel L. Crandall 
and Geo. S. Boardman, a committee appointed for the pur- 
pose by the Watertown Presbytery. It consisted at first 
of thirty-one members, dismissed for that purpose from the 
First church, and four from the Congregational church. 
Lewis R. Sandiforth was chosen ruling elder. Pastors : 
James 11. Boyd, installed September 7, 1832; Marcus 
Smith, February 10, 1636; Wm. E. Knox, February 14, 
1844; and Peter Snyder, June 20, 1848. Their church, 
at the corner of Factor^' and Mechanic streets, was built in 
1831, at a cost of about §5500, of which Mr. Bcebec, pro- 
prietor of the Jefferson Cotton Mills, contributed about 
83000. 

The pastors and stated supplies have been : 1831, Jede- 
diah Burchard, S. S. ; 1832, Jas. D. Pickands, S. S. ; 1832- 
33, James R. Boyd; 1833-35, L. Hull, S. S. ; 1835-43, 
Marcus Smith; 1844-18, William E. Knox; 1818-63, 
Peter Snyder (died December 13,1863); 1864-67, Geo. 

D. Baker; 1868-70, Chas. C. Wallace; 1870-76, Chas. 
M. Livingston ; Rev. Samuel A. Iloyt succeeded Mr. 
Livingston in December, 1876, and is the present pastor. 

There are at present 278 communicants. The Sunday- 



scliool has an attendance of over 200 .scholars. The library 
contains about 550 volumes, many of which are late and 
Valuable books. 

METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCHES. 

Arsciinl Street Cknrch. — The territory embraced in the 
present county of Jefferson was visited by Methodist 
preachers as early as 1803. At that date the State of New 
York and the New England States were included within 
the bounds of " Philadelphia Conference." The State of 
New York was a part of what was known as '■ Genesee 
District," and what is now Jefferson County formed a .small 
part of " Black River Circuit.'' Within this circuit was the 
little settlement of Watertown. The first Methodist itin- 
erants who pushed their way into this almost ternt incognita 
were Barzillia Willy and John Hus.selkus. In 1809 they 
were succeeded by Griffin Sweet and Asa Cummins. In 
1805 " New York Conference" was organized from a part of 
the Philadelphia Conference, when Jefferson County became 
a part of it, and formed a portion of Albany district. Sey- 
mour Ensign was the preacher apiioiutcd on the Black 
River Circuit ; in 1806, Matthew Vanduzcn and William 
Vredenburgh ; 1807, Datus Ensign ; 1808, Matthew Van- 
duzcn, Luther Bishop; 1809, Luther Bi.shop, AVilliam 
Jewett. In 1810 the Genesee Conference was organized, 
and made to embrace all northern New York. The district 
was changed to " Cayuga," and later to " Oneida" District, 
and Joseph Willis and Chandlej- Lambert were the preach- 
ers. William Snow, Truman Gillett, 1811 ; Jo.sepli Kin- 
kead, 1812; Isaac Puffer and G. Stoddard, 1813; Chand- 
ley Lambert, 1814; Ira Fairhank and James Ilagen, 
1815; Goodwin Stoddard, 1816; Joseph Willis, 1817; 
John Demster, 1818. In 1818 Watertown became a sepa- 
rate charge, and John Demster was the first stationed 
preacher; Dana Fox, 1819; Israel Chamborlin (Watertown 
Station, Black River District), 1820 ; John Demster, 
1821-22; Benj. G. Paddock, 1823; Hezokiah Field, 
1824 (Le Ray and Watertown); James Brown, John 
Ereanbrack, Nathaniel Salsbury, 1825 ; N. Salsbury, G. 
Baker, 1826 ; G. Baker, L. Edgarton, 1827 ; W. W. Run- 
dell, Azariah Hall, 1828. In 1829 the "Oneida Confer 
ence" was organized, and Watertown became a station, and 
John S. Mitchell was its preacher, who continued through 
1830 ; N. Salsbury, 1831-32 ; V. JI. Coryell, 1833 ; Squire 
Chase, 1834; Luther Lee, 1835. In 1836 the "Black 
River Conference" was organized, embracing northern New 
York, east of Montgomery county, and N. Salsbury was 
appointed to Watertown, and continued through 1837; 
Albert D. Peck, 1838; Squire Chase, 1839-40; William 
L. Bowdish, 1841; Hiram Mattison, 1842-43; William 
Wyatt, 1844; Isaac Stone, 1815-46; James Irwin, 
1847-18. 

In 1848 a very extensive rfviwi? occurred in the church, 
under the labors of James Irwin, resulting in additions 
amounting to about 300 members. During the .same year 
a strong colony separated from the old church, and organ- 
ized what is now the State Street Methodist Episcopal 
church, — the old church taking the name of " Arsenal 
Street Methodist Episcopal church." Since that date the 
appointments have been as follows : Arsenal St. Church. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



165 



—1849, George Gary; 1850-51, A. J. Phelps; 1852-53, 
I. S. Bingham; 1854-55, John B. Footc; 1856, J. W. 
Armstrong; 1857-58, B. I. Diifeiidorf; 1850-60, W. W. 
Hunt; lSGl-62, S. Call; 1863-04, J. W. Aiuistron-; 
1865-66-67,1. S. Bingham; 1868-69, S. R. Fuller; 1870, 
I. S. Bingham; 1871-72-7:5, F. Wi.lmor; 1874, J. C. 
Stewart; 1875-70-77, G. JM. Mead, the prasont pastor. 
Stitte Street C/iior/i.— 1849-50, E. Arnold; 1851-52, F. 
H. Stanton; 1853-54, James Erwin ;* 1855-50, L. D. 
White; 1857-58, W. S. Titus; 1859-60, B. S. Wright; 
1861, W. S. Tisdale; 1862, H. F. Spencer; 1863-64, O. 
C. Cole; 1865, J. D. Adams; 1806-67, T. Rithey ; 
1808-09, W. D. Cha-so; 1870-71-72, M. D. Kinney; 
1873-74, T. Cooper; 1875-76, M. G. Bullock; 1877, S- 
Call, the present incumbent. 

The original society of the old church was organized 
Nov. 27, 1821, with Jonathan Cowen, Titus Ives, John 
Collins, Thomas Potter, and Henry H. Cofteen, trustees. 
On December 9, 1822, and December 30, 1824, it was re- 
organized, and subse<|ucnlly erected on Arsenal street a 
stone church, since taken down. The present church was 
erected in 1851. The elegant building of the State street 
society (formed Jan. 29, 1849) was erected the same year. 
The first trustees of the State street society were Thomas 
Baker, A. J. Peck, H. Scovill, S. K. Carter, A. Cook, 
George Porter, Edmond Davis, J. M. Sigourncy, and I. 
Huckins. The present number of conimunieants in the 
Arsenal Street church, including probationers, is 397. 
Officers and teachers in the Sunday-school, 50 ; .scholars, 
250 ; volumes in library, 250 ; communicant.s, State Street 
church, 324 ; officers and teachers, Sunday-school, 30 ; 
scholars, 100 ; volumes in library, 300. 

THE FIRST B.VPTI.ST CIIUIICH OF WATERTOWN. 

This church wxs organized by a council representing the 
Baptist churches in tlie Black River Baptist Association, 
convened in the village of Watertown, May 29, 1823. 
They met in a school-house on the north side of Factory 
street. Rev. Norman Gitcau was pxstor. At its organiza- 
tion the church numbered seventeen. In 1828 they built 
a small wooden church edifice on the south side of Factory 
street, which, in 1837, was sold to the Catholics, and is now 
known as '• The French Catholic Church." During the 
same year the church built another house of worship on 
the corner of State and Mill streets, and dedieated it Jan- 
uary 10, 1838. This structure was burned March 8, 1846. 
In the same year the present edifice was erected, and dedi- 
cated January 7, 1847. In 1872 over 85001) were ex- 
pended in miideniizing and beautilying. The building is 
80 by 45. The chapel is 30 by 42. The church seats over 
500, and the chapel about 200. The membership of the 
church is 315; that of the Sunday-school is 250. The 
present value of the church property is $20,000. 

The following-named ministers have served the church 
as pastors, viz.: Norman Gitcau, Soth Smalley, Jacob 
Knapp, John Miller, Charles Clark, L. T. Ford, W. I. 
Crane, J. A. Nash, J. S. Holme, H. A. Smith, I. Butter- 
field, C. N. Chandler, L. J. .Alatteson, John Peddie, L. M. 
S. Haynes, and James W. Putnam, present pastor. 

» .\5 s].ulk-il 1..V I'lf.sidin;; KMlt. 



Theoffieersof the church are: Clerk, John G. Harbottlc; 
Deacons, John G. Harbottlc, Samuel Wilson, G. Cook, R. 
Thornton, John Frost, and H. E. I'arson ; Treasurer, C. A. 
Waterman ; Trustcas, John G. Harbottlc, Dexter Wilder, 
C. A. Waterman, H. E. Parson, and Dr. C. M. Johnson. 

At the prese?it time the church is thronged with atten- 
tive hearers, and in every way is meeting with the greatest 
success. 

TUINITV EPI.SCOP.VL ClILRCII. 

The first Eijiscopal service was jjcrfornicd in the town of 
Watertown early in 1812, at the old school-house, on the 
site of the present IJniversalist church, by the Rev. Daniel 
Nash, of Ot.scgo county. On .May 31, 1828, a leg-.d organ- 
ization was effected, under the Rev. Joshua M. Rogers, of 
Turin, of which Ira Wright and Wm. D. Ford were war- 
dens, and Wm. Cowen, Samuel McClure, Philo S. John- 
son, Loveland Paddock, Forrester Dexter, Henry L. Har- 
vey, Henry Bronson, Wm. McCuUock, and Walter Wood- 
ward were vestrymen. In 1829 they engaged the piistoral 
labors of the Rev. Hiram Adams, then a missionary of the 
united parishes of Watertown and Sackot's Harbor, at 
which places he preached on alternate Sabbaths. Services 
were at first held at the court-house. In 1829 a Sunday- 
school was opened, having at fii-st sixteen scholars and two 
teachers, and for four years not more than twenty-five 
scholars were assembled. 

In 1830 a subscription was circulated to obtain the 
means to erect a church, and a petition for aid was for- 
warded to Trinity church. New York ; but those efiorts 
failed. In the fall of 1831 the Rev. Mr. Salmon was 
hired six months, but remained a year, and in February, 
1832, the efforts to raise means for building a church were 
resumed with vigor. A lot was secured, but the sum was 
still short of that ncccssiiry, when Henry D. Sewall en- 
gaged to build the house on the .subscription, and take the 
sum to be received from the sale of pews to pay the bal- 
ance. A wooden church was accordingly commenced in 
the spring of 1832, and finished externally the same year. 
In June, 1833, Trinity church. New York, gave SIOOO to 
the society; and in 1833, Samuel Brown, of Brownville, 
raised $000 for this church in New York, and G. C. Sher- 
man contributed liberally towards its completion. The 
church, being completed, was consecrated September 18, 
1833. 

The frame of this building was 40 by 60 feet, with a 
square tower of 16 feet base, projecting 8 feet from the 
front, with a belfry formed by two parallelograms crowning 
each other, with recessed corners, above which rose an 
octagonal tinned .'spire, tajiering to a point at 100 feet from 
the ground. The church had two windows in the front 
and four on each side, with semieireular tops. The exter- 
nal design and details of the tower were modeled from a 
church in Cambridge, Mass. In 1834. Mr. Gear, of Brown- 
ville, was employed a part of the time, and iu 1835 the 

Rev. Hickox, of Rochester, was called, and the church 

pro-spercd much under his laboi-s. From May, 1837, till 
April, 1839, the Rev. Charles Ackley was emploj-ed, and 
in September of the latter year the Rev. John F. Fish was 
engaged, and remained until Sept. 22, 1844. During his 
ministry the numbers of the church increased from 50 to 



1C6 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY. NEW YORK. 



134 ; there were 94 confirmations, 127 baptisms, 142 mar- 
riages, and 55 burials. 

In January, 1S45, the Rev. Dr. Wm. M. Carmichael 
was employed, and remained about a year, when he was 
succeeded, in August, 1S46, by the Rev. Levi \V. Norton, 
who continaed the rector till the spring of 1853. On the 
17th of July. 1853. the Rev. George Morgan llills was 
employed. The Rev. Theodore Babcook, D.D., succeeded 
Jlr. Hills as rector, serving from Nov. 15, 1857, to May 15, 
1S72. His rectorship was a long and prosperous one of 
nearly fifteen years. The present rector, the Rev. Leigh 
R. Brewer, succeeded Dr. Babcock June 23, 1872. 

The church originally erected was burned in the memor- 
able fire of 3Iay 13, 1S49. and on May 14. 1850, the corner- 
stone of the present edifice was laid, with religious servic-es, 
by the Episcopal clergy of the county. The building is 
after the plans of Mr. R. Upjohn, of New York, and is 
purely Gothic. The dimensions of the nave are 50 by 100 
feet ; those of the church 25 by 21 feet. The building was 
consecrated by Bishop De Lancey, Jan. 23, 1851. The 
parL-h now numbers about 250 families and 400 communi- 
cants, with a Sunday-school of 250 children and 30 teachers. 

GRACE (EPISCOPALj CHfRCH. 

The parish was organized August 14, 1867, the bishop 
of the diocese at that time being Right Rev. A. C. Cose. 
The following persons were incorporated as the vestry : F. 
W. Hubbard and C. D. Wright, wardens; L. H. Brown, 
J. F. Starbuck, George A. Bagley, L. J. Dorwin, G. H. 
Sherman, W. R. Trowbridge, A. H. Hall, and C. H. Van- 
brackle, vestrymen. The society at first held its meetings 
in the court-house. The first rector was Rev. W. H. 
Millburn. A few months after the organization a chapel, 
situated upon the comer of Jay and Sterling streets, was 
secured for the worship of the parish, at a cost of StiOOO. 
The following is a list of the rectors of the church since its 
organization : W. H. 3Iillbnm, W. A. Ely, John -\. Staun- 
ton, W. H. Hopkins. William L. Parker, and the present 
rector. Rev. G. T. Le Boutillier. 

At the time of its organization the society had bat 43 
communicants. Since that time the number has increased 
to nearly four times that number. The parish is in a pros- 
perous condition, and proposes to erect a substantial church 
edifice within a reasonable time. The Sunday-.*chool has 
an attendance of 1 10 scholars, and is supplied with a library 
of about 300 volumes. The present officers of the church 
are Joel F. Blood and F. W. Hubbard, wardens ; G. F. 
Starbuck, George A. Bagloy, L. F. Phillips, G. H. Sher- 
man, A. H. Hall, C. H. Vanbrackle, C. D. Wright, and A. 
H. Herrick, vestrjrmen. The ladies of the parish have 
formed a society, called the '• Ladies' Guild," the object of 
which b to promote the interests of the church and the 
social feeling among the parishioners. There b also a so- 
ciety called the '• Young People's Choral Society," which 
was organized for the purpose of promoting church singing 
among the youth of the parish. 

r.MVER,<ALIST CHURCH. 

The Universalist Society was organized April 26, 1820, 
at the court-house. A legal society was formed, January 



3, 1S25. of which James Sheldon, R. Goodale. J. M. Honell, 
Jona. Baker, and E. Makepeace were the first trustees. A 
church organization was formed June 21, 1823, of fourteen 
members, under Pitt Morse, the first clergyman, who re- 
mained until 1S25, and, after a year's absence, for many 
years afterwards. This society built a stone church upon 
the site of the present edifice, in 1824. at a cost of S7000, 
which was dedicated Nov. 10, 1824, and burned Sept. 29, 
1850. The present church was erected in 1851-52, at a 
cost of §10.1iM>, and dedicated Nov. 4, 1852. Its present 
value, with additions and improvements, b about S25,000. 
Rev. Mr. Morse was succeeded by Rev. William H. Wag- 
goner. After four years Rev. H. Boughton was employed, 
and he was succeeded by Rev. James H. Stewart. Subse- 
quent pastors are as follows : Revs. A. A. Thayer, E. W. 
Reynolds. I. M. Atwood, D. C. Thompson, Harvey Hersey, 
and G. F. Babbitt, the present incumbent. 

The church is situated at the east end of Public Square, 
with a frontage of 66 feet, and b one of the best-appearing 
churches in the city. Its audience-room b 45 by S2 feet, 
with a seating capacity of about 60(1. Spacious school- 
rooms are located in the basement. The number of com- 
municants is 149. The Sunday-school has 150 scholars, 
and a library of over 7<MI volumes. The present trustees 
of the church are : H. M. Ball, S. T. Bordwell, and W. G. 
Williams ; H. S. Gipson b secretary and treasurer. 

ST. Patrick's (catholic) church society. 

One of the first Roman Catholic families that came to 
Watertown to reside permanently was that of Mr. John 
O Dougherty, who arrived there from Ireland September 
23, 1820. About that time a Catholic church was erected 
at the village of Carthage, where he fre<|uently attended 
mass until a society was fonnod in Watertown. Mass was 
first celebrated in Watertown in the house of Daniel Bran- 
agan. in the year 1830, as nearly as we can ascert;iin, at 
which time there were no more than six Catholic families 
in the village. 

French and Irish Roman Catholic missionaries from 
Kingston. Ont., and Utica and Syracuse, N. Y., occasion- 
ally visited the village and said mass in the houses of the 
different members of the society. 

Rt. Rev. John Du Bob, bbhop, said mass and preached 
in the old court-house in the year 1832, He urged upon 
the little congregation the necessity of building some kind 
of a church in which to worship. Rev, Bradley, of Utica, 
Revs. Waters and Donahue, of Syracuse, and priests st:i- 
tioncd at Carthage, attended to the wants of the society 
during the years 1833-35, using private houses for places 
of worship, and the school-house which formerly stood 
where the Arsenal street scho<jl-house now stands. 

Rev. John B. Daily, a Benedictine friar, also did mis- 
sionary work in the village during these years, residing a 
portion of the time with Patrick Duughertj- and Thomas 
Bellerd. During the years 1836-37 and a portion of 1838 
the societ\' rented the " Becbee school-house.' which stood 
near where the depot back of the Woodruff House is now 
situated, at the rate of fifty cents per week. Services were 
held there fortnightly, principally by Revs. John B. Daily 
and Michael Gilbride. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



167 



The last time mass was celebrated in the school-house 
was on Easter Sunday, 1838. On Sept. 1, 1838, the 
society, which then consisted of not more than a dozen 
families, purchased of the Baptist society of Watertown 
the church situated on Factory street, now occupied by the 
French Catholics, and dedicated it to the Virjrin Mary. 
The price paid for this church was $000. Mass was first 
celebrated in this church on Oct. 29, 1838. A lot of one 
and one-quarter acres, adjacent to the church, was purchased 
at the same time for $750. 

Kev. Michael Gillbrido was the first pastor of this church. 
The society rapidly incrcxsed in numbers, and in ten years 
from its purchase the church would sc-arcely accommodate 
one-half of its members. Rev. M. Gilbride has been suc- 
ceeded by Revs. Philip Gillick, R. Dowd, Francis P. 
McFarland, J. Fennily, P. McNulty, and James Hogan, 
who is now assisted by Rev. P. H. J. Ryan. 

The present church — St. Patrick's (Irish) Roman Cath- 
olic — is situated on Massey street, and is one of the finest 
church structures in northern New York. Its erection was 
begun in 1S5G by Rev. P. McNulty, and completed by 
Rev. James Hogan, who for the last eighteen years has 
been its devoted and respected pastor. The church was in- 
corporated under the State law of 1870. It is built of brick, 
is 150 by 80 feet, and has 1000 sittings. The church and 
parsonage are valued at 835,000. The number of commu- 
nicants is about 1400, and the Sunday-school numbers 200. 
The present church officers are as follows : Trustees. Rt. 
Rev. E. P. Wadhams, bishop of Ogdensburgh, Rev. J. 
JIackey, Y. G., Rev. James Hogan (pastor), and John J. 
Hartigan and Edward Kennedy. The executive commit- 
tee is John W. Griffin, D. J. Pease, and Thomas Phillips. 
Treasurer. Henry Purcell.* 

ST. Mary's (catholic). 

The society which at the present time worships at the 
church known as .SV. .Vmys, on Factory street, was organ- 
ized July 5, 1857, under the title of " Sociele CathoUque 
Franraise de Waterlown, New York.'^ Its members had 
previously worshiped in the same house while it was occu- 
pied by the united Roman Catholic church of the city and 
vicinitj', and, until its abandonment as a house of worship, 
upon the erection of St. Patrick's church, on Massey street. 
The edifice on Factory street was built by the Baptist so- 
ciety in 1828, and used by them until 1838, when it was 
purchased by the Catholic society, and duly consecrated, 
under the name of " St. Mary's church." The growth of the 
church from thenceforward up to 1856 had necessitated, 
and finally consummated, the erection of St. Patrick's com- 
modious edifice ; but the difference in nationality, language, 
and associations still keeping the French and Irish popula- 
tions socially somewhat apart, and deterring many of the for- 
mer from following to the new sanctuary, and there continu- 
ing religious exercises, it was thought desirable to institute a 
separate church organization. In pursuance of this object, 
Mr. John J. B. Primeau and other associates made a thor- 
ough canvass of the town and vicinity, for the purpose of 
learning the exact number of the French Catholic popula- 



■ October, 1S77. 



tion, and the probabilities of being able to accomplish the 
desired end. There were found to be 50 families, in- 
cluding about 300 souls, in and around the village of 
Watertown, constituting a respectable nucleus for the pro- 
posed new organization. As before stated, the organization 
was effected July 5, 1857, the meeting for the purpose 
being held in Fairbanks' block. The first offic-ers elected 
were : President, Edward Benoit ; Vice-President, Charles 
La Berge ; Secretary and Treasurer, Alexander Contois ; 
Directors, John J. B. Primeau, Louis Leduc, Hyacinthe 
Deserve, C. Marin. 

Numerous difficulties were encountered in the work of 
proctiring a house of worship, but everything was finally 
overcome, and at a meeting held October 18 following, it 
was resolved to purchase the old Factory street Catholic 
church, of which a title-deed was secured on the 26th of 
the same month. The building was thoroughly refitted 
and refurnished, and Rev. Lou'is Lepic, of Cape Vincent, 
was engaged as pastor. The first mass was solemnly cele- 
brated in the new edifice on January 1, 1858. The fol- 
lowing-named gentlemen were chosen as the first board of 
trustees for the new society : John J. B. Primeau, Edward 
Benoit, and Antoine Lalonde. 

Rev. Mr. Lepic, during his pastorate, which continued 
satisfactorily and successfully until October, 1866 (when 
he was transferred to a charge involving less labor, on ac- 
count' of advancing age, and infirmities), officiated twice a 
month in AVatertown, once a month at Evans' Mills, and 
the remainder of the time at Cape Vincent and Rossie. 
He was succeeded by Rev. Charles F. Tur^eon, who con- 
tinued from October, 1866, until May. 1873, when Rev. 
P. Clerc succeeded him, and remained about one year. 
After him came Rev. P. Larose, who remained until the 
accession of the present pastor. Rev. John Baptiste Chap- 
pel, in December, 1875. The present trustees are Moses 
Morcille and John E. Bergevin. 

CONVENT OF THE SACRED HEART. 

This institution is of recent date. The parish priest, 
Rev. Father J. B. Chappel, is a member of the society of 
the " Missionaries of the Sacred Heart,' whose principal 
establishment is at Issoudan, France. His appointment to 
St. Mary's church in AVatertown determined this religious 
society to establish a branch of their order in the city. 
AVith a view to the accomplishment of this design. Rev. 
Father Joseph F. Deerin was appointed to take charge of 
the work, and in May, 1876, he purchased a house and lot 
on Thompson street, in the north part of the city, under 
the sanction of the sovereign Pontiff, and his Lordship E. 
P. 'Wadhams, bishop of Ogdensburgh, and proceeded to 
establish a novitiate and course of study for young men who 
may be desirous of joining the order. As soon as possible 
the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart intend to open schools 
for the young Catholics of the city and neighboring places. 
Father J. B. Chappel will devote himself exclusively to 
St. Mary's parish duties, and Father Joseph, with the as- 
sistance of the priests belonging to the society, will direct 
the missions of Brownville, Chaumonf, Rosiere, and Cape 
Vincent, which have been confided by Bishop Wadhams to 
the care of the socictv. 



108 



HISTOEY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



It is the intention of the missionaries eventuallj' to erect 
a fine, substantial cIiuilIi upon their grounds in Watertown, 
fronting; upon Ljnde street, in honor of the Sacred Heart 
of Jesus. The site is a beautiful one, and the plan of the 
proposed edifice grand and imposing. Its completion will 
mark an epoch in the hi.story of Catholicism in Jefferson 
County, and the hope is indulged by those in charge that 
every j)roper encouragement will be given by the people of 
the city and surrounding country. 

The school is in a flouiishing condition, witli every indi- 
cation that the expectations of the projectors will at no 
distant day be fully realized.* 

THE PERIODICAL PRESS. 

The Americmt Eagle was begun at Watertown, by Henry 
Coffecn (Abram Taylor, printer), about 1809; Republican 
in politics, as the name then signified ; but an acrostic, that 
was published inadvertently, brought ridicule upon the 
name, and it was soon changed. It was purchased in Jan- 
uary, 1812, by Jairus Rich ; its name was changed to the 
American Advocate, and by him it was Issued several 
years. 

In 1817, Scth A. and Dorephus Abbey, owners of a job 
ofiice in Albany, concluded to start a paj)er somewhere 
west. I). Abbey and John II. Lord, Jr., a journeyman 
in the office, accordingly removed to Watertown. The press 
of Mr. Rich, being at the time of tlieir arrival under a 
sheriff's levy, was bought, and soon after the Jefferson and 
Lewis Gazette appeared, in the spring of 1817. It was 
of the royal size (2(J by 26 inches), Republican in politics, 
according to the light then had, and issued at two dollars 
per annum, until April, 1811), when it was stopped. Scth 
A. Abbey then commenced the Independent RepidJican, 
which was issued weekly until February, 1825, when the 
house and office of the publisher were burned. It was, 
Ijowever, revived in Jlay, 1828, as the Independent Repnb- 
lican and Anti-Masonic Jiecorder, of five columns, two 
dollars per annum, and continued till 1830. 

THE DAILY DESPATCH AND WEKIvLY UK UNION. 

These are the only Democratic jjapers in Jefferson County. 
Tliey are published by the Watertown Printing Company, 
Charles J. Ilynes, manager, George Moss, editor. 

The Re- Union is one of the oldest jKipers in the State, 
liaving been established as the Watcrtotcn Freeman, on 
Jan. 29, 1824, by Mr. Perley Keyes, the then leader of the 
Democracy in the county. The Freeman was a folio, 
five columns, the sheet 20 by 24 inches; little more than 
half its present size. Its price then was $2.50 per an- 
num, "delivered by carrier." Dr. Hough, in his history of 
Jefferson County, thus refers to the Freeman : 

"A. L. Smith was nflcrwnnia rdilor, nnJ iluriiij^ ll>c ciinpnign of 
]832 it supported Jncl(sun. Karly in Octubcr, 18:1.3, the name was 
changed to tlio /Jcmncnaic Sitiuilitnl. It continued to bo published 
by Smith until July 29, 18:io, when it was united with the Wuler- 
towH Knijle^ aud bceanio tlic JCut/te ami Sttmitnrtt, edited by Alvio 
Hunt and Asahel It. Smith." Tfic Kufjte was founded by J. Calhoun, 
September II, 18.12, and was a folio, weekly, si.x columns to the l)agc, 

* Wo arc under obIi;;ations to Mr. Lcbnrgc, Mr. J. B. Primeau, 
Aud i\iii)fc in charge of the institutiuu for tlio above items. 



at $2.50 per annum, delivered to village subgcribers, and Democratic 
in politics. On the 2Sth March, ls:j:!, Ah in Hunt became us'sueiatc 
editor, and in .August following purchased the interest of Calhoun, 
and continued the publication until the consolidalii n with the Slaiid- 
anl above mentioned. "In October, ISUfi, Mr. Smith withdrew from 
the Entjlc and titaiitlard, and on the I'AHh of November, \S^7, tlic 
name was changed to the Jiffcrsiminii, under which name, or that of 
the Wutertown Jeffvr«t>uinu, it has continued without change of poli- 
tics until the jiri'sent time." (1854). 

On the 15th of December, 1851, Mr. Hunt became as- 
sociated with John W. Tamblin (now deceased) ; March 
15, 1853, Mr. J. C. Hatch took the place of the latter, 
and in September Tamblin succeeded Hatch. In 1854, 
the paper was published by Hunt aud Tamblin, at §1.50 
per annum. The Daily Jeffersonian was begun at this 
office May 10, 1851, and continued two and a half years. 
There was also published at this office, by Mr. Hunt, during 
the campaign of 1840, a small sheet at 25 cents, edited by 
a committee of young men, and devoted to the support of 
the Democratic party. It was called the Anrora. On the 
29th of August, 1846, the Democratic Union was founded, 
and in the April following it was owned by Stephen Martin 
and Lysander H. Brown. In Se])tenibor Martin was suc- 
ceeded by John A. Haddock, and June 29, 1848, Mr. 
Brown retired from the editorial charge, which had been 
continuous from the commencement of .the Union. Mr. 
Haddock continued the publication until November 19, 
1851, when he sold his interest in the paper to Mr. Brown, 
who was again its editor (and publisher) until the latter 
part of 1854, when Mr. Haddock again became the pro- 
prietor for a short time, and was succeeded by Jlr. Elam 
Comstock, who united it to the Jeffersonian, calling the 
combined papers the Jeffei-son Union. Messrs. Tamblin 
and Chamberlain were the next j)roprictors, and in Decem- 
ber, 1856, E. J. Clark and Royal Chamberlain bought out 
Mr. Tamblin, Chamberlain retiring also at the end of three 
years. The paper remained under 3Ir. Clark's management 
until 1st January, 18G5. In that year the paper passed 
through several chnnges, and was purchased by Mr. A. H. 
Hall, who changed the name to the Watertown Re-Unlon. 
3Ir. Hall conducted the paper until September 12, 1870, 
when he .sold it to George Moss and Walter A. Boon. 
These two gentlemen, on June 24, 1872, started the Dady 
Morning Despatch, and continued its publication, and that 
of the Re-Union, until JIarch 31, 1874, when their interest 
was purchased by W. C. Haven & Co., George Moss con- 
tinuing as editor. In July, 1876, Mr. Charles J. Hyncs 
purchased the entire establishment, and in August following 
disjio.«ed of it to a stock comj)any, wliich now publishes 
the daily and weekly, with Mr. llyiu'S as manager and Mr. 
Moss as editor. 

The ofiice is located on Arcade street, in a fine brick 
block (three stories and ba.scuient), and is abundantly sup- 
plied with all the necessary machinery, steam-engine, presses, 
type, etc., to constitute it a model i)rinting-establishmcnt in 
newspaper, book, and job work. 

The size of the daily is 28 by 40 inches, and of the 
weekly, 32 by 46 inches. They are modern newspapers in 
every re.«peet, fully abreast with the times, lively, enter- 
taining, and reliable. The daily Drspntc/i is the only 
morning newspaper published nmtli of the Central Railroad 





fMM Brown. 



(FhOTOS.BY GiHOIfOH WATrKIOWft , 



■■ ■.■"=?^^^^ 



IVHS.ELAM BffOVIN. 




RisiDLNCE ur fMMv-'CHAS.L BROWN, Wa: 



£RTcv.,v ;'; y. 




£^^ 




/^£V GXI^ONE/? BaK^EF^. 



fAffS GAI^DNt:!^ 8ah£i^ 



E/Ea;^. c3-^^i^nDnsrEK> b^a^icei?.. 



The subject of this sketch was born in Minden, Montgomery 
county, N. Y. September 11, 1802. He was a son of Thomas 
Baker and Mary Hall, who had a family of nine children, and 
were themselves natives of Rhode Island. Until he was eigh- 
teen years of age he worked on the farm of his father summers, 
and attended school winters. At the age of eighteen he became 
the subject of that wonderful change which gave a new direc- 
tion to his whole being, and for the two following summers 
attended a select school at. Trenton. In the spring of 1823 
he entered Lowville academy, having about the same time been 
licensed to exhort by the Methodist church. Through the 
counsel of the presiding elder of the Black River district 
(which then included nearly all of the present Black River 
conference), he accepted a circuit (^Indian River) which ex- 
tended from Carthago to within six miles of Ogdensburgh. 
Left school, and througli the kindness of his brother, an sxtUtT- 
ney, at Springfield, New York, obtained an outfit consisting of 
a horse, saddle, bridle, saddle-bags, two valises, and a whip. 
His colleague on this great circuit was William Jones. There 
were thirty appointments, to meet which each had to travel 
some three hundred miles every four weeks. There was no 
church edifice in the circuit, and their meetings were held in 
log houses, shanties, barns, and iu 'he open air. His home 
waa in the saddle, and his inn wiieiever night overtimk him. 
The year's compensatiim for each, incbiding gifts, orders on 
stores, etc., was sixty dollars. Jiike tho pioneer faimer the 
pioneer minister endured juivatiins of every sort, but felt it 
an honor to be employed in any way to advanf.' the cause of 
the Master. Using liis own language, "I never have been 
happier in my whole life than when preaching the gospel to 
the poor in their log school-houses, and enjoying the hearty 
Christian hospitality of their log cabins." During (he half- 
century of his public life he has enjoyed the esteem and con- 
fidence of his brethren, both in the ministry and iu the laity, 
to a remarkable degree. He has held the ofiice of presiding 
elder for thirty-one years, has spent five 5'ear8 in circuits, 
twelve yeare on stations, and six years at " Pilgrim's home" 
(& term used by him to designate his home in Watertown). 



Twice, on account of the absence of the bishop, he has been 
appointed president of the Black River conference. During a 
quadrennium (1860-1864) he served as a member of the New 
York book committee of the Methodist Episcopal church. By 
the general conference of 1860 he was appointed fraternal del- 
egate to the general conference of the Methodist Episcopal 
church in Canada. At the late general conference at Baltimore, 
he was the eldest delegate present, and was the recipient of 
many marked attentions, being honored with a seat upon the 
platform with the bishops during the entire session. 

In the year 1827 he married Miss Esther, daughter of Enos 
and Puella Scott, of Perch River. Her father was well known 
throughout the county, and lived to the advanced age of nearly 
one hundred and one years. 

Mrs. Baker has endured the hardships and toils of an itin- 
erant's life with Christian zeal and patience, and is justly 
beloved by a wide circle of friends. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Baker were bom five children, viz. : Mary 
A., Kate <'., Gardner C, Esther A., and William B. Baker. 
Of these, Mary A. died in Chicago, Illinois, 1875. Kate C. 
married Mr. George H. Tallett, resides in Watertown, and has 
two children, William H. and Nellie B. An engraving of 
their resilience and their portraits will he found on the opposite 
page of this work. Gardner is married and resides in Des 
Jloiues, Iowa. Esther A. married Professor J. Dormau Steele, 
of Ehuira, New York. 

Rev. Gardner Baker had been spending his summer at his 
cottage at the Thousand Island park. He arose Sunday morn- 
ing, August 12, 1877, as usual, went out, and not returning, 
his family became anxious, and, upon search, found him ne«r 
by, but life was extinct. 

At the completion of the fiftieth year of his ministry he 
was presented with a gold-headed cane, bearing this inscription : 
" Presented to Rev. G. Baker, by the Northern New York 
Conference, 1824-1874," which he carried to the close of his 
life. 

His beloved and devoted wife and widow resides with her 
daughter, Mrs. Tallett, and is now in her seventieth year of age. 





GM.Tallett. 



ftARS.GH.jALLUT. 




^^^^^B^^S^^^^^^^^^^^^^B*=5T»3«^S5^^«^3g^3;^^S^g^SJ^^^!^5^3B 



■s- 























4 - f 



HesiDENCc AND Ga^oen or O.H.TALLETT, f^ EAR FAiff Ground, Wat €RTov/N,Jtff tRSOH Co., f^ . y . 




GlNORON PnoTOCfiPHER WkT^FTO^H fiY 





Z&BIRT D WHITNEY 



^^^ 



(JIRS.EGBZf^T D.V/HITNLY. 



> 4 » 




F(£siD[NCL S^ Brick Yaho oV LGBERT O.WHnN[iY,WAT[R> '■■■,:. Y. 



IIISTOllY OF JEFFKRSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



1G9 



in the State, and the only one receiving the dispatches of 
the National Associated Press. 

The weekly is made up from the cream of the daily 
editions, and has a wide influence and extensive cireulatiun 
throughout northern New York. It is tlic largest paper 
in the county, and contains by far the largest amount of 
reading matter, and its influence is helicved to be uucfiualcd. 
Speaking of the two papers, " Pettingill's Newspaper Direc- 
tory" says, — 

" Tlio daily has a circuliition of 1900, the weekly 3500. The 
Watcrtown Mnruiinj Detpnlch is a live daily, contnining all the im- 
portant news from abroad and throughout the county, latest telegrams, 
and corrected markets every morning. It is brighter and better than 
ever. Terms $() per year, in advance. The ^^'<:ek■ll/ llt-Ciiinii is a 
first-class weekly Democratic journal, devoted to the interest of the 
masses. It is tilled to the brim with the most interesting news of the 
day, and has complete correspondence from every part of the county. 
It is the best advertising medium in northern New York. Price, 
$1.50 per year. These are the only Democratic papers in Jefferson 
County, the population of which is 05,000." 

The establishment ]iublishing these papers gives employ- 
ment in its editorial, reporturial, and other departments to 
twenty-one people, several of whom are married nun with 
families more or less numerous. 

Thursday s Post was commenced October 19, 1S2G, at 
Watcrtown, by Theron Parsons & Co., five columns, weekly ; 
politics, Clintoniau ; si.\ty-six numbers were published, the 
last being January 17, 1828. The press was then sold to 
Henry L. Harvey, who (January 24) commenced 2'hc 
Register, with the same size and politics. Mr. Harvey had 
commenced a temperance paper, called The Genius of Phil- 
anthropy, previously, which afterwards united with the 
WatertowH Register, both names being retained. On May 
1, 1830, Benjamin Cory became a partner in the paper, 
and May 15 the name became Tlin Watertoum Register 
and General Advertiser. In May, 1831, Cory became 
sole proprietor and publisher. In the fall of that year, from 
being neutral in politics it became the organ of the Whig 
party in the county. September 19, the latter part of the 
name was dropped, and on March 25, 1835, its name was 
changed to The Aorth Anierienn, w'nh John ITaxton editor. 
It was continued under this name till Se|itember, 1839, 
when its name was restored to the Walertoicii Register, 
under the direction of H. S. Noble; the size, terms, and 
politics remaining unchanged. Joel Greene was afterwards 
taken into the partnership, and he subsequently became the 
proprietor. In March, 1842, the editor and ]iublisher was 
William II. Hough. Mr. Greene continued the paper as 
the Bkiek River Journal from the spring of 1843 till Au- 
gust, 184G, and by him it was considerably enlarged. lu 
the spring of 184G, Mr. Greene coiumenced publishing the 
Daily Journal, which failed to meet the expectations of 
the publisher, who changed it to the Watcrtown Journal, a 
tri-weekly folio of four columns to the page. This was 
continued until the press was .sold and the name changed 
to The Northern State Journal, by Ambiusc W. Clark, 
which was begun August 26, 184C, and, like its predecessors, 
was considered the organ of the Whig party in the county. 
In August, 1848, G. W. Smith and II. S. Noble (the lat- 
ter formerly engaged on the Wuferfowii Register) became 
the publishers. Julin Fayd subsc(iuenlly became a part- 



ner, and September 18, Jlr. Clark again became one of the 
publishers, since which time the paper was conducted by 
Clark & Fayel and others up to the year 1SGS-G9, when 
the office and publication were purchased by Hon. Lotus 
Ingalls, and merged in the office of 

THE WATEllTOWN REFORMER. 

This is a weekly newspaper, published at the office of the 
Watertotcn Daily Times, of which establishment the Re- 
former was the original plant, and has become the trunk 
in the Times- Reformer office. It was commenced August 
29, 1850, under the title of the New York Reformer, its 
founders being Lotus Ingalls, A. H. Burdiek, and L. M. 
Stowell. The late Solon Massey, author of a scries of 
articles of local biography and history, under the signature 
of " A Link in the Chain," giving reminiscences of Water- 
town and its pioneers, was one of the editors, as was also 
Wm. Olaiul Bourne, for a time. John A. Haddock, Isaac 
M. Beebee, anil L. J. Bigelow were also subsequently con- 
nected with the paper, both as proprietors and editors. 
Like the 'Times, since its first appearance the Reformer has 
been a discriminating champion of the principles and meas- 
ures of the Republican jjtirty since its organization in 1855, 
having previously been independent in politics, and devoted 
to temperance and general reform. Its present proprietor, 
Bciuaii Brockway, became associated in its ownership and 
editorial management March 1, 18G0, and has been con- 
nected with it, to a greater or less extent, ever since. Mr. 
Brockway is a native of Hamp.shire county, Mass., where 
he was born in 1815. He served a regular apprenticeship 
at the printing business, and entered on the first experiences 
in his long and succcs-sful career in journalism at Mayville, 
the capital of Chautauque county, N. Y., at the close of the 
year 1834, when only nineteen years of age. He remained 
in that establishment most of the time, as proprietor and 
editor, until the spring of 1845, when he removed to the 
city of Oswego, to take charge of the Oswego Palladium, 
which he had purchased. The publication of the Daily 
Osicego Palladium was begun under his auspices, and con- 
tinued through his ownership, which ceased by .sale in 1853, 
when he removed to New York, and took a position on the 
editorial staff of the Tribune. This he resigned from 
choice after two years of arduous but acceptable service, 
and returned to Oswego to engage in other pursuits. In 
the fall of 1858 he was chosen member of lussembly from 
the third district of Oswego county, and took a prominent 
part in the deliberations and actions of that body. He 
removed to Watcrtown in 18G0, to re-enter the field of 
journalism. While thus engaged as associate editor he was, 
on January 1, 18G5, selected by Governor Fenton iis his 
private secretary ; but he had disdiarged the duties of the 
office but a few months when he was appointed a canal 
appraiser. This responsible position he filled with unques- 
tioned fidelity and credit until the close of his term in 
January, 187t). 

In June, 1870, Mr. Brockway returned to Watcrtown, 
and, in connection with Lotus Ingalls and Charles R. Skin- 
ner, again devoted liim.self to the cares and toils of daily 
newspaper life, by engaging in the editorial management 
and control of the Daily Times and We< hly Reformer. 



170 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Having successively purchased the interests of Messrs. In- 
galls and Skinner, he fiualiy became the sole owner and 
manager in 1874, and has since continued as sole proprietor 
and editor-in-chief to the present time. 

THE WATERTOWN DAILY TIMES, 

which is now tlie peculiarly representative issue of the es- 
tablishment, and the offshoot of the Reformer, was com- 
menced in 1861. It was founded in response to the grow- 
ing wants of the city and its vicinity, and in its infancy 
was a small sheet, and indifferently conducted. Under 
better auspices and a more enterprising spirit, as well as 
greater diligence and ability in its mana<;ement, it has be- 
come one of the must respectable and influential dailies in 
the interior of the State, and reflects credit on the beautiful 
town in which it is published. 

THE TIMES AND REFORMER PRINTING-HOUSE, 

which is a complete newspaper brick building of four stories, 
situated on Arcade street, belongs with the establishment, 
the institution representing a capital of forty thousand dol- 
lars, employing a manual force of from thirty-five to forty 
hands. Its machinery, which is ample in the news and 
jobbing departments for all classes of printing work and 
binding, is driven by steam, the several apartments of the 
building, together with the counting-room, situated in the 
Paddock Arcade, being warmed by the same agent. The 
establishment does a business of some forty thousand dol- 
lars per annum, the circulation of the daily Times being 
fifteen hundred, and of the Reformer three thousand. The 
advertising in each journal is very large, and the job work 
very extensive. The heads of the different departments 
and operative parts of the establishment are as f.llows: 
B. Broekway, editor-in-chief; L. L. Pratt, news editor; B. 
D. Adsit, city editor; J. W. Broekway, general superin- 
tendent of operative departments ; H. A. Broekway, cashier, 
presiding in the counting-room. 

The Censor, an anti-Masonic paper, was commenced by 
Theron Parsons, at Adams, July 1, 1828, and continued 
until Jan. 18, 1829, when it was removed to Wateituwn. 
It was a small weekly folio of five columns to the page. In 
June, 1830, Knoch Ely Camp was announced as the editor. 
The bitterness of party spirit was at the time excessive, 
and its enemies having christened it The Giiicer, its name 
was changed by Camp to the Antimnsoiiic Sim. It was 
afterwards published thirty-nine weeks by Dr. R. Goodale, 
commencing Dl'c. 13, 1830, as The Coiistelhition, and sub- 
sequently it passed into the hands of Abner Morton, now 
of Monroe, Michigan, who enlarged it to six columns, called 
it the Jiffiriiiin Rejinrler, and imblished it till Jan. 21, 
18.34, when he removed west, taking his press. Elder Joel 
Greene, after selling the Jounnd, in January, 1847, began 
the Wiitertown Sjieclator, a ])aper devoted to the temper- 
ance reform. At the end of the second year it was stopped, 
with tlie view of enlargement, when it was prevented by 
the great fire of 184!>, which destroyed the ftirm on the 
press. 

THE WATERTOWN POST 

was founded in July, 1870, as an independent literary family 
paper, in connection with the job printing-office and bindery 



of Hanford & Wood, and was edited by George C. Bragdon, 
an accomplished writer and a partner in the newspaper ven- 
ture of the office. In November, 1871, Mr. Bragdon sold 
his interest to Wm. C. Plumb, who became the editor. He 
conducted its editorial columns for a year or so, when he 
sold his interest to his partners, Hanford & Wood, and re- 
tired from the concern. For a year or thereabouts the 
paper was edited by N. A. Oaks, late a crockery dealer of 
the city. In August, 1874, the entire establishment was 
bought by the present proprietor, Lotus Ingalls, who changed 
the form of the paper from a .small eight-page paper, with 
a literary supplement published in New York, and folded 
into the issue at the office of publication in Watertown, to 
a large four-page paper as it at present appears. ^Ir. 
Ingalls also changed its character from a strictly neutral 
paper in politics to an independent Republican journal, 
which discusses all questions of public and political interest 
on the basis of the " greatest good to the greatest number," 
thus taking the paper out of the category of merely literary 
papers, and placing it on the side of journals alive to public 
interests, yet losing nothing in its literarj' merit and domes- 
tic features, and wielding an influence for good in the com- 
munity. Another positive feature was given to the paper at 
this time, which still continues to mark its issues: it discus.sed 
the agricultural interests of the country, in which it is 
having a salutary influence by inducing better husbandry 
outdoors and better living indoors. The circulation of the 
Post, at the time of its purchase by Mr. Ingalls, was about 
1500 copies, and this, too, among the influential classes, who 
took but little interest in the questions that agitated society. 
It soon, however, under its new management, gathered 
force, and ran up its circulation till it bad over 4500 sub- 
scribers, adding to its list the active political and social 
classes ; more particularly among the fanning population of 
northern New York, .so many of whom had in years past 
made the ac((uaintance of Jlr. Ingalls as editor-in-chief of 
the Watertown Daily Times and weekly Refirmer, papers 
which he was chiefly instrumental in founding, — the Re- 
former in 1850, as a temperance advocate, and the Dnily 
Times in 1801, at the breaking out of the war, when a 
daily paper became almost a necessity in this part of the 
State. During the first years of Mr. Ingall's editorial 
career the Reformer attained a circulation of 5500 copies 
weekly. As the agitation of the slavery question became 
fierce and threatening, the paper took the Republican side 
of the i.ssue, and carried on at the same time a persistent 
advocacy for a reform in the assessment laws, IMr. Ingalls 
being the first man in the State to recommend the creation 
of a State board of assessors to equalize the assessments 
between counties ; and he first urged the importance of 
a bill for the same, which was carried through the legisla- 
ture two or three years afterwards. Mr. Ingalls, too, was 
an unceasing advocate of a free-school system, and was the 
first to urge, editorially, the distribution of the public-school 
money on the basis of attendance at schiml. In ISO;), Mr. 
Ingalls took a trip to Colorado, corresponding with the 
papers of the county, which correspondence, delineations of 
Rocky Mountain scenery and incidents, increase! his repu- 
tation as a descriptive writer, and lent an additional interest 
to the publications in which the same appeared. His re- 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



171 



lation.s of bis California experience were characterized by 
P. T. Barnuni as the most vivid descriptions of the won- 
derful visions there he had ever read. 

These events, and the long editorial experience of ^Ir. 
Ingalls, served to draw to his subscription list of the Pust, 
on bis assumption of his management, thousands of bis 
old readers who had been interested and instructed by his 
former writings. 

The Post is a thorough reform paper, its editor believing 
the people pay vastly too much for being governed. It 
possesses the confidence of the people, and enjoys the largest 
circulation of any weekly paper in northern New York. 

MISCELLANEOUS PUBLICATIONS. 

TJt'sidcs these papcr-s before named, there have appeared 
the following, generally from the press of the regularly 
established papers of the county : The Herald of Sahii- 
tt'on, a Universalist magazine, by Rev. Pitt Morse, 1822- 
23, semi-monthly, printed by S. A. Abbey, afterwards by 
W. Woodward. It was united with a magazine in Phila- 
delphia. T/ie Monitor, a .small folio, cap size, quarterly, 
beginning Jan. 1, 18.30, and devoted to the record of the 
benevolent societies of the Presbyterian and Congregational 
churches. The Student, one year, monthly, beginning 
Aug. 1, 1837, quarto, edited by the students of the B. R. 
L. & R. Institute, printed by B. Cory, and made up of 
original papers by the students. T/ie Voice of Jefferson, 
summer and fall of 1828 (Clintonian"), small weekly, quarto 
form, edited by a committee of young men, printed by 
Harvey & Hunt. The Veto, a small campaign paper, 
begun Sept., 1832. The Spirit of '76, edited by a com- 
mittee of young men, printed by B. Cory, three months in 
1833. Tlie PtUriot luid Democrat, a small campaign paper, 
was commenced Oct. 20, 1838, and seven numbers were 
issued. Printed by Randall 1). Rice, for a committee, at 
Watertown. Tlie Pioneer Phidanx iind Independent 
Magazine, 8vo, in covers ; edited by A. C. S. Bailey, and 
begun Nov., 1843, monthly; and it is believed but one 
number was issued. It was to be tlie organ of the Fourier 
association in Watertown. The Sinai and Calvary Re- 
porter, quarterly, octavo. Rev. Joseph Livingston, begun 
Oct., 1852, first number issued at Watertown, and second at 
Gouverneur. 

llie Telegraph was a little daily, about the size of a com- 
mercial note-head, which was published a few weeks in 
1858, by J. D. Huntingdon, then the telegraph-operator at 
Watertown, now one of the prominent citizens and dentists 
of the city. It contained the market reports and cable- 
grams of the then newly-laid ocean cable, and expired with 
the last echoes of the famous dispatch over the latter, " All 
right ! De Sauty." The Christian Witness was published 
monthly during the years 1875-70, by the Young Men's 
Christian Association; Chas. E. Ilolbrook, printer. 

THE BOOK AND JOB PRESS. 

Besides the newspaper offices in the city there are two 
book- and job-printing offices, viz. : 

GnAS. E. HoLBROOK, Steam printing, established in 
1872, as Kenyon & Holbrook, Mr. Kenyon retiring in 
lS7t!. and .Air. Ilnlbrnuk brconiing sole proprietor, as at 



present. His establishment is admirably equipped for its 
purposes of book and job work, having four steam-presses 
and one hand-press, and a full a.s.s<irtmcnt of type and ma- 
terial. Mr. Ilolbrook employs ten operatives, and occupies 
the basement and upper floors of the fine marble-front 
building of the Agricultural Insurance Company, for which 
company and the Watertown Insurance Company lie does 
a large amount of work annually, amounting to 810,000 
and over. Mr. Ilolbrook's investment in his business is 
about 815,000. 

J. S. Robinson, steam printing, now located in the 
Northern Insurance Company's building, corner of Stone 
and Washington streets, began bis present business in 1873, 
in the Pad<lock Arcade, with a fifteen-dollar press and his 
own hands. His establi-shment operates two steam-presses, 
and employs three men, and a capital of 82500. He does 
very neat work, and is young and energetic. 

The book-bindery of R. J. & R. B. Holmes, in connec- 
tion with C. E. Holbrook's printing-office, is a well-e()uipped 
and well-conducted establishment, employing four o]ieratives, 
and does a large amount of miscellaneous work in addition 
to extensive contracts for the insurance companies in bind- 
ing and ruling. 

THE PROFESSIONS. 

The resident bar of Watertown, of the present time, 
includes the following-named attorneys- and eounsclors-at- 
law, viz. : Laban II. Ainsworth, Bernard Bagley, Milton, 
Ballard, William B. Breen, Levi H. Brown, Lysander H. 
Brown, L. J. Dorwin, Fred. Emerson, E. C. Emerson, 
Francis N. Fitch, Henry S. Gipson, D. G. Griffin, S. H. 
Hammond, John W. Hogan, G. S. Hooker, William H. 
Hotohkin, Charles W. Hubbard, Judge F. W. Hubbard, 
Thomas F. Kearnes, C. A. Kclsey, \V. S. Lamb, Hon. 
Robert Lansing, John Lansing, F. Lansing, J. C. McCar- 
tin, Allan ^McGregor, George W. Moak. A. B. Moore, A. 
J. Moore, Hon. Joseph Mullen, Joseph JIullen, Jr., Allen 
Nims, E. North, D. O'Brien, Henry Purcell, Wilbur A. 
Porter, Wilbur F. Porter, Stephen R. Pratt, F. H. Rem- 
ington, William M. Rogers, Charles A. Sherman, Fred. D. 
Sherman, Judge A. H. Sawyer, Hannibal Smith, J. F. 
Starbuck, S. S. Trowbridge, Charles H. Walts, Nathan 
Whiting, P. C. Williams, Bradley Winslow, Judge Charles 

D. Wright, Edmund B. Wynn.* 

The medical stiiff of the city at the present time is com- 
posed of the following pbj'sicians and surgeons: Charles 
W. Burdick.t Alfred \V. Colo (bonia-opatbic), J. Mortimer 
Crawe, Henry H. Dean, John Grafton, Kilbourne Hannahs, 

E. G. Howland, Charles M. Johnson, S. C. Knickerbocker 
(homneopathic), W. T. Laird (liomienpatbic), Lois F. Mans- 
field, S. L. Parmelee, Alden R. Rudd, E. Sill, H. G. P. 
Spencer, James D. Spencer, Henry W. Strecter, E. W. 
Trowbridge, W. R. Trowbridge. 

Surgeon-dentists. — W. E. & J. P. Dunn, E. A. Ilol- 
brook, J. D. Huntington, H. D. Payne, S. M. Robinson, 
and E. L. Sargent. 



» Mr. Wynn has placed the historians unJor heavy obligations by 
his courtesies in extending to them (he free use of his extensive law 
and miscellaneous libraries. 

t Dr. Burdock was thrown from his carriage, October 31, 1877. and 
so severely injured thiit he died tliirtysix hour.* afterwards. 



172 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



CEMETERIES. 

The oldest burial-plaee in tlic tity is the Trinity church- 
yard, wherein several of the old residents of the county 
were laid to rest, the remains of many of whom have since 
been exhumed, and reinterred in " Brookside." The mon- 
ument of Phineas Slierman, deceased in 1813, and his wife, 
who died in 1847, still remains in the old burial-place. 
The receiving-vault for the dead of the city, for use in the 
winter season, is located in this burial-ground, and was built 
by the city in the year 1873. It is a solidly-built stone 
structure, standing in the rear of Trinily (Episcopal) 
church, and cost the sum of over §1000. 

The first plan of a cemetery was adopted October 27, 
1823, by the village council, the land having beeu pre- 
viously bought of Hart IMassey, in the west part of the 
village, on Arsenal street, west of the railroad. In De- 
cember, 1825, the lots, one rod scjuare, were balloted for, 
each taxable inhabitant being entitled to one share. To 
non-residents the lots uii;;ht be sold, the proceeds to be ap- 
plied to the building of a tomb. Four lots were to be 
drawn, one for each of the clergy in the village. The old 
Cathiilic cemetery adjoins this old cemetery on the west, 
but neither of them are now used. 

Among all the belongings of the city of Watcrtown none 
are more interesting or beautiful than that other city, lying 
just outside of the limits of the first one, the intercourse 
between which, though sad and sorrowful at times, is none 
the les.s imjierativc, and which latter city is bound to the 
former b}' tokens of affection and imperishable memories; 
links in a chain more potent than railways to bind together 
the two cities, — the city of the living and the city of the 
dead. 

BROOKSIDE CEMETERY. 

The ample grounds of wood and open, situated on the 
terraced slopes of the hills to the southward of the city of 
Watcrtown, are a charming spot, whether in the heats of 
summer, when the shade of the pine and hemlock invites 
to repose, or when the spicy October breeze rustles the 
royal garniture of crimson and gold that adorn the beech 
and maple. The Association was organized September, 1853, 
at the court-room in the Perkins' hotel in Watcrtown, 
under the name of the Watertoicn Cemetery Association, 
at which date the following board of trustees was elected : 
Talcott H. Camp, Hiram Holcomb, F. W. Hubbard, James 
K. Bates, F. II. Gregory, Willard Ives, Daniel W. Ricker- 
son, Joseph Mullen, Thomas Baker. The trustees met 
Sept. 3, and organized by electing Joseph Mullen, presi- 
dent ; Willard Ives, vice-president ; James K. Bates, treas- 
urer; and F. II. Gregory, secretary. Committees on 
grounds and by-laws wi;re appointed, and at a subsequent 
meeting an executive committee was appointed, consisting 
of Joseph Mullen, F. 11. Camp, and F. W. Hubbard. On 
Sept. 20 the board agreed with Rogers and Gardner to 
purchase of them a certain quantity of lands for cemetery 
purposes, at §16 per acre, and did ]]urchase the same. The 
cemetery was dedicated June 2(1, 1854, the Rev. K. H. 
Chapin, of New York, officiating as orator, and R. John- 
son as poet. The price of lots was first fixed at six cents 
per square foot for those in the open, and eight cents fur 



those wooded ; but subsequently and successively changed 
to ten cents, fifteen cents, and again to the present price of 
twenty-five cents per square foot. All monuments are to 
be erected under the supervision of the superintendent, and 
grave-stones are regulated to a certain height. The grounds 
of the cemetery include about seventy acres, and are very 
eligibly and beautifully located, some two and a half miles 
from the city, and are divided into four tracts by ravines, 
whose sloping sides add to the natural beauty of the grounds 
largelj'. They are artistically laid out according to beauti- 
ful designs of the landscape-gardener, adapted to the natural 
conformation of the surface; the banks of the creek being 
covered with a dense growth of hemlock and pine. That 
portion of the grounds not cleared off is covered with beech 
and maple, except that portion bordering on the creek. 
Interspersed among these trees are evergreens and mountain 
ash, planted out by private parties or the Association, the 
bright green of the one and the rich scarlet fruitage of the 
other adding much to the picturesque beauty of the place. 
All over the wooded space, and scattered somewhat sparsely 
throughout the open, are elegant and costly monuments 
and mausoleums and tasteful marbles, of various forms of 
beauty and styles of architecture. The most noted work 
in the grounds is the granite mausoleum of Henry Keep, 
deceased, erected by his widow, at a cost of §70,000. The 
granite mausoleum of Howell Cooper is a solidly-constructed 
tomb, as is also that of Orville Hungerford, which is built 
of the bird's-eye limestone. Among the monuments, that 
of Loveland Paddock is the most striking and costly. It 
is a massive granite shaft supported by an equally mjissive 
base, the whole surmounted by a gigantic statue of a female, 
cut in the same material. The monument of Alexander 
Copley, a shaft cut from the Chauniont quarries ; the granite 
shafts of George C. Sherman, John Winslow, George B. 
Phelps ; the Mundy casket of variegated marble ; the ex- 
quisitely-sculptured white marble pile of Gilbert Bradford ; 
and scores of others, neat and costly, attest the taste and 
wealth, as well as the aflTection, of those who erected them 
as memorials of their dead. 

The total receipts into the treasury of the Association, 
from 1863 to 1877, both years inclusive, aggregate 
831,386.82, of which amount the sum of §21,901.39 was 
the proceeds of the sales of lots and interest thereon, and 
the balance is receipts for improvements made on lots, and 
for interment fees. The gross expenditures, including 
improvements and superintendence, aggregate the sum of 
§25,011.78. The lauds have co.st about §3000. The 
balance on hand for use iu carrying forward projected im- 
provements is §8500, with the further income to arise 
from future sales of lots, etc. There have been 976 inter- 
ments in Brookside since 1862. The officers of the A.s- 
sociation have been as follows: Presidents: 1853-55, 
Joseph Mullen ; 1855-59, Adriel Ely (Mr. Ely died April, 
1859); 1859-60, F. W. Hubbard; 1860-6S, Charles D. 
Wright; 1868-78, Joseph Mullen. Vice-Presidents : 
1853-55, Willard Ives; 1862-64, R. E. Hungerford; 
1864-65, C. G. Harger; 1865-66, Alex. Campbell; 1866- 
68, C. G. Harger; 1868-76, J. H. Fisk (Jlr. Fisk died 
February, 1877) ; 1877-78, John A. Sherman. Treasu- 
rers: 1853-59, James K. Bates; 1859-60, Alex. Camp- 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



173 



bell; 18C0-G2, F. W. Hubbard ; 18G2-(;4, W. C. Browne; 
1864-74, G. R. Hanford ; 1874-78, Addison L. lJi)liam. 
Secretorks : 1853-55, F. H. Gregory; 185(5-58, A. P. 
Sigourncy; 1859-60, W. C. Browne; 1860-62, F. W. 
Hubbard; 1862-64, W. C. Browne; 1864-74, G. R. 
Hanford; 1874-78, Addison L. Upham. Snjierinteiideiils: 
1856-50, Jlilton i\Iiiior; 1859-65, A. Tiipp; 1866-77, 
Jolin Donahue. 

Another beautiful resting-place for the dead is 

CALVARY CEMETERY. 

This Cemetery association was organized, September 29, 
1869, for the purj)0.se of the burial of such as should die 
in the communion of the Ruuian Catholic churches of the 
city and adjacent country. A board of nine trustees was 
elected, who subscf|ucntly elected the officers of the asso- 
ciation, the said trustees being as follows: Rev. James 
Hogan, president; Dennis O'Brien, vice-president; Jolin 
J. B. Primeau, treasurer; Thomas Keenan, secretary; 
Thomas Conroy, James M. Holloran, John Griffin, David 
IMcDermott, John Fay, and Daniel JlcCormick. An 
Executive Committee was appointed, consisting of John 
Griffin, J. J. B. Primeau, and Thomas Conroy ; and John 
C. Wingel was appointed superintendent, subsequently. 
Grounds were purchased, pleasantly and eligibly located, 
about two miles east of the Public Square, on one of the 
most graceful and broad-swoeping curves of the Black river, 
at the foot of a terraced hill rising grandly above it. The 
plat is covered with a good growth of hemlock, beech, and 
maple, the nuinnurs of the foliage, and the rippling and 
plashing of the water on the beach below, being the requiem 
Nature chants above the children she gathers into her 
friendly and ample bosom. The grounds have been taste- 
fully laid out and improved under the superintendence of 
Mr. Wingel, and further improvements are projected, that 
within the near future make Calvarj' a beautiful and 
charming spot, filled with tokens of love and affection, and 
clustering with sweet memories. The road to the cemetery 
from the city passes along the bank of the river, and af- 
fords a delightful drive amid the cltarming scenery of this 
portion of the valley. The present officers are as follows: 
President, Rev. James Hogan ; Vice-President, Rev. 
Joseph F. Duriu; Treasurer, John E. Bergevin; Secretary, 
Thomas Keenan ; Trustees, Rev. James Hogan, John E. 
Bergevin, Rev. Joseph F. Durin, Thomas Keenan, Bart. 
Flynn, Andrew Weldon, Edward Benoit, Lawrence Riley ; 
Superintendent, M. Holloran. 

NORTH WATERTOWN RURAL CEMETERY 

is a little plat of about two acres situated on Bradley .street, 
on the north side of the river, and laid out in the year 1838 
as the " Pamelia burying-ground," Bernard Baglcy, Jacob 
Cramer, and Olney W. Reynolds being the trustees thereof 
at the time. On December 3, 1866, the North Watertown 
Rural Cemetery Association was organized, nine trustees 
being elected ; Jacob Cramer president, and Wm. Usher 
secretary and treasurer. The present officers are as follows : 
Trustees, Wm. Morrison, president ; Jno. L. Weeks, vice- 
president ; Nathaniel Haven, Geo. Van Vleck, Doreplius 
A. Wait, Geo. Adzitt, Allen H. Herrick, Chas. L. Weeks ; 



J. C. Lepper, secretary, treasurer, and superintendent ; 
AVm. D. Oliver, sexton. 

ASSOCIATIONS. 

WATERTOWN LODGE, NO. 49, A. F. M., 

was first instituted as " Eastern Light Lodge, No. 136," 
by a warrant from the Grand Lodge of New York, bearing 
date June 17. 1806, with the fi:)llowing officers and mem- 
bers: Powell Hall, W. M. ; Samuel C. Kennedy, S. W. ; 
Zelotes Harvey, J. W. ; Bcnj. Allen, Treasurer ; Isaiah 
Massey, Secretary ; Hart Massey , S. D. ; Josiah Farar, J. D. ; 
Benj. Pool, S. S. ; Samuel Foster, J. S. ; Andrew Ba.ssen- 
ger, Tyler, — and Gei-shom Tntlle, Jr., — all of whom arc now 
decciised. The Worshipful blasters of the lodge were : 
1806-08, Powell Hall ; 1809, S. C. Kennedy ; 1810-13, 
Calvin JIcKnight; 1814-15, Isaiah Massey. On the 
15th of November, 1815, the warrant of the lodge wiis 
surrendered, and Egbert Ten Eyck, Wm. Smith, and Hart 
Ma.ssey were appointed a committee to procure a new war- 
rant for a Master M;i.«on's Lodge. April 2, 1807, Jacob 
Brown (after Maj.-Gen. of the U. S. Army) was admitted 
a member of this Lodge. 

At the annual meeting of the Grand Lodge in 1817 a 
new warrant, dated June 5, was issued for a Master Ma- 
son's lodge at Watertown, under the title of 

WATERTOWN LODGE, NO. 289, 

with Isaac Lee as W. M., Timothy Burr, S. W., and 
George Smith, J. W., who were so named in the warrant. 
The Worshipful Masters of this lodge were as follows: 
1817-19, Isaac Lee; 1820-21, Dyer Huntington ; 1822- 
23, Abner Baker, Jr. ; 1824, D. W. Bucklin ; 1825-20, 
Abner Baker, Jr. ; 1827, Isaac H. Bronson ; 1828-29, 
Ithamar B. Crawe ; 1830-32, Isaac H. Bronson; 1833, 
Aslier N. Corss. The charter was forfeited by reason of a 
lapse in the annual elections, but was restored again in 
1835, when a new election was held Dec. 16, and W. II. 
Shuraway chosen W. M. In December, 1836, A. N. 
Corss was chosen W. M., and served eight years success- 
ively, until December, 1844. In 1840 the number of the 
lodge was changed as at present — Numbir 49. The W. 
Masters have been since 1844 as follows: W. H. Shuni- 
way, 1845; Calvin Auborn, 1846; Lysander H. Brown, 
1847; Peter Ilorr, 1848; Lysander H. Brown, 1849-50; 
Alexander D. Button, 1851 ; Randolph Barnes, 1852-55; 
Wm. B. Farwell, 1856; Wm. A. Loomis, 1857-58; Ste- 
phen L. Potter, 1859-60; Allen C. Beach, 1861; E. L. 
Sargent, 1862 ; N. H. Pierce, 1863 ; S. N. Hodges, 1864 ; 
G. W. Nimmocks, 1865; Allen C. Beach, 1866; Fred. 
Emerson, 1867 ; A. II. Sawyer, 1868-70 ; J. A. Lawyer, 
1871-72; T. C. Chittenden, 1873-74; L. C. Greenleaf, 
1875-76. 

Officers of 1877 : James R. Miller, W. M. ; Wat.son 
M. Rogers, S. W. ; Leslie B. Cook, J. W. ; John S. Coon, 
Treas. ; Lewis F. Phillips, Secy; Edgar C. Emerson, S. D. ; 
Alanson D. Seaver, J. D. ; Chas. P. Folger, S. M. C. ; 
Sherwood D. Andrus, J. M. C; Joseph J. Bragger, Tyler; 
John C. Arm.strong, >Lirshal ; James R. Miller, Trustee. 

The lodge owns a fine hall in Paddock block, and num- 
bers 231 members. 



174 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



WATEUTOWN CHAPTER, NO. 59, K. A. M., 

was instituted February 7, 1817, the first Grand Council 
consisting of Egbert Ten Eyek, H. P., Aiuasa Trowbridge, 
K., and Isaac Lee, S., who served nine years, until 1826. 
The succ&ssion of High Priests has been as follows: 1827- 
28, G. W. Wells; ^1829-33, Abner Baker; 1834-38, 
Ithamar B. Crawe ; 1839-40, Orville Hungerford ; 1841- 
44; H. K. Xewcomb; 1845-46, Ithamar B. Crawe; 1847, 
Peter Hon-; 1848, Lysander H. Brown; 1849, H. K. 
Newcomb; 1850, 0. Hungerford; 1851, P. Mundy ; 
1852-54, Peter Horr; 1855-62, Lj'sander II. Brown; 
1863-66, Allen C. Beach; 1867-69, Roswell P. Flower; 
1870, Nelson H. Pierce; 1871-72, John C. Armstrong; 
1873-74, Louis C. Greenleaf ; 1875-77, Thomas C. Chit- 
tenden. Officers of 1877: Thomas C. Chittenden, H. P.; 
Leslie B. Cooke, K. ; A. W. Wheelock, S. ; J. Addison 
Lawyer, Treas. ; Julius A. Quencer, Sec'y; Chas. B. Fow- 
ler, C. H. ; Chas. D. Bingham, P. S. ; Wilbert F. Bing- 
ham, R. A. C. ; Edgar C. Emerson, Geo. P. Bretch, Jno. 
K. Tufts, M. of Veils ; Joseph J. Bragger, Tyler ; Thomas 
C. Chittenden, Trustee. Number of membere, 140. 

WATEllTOWN COMMANDEBY, NO. 11, K. T. 

In the beginning of the year 1826, on the petition of 
Orville Hungerford, Adriel Ely, Isaac H. Bronson, and 
others, a dispensation was granted by the Grand Com- 
mander of the State of New York to organize an encamp- 
ment of Knights Templar at Watertown, under the title of 
" Watertown Encampment, No. — ," the said dispensation 
bearing date February 22, 1826. The first officers, ap- 
pointed by the Grand Commander, were Orville Hunger- 
ford, G. C. ; Adriel Ely, Geno. ; Isaac II. Bronson, C. G. 
The first conclave of the encampment was held, March 24, 
1826, with the above-named officers, and T. R. Brayton 
Prelate, and G. C. Sherman Recorder. From March 24, 
1826, to April 17, 1829, the orders were conferred on 
twenty-one candidates. In 1829, '30, and '31 there was 
but a single conclave held each year, the same being the 
annual election, and soon after the election in 1831 the en- 
campment surrendered its warrant, in consequence of the 
bitter political crusade waged against the Masonic order 
during those years. 

On or about the 1st of February, 1850, the surrendered 
charter was reissued on petition of Orville Hungerford, 
Jas. H. Meigs, Sol. Bobbins, Jr., Joseph C. Partridge, 
John Mullen, Sr. and Jr., Pitt Morse, Hugh Wiley, J. 
Whitby, Sylvester Reed, and John MeQuillen ; and March 
29 tlie encampment, as No. 11, resumed its work and 
elected a corps of officers, and has not ceased its regular 
conclaves since. Its commanders have been as follows : 
1826-29, Orville Hungerford; 1829-31, Adriel Ely; 
1831, Isaac H. Bronson; 1850, 0. Hungerford; 1851, 
Sylvester Reed; 1852 to March, 1861, Geo. C. Sherman; 
1862-69, Pearson Mundy; 1869-70, J. A. Lawyer ; 1871- 
72, Thos. C. Chittenden ; 1873, John C. Armstrong ; 1874, 
J. A. Lawyer; 1875-76, A. H. Sawyer. 

Officers of 1877-78: Louis C. Greenleaf, E. C. ; Rob- 
inson E. Smiley, Geno. ; Addison W. Wheelock, C. G. ; 
A. H. Sawyer, Prelate; Jas. R. Miller, S. W. ; Chas. R. 



Skinner, J. W. ; J. A. Lawyer, Treas. ; Chas. B. Fowler, 
Rec. The comniandery musters 176 knights. 

On the occurrence of the abduction of William Jlorgan 
the anti-Masonic excitement pervaded this, with other sec- 
tions, and nearly every lodge in the county surrendered its 
charter. The matter soon got into politics, and several 
papers were successively established at Adams and Water- 
town, as more fully stated in our account of the press. In 
1830 thirteen Ma-sonic and five anti-Masonic supervisors 
were elected, and in 1831 an equal number of each. This 
question unsettled former political organizations, and in in- 
numeratde instances made political friends those who had 
previously been opponents. 

ODD-FELLOWS. 

" Black River Lodge, No. 124, I. 0. 0. F.," was insti- 
tuted September 24, 1844, with Fred. S. Hawley as N. G., 
Wm. H. Shumway as V. G., and Edwin Clark Secretiiry, 
the District Deputy Grand Master, Charles W. Rogers, or- 
ganizing the work. "Iroquois Lodge, No. 161," was in- 
stituted in May, 1845, by D. D. G. M. W. H. Shumway, 
with Benjamin Jervis as N. G., R. Jl. Chittenden, V. G., 
and Alexander Wilson Secretary. On May 13, 1849, the 
great fire that kid waste the business portion of Water- 
town destroyed the propertj' and records of these two named 
lodges, and they were consolidated into one named the 

JEFFEnSON UNION LODGE, NO. 124, 

which was instituted August 4, 1849, by D. D. G. M. 
Theodore Caldwell, with Ira F. Rowlson N. G. and AVm. 
A. Loomis V. G. This lodge has ever since maintained 
its work. The hall in which its meetings are held is 
owned by the Odd-Fellows' Hall Association, which is com- 
posed of Jefferson Union Lodge and Montezuma Encamp- 
ment, the former owning two-thirds and the latter one-third 
of the stock. Fred. Eames and James M. Sigourney, mem- 
bers of this lodge, have both filled the position of Grand 
Master of the Grand Lodge of New York. The officers of 
1877 are: N. G., 0. F. Joy; V. G., C. F. Stewart; Sec, 
0. A. Freeman ; Per. Sec, Gustave Schocnfcld ; Treas., 
Duane A. Green ; Trustees, Thomas E. Beecher, Thomas 
S. Graves, Wm. Howard. Number of members, 143. 

WATERTOWN CITY LODGE, NO. 291, I. O. O. F., 

was instituted September 20, 1871, by D. D. G. M. A. G. 
Wheeler, with 20 charter members from Jeffijrson Union 
Lodge. The first officers were Lucius Gill, N. G. ; W. S. 
Carlisle, V. G. ; W. P. Brown, R. S. ; M. V. Kitts, F. S. ; 
Daniel Lee, Treas. The officei-s of 1877 are as follows: 
W. O. Smith, N. G. ; J. P. Dunn, V. G. ; J. R. Pawling, 
R. S. ; F. C. Webb, F. S. ; George H. Seiple, Treas ; 
Trustees, Chas. Drexel, D. C. Middleton, J. C. Harbottle. 
Its membership numbers one hundred. It is a vigorously- 
growing body, and meets in a distinct hall from Jefferson 
Union Lodge at the present time. 

UONTEZCMA ENCAMPMENT^ NO. 27, 

w:is instituted Nov. 19, 1837 (as No. 56), by D. D. G. P. 
Nathan Randall, of Onondaga district, with J. J. Safford, 
Chief Patriarch ; Sylvester Smith, II. P.; Wm. II. Sigour- 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



175 



iicy, S. W. ; Jolit) 11. Smith, J. W. ; Bciij. Lewis, Scribe ; 
Morris Liviiisrston, Treas. Tlie proseiit offiL-crsare: Merrill 
L. Raymond, C. P. , Levin I'hiilips, H. P. ; Charles Drexel, 
S. W. ; Robert J. Holmes, L ; James M'hite, J. W. ; Wm. 
Howard, Treas.; Thomas I. Graves, F. S. ; Johu B. Hart, 
D. D. G. P. for Jefferson district. Number of members, 68. 

INDUSTRIAL. 

The " Jefferson County Industrial Association," a joint- 
stock coiiii)any, was formed in May, 1843, at Watcrtown, 
having for its object a union of labor and capital after the 
plan of Fourier. It at one time numbered nearly 400 
persons, but after existing a little more than a year it was 
dissolved. An e.stablishment was formed two miles cast of 
Watertown, at Cold Brook, in which vicinity about 600 
acres of land had been purchased,- moclianic- shops fitted 
up, and conveniences for families erected. 

" The Watertown Mechanics' Association" was formed 
August 13, 1844. The objcct.s of the association were the 
cultivation and improvement of the moral, social, and intel- 
lectual faculties, by diffusing information upon subjects 
connected with the mechanic arts, by exhibiting improve- 
ments, by discussing the principles of mechanism, collect- 
ing .statistics, and in such other ways as might be deemed 
useful. Mechanics, artisans, and manufacturers might be- 
come members of the a.ssociation by signing the constitu- 
tion, and paying one dollar in semi-annual payments. Fairs 
might be hold at such times as might be appointed, and 
weekly discussions and debates were held. The following 
officers were elected at the first meeting ; viz. : William H. 
Robinson, president ; Gilbert Bradford, first vice-president ; 
\V. Y. Buck, second vice-president ; Avery Thomas, record- 
ing secretary ; George Martin, corresponding secretary ; 
James II. Ryther, treasurer; John A. Haddock, collector; 
Lorenzo Fiunej', 0. L. Wheclock, C. E. Hubbard, John 
Jordan, Timothy Turner, managers; George Burr, A. 
Freeman, A. H. Burdick, commis.siouers finance. The 
as.sociation continued its organization until 18G1, and then 
dissolved. 

"Mechanics' Mutual Protections" were formed at Water- 
town, Brownville, and Theresa, but were of short continu- 
ance. 

" The Watertown Manufacturers' Aid Association" was 
formed in 1875, to promote the objects indicated by its 
name. Under the auspices of the A.ssociation, a " history 
of the settlement and progress of Watertown, and a descrip- 
tion of its commercial advantages as a manufacturing point, 
its location, its un.surpas.sed water-power, its industries, and 
general features of attraction to capitalists and manufac- 
turers," wa^ jmblishcd in 1876, the same being compiled 
by Mr. C. R. Skinner. The book was very neatly printed 
by the Times- Reformer press, and is a credit to the house, 
the Association, the compiler, and the city whose claims it 
ably advocates. 

The first article of the constitution of the association is 
as follows : " The olject of the association shall be to make 
an organized and systematic effort to develop and aid the 
manufacturing interests of the city of Watertown." 

Its first and present oflicors are as follows : Gen. Bradley 
Win.slow, president ; Dr. II. M. Stevens, vice-president ; 



Charles R. Skinner, cor. secretary ; W. C. Haven, record- 
ing secretary ; John F. Moffett, treasurer ; board of trus- 
tees : Bradley Win.slow, Jno. C. Streeter, Chas. W. Sloat, 
C. D. Palmeter, .Closes Eamcs, Rozelle IT. Hall, Levi A. 
Johnson, Thomas S. Graves, A. 1). Remington. 

JEFFERSON COUNTY (POMON.v) OHANOE, PATRONS OP 
HUSBANDRY, 

organized May 4, 1876, with Luke Fulton, Master, and 
S. R. Pratt, Secretary. Numbers 75 members. 

WATERTOWN GKANGE, NO. 7, 

was organized July 12, 1873, by C. I). Beman, of Waukon, 
Iowa, deputy of the National Grange, with twenty-five 
charter members, A. H. Hall being elected Master; G. C. 
Bradley, 0ver.seer ; Jno. W. Tamblin, Lecturer ; L. D. 
OIney, Trciisurer; and S. Curtis Terry, Secretary. Elliott 
Makepeace was Master in 1874-5, and L. D. Olney, 1876-7. 
W. 0. Tolman has served as Trea.surer, and L. T. Sawyer 
as Secretary, continuously since Jan., 1874. The member- 
ship had doubled at the election of 1874, and at the close 
of the year was nearly treble its charter members. Since 
then large additions have been made both by initiation and 
the consolidation of two neighboring granges with Water- 
town Grange. The present officers are: Ma.stcr, L. D. 
Olney ; Overseer, Henry Barbour ; Lecturer, Elliott Make- 
fieace ; Steward, W. A. Lyttle ; A.ssistant, Chas. Wilson ; 
Chaplain, Samuel Green; Treasurer, L. T. Sawyer; Secre- 
tary, W. 0. Tolman ; Gate-Keeper, Geo. B. Kimball ; 
Ceres, Mrs. Adaline Olney ; Pomona, Mrs. Angeline Make- 
peace ; Flora, Mrs. Frances Fuller; Lady Assistant, Mrs. 
Fanny Green ; E.xecutive Committee, W. C. Baker, Geo. 
H. Kimball, Frank Haddock. 

" Sovereigns of Industry," organized , with W. A. 

Portt, President, and W. A. Lyttle, Secretary. 

MUSICAL. 

The first instrumental organization effected in Watertown 
was one known as the " Watertown Band," organized in 
1835. Capt. Rugg led the band with a "C" clarionet, 
the other members being John Parmclee, " C" clarionet ; 
Fay Horth, " F" clarionet; Dr. Sikes, "serpent;" Fred. 
White and Geo. Bascom, " bassoons ;" Cronkite, " B" 
bugle ; Albert Barney, " valve trombone ;" Charles Clark, 
piccolo. This organization continued until 1841, and often 
furnished music for military reviews and general trainings. 
One notable occasion was a review in 1830 at Brownville, 
when several distinguished military dignitaries were present. 

In 1841, the "Watertown Sax-Horn Band" was organ- 
ized, with James Elder as leader. It contained eleven 
Sax-horns, a tenor drum, and cymbals. This organization 
continued until about 1856, when the first Watcrtown 
Cornet Band was organized, under vthe leadership of Mr. 
Elder and several of the best musicians of the old Sax-horn 
band. This organization continued up to the breaking out 
of the rebellion, when a number of the members enlisted 
and went into the service. The organization, however, was 
preserved to the end of the war by Thomas Forrester, who 
filled up the vacant places in it with other musicians. In 
1867, M. L. Elder assumed the leadership, and continued 



176 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



in the position until sometime in 18C8, when the biniJ was 
reorganized under tlie leadership of I'rof. H. M. Lewis, 
with the name of " The Old Watcrtown Band," and con- 
tinued thus up to 1871, when the Davis Sewing-Machine 
Company purehascd new instruments for the band, and 
gave the use of them to the organization on condition the 
name " Davis Sewing-Machine Co. Band" was a.ssuraed, 
which proposition was acceded to. Tiie personnel of the 
organization at that date was the same substantially as now, 
viz. : Leader, Henry M. Lewis, 1st cornet ; M. L. Horth, 
2d cornet ; Thomas Forrester, E-flat clarionet, Geo. Jones, 
1st B-flat cornet; James Bonner, 2d B-flat cornet; Austin, 
solo alto ; Fay Horth, 2d alto ; Wm. R. Baker, 1st tenor ; 
L D. Graves, 1st tenor ; Walter Bliss, 2d tenor ; N. S. 
Snell, 2d tenor; Silas J. Snell, baritone ; Joseph Horton, 
tuba; S. Green, tuba; Frank Horth, bass drum ; L. Hutch- 
ins, tenor drum ; Edw. Trowbridge, cymbals. This or- 
ganization, with but few changes in members, continues to 
the present time. In 1874 the band competed for and won 
the SIOOO international prize at Toronto, Ontario, having as 
competitors much larger bands, among them the Hamilton 
(Ont.) band, of twenty-eight pieces, and the Grand Trunk 
band, of Toronto, with thirty-three pieces. The evening 
following the tournament, the U. S. Consul, Hon. A. D. 
Shaw, a Jefferson County man, gave the band a grand re- 
ception at the Queen's Hotel. A grand ovation and ban- 
quet was tendered the band by the citizens of Watertown 
on its return at tlie Wo(xlruff House. The reputation of 
the organization is second to none outside of the great cities 
lor the rendition of difficult or classical music. The band 
has serenaded civil officers of every grade from " aldermen 
to President of the United States," doing that pleasing 
service for President U. S. Grant on his visit to Watertown. 
On the visit of the Count and Countess St. Paul Le Ray 
de Cliauniiint to Carthage, a few years ago, the band was 
engaged in the reception of the distinguished guests, the 
de.scendant.s of the pioneers of Jefferson. In Sept., 1877, 
the band was ajrain reorganized under the name of the 
Walertoicn City Band, and incorporated with the following 
officers : Soranus II. Tripp, president ; Austin Jones, vice- 
president; Norman S. Snell, .secretary; S. D. Graves, treas- 
urer; Henry M. Lewis, musical director; the remaining 
members being the same as in the D. S. M. band. The 
band is splendidly uniformed and well drilled in marching 
movements, and present a fine appearance on parade, be- 
sides charming the ear with their exquisite harmony. It 
is the just pride of the city, whose citizens gather about 
the park on pleasant summer evenings in crowds, to listen 
to " tile concord of sweet sounds," that float out upon the 
evening air from the silver-throated helicons. 

" The Watertown Amateur Orchestra," composed en- 
tirely of amateur artists, was organized December, 1874. 
It comprises eleven instruments, viz. : 1st violin, John W. 
Miller, conductor; 2d violins, W. W. Scott (.sec'y. and 
treas.) and John Gutzmaii ; viola, Geo. Yager; basso, H. 
L. Baldwin (president) ; 1st and 2d clarionet, Frank Horth 
and De Witt Graves; flute and piccolo, D. J. Pease; cor- 
net, L. M. Waite; trombone, Jason M. Fenn. 

" The Watertown Choral Union" was organized in 1873, 
and consists of si.\ty-five members, with officers as follows : 



President, John C. Knowlton ; Vice-President, C. R. Ivem- 
ington ; Sec'y., M. B. Sloat ; Treas., E. Q. Sewall; Con- 
ductor, Samuel Adams ; Vice-conductor, Fred Seymour. 

LITERARY. 

The " Yuung Men's Association' was formed by the ap- 
pointment of officers, December 3, 1840, and the adoption 
of a constitution, which provided for the annual election of 
a president, two vice-presidents, a recording and corresjiond- 
ing secretary, a treasurer, and eleven managers, who were 
to constitute, together, an executive committee, appoint a 
librarian, and have the general charge and supervision of 
the interests of the a.ssociation. Citizens of Watertown, 
between the ages of sixteen and forty, might become mem- 
bers by paying one dollar admission fee, and two dollars an- 
nually. An act of incorporation was passed, April 17, 
1841, by which D. D. Otis, 0. V. Brain.ird, S. S. Cady, 
Abraham Reamer, J. M. Clark, George R. Fairbanks, and 
Samuel Fairbanks, were constituted a body corporate, under 
the name of "The Young Men's Association for Mutual 
Improvement in the Village of Watertown, with the u.sual 
liabilities and immunities, and power to hold real and per- 
sonal estate, to an amount not exceeding S10,U00." 

The introductory address was delivered by the Hon. Jo- 
seph Mullin, December 17, 1840, and weekly lectures and 
debates were continued during the winter seasons. A li- 
brary with about 400 volumes was opened April 3, 1841, 
and had increased to nearly 2U00 vulumes, when the prem- 
ises occupied by the association were destroyed in the great 
fire of May 13, 1849, and no further efforts were made to 
revive it. 

The first officers elected were D. D. Otis, president ; Or- 
ville V. Brainard, first vice-president; Ithamer B. Crawc, 
second vice-president ; Joseph Mullin, corresponding secre- 
tary ; W. Genet, trea.surcr ; Geo. W. Iluiigerford, S. Fair- 
banks, James F. Starbuck, A. M. Corss, R. Barnes, J. H. 
Dutton, J. C. Patridge, F. W. Hubbard, K. Hannahs, M. 
Boebee, and T. H. Camp, managers. 

"Factory Square Lycciini' was, in its d.ay, one of the 
institutions for good in Watertown, and proved a good edu- 
cator for the times. It was organized about the year 1845, 
and continued to hold its meetings regularly until 1848, or 
thereabouts, in a hall in the building then known as Sew- 
ell's Hall. Among the prominent members of the Lyceum 
were Jonathan Sawyer, Nathaniel and Julin Fariiuni, Lewis 
C. Therry, A. D. Button, Samuel Haddock, John M. Si- 
gourney, and Gilbert Bradford. Many able essays and 
stoutly-contested discussions were read and conducted under 
the auspices of the Lyceum, including a cour.se of geologi- 
cal lectures by a noted geologist of that day. Other lec- 
tures were delivered by Judge Mullin, Prof 0. B. Pierce, 
H. D. Sewell, and other prominent men. 

RELIGIOUS. 

"The Young SFen's Christian Association" was organ- 
ized in 18G9, by such nun as Geo. B. Masscy, John F. 
Moffelt, F. R. Farwell, Geo. L. Davis, Ilonier Bartlelt, C. 
C. Case, Wm. M. Pennimaii, and others of that stamp of 
character, Mr. Case being the first president. The associa- 
tion oceu]iies a .suite of rooms in Washiiigtmi Hall block, 





[am OtNDROH PHOTOOflAPHtF VtA7ClfJ0WH.ll Y ) 



Pliny Monroe. 



Mrs. Puny Monroe. 






Lorenzo Dow Hill was born in Richfield, Oneida county, 
New York, July 31, 1808. His father, Asa Hill, was a native 
of Holleston, Massachusetts, and his mother, Catharine Hill, of 
Connecticut. Mr. Hill came into Oneida (wunty in ISOO. re- 
maining thore until ISIO, when ho rcmoveil with his tiimily 
into the town of Kodiuau, Jefferson County, where he and 
they enjoyed the pleasures, and endured the hardships and 
privations con.se(juent upou pioneer life, remaining upon the 
farm, changed by his own hand from a forest to cultivated 
fields, for more than forty years. Mr. Hill died in 1856, aged 
eighty-six j'ears; Mrs. Hill, in ]85!t, aged seventy-eight. 

Lorenzo, at the age of eighteen years, by an arrangement 
with his father, was allowed to launch upon " life's troubled 
sea," and carve his own fortune. He was employed by the 
late Judge .Egbert Ten Eyck upon his fai-m, and his industry 
and fidelity to business secured him a good and unclianged 
home, and constant employment for four years ; when at the 
age of twenty-two, he purchased fifty acres of land in the 
southeast part of Watcrtown, upon which he commenced farm- 
ing for himself 

At the ago of twenty-four he married Mi.ss Amanda 11., 
daughter of Septimus G. and Dorothy Adams, of Watortown. 
Mrs. Hill had received the advantages of a good education in 
early life, and followed the profe.-*siou of teacher with marked 
success for a series of years, which profession she abandoned, 
and assumed the duties and responsibilities of domestic life. 
Having spent several years upon thoir farm, and upon his ad- 
joining fami in Kodniun, they sold the whole to his brother, 
Calvin P. Hill, and removed to Burr's mills, in Watcrtown. 
having purchased the " Dimcou Caleb Burnam farm," .so called, 
of one hundred and eighty-sovon acres, where Mrs. Hill dietl 
Augiist 4, 1850, at the age of forty-two years, leaving two 
daughters. Caroline A. and Emma C. These daughters both 



survive their parents. Mr Hill married, for hu- second wife. 
Mrs. Elizabeth Welch, daughter of Hosea and Chioe Brown, 
of Ohio, who survives hini. He also leaves two sons, children 
of the second marriage, to accompany their mother through the 
remainder of life's journey. 

Mr. Hill was a model farmer, as the condition of his pre 
mises has always atte.sted , was a man of indomit;»ble industry, 
energy, and perseverance; and by their application, with econ 
omy, free fix)m parsimony, seconded and assisted by his partners 
in life, he became one of our first farmers in wealth and im- 
portance, leaving a liberal inheritance to those for whom he had 
labored .so long and faithiuUy. 

Tn 18(59 he left hLs farm, which he retained until his death, 
in charge of his son-in-law, Mr. George R. Bell, and removed 
to the city of Watcrtown, for the double purposi.' of relieving 
himself and wife from the labors and cares indispensable to 
conducting the business of a farm, and the accomplishment of 
the higher object of increasing the facilitie.s for furnishiiii; 
his sons, Herbert M. and Ijorenzo D., with an education. The 
former Ls now a student in Hamilton College, and the latter in 
the High School of the city of Watcrtown. 

In politics, Mr. Hill was a Kepublican, never participating 
in political excitements or seeking political preferment. 

In 1840, Mr. Hill united with the Methodist Episcopal 
church, of which he remained a consistent working member 
for the balance of his life, appropriating liberally of his means 
and time for its sustainment. He was a man of sound judg- 
ment, shrewd, cautious, and safe in his businei^s, always avoiding 
contingent and illegitimate enterprises ; decisive, firm ; a good 
neighbor, a consistent Christian, a valued citizen ; kind and 
indulgent, not only in his family, but t<i all. He died at his 
residence, No. 92 Franklin street, city of Watcrtown. August 
14, 1877, honored and respected by all who knew him. 



HISTOKV OF .IKFFEKSON COUNTY. NEW YoliK. 



where a free reading-room, library, and ireological and inin- 
eralof;:ical cabinet are niaintainLMi. and kqit open to the 
public. Public relifrious services are also held every Sun- 
day afternoon and Monday evening, the same being under 
charge of a board of tnaiiager.s appointed by the several 
Protestant churches of the city. A course of lectures has 
been maintained each winter since the organization of the 
association, also a coffee-room has been kept open one or 
two winter seasons. There are at present one hundred and 
twenty sustaining members in the a.s.sociation, who have 
paid into the treasury ten dollars each for the fiirtherance 
of its objects for 1877-78. The present officers and mana- 
gers are as follows: President, John D. Huntington; 1st 
Vice-President, Clark Witherby ; 2d Vice-President, Fos- 
ter Ilhines; Treasurer, Geo. B. Ma«sey ; Corresponding 
Secretary, \V. -M. Penniman ; Recording Secretary, T. 0. 
Murray ; General Business Secretary, F. Z. Wilcox ; Man- 
agers, First Presbyterian church, Henry J. Mun.son, H. D. 
Waite ; Stone Street Presbyterian cliurch, Ed. Bush, Lewis 
Emmerich; State Street M. E. church, Jcphn F. MofFett, 
C. D. Pulminter; Arsenal Street M. E. church, Je.s.se M. 
Adams, P. Norton ; IJaptist church, Dr. C. M. Johnson, 
John Frost. The association published a monthly periodical 
called the Christian Witness, during the years 1875-70. 

BENEVOLENT. 

The " Catholic Benevolent Society' was organized in 
1860, with twenty-three members. Captain John Lacy 
being chosen the first president. The present officers are 
James Carlan, president ; John Muldoon, vice-president ; 
John Hardraan, corresponding secretary ; Michael Hogan, 
treasurer ; William Mooney, door-keejier. 

The " Knights of St. Patrick" Society was organized in 
1869, the first officers being James Muldoon, president ; 
Edward Kennedy, vice-president ; Thomas T>urkin, secre- 
tary ; Wm. J. Farrell, corresponding secretary; Peter 
Clasey, treasurer. The succession of presidents has been as 
follows: James Muldi>on, 1869-71; Eilward Kennedy, 
1871-72; William Haffarty, 1873-75; John Hartigan, 
1875-77. The society has about sixty members. 

" St. John I?aptiste Benevolent Society" was organized 
1876, and suspended the same year. E. De ^larce was 
the president, and Joliii Picket the secretary. 

The HonsE of Shelter for friendless and fallen girls 
and women was instituted April 25, 1877. at which date 
the first public meeting was held in the Y. M. C. A. rooms, 
a preliminary meeting having been held on the 17tb of 
April preceding. Forty-nine ladies were present at the 
second meeting, and " The Ladies' Christian Union ' was 
organized, which met from week to week until September 
1, when the " Shelter" was established at 111 Washington 
street, in a rented house, with ^[rs. Weeks as matron and 
two girls as inmates. This number increiused to six at one 
time. The " House of Shelter" is still young, but it is one 
of those real charities which, organized and maintained by 
the noble women of our country, extend their sheltering 
arms to the unfortunate of the female sex, and are therefore 
worthy the benison of every good citizen. The foundei-s 
of this charity hope much for it. The officers of the 
society are Mrs. D. W. Huldwin, president ; Mrs. J. G. 
12 



Harbottle and Mrs. W. S<u;e, vice-presidents; Mrs. C. A. 
Simmons, secretary; Mrs. Wni. W. Wood, treasurer. 
Membership, 393. 

The .struggle of the Greeks for independence excited the 
sympathies of our citizens in common with other .sections 
of the State, and on December 19, 1826, a meeting was 
held at D. Hungerford's hotel, in Watertown, to express 
their interest in the measure. A committee was appointed 
to solicit subscriptions, and the contribvitions, aggregating 
quite a sum, applied as intended. In 1847 the citizens of 
Watertown contributed for the relief of the Irish, who 
were suffering from the failure of the potato-crop, about 
$400 in money, and some §3000 worth of articles collected 
was sent from the county for this object. 

REFORMATORY. 

" The Jefferson County Temperance Society," auxiliary 
to the State .society, was formed by a convention assembled 
for the purpii.se in January, 1846. The formation of town 
societies was strongly recommended, statistics of intemper- 
ance to be collected, and strong efforts made to stop the 
sale of ardent spirits by withholding licen.ses by vote at a 
popular election, which had been a short time previously 
directed by the legislature to be held. 

A "Carson League" was also formed in 1853 for the en- 
forcement of the laws regulating the sale of ardent spirit.s. 

Sons of Te.mperance. — This order arose in 1846—17, 
and spread rapidly throughout the Union. Divisions were 
established in Watertown as follows: Fleming Star, 156; 
Meridian, 303. In March, 1851, there were twenty-eight 
divisions and lilt) contributing members in Jefferson 
County; but they ceased to work in 1854-56, and other 
organizations took their places, notably the Good Templars. 

Good Samaritans. — " Cataract Lodge, No ," was 

formed at Watertown, February 22. 1853, with seventeen 
charter members, but suspended soon after. 

Good Templjvrs. — This order succeeded to the place 
left vacant by the Sons of Temperance, and began to 
number it.s adherents in 1853. In Watertown the following 
lodges were instituted : '■ Cascade Lodge, No. 37," with 40 
members, George H. Harlowo, now Secretary of State of 
Illinois, being the first Worthy Chief Templar, and H. F. 
Ferrin, Secretary. In 1854 " Union Harmony Lodge, No. 
128," with 22 members, was instituted, L. M. Stowell being 
the first W. C. T., and W. W. Wright, Secretary. In 1855, 
on the lapse of the Grand Lodge of the State of New 
York, both of the foregoing lodges surrendered their char- 
ters, and between that year and 1866 no lodges existed in 
Jefferson County, or Grand Lodge in the State. In the 
latter year the order revived, the Grand Lodge was re-es- 
tablished, and the present organization, " Watertown Lodge, 
No. 90," was instituted. August 20, 1866, at Odd-Fellowis' 
Hall, with thirteen charter members, H. F. Ferrin being W. 
C. T., and C. H. Seever, Secretary. The membership of the 
lodge increased rapidly, in.-iomuch that it numbered at the 
close of the fii-st quarter 187. There have been at one time 
on the rolls of the lodge 492 contributing members. It has 
initiated 1200 members, and can point to more than one 
hundred reformed drinkers who have kept the pledge they 
pronounced before its altar. The present officers of the 



178 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



lodge are Lysandcr H. Brown, W. C. T. ; Miss Fanny Pierce, 
W. V. T. ; M. V. Rose, Secretary ; Myers Thompson, 
Treasurer. H. F. Ferrin, the first W. C. T. of the present 
lodge, was the Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of New York 
from 1807 to 1871 inclusive, ami during that time dis- 
bursed $118,0(10. 

In 1874 there were 1000 lodges in the State, with a 
membership of over 100,000. There were in 1869-70 
forty-nine lodges in Jefferson County, with 4(500 meml)ers, 
and every county officer at or about that time was a member 
of the Good Templar lodges. In Sej)teral>er, 18GS, the 
Grand Lodge met in Watertown, with 531 lodges repre- 
sented. In 1867 a " county lodge," the first one in the 
State, was formed in Watertown, to operate as a district 
grand lodge, composed of delegates from the subordinate 
lodges of the county. It has met once each quarter in 
various parts of the county ever since. The first W. C. T. 
of the county lodge was James Johnson, and the first Sec- 
retary, H. F. Ferrin. The present county chief is Samuel 
Hopper, of Antwerp, and eight constituent lodges send 
delegates to the sessions of the county lodge. 

The Watertown Reform Cliu was organized De- 
cember 18, 1875, by McKelvey and Bobney, temperance 
evangelists, with forty members, the first officers being as 
follows: President, John I. Inglis : Vice-Presidents, Closes 
Cross, W. H. Semple, J. G. Harboftle ; Secretary, George 
Dawson ; Treasurer, E. A. Dory ; Chaplain, Thomas Nor- 
ton. Prominent among the workers for the organization 
and maintenance of the club were Judge F. W. Hubbard, 
Dr. J. D. Huntington, Rev. J. W. Putnam, and J. J. 
Porter. During the winter of 1876 the elub sent several 
effective .speakers into the country round about, to evangelize 
in its cause, with good results. In March and April of 
1876 the membership ran up to over 800, but fell off again, 
as work became plentier, later in the spring. The club now 
numbers 150 members, and claims that less than ten per 
cent, of its heaviest membership have relaj)sed to their 
former dissipation. The club-rooms are at present in the 
American Hotel building. The present officers are George 
Dawson, president; Peter Major, Jr., vice-president; M. 
G. Dillenbeck, secretary ; C. W. Seger, treasurer ; Thomas 
Norton, chaplain ; Hon. F. W. Hubbard, W. H. Semple, 
S. M. Douglass, executive committee. 

The Father Mathew Total Abstinence Society 
was organized in March, 1871, and has now a membership 
of one hundred and twenty, and a cadetship of sixty boys 
between the ages of ten and fourteen years. The presi- 
dents of the society have been as"f()llows; 1871-72, Father 
(togan; 1872-73, Henry L. Stimson ; 1873-74, John 
Bemis; 1875-76, James McManus; 1876-77, James 
Muldoon. The present officers are James Muldoon, presi- 
dent ; Robert Tough, vice-president; James McManus, 
secretary ; James Hogan, corresponding secretary ; John 
Burns, treasurer; John O'Brien, sergcant-at-arms. 

.military. 

The 35th battalion of the 16th brigade of the 4th di- 
vision of the National Guards, State of New York, has ita 
division- and brigaile-headf|nart<rs in Watertown, and the 
roster of the same is as follows : 



DIVISIO.N STAFF. 

Major-Gcncral, Tilley R. Pratt, Watertown. 

Assistant Ailjutant-G(ncral, C. H. Von Brakle, Watertown. 

In.sjtector-General, Joseph Mullin. Jr., Watertown. 

Engineer, Charles Waite, Jr., Watertown. 

Judge Advocate, A. H. Sawjcr, Watertown. 

.Surgeon, .lohn II. Benton. 

Inspectiir Rifle Practice, Lewis F. Phillips, Watertown. - 

Ordnance Officer, H. 11. Wray, Watertown. 

t^uarterinasler, R. II. Huntington. 

roniinissary of Subsistence, A. II. Hull. 

Major and A. D. C. Romaino Freeman. 

Major and A. D. C, J. Edw. Massey. 

Captain and A. D. C, Norris W. Mundy. 

BrilOADK .STAFF. 

Brigadier-General, Bradley Winelow, W^atertown. 
Inspector-General, Geo. McComber, Watertown. 
.Surgeon, J. Mortimer Crawe, M.D., Watertown. 
Inspector Rifle Practice, II. B. Babbitt, Watertown. 
Ordnance Officer, F. D. Hill. 
Quartermaster, E. M. Gates, Watertown. 
Commissary of Subsistence, 0. Q. Staples, Watertown. 
Captain and A. D. C, Wallace Gleason. 

BATTALION STAFF. 

Lieutenant-Colonel Commanding, Alfred J. Caase, Watertown. 

Major, John Ward, AVaterlown. 

Adjutant, Andrew ,1. Moore, Watertown. 

Quartermaster, J. Ch.ase, Jr., Watertown. 

Commissary of .Subsisteoce, G. B. Huntington, Theresa. 

Surgeon, James D. Sjiencer, M.D., Watertown. 

Inspector Rifle Practice, AVm. L. Palmer, Watertown. 

Chaplain, Rev. J. W. Putnam, Watertown. 

Q. M. Sergeant, George H. Wood, AVatertown. 

Armorer Sergeant, Richard Smith, W^atertown. 

Drum-Major, Andrew AV. Menck, AVatertown. 

Band-Leader, Thomas Forrester, Watertown. 

The battalion comprises four companies, whose location, 
officers of the line, and numerical strength are as follows: 
Co. A, Watertown, 2d Lieut. Commanding, Marvin J. 
Dillenbeck ; 86 muskets. Co. B, Watertown, Capt., John 
A. Inglis ; 1st Lieut., John J. Hartigan ; 2d Lieut., J. 
Nelson Webb ; 77 muskets. Co C, Watertown, Capt., 
Jas. B. Miller; 1st Lieut., John L. Phelps; 2d Lieut., 
Thornton J. Corwin ; 76 muskets. Co. D, Theresa, Capt., 
Jerome Cooper ; 1st Lieut., Joseph Howland ; 2d Lieut., 
Warren F. Swan ; 63 muskets. The battalion numbers 
about 450 officers and men, including the brigade and 
division staff and musicians. 

The battalion musters for drill and review four times per 
year, at Watertown. The last review was held September 
25, 1877, and included, besides the companies before 
named, another company from Lowville ( Lewis county), 
under coininaiid of Ca])t. Henry E. Turner. The mantcu- 
vring of the battalion, and akso the company movements, 
were very creditably executed, and the marching in review 
in the field was especially fine. The exercises in the manual 
of arms .showed a eduiniendable degree of proficiency. The 
battalion is armed with the Remington repeating rifle, and 
if ever called upon to do active service in the field of war, 
it Would .seem as if ita record should be a brilliant one. A 
splendidly drilled and e(|uip])ed drum-corps, under com- 
mand of Drum-Major Menck, and the finely uniformed and 
skillful Watertown City Band, by their soldierly bearing 
and excellent music, added not a little to the esprit of the 
occasion. 





^^ 



^ J^l^^Z-^^^'-'i^^ — ^ 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



179 



The " Watertown Rifle Association" was organ- 
ized in 1876. It has a very excellent rifle range fitted up 
and eciuippedwitli fund.s appropriated by the Suite, for wliich 
appropriation the militia have the right of tlie range for 
two days in each week for rifle practice. The ordinary 
rules and regulations of rifle club practice have been 
adopted by the association, and the different ranges up to 
and including six hundred yards. The range is on Brad- 
ley street, on the north side of the river. The present offi- 
cers of the a-ssociation arc as follows : President, \V. F. 
Belknap; Vice-President, Capt. James R. Miller; Sec- 
retary, Sherwood D. Andrus ; Treasurer, A. L. Upham ; 
Range Superintendent, C. B. Fowler. The club-rooms are 
in Winslow block. 

SOf'IAL. 

"The Watertown Pioneer Club" was organized in 1872, 
by eighteen young gentlemen of the city who cast their 
first presidential vote that year (and for the successful can- 
didate). They camped out on Grindstone island the season 
of 1872 for ten days, and at so trifling an expense for the 
amount of pleasure gained, they organized a permanent 
club, and purchased an island in the St. Lawrence, in the 
town of Alexandria, and in the spring of 1873 erected a 
club-house costing $1(100, and kept open house fur all 
comers during the season. Their hospitality was lavishly 
bestowed, and the end of the season' found their expense 
account largely augmented thereby. Nevertheleiss, the 
club-house is occupied each season by more or less of the 
number, and much real physical benefit is gained from the 
relaxation enjoyed on the island. The officers of the club 
first chosen remain unchanged at the present time, and are 
as follows : President, Dexter Van Ostrand ; Vice-Presi- 
dent, C. H. Herriek ; Secretary, C. A. Harger ; Treasurer, 
A. L. Upham ; Trustees, Dexter Van Ostrand, C. A. Har- 
ger, M. H. Sternbergh. 

" Watertown League of Friendship," Wni. A. Portt, 
A. M.; W. A. Lyttle, secretary. Organized, . 

" Waverly As.sociation," organized ; A. M. Knicker- 
bocker, president ; Robert P. Oakes, secretary. 

SPORTING. 

" Watertown River Park Association" was organized 1863 
-64. The association purchased fifly-tive acres of land ad- 
joining the grounds of the Jefferson County Agricultural 
Society, on the banks of Black river, in 186."), and laid out 
a mile course and erected buildings, and have hold two 
" meetings" yearly, until 1876, where some fine exhibitions 
of speed have been given. The present officers are John 
C. McCartin, president ; J. Stears, Jr., secretary. 

" Watertown Base Ball A.ssociation," organized in 1873. 
W. D. V. Rulison, president; Chas. A. Settle, secretary. 
This association is one of the constituents of the New York 
State Base Ball Tournament Association, which latter body 
was organized April 4, 1876, by delegates from the Base 
Ball Associations of Syracuse, Watertown, and Ilorkimer. 
The president of the Watertown Association is the present 
secretary of the State Association. Three tournaments 
have been held by the Watertown Association. 

'' Jeft'enson Sportsmen's Club,'" Dr. Wm. R. Trowbridge, 
president ; A. M. Kciiyon, secretary. " State Park Club,"' 



Chas. S. Hart, president; A. W. Wheelock, secretary. 
" Field and Forest Club," C. Partcllo, president ; W. II. 
Matson, secretary. 

A DISASTROUS FLOOD 

in the Black River valley occurred on the 21st, 22d, and 
23d days of April, 1861), oceasioned by the breaking away 
of the Stat<; dam of the North Lake reservoir, wliich cov- 
ered an area of 5000 acres. Upon the breaking of the 
dam, the waters rushed into and down the valley, bearing 
dismay and leaving ruin in their pathway. Messengers 
were dispatched in breathless haste to inform the dwellers 
and manufacturers in the valley of the impending flood, 
and means were at once instituted to strengthen the State 
dam at Forestport, so as to enable it to resist the torrent ; 
but all to no purpose. Though the structure was deemed 
proof against any as-sault by flood, it proved but ;is a straw 
against the combined rush of waters and the accumulated 
dilris of rafts and forest-trees. Huge logs, sixty feet long, 
were turned end for end in the seething ma.ss, like toys, 
and as the rafts broke up and jammed, their constituent 
logs were peeled, splintered, and broken into fragments like 
scantling. The loss was immense in the valley, nearly 
every dam on the river, from the break to lb"? moutli, being 
carried away, with more or less damage to the manufactories 
themselves. The water-works were suspended in Water- 
town, by reason of the carrying away of a portion of the 
wheels operating the force-pumps, and with the exception 
of the Cataract and Grill's mills, which continued to work, 
every manufacturer on the river in the city was obliged to 
shut down, being more or less damaged. The Remington 
Paper Company and Bagley and Sewall were but little if 
any damaged. The losses in the city were estimated at 
half a million by the Daili/ Reformer of April 22. The 
only dam in the city not carried away was Taggarts' and 
Davis', and that was saved only by reason of the south 
wing going out, the rush of water taking away a portion of 
the P]agle mill, situated thereat. The State Wits obliged to 
pay heavy dam;iges to property-owners in the valley, much 
litigation ensuing in consequence of the flood. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



JOHN A. SHERMAN. 

The subject of this sketch was born in the town of Rut- 
land, Jefi"erson County, June 13, 1809. He is the eldest 
sun of Alfred Sherman, and grandson of Dr. Abel Sher- 
man, who was a native of Ma.ssacbusetts, and wlios(! ances- 
tors were among the early settlers of the New England 
States, and of English descent. His mother, Susan Hull, 
was an adopted daughter of Roswald Woodruft', who came 
to Jefl"erson County when it was a trackless wilderness, and 
was one of its pioneer men. 

His grandfather. Dr. Abel Sherman, was a physician by 
profession, and removed from Brimfield, Massachusett,«, to 
Clinton, Oneida county. New York. He only remained 
there a few years, and removed to JeflTerson County, town 



ISO 



HISTOltY OF JEFFEllSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



of Rutland, in the yoar 1808, and settled vipoii two hun- 
dred and twenty acres of timber land, which, in the course 
of time, he cleared and made tillable. He was the first 
sheriff of the county, and among its earliest pioneers. 

Alfred Sliernian. father of John A. Sherman, was a far- 
mer by occuiiation, and in comfortable circumstances; but, 
during the War of 1812, as contractor of the amiy, lost 
most of his jiroperty. 

Crippled for want of means, he was unable to give bis 
children the advantages of anything more than a common- 
.school education. At the death of liis father, 1827, John 
A., being then seventeen years old, took charge of his 
father's farm, and supported the family, wliieh consisted of 
his mother and si.x childnin. 

At the age of twenty-three, and in the year 1832, he 
married Miss Julia Ann Larned, of Rutland, and in the 
year 1834 purchased a dairy of twenty cows, and opened 
the dairy business for Jefferson County, and at the close 
of that year sent his cheese, packed in salt-barrels, to 
New York, taking twenty-one days for .sliipment by the 
canal, and only brought six cents per pound when in mar- 
ket. This was the first dairy of clieese manufactured in 
Jefferson County. He soon became a dealer in butter and 
cheese, entering into partnership with Henry Hopkins, of 
Rutland, shipping to New Y'^ork ; and in the year 1844 he 
opened the produce business in that city, .shipping mostly 
from Jefferson and adjoining counties. This business he 
continued in connection with bis farming at home for 
some seven years. Returning to Rutland township, he 
gave liis entire attention to farming, and became one of 
the first intelligent and judicious tillers of tlie soil in the 
county. 

In the fall of 1856 he removed to Watertown city, and 
purchased the property known as the Washington Hall 
block, which be still retains. In the year 185.') he was 
made a director of the Agricultural Fire Insurance Com- 
pany, of Watertown, New York, and upon the death of 
its first president, John C. Cooper, he was elected president 
of that company. He is also a stockholder and director in 
the Watertown Fire Insurance Company. 

[n politics John A. Sherman wa.« originally a I)em(icrat 
of the old school, but became a warm supporter of tlic 
Union at the breaking out of the Rebellion, and has sin< c 
held firmly to the principles of tiie Republican party. 

He was elected to the office of supervisor by the Deiw- 
ocrati(; party in the town of Rutland, before removing to 
tiie city, and was president of the Agricultural Society of 
Jcffer.-;!!!! Countv. 

To -Air. and Mrs. Sherman was burn one daughter, named 
Caroline, who married David S. Marvin, of Ohio, and re- 
sides with her fother in Watertown city. 

!Mr. Sherman is officially connected with some ol' the 
liaiiks III' t\n'. city, and is ela.ssed among the representative 
and ju<licious business men. 

.Vn engraving of Mr. Sherman's residence anil siirrduiiil- 
ings, corner of Stone and Massey streets, will be fiund in 
connection herewitli. 



JOSEPH MULLIN. 

The subject of this sketch was born August G, 1811, 
near Dromon, county of Down, Ireland. He was the 
youngest of eleven children of John and Martha Mullin. 
Part of the family emigrated to tin; United States about 
1820, and the rest shortly thereafter, and settled first at 
Brownville, and soon after in AVatertown, where his home 
has been ever since. 

About 182fi he entered the printing-office of Tberon 
Parsons & Co., of Watertown, as an apprentice, and con- 
tinued with them until the dissolution of the firm and 
transfer of the paper to Mr. Hovey, one of the firm. He 
was then employed to work upon the newspaper published 
by him. While in the employ of Mr. Hovey, Mr. Parsons 
established a paper at Adams, and, by the consent of Jlr. 
Hovey, he went to aid Mr. Parsons in getting out his first 
paper. He remained there only a few weeks, and returned 
to Watertown, and for several months worked for Allien 
Abbey on a paper published by him in that place. At 
an early ago he entered Union Academy, at Belleville, of 
which Mr. Charles Avery was principal. 

By the advice of his teachers and friends ho commenced 
the study of the languages, with a view of entering college, 
and ultimately studying law. Acting upon their advice, 
he entered the junior class of Union College in the fall of 
1831, and graduated in 1833. During the same year he 
was employed as principal of Union Academy, and served 
in that capacity one year. Returning to Watertown, he 
engaged in the Watertown Academy for a short time, but 
left it and commenced the study of law with Hon. T. 
C. Chittenden, of Adams, where he remained until Septem- 
ber, when he returned to Watertown as principal of the 
academy. 

In 18l!(j ho entered the law-office of Messrs. Sterling & 
Bronson, of Watertown, and remained with them until the 
fall of 1837, when be was admitted to practice, having 
previously studied law with Messrs. Rogers, ?Iason & Co., 
and also witii Mr. Eldridge, of Belleville. 

Immediately after his admission he entered into partner- 
ship with jMessrs. Sterling & Bronson, and remained with 
them about two years, and at the expiration of this tiini' 
opened an office of his own in Wat«rtown. 

In January, 1839, be married Miss Lydia M., daughter 
of the Hon. Egbert Ten Eyck. of Watertown. Judge Ten 
Eyck had previously been, and subsei|uently was, one of 
the judges of the Court of Commiin Pleas of Jefferson 
County. 

To .Mr. and Mrs. Mullin have been born five children, — 
three daughters and two sons. The eldest son, Anthony 
Ten Eyck, entered the navy in 18<51 as third assistant 
engineer. On the Ullli of Septcndier, 1877, after being 
absent for two years on the United States steamer ■' Rich- 
mond, " he came home on a visit, and died almost instantly 
the same day. The youngest, Jose]ih Mullin. Jr., is prac- 
ticing as an attorney- and counselor-at-law in Watertown. 

Joseph Mullin was appointed Examiiur in Chancery, 
Supreme Court Connnissioner, and Commissioner in Bank- 
ru])tcy under the bankrupt act of 1841. 

I n 1 846 he was elected member of Congress, and repre- 
sented the Jefferson di.strict in the XXXth Congre.ss. In 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



181 



1857 he was elected a justieo of tlie Supreme Cimrt in and 
for the fifth judieial district, New York State. He was 
re-elected to the same office in 18C5 and 1871^ without 
opposition. He received from the trustees of Hamilton 
College, and also from the trustees of Union College, the 
honorary degree of LL.D. In 1870 he was appointed by 
the governor presiding jastice of the general term in and 
for the fourth judicial department, and w;is reappointed 
after his last election in 1873. He is now in his sist)'- 
seventh year of age, having been an active attorney for 
twenty years, and justice of the Supreme Court subse- 
quently for the same number of years. 



JENERY T. GOTHAM. 

The subject of this sketch was born in the town of 
AVatertowii, March 1(1, 1813. He was .son of Colonel 
John Gotham and Nancy Penniman. In his father's 
family there were four children, of whom Jenery was eldest 
son. His father was a native of New Hampshire, and his 
grandfather was of English birth, and emigrated with his 
brother to America to avoid the draft into the English army. 

His father came to Jefferson County and settled in 
Watertown when he was about twenty-one years of age. 
This was about 18(14. At the age of twenty-three, and in 
the year 1 805, his father married Miss Nancy Penniman, 
of New Hamiishire, who was born in the year 1781. 

Together they began life for themselves in an almost 
trackless wilderness, and commenced clearing off the forest 
and making the land tillable. In the year 1812 he enlisted 
as corporal, under Captain Lampson, to defend the frontier 
of the Empire State against the attacks of the British, and 
was in the battle of Sackct's Harbor. At the close of the 
war he actively cngagcil in the State Militia Rifle Com- 
pany, and was regularly promoted until he received the 
title of colonel. 

He came to a premature death, being drowned in Lake 
Ontario Ncjvendjer 15, 1840, at the age of fifty-seven years. 

The subject of this memoir lived at home until be was 
twenty-six years of age, at which time he married .Miss 
Caroline Hutchinson, daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth 
Hutchinson, of Saratoga county, and their forefathers came 
originally from New England, and were of English descent. 
After four years, and in the year 1843, he removed to 
Lewis county and settled on a farm, but remained only three 
years, and returned to Watertown village, and remaining 
there only a few years, removed to the place where he now 
resides and has been for the p;ist twenty-eight years. An 
engraving of his residence, under the portraits of himself 
and wife, will be found on another page of this work, 
showing the result.s of a life of labor and toil by himself 
and wife. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Gotham were born three children, viz., 
John H., Zeruah, and Darwin B. Gotham. All are living. 
John H. married Miss Cyntha Kelsey ; have one child, 
and live in the town of Watertown. Z(>ruah married 
Merrit Fish ; have four children, and reside in Rutland. 
Darwin H. married Miss Lizzie Mallet ; have one child, 
and reside in Watertown city. 



He is a Democrat in ])olitics, has been an active and 
industrious man, and is honored and res]iected by all who 
know him. He is now in his sixty-fifth year. 



JOHN G. HARBOTTLE. 

The subject of this sketch was born in Tniiton, Oneida 
county. New York, JutK^ 4, 1810. He was son of Jiiliii 
Ilarbottle and Sophia Vassar. His father was born in the 
county of Northumberland, England, March 9, 1779, and 
at the age of twenty-two. and in tlu' year ISOl, emigrated 
from England and .settled at I'oughkeepsie, Dutchess county. 
New York. His mother was sister of Matthew ^'ilssa^, 
founder of Va.ssar College, New York State, and daugliter 
of James and Annie A''assar, of J'^nglish liirth. Sophia 
Vassar, his mother, was born in the county of Norfolk, 
England, December 11, 1784, and emigrated to America 
with her father and family when she was twelve years of 
age, and in the year 1790. The Vassar family arc of 
French descent, and this lino of the family left France dur- 
ing the early part of the eighteenth century, and settled in 
England. 

His father was married May 10, 1800, in Ponglikecpsie, 
New Y^ork. Engaged soon after in the manufacturing of 
cloth, and is .said to have been the first man in this State 
who carded wool by machinery. Following the clothing 
business, he Wius located severally at Oriskany, Trenton, 
Oneida county, Chittenango, Madison county, Mottville, 
Cayuga county, and in 1833 .settled in Watertown, New 
York. He died in 1843. His wife died in 1861. John 
Guy was sixth son and eighth child of his father's family 
of eleven children, and was fourteen years of age when the 
family settled in Watertown. Keturued to Poughkeepsie, 
remaining four years, and learned the tin-smith trade, came 
back to Watertown 1838, and for some six years was fore- 
man for Norris M. Woodruff & Son, in the same business. 
Afterwards for the Coopers, and in the year 1852 estab- 
lished business for himself Receiving no assistance pecu- 
niarily, by economy and judicious management has become 
one of the most successful business men of the city. 

In politics Mr. Harbotth' is a Republican. In persuasion 
he is connected with the Baptist church, uniting with that 
body at the age of nineteen. Always taking a very active 
part in the councils of that body, and having held the 
office of deacon for many years. 

At the age of twenty-two he married .Mrs. ^'ictorine R. 
Huntington, daughter of Lathrop Huntington, of Water- 
town. t)f this marriage was born one son, George Vassar. 
who died at the age of fourteen. The wife and mother 
died 1843. For his second wife he married Miss Marcia 
Ann Crydeuwise, daughter of John Crydenwise, of Ot.sego 
county, and of German descent. May 28, 1848. Of this 
marriage were born eleven children, of whom only three are 
living, viz. ; John Clark, Edward Guy, and Frank Vassar, 
.ill living at lionie. An engraving of the residence and sur- 
roundings of Mr. Harbottle will be seen on another page of 
this work, together with the engraved portraits of himself 
and wife, showing something of the result of a life of labor 
and toil. 



182 



HISTOKY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 




The subject of this sketch was born in Acworth, Xew Hampshire, 
February 24, 1774. He was a lineal descendant, of the sixth gener- 
ation, of Solomon Keyes, who emigrated from England as early as 
1653, as his name is found on the Newbury, Massachusetts, records 
of this date. 

Judge Keyes, as be was called, was without early educational priv- 
ileges, and, like many of his contemporaries, was being launched upon 
the world unaided and alone. He had a powerful frame, a well-baU 
anccd brain, and a sanguine temperament. At the age of fifteen he 
Btruck out into the busy world for himself, and, with his brother Fred- 
eric, went into the pine regions of Saratoga county and engaged in the 
lumbering business on North river. After some time he returned to 
New Hampshire, and in the jear 1796, November 20, married Miss 
Lucinda White, a young lady of more than ordinary ability. In the 
year 1799 he, in company with his brother, William Keyes, and 
Amos Stebbins, came by the way of Montreal and Kingston, and 
settled in the town of Rutland, this county, and their names are 
among the first, with one single exception, who purchased land in 
that town. Now settled with his wife and young son, Perley G. Keyes 
(whose portrait is found above this sketch), he began clearing off the 
forest, which to the men of that day was pastime. 

That part of the county was then known as Survey 3 of the " Black 
river tract." The town people being met together for town purposes, 
it waa agreed that he who should furnish liquor for the party should 
have the honor of naming the town. Mr. Keyes proposed to take 
the honor, and named the town Rutland. He was early appointed 
justice of the peace. Although with neither lawyer or school-master 
learning, he had that native talent and good sense that he acquitted 
himself as a conservator of the peace, and fitted him to be the leader 
of a political party in northern New York. In 1805 he was ap- 
pointed one of the judges of the county court with Joshua Bealls. 
In 1808 he was appointed sheriff of Jefferson County, and removed 
to Watcrtown in the fall of 1809, exchanging one hundred and thirty- 
five acres of land in the town of Rutland for fifty-five acres fronting 
OD Washington street, with Dr. Isaiah Massey, and getting $1000 to 
boot. 

He was appointed collector of the port ofSacket's Harbor in 181-f, 
and held the office for four years, and elected State senator the same 
year, and held that office for four years. Was re-elected for a second 
term in 1824. Becoming a member of the council of appointnu-nt. 



he began to exert that controlling influence in the politics of the State 
which made him the head and front of his party. 

In 1831 he was recommended by Martin Van Buren, Silas Wright, 
Jr., and others, to the office of governor of Wisconsin Territory, then 
about to be created. The political activity and firmness of Judge 
Keyes, for a long series of years, was only equaled by the remark- 
able clearness and power of his native mind. In this State there are 
few men whose services for his friends, in our heated and frequent 
conflicts, are to be remembered" with more gratitude or less regret 
than his. But the best evidence offered in his favor is thnt, in the 
midst i»f the most bitter conflicts, he twice returned to the legislature 
from a district where other Republican candidates failed. 

He was a plain, unassuming man. Such as he was he became, al- 
most untaught and unassisted, in spite of circumstances that might 
have been pleaded as an excuse for failure by men of less brain and 
stern, uncompromising will. He died in a fit of apoplexy, May 13, 
1834, aged sixty years. 

Perlev G. Keyes, his son, was born in Acworth, New Hampshire, 
September 6, 1798, and resided in Watertown from 1809 until his 
death, November 25, 1856. He early espoused the cause of anti- 
slavery, and was among a half-dozen in the town to advocate its prin- 
ciples and vote for its measures. At the age of thirty-four he was 
admitted to practice in the courts of this State as a lawyer. He was 
a man of high personal integrity, rendering him scrupulously honest, 
warm in his affections, and social in his nature, which gave him many 
friends and an extensive acquaintance throughout the country. Ho 
connected himself with the Arsenal street church at the age of forty, 
and remained an active member of that body, and prominent in its 
councils, until his death. 

Perley G. married Laura, daughter of Garret and Sally Becker, of 
Watertown, March 7, 1824. She died June 8, 1828, aged twenty-three 
years. He married for his second wife Lydia, daughter of Allen and 
Gertrude Pearce, of East Bloomfield, New York, September 22, 1829. 
By his first wife he had two children, Richard G. and Laura. The 
daughter died in infancy. The son, Rev. Richard G. Keyes, occupies 
the old homestead on Washington street, the house being erected by 
Judge Keyes, his grandfather, in 1831. 

It may be added here that no picture of Judge Keyes was ever 
taken, but that he resembled very much his son, Perley G. Keyes, 
whose portrait is placed above this sketch. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



183 




The suhjeot of this sketch was born in the ti>wh of Salisbury, 
Herkimer county. New York, March 4, 1812. His father 
was a well-to-do farmer. He remained at home, working upon 
the farm during his school vacations and sometime.s most of 
the summer, until he was seventeen years of age. when he left 
home to attend the Fairfield academy, and in a few years en- 
tered the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Western New 
York, located at Fairfield, and at that time the n\05t noted 
medical college north of Philadelphia. He remained at this 
place until January, 1834, when the college conferred upon 
him the degree of Doctor of Medicine. Soon after he left his 
native county and located in the Black river country, forming 
a copartnership w^ith the late Dr. Ira A. Smith, of Evans' 
Mills, in this county. This business connection lasted for 
three years. Having in the mean time formed a more intimate 
, ])artnership with Miss Cornelia Slebbins, of Rutland, wiiich 
occurred May 24, 183(3, he was at the solicitatiims of relatives 
and friends induced to locate in that tnwn, where he remained 
following his profession for thirteen years and until the fall of 
1849. Being elected clerk of the county, he removed to Water- 
town in December of that year, and entered upon the duties 
of that office January 1, 18-50. During his term a.s county 
clerk a movement was started to organize an insurance com- 
pany, to be exclusively devoted to the insurance of farm prop- 
erty, and, as he had at this time quite a large farming interest, 
he was induced to unite with others ai corporators of the 
" Agricultural Insurance Company," of Watcrtown, New 
York, which organization was ettectcd 1853, he being elected 
vice-president. 

As a student. Dr. Munson pursued his studies with great 
perseverance, graduating at the age of twenty-one years among 
the first of his class. As a physician, he enjoyed the respect 
of his professional brethren, and by his kindness and strict 
attention to business, combined with a well-cultivated medical 
ability, he endeared himself to the conimilnity in which he 
practiced his profession. As county clerk, he discharged his 
duties satisfactorily to the public, and during this time taking 
up the study of the law, rather as a necessity in connection 
with the duties as clerk, was at about the time of the close of 



his clerkship admitted to practice in all the courts of the 
State. 

The most eventful acts of his life are connected with his 
almost unparalleled success as the executive officer in the man- 
agement of the Agricultural Company, which success has laid 
the foundation for the large insurance interests of the city of 
Watertown, the investments of which are now counted by 
millions, and, in our opinion, is destined to be one of the most 
important interests of the county and to figure largely in its 
future history. No city in this State (nor probably in tlie 
United States) of its size can speak of so large investments in 
this business. And with the same energy and caution in the 
future there is no good reas<in why Watertown may not in the 
future be a second Hartford, and it is to Dr. Munson more 
than to any other one man that W^atertown will be indebted 
for the success of this enterprise. He was the moving spirit 
in February, 18.3-j. that made the radical changes in the com- 
pany that saved the farmers from being ta.xed upon their pre- 
mmm notes to pay the losses of the company, which would have 
resulted in winding up its business and disbanding the com- 
pany. In May of the same year he was elected secretary of the 
company, and for ten years, so to speak, carried the institution 
in his pocket; and in that ten years the company accumulated 
a surplus of over one hundred thousand dollars, on a business 
for the first eight of the years confined to only a few counties. 
In 1803 an efi'ort was made to largely increase the business of 
the company, and at this time the doctor gave evidence of the 
energy and executive ability he possessed. From one of the 
least companies of the State it became one of the nine of the 
one hundred and four doing the largest business, and but two 
outside the city of New York. This credit to Dr. Munson is 
not given in disparagement of the efforts of his co-laborers, 
who have so essentially aided in the prosperity of the company; 
but in its early history and until it wjis a success he had com- 
paratively little help in its executive management. 

When the enterprise became so large as to require more 
executive force, his voice was potential in selecting the able 
men and advisers that now surround him, and who have con- 
tributed so largely to the success of the company. 



184 



HISTORY OF .JIIFFKHSON COUNTY, NKW YORK. 




The subject of this sketch was born in the town of 
Canaan, Litchtield cuunty, Connecticut, Scptomber S, 17!.tG. 
He was third sou and fifth child of a family of eight chil- 
dren of Erastus and Lois Baker, who were both natives of 
Windham county, Connecticut. 

His father in the year 1S0"2 removed to Jitchfield, 
Hci-kimrr county, New York, with his family ; remaining 
there only a .short time, removed to Paris, Oneida county ; 
afterwards removed to Utica, and in the year 1807 came to 
\V;itertown, and settled on what is now Washington street. 

In the year 1809, when Thomas was thirteen years of 
age, he was apprenticed to the late William Smitli, a mer- 
chant of Watertown. He remained with him as salesman 
and book-keeper until he was of age, and for some two years 
thereafter. In the year 1820 ho was appointed by the 
town authorities to take the census of the town, and at the 
same time having been elected constable, fulfilled the duties 
of that office. In 1 822 he took charge of a store in Car- 
thage for Vincent Lc Ray de Chaumont, which position 
he retained for some twelve years, and during that time 
lield the office of supeiTisor of the town of Wilna for two 
years. Mr. Chaumont relinquished business in Carthage, 
giving Mr. Baker the highest recommendation for liis in- 
tegrity while in his service, and he returned to Watertown 
in 18.'?5. Held the office of county treasurer in 1837. In 
company with Jason Fairbanks, Joseph Kimball, Isaac 
H. Bronson, and John Sigourncy, he purchased the old 
cotton-factory, wliich was c;irricd on for twelve ycais, and 
proved (piitc a profitable investment. He then purchased 
llie rinenix flouring-mill, which he ran for some seven 
years, and was tlicii for about two years in the employ of 



the U. & B. R. R. R. Company in the construction of the 
road. 

In the year 1859 he was elected justice nf the peace for 
the town of Watertown, and from that time until the 
writing of this sketch (1877) he has held the office, with 
the exception of one term, either in the town or city. He 
has officiated as assessor of the village and city of Water- 
town for nine years, and two years as alderman of the city, 
in the third ward. He held the office of county treasurer 
from Nov. 1, 1837, to Nov. 1, 1838. 

In politics, Mr. Baker was originally a Whig, but during 
the late Rebellion joined tlie Democratic party. He has 
never been very active in politics, but has regarded the 
right of suffrage a boon conferred upon every American 
citizen, and a duty for every one to u.se that right intelli- 
gently, casting his first vote in 1818. 

Mr. Baker is now in his eighty-second year, and has lived 
to see the log cabin supplanted by the modern residence of 
grandeur and bespeaking the wealth and enterprise of the 
people, and many changes in all branches of industry and 
education coincident with a term of fourscore years. 

For his first wife he married, in the year 1819, Miss 
Laura Nasli, of Watertown, who bore him three children, 
two of whom are dead ; the other, George, is living, and 
resides in Chicago. His wife died in May, 1863, 

For his second wife he married Mrs. Hiram l)avis, of 
Oswego, in 1864. They only lived together ten years, and 
she died in the year 1874. 

Mr. Baker survives most of the men who were associated 
with him in middle life, and now looks to the end of life's 
journey ils only a little way. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



185 





^yl^i^i>if'''?^Zy' 



d^lUrp^ 



The subject of this sketch was bcirii in Warren county, New 
York, September 6, 1813. He was tlie son of David Dewey, 
who was of New England birtli, and whose forefathers eanie 
to America from Enghind about 1020. His inotlier, Polly, 
was a daughter of Benjamin Cole, of Rliode Island, who 
was a soldier in the battle of Lexington, and under General 
Washington when he defeated the Hessians at the l]attle of 
Trenton. Her forefathers were also of English birth. His 
father was in the battle of Plattsburg in the War of 1812, and 
when Hiram was only four years old removed to Washington 
county, and remained there until June, 182;j, when he with 
his family, consisting of liimself, wife, and eiglit <-liildren, re- 
moved to the town of Adams, .lett'erson County, New York. 
The father die! February, 182<i. Tlie motiier livc<l until Oe- 
tcd)er, 18-')il, and died at the age of seventy-two. Hiram was 
the fourth cliild and third son of his father's family, and u]ion 
his father's deatli he with liis elder brothers worked the farm 
and worked out by the month, to support the mother and 
younger children. 

At the age of nineteen, and in tlii' year 18;!2, he married 
Jliss Sylva Marble, daughter of Xallian .Marble, a resident of 
Jeft'erson County. 

During the same year he purchased a saw-mill, and com- 
menced lumbering, but was unfortunate, his mill being 
burned in a few days after his purchase. Not discouraged by 
reverses, although without money, he at once set about rebuild- 
ing, and in two months had erected another mill, which he ran 
for four years. He then removed to the town of (Irleans, bought 
one hundred and eighteen acres of timber-land, and after 
a year erected a log house and began clearing otV the original 
forest. From time to time since he has made additii>ns to his 
first purchase, until he had four hundred and sixty-four acres, 
occupied as two farms, with conuuodious buildings. For the 
first fifteen years after he came on to this farm he lived in the 




rude log house, and cleared oft' some two hundred and fifty 
aires ; and during the same years he was numbered among not 
only the representative men of his town, but also of the county, 
being asses.sor for one year, justice of the peace eight years, 
supervisor five years, anil county judge five years. 

In the year 18o;3 the " Watertown .\gricultural Fire In- 
surance Company" was chartered, Hiram Dewey being one of 
the charter members and stockholders of the company and 
one of its first directors, which office be holds at the present 
time. The increasing business of this company demanded the 
time of it.9 best men, and Hiram Dewey, retaining most of his 
real estate in the town of Orleans, removed to Watertown city, 
1805, and gave his attention to the interests of the company, 
officially acting as general agent, which position he still tills. 
He is also a stockholder and director in the Watertown Fire 
Insurance company. 

His wife died September 17, 184o, since which time he 
has been married three times, and now has nine children 
living. In the year 1800, Mr. Dewey was chosen an elector 
from his congressional district to rcjiresent it in the electoral 
college at Albany, casting his vote for .\hraham Lincoln for 
president of the United States. 

A "Whig originally, upon the formation of the Kepiiblican 
party joini'd its ranks, and has since stood firm to its principles. 
At the age of twenty-one he united with the Baptist church, 
and retains his membership with that body, always contribu- 
ting liberally for the support of any enterprisi; looking to the 
religious and educational interests of society and the support 
of good society in his city. Hiram Dewey is classed by those 
who know him among those men who form the bone and sinew 
of good society in his county. .\n engraving of his residence 
and surroundings, located on the corner of Washington ami 
Paddock streets, will be found on the opposite page of this 
work. 



186 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 




^^^ ^ ^^^i^C-^^i^^ 



The subject of this sketch was born in the town of Steuben, 
Oneida county, New York", September 26, 1797. He was the 
son of Noadifth Hubbard, of New Engbind birth (Connecticut), 
who wivs a lineal desreiidant from (icnriie Hubbard, born IGK), 
emigrated from Knjibiiid IfiSO, settled in the New Knsrland 
States, married Miss Elizabeth Watts, dausliter of Richard 
Watts, Connecticut, and died 11)84. Of bis father's family 
there were eleven children, of whom he was the third son. 
His father was a farmer by occupation in middle life, but 
earlier was also a merchant in partnership with his brother 

Stephen. His mother, Eunice Ward, was a daughter of 

Ward, of New England birth (Connecticut), and of English 
descent. His father about the year 1703 removed from Con- 
necticut, and settled in Oneida county, but remained only a 
short time, and in advance of his family in the year 17!t7 he 
with David Starr and others came and took up timber land in 
the town of Champion, this county, and is said to be the Hrst 
man who chopped a tree in Jefferson County for the purpose 
of settlement, and consequently was its first settler. In 1790 
he moved his family thither, and began a pioneer life in a 
trackless wilderness. Struggling with poverty and the hard- 
ships coincident with a new country, he carved out a fine 
property, raised a family of nine children, and gave them as 
much of an opportunity for an education as his means and 
the facilities for iditaining the same could afliird. 

His father died in June, 1850. His mother died in Novem- 
ber, 1849. 

He lived at home and worked on the farm with his father, 
going to school winters until about the time he was of age, 
and still remained at home until he was thirty-three years of 
age, and in the year 1830 married Mi.<s Clarissa S. Fish, 
daughter of Calvin B. Fish, originally of Connecticut, and of 
English descent, but at the time of his nuirriage of the town 
of Uutland, this county. He settled at first on a part of the 
<<ld homestead, and bv additions from time to time owned at 



one time some three hundred and fift}' acres of land, a large 
part of which he cleared and caused to be cleared and made 
tillable, and during the entire time he lived in that town made 
dairying and grain-raising his business. A life-long Penio- 
crat, never taking a very active part in iioliiics, but held in 
high estimation by his fellow-townsmen, who elected him to 
several important ofiices in the gift of the people of his 
town. 

In the year 18G2, and at the age of si.xty-five, he sold his 
farm and removed to the city of Watertown, where he now 
resides with his wife and two surviving daughters, having 
reached his eightieth year, and is the oldest living resident 
settler in this ]iart of the county. 

His wife was born in Lyme, Connecticut, January 21, 1808, 
and is now in her seventieth year. She early united with the 
Episcopal church at AVatertown, and was confirmed by Bishop 
De Lancey, and has since remained a steadfast member of that 
body, not only keeping her place and interest in church rela- 
tions, but instructing her children in all that makes true and 
pure manhood and womanhood. A model wife and mother, 
possessing more than ordinary intellectual ability, unassuming, 
respected and honored by all. 

He united with the same churcb at the age of seventy years, 
and is living a righteous and honorable old age. 

Among the pioneers of Jettcrson County few are spare*! as 
is Ward Hubbard to relate the incidents of the early settle- 
ment of the county, and pass through so nnany years of use- 
fulness. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Hubbard were born seven children, viz. : 
Mary H., Cornelia, Emma Fish and Ellen Sterling (twins), 
Mary, Augustus, and Clara E. Of these children only Mary 
and Clara E. live to comfort and make happy their parents in 
their old age. They desire to leave with their daughters and 
friends this short sketch upon the pages of history of the 
c.innlv in which thev have lived so long. 



HISTOllY OP JEFFERSON COUxNTY, NEW YORK. 



187 





Thc subject of this sketch was born in the town of 
Brownviiie, Jefferson County, New York, August 7, 1812. 
He was son of James Ballard, of Lancasfcr, Massachusetts, 
and who.sc ancestors were natives of IIoHand. His father 
settled in Brownviiie during the early part of this century, 
and carried on the business of a cabinet manufacturer in 
partnership with James McKcnzie ; aderwards carried on 
farming, and subsequently to that became a contractor anil 
builder, and removing west, died in his fifly-sixtli jcar, in 
Maumee City, Ohio. Samuel was the oldest son of the 
family of seven children, learned the caliinet business of his 
father, and stayed with his father until he was of age. 

At the age of twenty-two he married Miss Mary A. 
Warren, daughter of Mr. Warren, of Brownviiie, this 
county, and after about five years removed to Maumee City, 
Ohio, and engaged in painting. At the end of three years 
he returned to Brownviiie, and in the year of the gi'cat fire 
in Watertown removed to that village (^now a city ), and en- 



gaged with the firm of Blood & Van Namee in the under- 
taking business, which business, in the year 1860, he estab- 
lished by himself and still retains. His opportunities for 
an education while young were very limited, but the careful 
training received from his parents while at home laid the 
foundation for judicious business operations in after-life. 
Taking the undertaking business when in a very low state, 
he has during his connection with it, in fact, raised it from 
small dimensions to its present very popular and great pro- 
portions, and his urbanity of manner, his adaptability to 
his business, bis integrity of purpose in the accommodation 
of the afflicted, all, only bespeak the character and bearing 
of the servant of the people. 

. Connected with this interest fi)r the past thirty years, Mr. 
Ballard stands in the front rank and at the head in the 
county ; and a man so closely identified with the interests 
of all classes of society, and so extensively known, should 
have a place in the history of this county. 



188 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY. NEW YORK. 




^^-^^^.^^ W^- c^ 



The subject of this sketch was boru in the town of Otsego, Otsogo 
county, New York, September S, 18H. He wiis the son of Perez 
Bradford, a native of Providence, Rhode Tshind, and a lineal descen- 
dant of Governor William Bradford, who eraij^ratcd from Enjjlaud 
in the ship Mayflower, 1020, and settled in the State of Khode 
Island. His father was a soldier in the Hevolutiunary War, and by 
occujiation was a <-ard-niaker, Karly in his history his father re- 
moved to Otsego cuiinty, New York, and carried on his business. 
During tlie War of 1SI2, the supply of wire being cut off by (ireat 
Britain, and none iieing manufactured in this country, his father 
built a wire-factory on the outlet of Schuyler lake, on a stream called 
Oaks creek, near Coopcrstcjwn, and bej^an the manufacture of wire; 
but at the close of the war this article bci-amc so cheap that he gave 
up its manufacture, and afterwards removing to Onondaga county, 
returned to Otsego county, thence removed to Madison county, and 
died at Ca/.enovia, 1848, at the advanced age of ninety years. Gil- 
bert was thinl son ami fifth child uf a fainily of nine children, and 
while young learned the business of card-making of his lather. At 
the age of eighteen he learned the blaeksmithing business, and con- 
tinued at that trade for four years. lie then took charge of the cot- 
ton manufactory at Butternuts for one year. In the year 18.*i7 he 
came to Clayton, Jetfcrsou County, and in the s])ring of ISHS settled 
in Watertown. During the few years past Mr. Bradford had formed 
a desire to connect himself with steam machinery, and came to 
Watertown on account of larger business in that direction. lie at 
once connected himself with the woolen-factory then known as the 
"Hamilton wocden-factory," and superintended the erection and 
repairs of the machinery. Tie next took charge of (J, Cioulding k 
Co.'b machinc-sliops on Sewall's island, and remained there until 1850. 
While with this tirm he constructed a machine for doing labor, as 
churning, etc., which proved a success, but was impracticable; but 
conceiving the idea that a labor-saving machine could be made to be 
driven by steam, he set about it and constructed two portable steam- 
engines which proved a success in their work, and were the first 
manufactured in the Ignited States. Kntering into a partnership with 
Mr. Charles B. Hoard, the company began tin- manufacture of port- 
able steam-engines, which now are found driving printing-presses, 
grist-mills, saw-mills, cotton-gins, sugar-mills, threshing-powers, and 
every purpose where power is rcijuired. Tlie late IIora<e (Jreeley, in 
the AVic York yV/Ai/iif of ,Tuly l-'I, 1 S.^>0. alludid to this interest as 
follows: "The best thing I saw in Watertown was the turnout of 
two thousand pcu]>Ic on a stormy night to hear a dry temperance 
lecture. The next best thing was a new portable sti-am-engino in- 
vented and manufactured by Hoard k Bradfnnl. The lime must 
come when every thrifty farmer with nearly every mefhanit' will ha\ r 
such an engine of his own, and chopping straw, turning grindstone, 



cutting wood, etc., will have ceased to be a manual, and become a 
mechanical, operation." The success of the enterprise carried on by 
this firm is known in every State of the Union. At the close of the 
war, 18tJo, the company known as the '' Portable Steam-Engine and 
Manufacturing Company, of Watertown, New York," succeeded the 
sole owner. Mr. Hoanl (Mr. Brailfurd having previously sold out hie 
interest), and elected Mr. Itradlord its superintendent and general 



J^^ 




manager, and afterwards taking the name of the " Watertown Steam- 
Engine Company." The name of Gilbert Bradford is associated with 
the coni])any as its president, which position he has held until 1870. 

Really, Mr. Bradtbrd was tlie originator of an enterprise that has 
reachetl every State in the Union, as well as neighboring countries, 
and awards have been given its propagators wherever this interest 
has been exhibited. 

Mr. Bradford has been married twice, — first, to Miss Adeline Thorn- 
ton, in the year IS 11, she ilying March 11, 1871; second, to Mrs. 
Myra Adams, widow of the late Ely S. Adams, lie is now in his 
sixty-fourth year, respected and honored by his fe!low-men. He has 
been a life-long Democrat, never taking an active jiart iu politics, or 
neglecting business for othcc or ]iolitical ])rererment. lie is one of 
the charter members ot the " Homestead l-'ire Insurance Company" 
of Watertown, and has been a director and a member of the execu- 
tive committee since the organization of the company. 

Mr. Bradford erected the suspension bridge over Black river, at 
'Watertown; a sulistantial structure, wliich \\\\\ be a monument to his 
energy and ambition years after its projector has passed away. 



HISTORY OF JKFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



180 




— esC, ^^^^^-^ 




The subject uf this sketch was horn in tlie town of Rod- 
man, Jefferson County, Jauuaiy 12, 1820. He was son 
of James and Laura Ingalls. His father was a native of 
New Hampshire, and came to Rodman when only five 
years of age, and in the early years of this century, with 
his father. His mother was also a native of New Hamp- 
shire, and came to Jefferson County with his father about 
the same time. His father was of English descent, and 
his mother supposed to be of Scottish descent. 

Until the age of twenty he worked on a farm, a part of 
the time receiving liis education at common and select 
schools, and at the Black River religious and literary in.sti- 
tute at Watertown. Subsequently he entered the law-office 
of Lansing & Sherman, teaching school winters to liefraj' 
his necessary expenses. For twenty-live years or more ^Ir. 
Ingalls has been engaged in journalism at Watertown. In 
1850 he founded the Watertown Refurmer, and ten years 
later the Daily Times of the same city. At present he is 
editor and proprietor of the Watertown Post. In 1809 
he visited Colorado, and, in 1870, California. 

Always a Republican since the organization of the party, 
and previous to that a Free-soil Democrat, Mr. Ingalls has 
wielded large influence in tlie politics of northern New 
York, and has filled numerous places of public trust. He 
was a member of the county convention at which the 
Whigs and Free-soilere coalesced to form the Republican 
party of Jefferson County. Previous to that, in 1845, he 
held the office of town superintendent of schools in Water- 
town, and when the union system was adopted in 1807 he 
was made commissioner of city schools, and re-elected on 



the expiration of his first term. In 1864 he was delegated 
to procure the vote of the soldiers of Jefferson County, and 
in the performance of that duty visited the army of Vir- 
ginia both at City Point and in the Shenandoah valley, 
being in the latter locality two days after Sheridan's great 
victory there. In the campaign of 1872 he was chairman 
of the Republican county committee. He rendered im- 
portant service to the community where he resides by the 
active part which he took in promoting the construction of 
the Carthage and Watertown railroad, which has brought 
some of the most valuable sections of Jefferson County in 
communication with the centres of trade, and for four years 
he was director, secretary, and treasurer of the company. 
Through the newspapers and otherwise he has always been 
active in liehalf of such project,s of home improvements and 
public enterprise as have commended themselves to his judg- 
ment, being either in full sympathy with, or a little ahead 
of, public sentiment in this regard. He possesses the entire 
confidence of the citizens of his county, both because of 
his ability and .sound judgment and his ineomiptible in- 
tegrity. 

Mr. Ingalls was elected a member of the State legislature 
for 1876 by a majority of some five hundred and fifty-five 
over his Democratic opponent ; and, upon taking his seat 
in the capitol at Albany, did efficient service as chairman 
of the coniniittee on public printing, and member of com- 
mittees on State prisons and engrossed bills. In his public 
life he has not been much given to oratory, but, when the 
occiision required, was able to make a sensible, argumenta- 
tive, and well-directed speech. 



190 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 




The subject of this sketch was born July 27, 1805, in the town 
of Manchester, county of Bennington, Vermont. He was 
sixth child and third son of Steplicu and Sally Boon, natives 
of the same place. In 1819 he came to Watcrtown with 
Klnathan Mattisun, and worlied on his farm until he was 
twenty-one years of age; the consideration for services being 
one hundred dollars, two suits of clothes, one pair of shoes, 
three months' schooling in winter. He so improved his oppor- 
tunity during the school months as to be able in 1825 to teach 
school in the winter, and also for two successive winters. At 
the age of twenty he purchased one acre of land in Water- 
town, upon which was a house and tannery, and for the next 
ten years opened and carried on quite a large and profitable 
trade in Canada, taking there boots, shoes, and teas, and sell- 
ing ; and often, on account of scarcity of money, being obliged 
to take stock in payment, which he brought to this side the 
St. Lawrence for sale. This trade proved very lucrative to 
Mr. Boon, and placed him in circumstances to branch out and 
make additions to his real estate in Watertown. In 18.34 he 
added thereto seventy-five acres of land, now in the city limits. 

Four years after the organization of the Democratic party, 
1828, he cast his first vote for president of the ITnited States, 
voting for Andrew Jackson, and from th<> principles then 
adoptf'd he has lu'Ver swerved. 

In 1837, Mr. Boon had. In" his judicious numagement, sulli- 
cient means to control an interest in business circles. Erected 
a large hotel, now called City Hotel. 

In 18.37 he visited Chicago, this being the year of the great 
crash in banks, corporations, and general business. The time 
taken then to make the trip by steamboat, stage, horseback, 
anil on foot was eleven days; now the time is thirty hours. 
About this time lie took charge of the I'amelia mills, and ran 
thc'iu for the creditors of K. G. Smith. He was connected as 
stockholder and director of the Watertown bank for eight 
years from 1840. In the .same year he built his present resi- 
dence on corner of Stone and Benedict streets. In 1841, Mr. 
Boon gave his attention to building on his land, and altogether 



erected over one hundred houses, laid out several streets, 
erected a school-house in their midst, and hired a teacher at his 
own expense ; started a Sunday-school which has been kept up 
for upwards of twenty-five years, and to which interest Messrs. 
J. C. Sterling, Fred. Farwell, George B. Mas.sey, John 
Knowlton, and others, a.ssisted by Mrs. F. K. Farwell, Jlisses 
H. Hagar, A. M. Massey, M. Farwell, 8. K. Kice, have 
given much of their valuable time as instructors of the poor 
in gospel truth. By this enterprise the poorer classes of the 
village were enabled to secure a home cheap, and receive the 
advantages of both common-school and religious instruction. 
No one could have greater sympathy or ajipreciate the wants 
of the needy more than Mr. Boon, having passed through the 
same privations and endured similar hardships. 

Held in high esteem l)y his fellow-townsmen, Mr. Boon has 
been elected to several imjiortant ottices in connection with his 
village and county, and when superintendent of the poor, in 
1846, was said to have managed the business greatly to the 
advantage of the county and for the benefit of the needy. 
In 1854 he received from the State the appointment of ap- 
praiser of bank mortgages, and still retains the office, and in 
many instances has been selected as administrator, executor, 
etc., of estates He was by necessity early scho<ded in the 
habits of economy, industry, and early rising, which to the 
jiresent time he carefully retains. 

Although in his seventy-third year of age, he is among the 
most active men of his city, and seems to possess all the 
activity common to men of one-third his age, and by his regu- 
lar and temperate habits retains the vigor of middle life. In 
the year 1832 he married Miss Mary Ann, daughter of Ros- 
well and Innocence Wilcox, of Malone, Franklin county, New 
York, .who bore him four children, viz. : Maitland, Helen, 
Willard, and Walter. Ilis wife was a member of the Episco- 
pal church of Watertown, and an active worker in the labors 
of the Sunday-school, and early im|)resscJ her children with 
lessons of morality and virtue and all that makes true man- 
hood and womanhood. She died February, 1871. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUJNTY, NEW YORK. 



191 




The subject of this sketch was born in the town of Car- 
Usle, Schoharie county, New York, August 29, 1820. He 
was the eldest son of a family of ten cliildren of Jacob 
Moak and Mary Graham. 

His father was a native of New Scotland, Albany county, 
New York, and his great-grandfather was a native of Hol- 
land, and settled in Albany county in the latter part of the 
eighteenth century. His mother was of English ancestry, 
who first settled in the New England States. 

His father was a farmer by occupation, and the subject 
of this memoir worked on the farm at home until he was 
twenty years of age, enjoying the advantages only of a com- 
mon-school education, and, upon leaving home to go out 
into the world for- himself, John had no a.ssistance pecu- 
niarily. p]arly having a desire for railroad enter})ri!5e, he 
began as a laborer in the construction of the Housatonic 
railroad, and remained at this work for six years, but 
during which time began the line of promotion as foreman 
of track repairs. He occupied various positions in relay- 
ing the Rensselaer and Saratoga railroad, and building the 
Saratoga and White Hall railroad. He became superin- 
tendent of the track-laying on the Harlem railroad, and 
upon its completion was retained by the company as road- 
master, which place he held for seven years. He was 
subsequently engaged on the Milwaukee and Watertown 



railroad and the Chicago and Rock Island railroad until 
the year ISGO, March, when he came to the then village 
of Watertown, Jefferson County, and engaged as road- 
master on what is now the Rome, Watertown and Oswego 
railroad, which posititm he held until January, 1869, when 
he was aj)pointed superintendent of the same road, and still 
retains that office. 

In the year 1849 he married Miss Emily Richards, 
daughter of James Richards, of Syracuse city, but formerly 
of the New England States, and of English descent. 

Of this marriage was born one son, George W. Moak, 
who, after receiving the advantages of the schools of AVater- 
town city, entered Bishops College, Lennoxville, Province 
of Quebec, and remained there for three years, and until 
the year 1870. 

Returning t« Watertown, George W. entered the law- 
office of Judge Merwin, and at the end of three years was 
admitted to practice in all the courts of this State. He ia 
numbered among the representative young men members of 
the bar of Jefferson County. 

John W. Moak is now in his fifty-eighth year, and 
classed among the active business men of his city, and his 
connection with the Rome, Watertown and Oswego rail- 
road as its superintendent secures to the public the ser- 
vices of one in whom all have implicit confidence. 



192 



HISTOUV OP JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 











ASA H EL REAU. 



MRS. ASAHEL READ. 



ASAHEL READ. 



The subject i)f this sketch was bcini in the town of Schuyler, 
Herkimer county, New York, May 20, IVilo. He was tlie son 
of Roger Read, of Bennington, Vermont, and whose ancestors 
were of English descent and emigrated to America about the 
time of the landing of the Pilgrims. His mother, Lydia 
Perry, was born in Shaftsbury, Vermont, and whose father 
was a captain in tlir lievolutionary War, and was killed by a 
Tory. 

His father, when he was only eleven years of age, with his 
family, consisting r)f his wife and six children, removed to 
.lert'erson County, and settled in the town of Adams, in the 
year 1800. Asahel's part in moving from Herkimer to this 
county was to drive an ox-team the entire distance, loaded with 
household goods. 

The family began really a pioneer life in this county in al- 
most a trackless wilderness. Limited in means, and, as in 
those days, surrounded with a large family, theserviccs of those 
of his children able to do labor being reijuired, the father was 
uiuible to do much for bis children by way of book knowledge, 
and in consequence of which Asahel ri'C<'ived little education 
from books; but his successful business <'arc>er lia^. jiroved that 
all education does not come from l)ooks. 

. He lived at home and worked on the lann until hi- wa- 
twenty-seven years of age, and until lii> father had paid fur 
bis farm. 

Soon after heaving home, and in the year IH'2'2, he nutrried 
Miss Mary ]?artlett, born in (iraiiby, ^lassachusetts, February 
2.j, 1700, and daughter of Kbene/.er Bartlett, of New Kngland 
birth, and whose ancestors weri' of English descent. 

At about the same time he purchased one hundred acres of 
land, which he began clearing and making tillable. He made 
additions to this from time to timi' until he had .some two hun- 
dred and seventy-five acres, a largo jiurt of which he <leareil 
of its original fori'st, and erecteil tine anil commodious build- 



ings. Here be lived until 1803, when, having accumulated a 
fine property and arriving at an age which told him that his 
days of hard labor were about closed, he removed to Water- 
town, where he and bis wife now reside, he in his eighty-third 
and his wife in her eighty-second year, enjoying so far as may 
he the results of a life of labor and toil. 

Tn politics, Asahel Read is a Republican, originally belong- 
ing to the Whig party, but upon the formation of the Rejnib- 
lican i)arty joined its ranks; never taking an active jiart in 
political matters, but regarding the right of suffrage a boon 
cimferred u|)on every American citizen. At the age of forty 
he united with the Presbyterian church, and has since remained 
a member of that body, contributing always of his means for 
l)oth the support of church and school. 

His wife united with the same church at the age of seventeen, 
and has renuiined firm to the doctrines i>f that church until 
the present time, looking <lown to the end of life's journey as 
only a little way. Hos]iitable to all, cluiritabh' to those in 
need, she is numbered sunong the living ]iioneer women who 
have crnitributc'cl so much to the early history of the county. 

Mr. and .Mr-. Kiad ni'ver were blessed with any children, 
but have ahvay- bei-n in sympathy with any enterprise looking 
to the education of the rising generation, or the propagation 
of the ]irinciides of morality in society. 

Few are spared through a life of so numy years, and a life 
of usefulness. Mr. Read is a jdain, unassuming nnm, and 
uiniideil and alone has overi'onie the obstacles coincident with 
a |>ioneer life; respei'ted by all who know him as an honorable 
member of society; and to such men Jeffer.son County owes a 
debt of gratitude for its present thrift and prosperity. The 
portraits of himself and wife are placed above this sketch as 
a memorial to their relatives and friends, and especially for 
their niece, Mr>. .\m»dia .M. Webster, who cares for them in 
tbi'ir old age. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



193 





J - ^, j^^^^^i^x/^j-t 



I 



was born December 20, 1808, at Browtiville, in this county. 
His father, the late Henry Brown, came into the Black 
River wilderness in May, 1799, at the age of fourteen 
years. His family and that of the late Major-General Jacob 
Brown emigrated together from near the city of Philadel- 
phia, Bucks county, Pennsylvania. They journeyed prin- 
cipally by water, and landed on the banks of the lilack 
river, at the locality of the present village of Brownville. 
Both families traced their origin to the same English an- 
cestry. In religious faith and worship they were Quakers, 
evincing a lively interest in everything relating to the origi- 
nal Quaker State, and e.specially to William Penn, with 
whom tlieir progenitors were contemporary. 

The subject of this notice was the oldest of five children. 
As soon as he was of sufficient age he was subject to a pa- 
rental mandate, never disobeyed, that he should attend 
school punctually each year, during the winter teim, and 
work on the farm througli the season of I'arm-labor. From 
the district scIiocjI he went to the academy at Belleville, and 
attended there two' years, the first under Charles Avery, 
now in a hale old age, professor in Hamilton College, and 
the second under George; W. Eaton, decesised, who was a 
professor in Madison University. From Union Academy 
he entered Union College, and graduated in 1834 with the 
maximum grade of ae(|uisition in standing and scholarship. 
Hon. Joseph Mullin, of this city, w;xs his room-mate, and 
Hon. George F. Comstock, of Syracuse, his class-mate in 
college. They also attended the academy with him ; and 
Mr. Mullin was a class-mate with him at the common 
school in Brownville, when both were in their boyhood. 

Immediately after graduating lie took charge of an 
academy, or high school, in Champion, in this county, con- 
13 



ducting it for four years with marked success throughout, 
as well for himself as for the patrons of the school. The 
course of study embraced the higher mathematics and the 
languages, as well as the usual primary branches. Several 
young men were prepared for college exclusively at this 
school, among them the late John P. Brown, who, at the 
time of his decease, w:is law-partner of Hon. Joseph Mul- 
lin ; Cyrus S. Brown, State senator of Missouri ; and Luther 
J. Dorwin, of this city, a prominent member of the legal 
profession, maintaining an extensive and effective practice, 
especially in the argument of cau.sos in the appellate courts 
of the State. Dr. Henry G. P. Spencer, a thoroughl3--read 
and skillful physiciau and surgeon of large, lucrative prac- 
tice, and Merritt Andrus, an extensive and successful busi- 
ness operator, both of this city, were students at this school. 
Also Ambrose Spencer, of the Sandwich Islands; Gustavus 
Spencer, residing south ; and George M. Brown and Alex- 
ander Brown, late of Carthage, both men of mental influ- 
ence and extended business relations throughout the county ; 
and also William E. Everett, of New York, an accompli.'ihed 
navy engineer, distinguished as a principal manager in the 
laying of the Atlantic cable, both in the first attempt and 
in the final success. These and many other young men, 
whose reputable achievements in their several callings have 
honored themselves not only, but the teacher of their young 
days, ac((uired the basis of future usefulness and creditable 
position at this institution, and they have hearty words of 
commendation for the old-time Champion school. Indeed, 
few schools of this region, in so brief a ]ieriod, secured 
better or larger results in training and educating young men 
for practical work in the business ai^d professions of actiyu 
life. 



194 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



In the spring of 1838. Mr. Brown relin(|uished his .school 
in Champion, and took up his residence in the village, now 
city, of Watertown, where his first business was the study 
of the law. which ho pursued principally in the office of 
Sterling and Brouson, then in charge of Joseph Mulliu, 
Esq., just commencing practice. After a due course of 
stud}" he was admitted to practice in all the courts of the 
State, and soon afterwards in the United States courts. 
He entered into practice, but in the course of a few years 
circumstances directed his efforts into other channels. Mr. 
Brown has ever been an unswerving Democrat. As early 
as 1838 he "took the stump" for Isaac H. Bronson, then 
the Democratic candidate for Congress from the Jefferson 
County district. In every political campaign since that 
time he has, more or less, been called to the public forum 
in the discu.ssion of the various and sometimes grave ques- 
tions that have divided political parties. He has not con- 
fined his public utterances to politics, but he has delivered 
lectures and addresses on most subjects of interest, general 
or special, and of late years particularly on the subject of 
temperance. Few men in the county, except those whose 
professions make them public teachers, have been more ex- 
tensively or more acceptably engaged in addressing the 
people. 

In November, 1842, he married Mary Ann Symonds, 
daughter of Israel Symonds, late of this city, with whom 
he lived happily till her decease. December 5, 1875. To- 
gether they reared to maturity a family of four children, — 
Mary L., now wife of Dudley C. Redpath, of the city of 
Boston ; Israel S. Brown, an intelligent and accomplished 
printer, of this city ; Helen E., wife of George Hall, of 
Ogdensburgh ; and Fannie E. Brown, residing with her 
sister, 5Irs. Redpath. 

About the time of his marriage he was appointed super- 
intendent of schools for the county, adjudging and certify- 
ing as to the qualifications of teachers, and having a general 
supervision of the schools. He held the office two years, 
and during that time made an elaborate and extended re- 
port to Hon. Samuel Y'oung, State superintendent. It was 
considered one of the most valuable reports received at the 
department from the several counties. 

In November, 1844, he was elected a representative of 
the county in the State assembly, being one of the first 
candidates who adopted the southern and western custom 
of going personally before the people and addressing them 
throughout the canvass. In the legislature he took pro- 
nounced position as a ready debater and elo((uent speaker. 
The late Sherman Croswell, then assembly reporter for the 
Albany Argus, esteemed him, to use his own words, as the 
" best speaker in the Hou.se." Hon. Horatio Seymour, at 
that time speaker of tlie House, in his distribution of com- 
mittees appointed him chairman of the committee on col- 
leges, academies, and common schools, to whom was referred 
everything relating to the educational interests of the State. 
In that capacity he made a comprehensive report in writing, 
and, upon his reading the report in the a.ssembly, that body 
directed a large number of extra copies to be printed for 
distribution. 

In the congressional convention of 184G he was a candi- 
date for Congre-ss against Hon. Orville Hungerford, who 



defeated him by a small majority, after a sharp, severely- 
contested canvass. A short time previous to this Mr. 
Brown had commenced the publication of a weekly news- 
paper called the Demncralic Uniun, which he conducted as 
editor and proprietor, with a single interval, till 1855. His 
editorials were very extensively copied throughout the State, 
especially by the leading papers. They embraced mo.st sub- 
jects within the legitimate range of newspaper discussion. 

In 1847 he' was elected surrogate of the county, — the 
first under the constitution of 1846, — and held the office 
four and a half ^ejirs, being the time appointed by the con- 
stitution as the duration of the fii-st term. In 1849 he was 
a delegate to the famous State Conference Convention at 
Rome. That convention had two wings, — the " Hunker" 
and the " Barnburner." The wary New Y'^ork statesman, 
William L. ilarcy. was president of the former, to which 
Mr. Brown was a delegate. Hon. James F. Starbuck 
was a delegate from this county to the latter. They were 
two separate conventions ; they were in session several 
days, — the object being to effect a union of the two fac- 
tions of the party. They were notably successful at the 
time; but the union did not last. In 1854 he was the 
candidate nominated by his party for representative in Con- 
gress from the district composed of Jefferson and Lewis 
counties. He managed his own canvass, addressing public 
meetings through the district. The " Hunkers" and " Barn- 
burners ' had resumed the attitude of distinct organizations, 
and, there being three candidates, Mr. Brown was defeated, 
though running about 1500 in advance of his ticket. Fre- 
<|uently delegated bj' his party to various conventions, Mr. 
Brown was a delegate to the national convention at Cincin- 
nati in 1856. In 1858 he was elected justice of the peace 
of the town of Watertown. Since that time he has held 
the office and discharged its duties without interruption or 
vacation, firet in the town, and then in the city after its 
organization, having been elected every four years, — some- 
times the only one elected on his party ticket, and once by 
only two majority. He has thus been in the public service 
as justice nearly twenty years, and he holds the office at this 
writing. During this period he has been much of the 
time justice of sessions, elected by the county, and being 
associate judge of the county sessions. In 1867 he was 
nominated by the Democratic party for clerk of the county. 
The Republican majority was about 2000, while the major- 
ity over him was 1005. In 18G9 his party again nomi- 
nated him, — this time for State senator. He was again 
beaten, though running largely ahead of his ticket. 

For forty years Mr. Brown has uniformly maintained 
the reputation of a terse and vigorous writer, and a ready, 
elo(iuent sjjcaker, and not longer ago than the late Centennial 
celebration of the Fourth of July he delivered an oration 
which, in the estimation of good judges, is seldom surpassed. 

Abo\it eleven years ago he became a member of a tem- 
perance organization, and ever since he has sustained the 
cause of total abstinence, — often in stirring, earnest words, 
sometimes with his pen, and always by an uiideviating 
practical example. A few years after, he united with the 
Protestant Episcopal communion, receiving the rite of con- 
firmation, and being admitted to mcmbei-ship in Grace church 
of this city, and continuing steadfastly in its Jellowshij). 



HISTORY OF JEFFKKSON COUNTY. NEW YORK. 



195 




Dr. Crawe's superior jirofessional attainments and high 
social position entitle him to a prominent place in the rec- 
ords of the county. Ilavinu; Iwcn a man of mark in his 
life, his sudden decease, while yet in his prime years, cre- 
ated a corresponding void, especially in the immediate com- 
munity where his worth and work were known and appre- 
ciated. Few men in pursuit.-j not a.ssociated with official 
service, civil or militar\', leave a record more creditable in 
achievement or more unsullied in character. It was a 
record that awakened no regrets on the part of his living 
friends, nor detracted from their cherished memory of the 
dead. Such a man deserves the most generous of all trib- 
utes, the tributes of the heart. 

Ithamar B. Crawe was born in Enfield, Connecticut, 
June 11, 1792. His father, David Crawe, was a direct 
descendant of the Plymouth Roek Pilgrims, and a captain 
in the War of the Revolution. The mother's maiden name 
was Sally Bingham. There were six children : Sally, Da- 
vid, Justus, Ithamar Bingham, Isaac Morris, and Lucretia. 
In 1802 the family removed to Madison county, New Y^ork. 
From his youth Dr. Crawe evinced a pa.ssiiin for the collec- 
tion and study of plants, and having fuilid in health in 
ISll, he devoted some years to his favorite pui-suit. 

In 1817 he made two successive fishing-voyages to New- 
foundland, from whirli he returned with restored health. 
The next year he commenced the study of his profe.«.-iion 
with Dr. Hastings, of Clinton, Oneida county. In 1821- 
22 he attended lectures at tlie New Y^ork University, and 
in April, 1822, ho was licensed to practice medicine, receiv- 
ing his diploma from the celebrated Dr. Jlott. In the same 
year he engaged in the practice of his profe-ssion in Water- 



town. About the year 18!!G he was cmjiKjyed in the super- 
intendence of certain mining operations in Lubec, Nova 
Scotia. Afterwards he resided several years in Pontiac, 
Michigan, when he again settled in Watertown in the suc- 
cessful practice of his profession, not relinquishing, how- 
ever, his researches in botany and mineralogy. 

A short time previous to his decease. Professor Gray, of 
Cambridge college, communicated to Dr. Crawe that he 
would like to obtain from him some specimens of botany 
that were to be found on the borders of Perch lake, in this 
county. Having occa-sioti to visit a patient near the locality, 
and after attending to his professional duties, Dr. Crawe 
procured a boat and two men to assist him. Tliey pro- 
ceeded to the marshes bordering the lake, and the doctor 
filled his specimen-book with a selection of rare plants and 
flowers, congratulating himself, no doubt, on being able to 
comply with the re(|uest, and thus to gratify the cultivated 
taste of his distinguished friend, tlie Camhritlgc professor. 
About 6 P.M. they started on their return across the lake, 
and when within about twenty rods of the shore for which 
they were making the boat filled and capsized. The two 
men reached the land, — one by clinging to the boat, and the 
other by swimming ; but the doctor, though an excellent 
swimmer, bearing himself bravely up till quite near the 
shore, finally went down beyond a rescue. Thus suddenly 
and sadly the light of a valuable life went out. His body 
was recovered the next day. and taken to a home made des- 
olate by the cru.shing affliction. The sympathies of a sor- 
rowins community were deeply moved. His funeral was 
very largely attended, under the direction of the Masonic 
fraternity, of which he was an estimable and valued member. 



196 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Many men einiiiunt in science, who were fond of study- 
injr Natural History by reading nature herself from the 
glowing pagos written by her own creating hand, frequently 
visited Dr. Crawe. The most proficient of them could 
learn, not only fiom his conversation and extensive fund 
of information, but from his comprehensive and admirably- 
selected cabinets, especially of botany and mineralogy. 
Professor Gray was among the number, and it was natural 
that he should solicit, one whom he knew to be an adept 
to make the search which induced Dr. Crawe to go on this 
fatal errand. 

In 1846 the iKjnorary degree of Doctor of Medicine was 
conferred upon I>r. Crawe by tlie regents of the University, 
on the recommendation of the State Medical Society. This 
honor is awarded to no physician who is not distinguished 
for erudition and skill in his profession. Only fifty-three 
physicians in the State received that degree from 1827 to, 
and including, 184(1, an<l the instances are correspondingly 
rare since the latter date to the present time. We copy 
briefly from private letters, received by Mrs. Crawe in her 
severe bereavement. Hon. Isaac H. Bronson, afterwards 
deceased, who cultivated a life-long intinjacy with Dr. Crawe, 
and who understood his professional worth and social qual- 
ities, thus writes from St. ^Vugustino, under date of June 
23, 1847: 

" Truthfulness, the most unbending integrity, and purity 
of soul as well as firmness of purpose, were his in the 
highest degree, and these, combined with the most ardent 
attachment to those who were his sincere friends, made his 
friendship truly valuable." At the time of writing, Mr. 
Bronson was a judge of the United States courts, residing 
in Florida. His own genial heart prompted him to recog- 
nize the exalted character of his early friend. 

Major J. Curtis Pattridge, at that time engaged in the 
Mexican war, writes from Monterey, July 20, 1847 : " The 
doctor was not a common man. I can bear willing testimony 
to his many excellent traits of character, his uncommon 
fund of intelligence, his excclK^nt heart, his amiable dispo- 
sition. There was no one among my circle of friends who 
had fewer enemies." 

Professor Dewey, who was intimately associated with Dr. 
Crawe in scientific research, writes from the impulses of a 
heart deeply moved by a sense of his own loss, as well as 
that of her to whom he writes. In a letter dated Rochester, 
June 10, 1847, he says : " But I come to speak of my own 
sorrows in this sore affliction. I had just written him. I 
was hoping again to hear from him, again to mingle our 
thoughts of interest on the common .subjects of our pursuits, 
and then, he has fallen in his ardor of mind on these pur- 
suits." 

We copy a few lines from an extended obituary of Dr. 
Crawe which appeared in the Amerwan Jounial of Science, 
edited by Prof Sillinian, of Yale, September, 1847 : " lie 
fell a sacrifice to his ardor in the pursuits of natural history. 
In the study of geology, mineralogy, and botany he had 
long been successfully engaged, and had accumulated a rich 
treasure of specimens in these departments, while he made 
himself, by his own discoveries and exchanges, the friend of 
many of the naturalists of our country and of Europe." 

The Masonic lodge in the city of which Dr. Crawe was 



a member, and several other subordinate lodges, including 
St. John's Lodge, of New York city, and also the Grand 
Royal Arch Chapter of the State, pas.sed resolutions highly 
and deservedly eulogistic of his character as a man and a 
Mason ; and the State Medical Society, as well as many 
other associated organizations of physicians and surgeons, 
rendered prompt public tribute to the unquestioned merit 
of their professional brotlier. 

Dr. Crawe married Charlotte Frances, daughter of John 
and Sarah Mortimer, April 15, 1830. Three children were 
born to them: John Mortimer, May 23, 1831; Francis 
Bingham, August 7, 1834 ; and Charlotte Frances, March 
14, 1837. Francis Bingham was drowned at sea, Novem- 
ber 16, 1854. J. Mortimer Crawe, the only surviving son, 
is a well-known and highly-esteemed physician and surgeon 
of this city, widely recognized and respected in social life, 
and conspicuous for skill and success in his profession ; a 
worthy successor of an honored father. The daughter is 
the wife of Oscar Paddock, the well-known banker, also of 
this city. The widow is still living, residing with her son, 
the doctor, at the old homestead. 



THE FAIRBANKS FAMILY. 

The first of this numerous family who settled in America 
came from England with Governor Winthrop, about; 1630, 
and settled in Massachusetts Bay. They were named Jona- 
than and Richard (probably relatives), both from Yorkshire. 
Richard was afterwards postmaster at Boston. Jonathan set- 
tled at Dedham, and built the family mansion, shown in the 
accompanying engraving, in 1030, sixteen years after the 
settlement of Plymouth, the first in New England. This 
remarkable dwelling has -been kept in the family for ticn 
Itiniilriil (111(1 forly-oiie yedis, and is undoubtedly the oUhat 
tlwc//iii(f in the United States proper. Although in age it 
is not to be compared to the ancient ruins of Europe, yet 
relatively to the history of the Caucasian race on this conti- 
nent it has a most remarkable ;uitii|uity, and is an object 
of special interest, not only to the descendants of those who 
first lived beneath its humble roof, but to thousands of 
neighbors and the iieoi)le of the old " Bay State" gener- 
ally. The old " Tower musket," about seven feet long, 
brought over in 1630, and several sets of antique china- 
ware, are still preserved in the old mansion. The building 
is a frame, and is in a good state of preservation, being oc- 
cupied by a maiden lady (aged 83 yearsj of the Fairbanks 
family as a dwelling. 

Jonathan Fairbanks had six children, — four sons and two 
daughters. From this family have descended the Fair- 
banks' of Watcrtown. The father and grandfather of 
Jason Fairbanks were both named Samuel. The first 
served in the " old French war" of 1750-60, and the sec- 
ond in the .\nieriean army during the Revolution, and was 
also out during the celebrated ''Shay Rebellion, " in 1780. 

Jason Fairb.v.nks was a son of Captain Samuel Fair- 
banks, of Mindon, Massachusetts, and was born on the ".Itli 
dav of Scptciuber, MS^) At the age of thirteen he went 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



197 



I 



to Boston, and hired himsolf a year to tlie proprietors of a 
public-house, whose firm-name was Forbes k, King- There 
was another young man who had been there before him, and 
who was better versed in the mysteries and secrets of fash- 
ionable hotel-keeping. After the house was shut up at 
uiglit, in outside appearance, there Wiis a room nwai/ up in 
the attic, which was opened to the initiated, for purposes of 
gambling with cards and other devices ; and these boys took 
turns in waiting on the occupants, furnishing them with 
drink, cigars, and other refreshments from the lower part of 
the hou.se, and were paid a dollar a night for their services, 
besides pretty liberal cash eomplimetits for extra labor. The 
scenes to which he was a witness in that gamingroom were 
so revolting to his un.sophisticated mind as forever to sub- 
due any tendencies to the vice of gaming afterwards. At 
the end of the year — his father having removed with his 
family to the town of Thomp.son, in Connecticut — he ap- 
prenticed himself to Mr. James Bragg, a saddler and har- 
ne.ss-maker of that town. lie was at that time of slight 
stature, and weighed not more than 75 or 80 pounds. 

In 1802 he removed with Mr. Bragg to Newport, in 
Herkimer county, N. Y., where he remained until 1807. 
His apprenticeship was to close in the fall, and Mr. Bragg 
sent him to the western portion of this State, known as " the 
Genesee Country," to make some collections for him, and at 
the same time give him an opportunity of judging from 
personal inspection and observation the relative and pros- 
pective advantages offered to young men without capital, as 
compared with the northern counties, Jefferson, St. Law- 
rence, Lewis, etc. There was a great deal of fever-and-ague 
sickness in many portions of the then west; and he decided 
not to stick his stake until he had visited Ugdensburgh and 
Watertown, the leading villages and municipal centres of 
St. Lawrence and Jefferson. After his time was out with 
Mr. Bragg, in December, 1807, he went to Fairfield Acad- 
emy three months, which wa.s about all that the schools ever 
did for him ; the fund of u.seful knowledge which he has 
acquired, and his capacity to discharge the varied duties of 
public as well as private life, are the result of a habit of 
reading and reflection, and a faculty which he possessed of 
arriving at his conclusions by a short-hand method of his 
own, a kind of prescience or intuition, by which he jumped 
at conclusions, as it appeared to others, though it was really 
a method that was as reliable for business purposes as the 
lower one of other people, in ciphering out all the various 
steps to the same result. 

After returning from the " Genesee Country" he visited 
Ogdensburgh, and opened negotiations with Judge Ford, 
who seemed very anxious to secure him as a mechanic as 
well as citizen, assuring him that he would furnish him 
with all the facilities for opening shop to advantage. He 
almost decided on making a purchase of a village lot from 
Ford, for the purpose of building a shop ; in which ar- 
rangement Ford offered to furnish materials on credit. But 
the negotiations were broken off in consequence of Mr. Ford 
insisting on a condition that he should build expensively 
withiu a very brief period. He then came to Watertown, 
and after looking about a day or two, without let or hin- 
drance from anybody, he went to Sacket's Harbor, visiting 
Brownville ou his way back. General Brow^n tried very 



hard to appropriate him, and made him some liberal offers 
of patronage and encouragement if he would stick his stake 
at that thriving village, which at that time was a powerful 
rival, disputing the palm with Watertown, notwithstanding 
the latter was the county-seat. He, however, could not be 
misled by the sophistry of interested pereons, but readily 
came to the conclusion that, other things being equal, the 
fact of being the county-seat gave Watertown an advantage 
that no human ingenuity, neither the prestige of wealth 
nor family, could overcome or counterbalance. 

It was true that Brownville was connected with the St, 
Lawrence and Lake Ontario by locks around Fi.sh Lsland 
(now Dexter) falls, and Wiis the shipping port for the im- 
mense amount of ])otash that was being manufactured in 
the county, giving employment to a good many men and a 
very large cash capital. I have omitted to say that after 
his brief period was out at the Academy he spent some 
four or five months at Little Falls, working at his trade, at 
journeyman's wages, where he formed the ac(|uaintance of 
Calvin McKnight, who was working at painting, and who 
had some three or four hundred dollars in ciush, and with 
whom he kept up a correspondence, with a view to a future 
co-partnership in business as soon as he should locate. Mr, 
McKnight was a good business man, and attended to the 
out-door minutiic of shop life, while Fairbanks did the work 
of the shop. They went on together one year, and then 
dissolved, leaving McKnight in the shoj). He then con- 
ducted the business in another .shop, which he fitted up for 
the purpose, from fall to sprinu;, and then took into partner- 
ship a practical saddler and harness-maker by the name of 
John Smith, from Connecticut, with whom he euntinued 
on, in a shop on the site of the Safford block, for about two 
years. In the mean time, the firm of Fairbanks & Smith 
purchased a little tannery of one Oliver Taylor, on the 
State road (now State .street), near the brick hou.se known 
for many years as Baker Brown's, where they conducted a 
very brisk business in tanning and currying, under the 
faithful su])ervision of Orris Chiids. 

In 1811 he bought Smith out, and then ])urchased the 
five-cornered wooden building which a Mr. John Richard- 
son had built on the site of the present '• Flat-iron Block" 
on the Fairbanks' corner. In 1810 he added shoemaking 
to his other leather business, all of which he continued 
about forty-two years. In 1812 he was appointed Deputy 
U. S. Marshal under Peter Courtenius, Esq., which office 
he continued to hold under Marshals Livingston and Dar- 
row, — about twenty-eight years in all. 

We now come to speak of the j)eriod of the War of 1812, 
during which Mr. Fairbanks began to nianifest his capacity 
to manage successfully a large, varied, and sometimes com- 
plicated business, requiring tident of a high order, and 
energy that was as sleepless and untiring as it was active 
and laborious. His field of action was no longer confined 
to his legitimate leather business, but comprehended a vast 
series of operations, buying in one market to .sell in another 
pork, beef, wheat, corn, butter, .salt; in fine, every kind of 
property which could be turned to advantage ; visiting for 
that purpose every portion of a range of country embraced 
in the northern and western counties of this State, as well 
as the Canada provinces ; sleeping not morn than four or 



198 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



five hours in the night, and riding all the balance of the 
long night, between distant places, so as to be on hand for 
the transaction of business in the daytime. An instance 
of his power of endurance occun-ed in 1812, when he was 
lieutenant in a cavalry company commanded by Calvin 
McKnight. Tiiere was a general muster of the cavalry 
regiment at Denmark, in Lewis county ; Fairbanks started 
off on horseback in season to reach the place of rendezvous 
at 9 A.M., the time appointed for the muster. The adju- 
tant being absent, he was •• launched" for that duty, which 
is a very active and laborious one, and after being in the 
saddle all day he returned home to sleep, having been fully 
thirteen liours on horseback. It was in this way he ac- 
complished an amount of business, in his own proper person, 
whieli was almost incredible. 

During the War of 1812 he was often rc(iuired to ride 
for liing-continued hours of the night, as well as day, in 
carrying messages to different corps in the U. S. service, 
and ill rallying out the militia, as some threatened invasion 
made it necessary, to repel a vigilant foe.* 

In 1821, February 12, Mr. Fairbanks wa.s appointed 
sheriff of the county, and then was elected one term under 
the new constitution, which closed in 1825. It was durine; 
the first year of his apjiointment, in 1821, that he noticed 
in a Philadelphia paper that Pennsylvania had produced a 
grand jury whose average weight was 200 pounds. As 
he had the selection of such a jury at his discretion under 
the constitution, he availed himself of the opportunity 
which was afforded him of producing a grand jury in 
court whose aggregate weight was but 180 pounds short 
of three tons. The judge who presided gave him credit 
for having a jury of a good deal more tlian ordinary weight 
and jnoportions, physically, and he trusted mentally. At 
the noon recess he invited them all, together with the 
officers of the court, to dine with him, and then marched 
with them to the village hay-scales, where he liad them 
accurately weighed.. He had a li.st of tlieir names, with 
their individual weight and their particular residence, for 
future reference, but it has been mislaid or lost, as has also 
the record which was made by the court. f 

Ho had about the right kind of tone and temper for an 
executive officer, and, without prejudice to others who have 

» For an account of the " Whittlesey affair," see history of the oitv 
of Watcrtown. 

I Names of the "Fat Jury ." —SammA Dyer (foreman), Curti.s jMan, 
George Crane, William Cole, Clark Saunclers. Henry Myerp. Caleb 
Tift, Miner Merrill, John Gotham, Solon Slale, Moses Cook, Daniel 
Sterling, Thomas liones. WaUlron M. Scarlcs. Alijah Fanvell, Thomas 
Loomis, Gilbert Miller. Johnson Bull, .\sher Kilborn, Dennis Tuttle. 
Azariah Walton, George" Andrews, .4sa Smith, Jason Francis, Samuel 
McNitt, .Toshua Peavy. 

It will be seen that this list, as copied from the original, contains 
26 names, two more than a complement for a jury. Why Mr. Fair- 
banks should have summoned the two extra men was probably to 
show that there was more of the same sort left. Tradition coincides 
with Mr. P'airbanks' recollection that the average weight of the 2t 
was 2 124 pounds ; that no man was competent to sit on that jurv 
whose weight was under 200 pounds, while some of them exceeded 
300 pounds. Take it all in all, it was such a jury as has never been 
equaled anywhere in point of bone, fat, and muscle, and is seldom 
excelled in sound juilgment and weight of chiiracler. 



been incumbents of that office, it may be confidently as- 
serted that he was, in some important jiarticulars, without 
a peer. It was at a period in the history of our country 
when money, as a circulating medium, was very scarce, and 
collections for debt depended so much upon the .skill of the 
collecting officer that, talent and capacity in judging of men's 
characters, and then adapting the appliances of the law to 
the infinite variety and shade of character, was indispensa- 
ble in the office of sheriff or constable. This kind of talent 
was one of Mr. Fairbanks' chief characteristics. He 
seemed to read men as readily as men read books, and 
seemed to scan them through and through without effort, 
and to know just who to treat with lenity and forbearance 
and who to pounce upon with all the "terrors of the law." 
No man ever thought of hiding where his vigilance would 
not ferret him out, or of trying to escape from him after 
the first trial. 

He held the office of county treasurer from 1828 to 
1838 without interruption, and to the universal satisfaction 
of the i)eople. In the course of his extensive mechanical 
operations he is supposed to have had nearly or quite 500 
apprentices. 

Here the narrative, as written by Solon Massey, ends. We 
need add but a paragraph to cover the six or eight years 
remaining of his stirring and romantic life. 

The later years of Mr. Fairbanks' career have been in- 
dustriously given to the cultivation of his farm, dealing in 
wood, lumber, collecting his rents, and gathering together 
the loose ends of a once large and diversified business. 
Though very liberal, he was withal a great economist. He 
could not bear to see things thrown away, and he .saved 
everything that might have a use afterwards. His theory 
was that it was better to furnish the poor with employ- 
ment, and thus enable them to earn a living, than to give 
them needful things to be consumed in idleness. Hence in 
his shops and on his farm he gave employment to very 
many poor people, thereby enabling them to earn tlieir own 
subsistence. He lived on, enjoying good health, the society 
of his family and his friends, and his newspaper, — for he 
was a great reader, — till a few days before his death, which 
occurred on Suiulay morning, January 10, 1875, — lacking 
but little of being 90 years of age. 

Mr. Fairbanks' wife was Mary Massey, a daughter of 
Hart iNIa.ssey, long a prominent citizen of Jefferson County. 
The old lady is living on Arsenal street, in the city of 
Watertown, in her 82d year, and with her faculties in a 
most remarkable state of preservation. This couple were 
blessed witli sis children, two of whom died in infancy. 
At the present time Samuel, the eldest, is living in Jack- 
sonville, Florida; George 11., at Sewanee, Tennessee, where 
he is connected with the " University of the South; " and 
Andrew J. and Jason M., at Watertown. George R. is 
quite a prolific writer, having ]iublished, among other 
works, a " History of St. Augiustine and its Antiquities" 
and a " History of Florida." The family are connected 
with the Fairbanks' of St. Johnsbury, Vermont, the famous 
scale-maiuifacturers, and one of whom has been governor of 
the State. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



198t 




"FAIRBANKS HOUSE," 

DKDIIAM, MIDKLESEX CO., MASS. ERECTED IN 10;i8. 
THE OLDEST D\VELI,IN(i IN THE UNITED STATES, — NOW OCCUPIED BY ONE OF THE FAIRBANKS FAMII.V. 
[Sec description on page 1913.] 

< laa&i t > — •• 



GORDON P. 

The subject of tliis sketch wa.9 born in Salisbury, Litch- 
field Co., Conn., April 29, 1789. Ho was the son of Eli- 
phaz Spencer, a lineal descendant of the 6fth generation of 
William Spencer, who, with his two brothers, Thomas and 
Jared, were among the first settlers of Hartford, Conn. 
William was at Cambridge as early as 1C31, and at Hart- 
ford in 1639, being a Representative in 1G34-35. He was 
of English birth. The father of Gordon P. Spencer was 
a farmer by occupation, possessing all that urbanity of 
manner and acumen that characterized the early settlers of 
the New England States. His mother was the daughter 
of Thomas and Margaret Hall, of East Haddani, Conn., — a 
lady of worth, deriving from family position that influence 
which, joined with personal aetjuirements, gave weight to 
her character. He received private instruction in early 
life under the supervision of Rev. Joseph Crossman and 
Ammi L. Robbins, the former of his native town, the latter 
of Norfolk. He entered Williams College in 1807, and 
graduated from that institution with honors. He then 
began the stud}' of medicine with Dr. North, of Goshen, 
and concluded with the famous Dr. Lee, of New London, 
obtaining his diploma from the Medical Society of New 
London in 1812. 

This being about the time of the breaking out of hostilities 
between Great Britain and the United States, he obtained 
a commission from the Secretary of War, General Arm- 
strong, to enter the army, and was ordered to report to the 



SPENCER, M.D. 

colonel of the Eleventh Infantry Regiment. He remained 
at his post with the regiment from that time until the close 
of the war, and actively partici)iated in the sanguinary 
campaign in Canada, in which Lundy's Lane and Chippeway 
figured so conspicuously, and under date of July 6, 1814, 
wrote to his parents as follows : " Yesterday was fought at 
Lundy's Lane a battle desperate and sanguinary as any re- 
corded in the annals of the old world. Although I have 
fully attested my skill in surgery with almost miraculous 
success, still, I find my.solf wanting in words to portray my 
feelings while witnessing the horrors of the scene. I 
dressed the wounds of two British officers, who during the 
whole time loaded me with imprecations, protesting that 
death was preferable to capture." . . . 

lie wrote again soon after the blowing up of Fort Erie, 
as follows : " How thankful I am for parents ever alive to 
the slightest incident that concerns my prospects, my health, 
my morals, and, above all, my devotion to that Being to 
whom you say you have committed your son !" Soon after 
the catastrophe at Fort Erie the army went into winter 
quarters, and the doctor was engaged in the hospital at 
Sacket's Harbor. The news of peace was received, and Dr. 
Spencer, on his way to his native State, being called to a.ssist 
Dr. Durkee, of Champion, in attending a man who had his 
leg crushed, made arrangements with that gentleman for a 
partnership, upon which he entered after he had visited his 
parents and sister at home. Returning to Champion, he 



198J 



HISTOKY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



began practice with Dr. Purkee. and the following year 
married Miss Deborah Mailer}', of Rutland, but formerly 
of Litchfield county. Conn., a lady well calculated to facili- 
tate his well-doinfr, as she possessed all that prudence so 
re(|uisite in conducting his affairs during his absence, and 
iu directing the studies of his four sons, all of whom are 
yet living. Dr. Sjiencer was a man of indefatigable perse- 
verance, endured all kinds of weather to meet and administer 
to the wants of the suffering or the sacrifices he was con- 
stantly called upon to make. He had an extended practice, 
which led him into Lewis, Oneida, Oswego, St. Lawrence 
counties, and Canada. Few of the children of the present 
day know anything of the privation and hardships their 
parents endured and the sacrifices they made in the early 
settlement of the country. The books on which he kept 
his accounts since 1815 show over four thousand names 
and over thirty thousand dollars for which he received no 
remuneration, and for which none i* ever expected. During 
the forty-two years he remained in Champion he had over 
two thousand cases of accouchement without losing a single 
])atient ; and in the whole time only absented himself from 
his practice to visit his native town. He rode one horse 
over twenty years, and until, it is said, the faithful animal 
was acquainted with the geography of the county for miles 
around. 

His consulting practice was large, and he was universally 
considered by the physicians of the county contemporary 
with him an excellent diagnostician, and very clear and 
correct in his ideas and treatment. 

He loved his profession, and his devotion to it for the 
good he might do often led him to send able and remunera- 
tive calls to neighboring physicians, while be would go to 
administer to the afflicted family of some indigent person 
wholly unable to pay for his services, and therefore unable 
to procure other professional aid. The poor were always 
his first care. He was essentially humanitarian and benevo- 
lent. In his practice his rule was never to amputate ex- 
cept as a last resort, or only to save life. He early recog- 
nized the truth of the saying, that the physician should be 
the minister and interpreter of nature. He ever studied 
the welfare of the sick and afflicted, ready and willing at 
all times to make any personal sacrifice of his means, com- 
fort, and health for their benefit. Ho spent many years of 
his life on horseback, often sloe]iing while he rode, as ex- 
hausted nature demanded a certain amount of rest, and no 
other opportunity was afforded, as for many years he 
averaged eighteen out of twenty-four hours on duty. By 
his extensive practice for more than forty years the great 
variety of his cases taxed largely his skill and ingenuity as 
a physician, and as " necessity is the mother of invention," 
he devised and iiad made by the mechanics of his section 
instruments heretofore unknown, and of such importance as 
to be adopted into general practice, and are now universally 
used by the profession throughout the civilized world. 

He was a conservative man in all his conduct, — social, 
political, and pmfossional. He was public-spirited and 
charitable, always interpreting favorably all acts of his 
neighbors and brother physicians rather than criticising 
thcni. lie was largely identified with and a strong advo- 
cate of the public school system, and contributed liberally 



to educational entei-prises. For years he, with his aceus- 
tcmtd liberality, hired teachers for the select school at 
Champion, always choosing the best that could be procured, 
guaranteeing to them a certain liberal compensation, and 
obligating himself to supply any deficiency that remained 
after the payment of the tuition-fee of the scholars, thus 
for years providing the means of good educational advan- 
tages to the youth of his own and adjoining towns. And 
in this connection, we may add that too much praise can- 
not be bestowed upon the generous enterprise and benevo- 
lence of the Masonic Fraternity for their aid in building 
and donating the free use, for school purposes, of a fine and 
substantial two-story stone temple of education, which still 
remains a monument to their public-spirited liberality. 

In personal appearance Dr. Spencer was, in middle 
life, six feet tall, erect in his carriage, of rather slender 
build, with small bones, and a sinewy frame. His hands 
and wrists, feet and ankles, being small and finely formed. 
His fiice was thin, and, though intellectual, could scarcely 
be termed handsome ; complexion, fair and healthy; eyes, 
bright blue, mild and benevolent in their expression ; fore- 
head, high, broad, and well rounded ; head, somewhat bald. 
Countenance quiet, with infrequent smiles, showing deep 
and constant thought, amounting to almost entire abstrac- 
tion ; lips, thin and compressed, denoting great firmness of 
purpose. 

He was a believer in Christianity, not only by inheritance 
and the influence of early teaching and example, but from 
conviction. Although a despiser of hypocrisy, he had the 
most profound respect for the true and exemplary Christian. 
His temper was even and his disposition amiable and full 
of good will towards all. He was ardent in his affections 
and friendships, and forgiving in his resentments. He had 
a high sense of honor, a manly independence of character, 
and thoroughly despised anything base or mean. The noble 
faculties of his mind were only excelled by the virtues of 
his heart. 

He enjoyed uninterrupted good health until 18r»4, when 
he was seized by a malignant congestive fever, and it was 
nearly four months before he was able to resume his practice. 
Feeling his health would not permit him to comply with 
the numerous calls, encroaching upon duty to himself, he 
changed his residence to Watertown in the summer of 1857, 
where he remained to the close of his life, March 25, 1859. 

He never sought political prel'erment, and his favorite 
adage was, " Oue self-approving hour whole hours outweigh 
of stupid starers and of loud huzzas." In habits he was 
tenqierate in every sense of the word, using neither .spirituous 



liuuors nor 



tobac 



CO 111 any 



form. In the winter of 1858, 



worn out with fatigue, exposure, and sleepless nights, tired 
nature began to give way. Before his dis.solution he often 
requested that an autopsy be made of his body, that the 
tnie condition of his heart might be known, as ho was 
suffering and dying of heart-disease. Love of offs])ring 
seemed the only unbroken link that bound him to earth, 
and though he expressed his confidence in the atoning 
blood of Christ and a cheerful resignation to his will, yet 
the desire to see his absent .sim, whose return was daily 
hoped for, was the last earthly passion that occupied his 
mind. 



HISTORY OF JKFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



199 




.Ju(l;;r Tlioinpscm was born ill liiirliniiton, Otsego coiintv, 
N. Y., whoro his boyhood was spent in worliinjjon liis father s 
(William Thompson) farm and devoting his leisure hours to 
study. The first years of his manhood were occupied in teach- 
ing school in Oswego, Madison, and other counties. So thor- 
oughly did he master the text-books then used that he could 
ro])eat their entire contents witliout hesitation. His memory, 
naturally good, was so trained by his experience as a teacher, 
that when he entered the law he was able to retain minute 
points, even in lengthy eases, without an oversiglit oran error. 

He studied law in Auburn, N. Y., with Judge Gridlcy, 
and was admitted to the bar m 1834. He then removed to 
Adams in 1837, where he entered the law-office of Judge 
Chittenden. During the years he lived there his sterling qual- 
ities became well known, commanding for him the respect 
and confidence of all. His influence in the southern portion 
of the county, ])articularly in the towns of Adams, Ellisburg, 
Rodman, and Lorraine, enabled him to ]irevail against any 
political opponent. When in his prime he was their leader 
as well as counselor ; few men excelled him in argument or 
ability. He never addressed a jury where he failed to impre.«s 
u])OM them his honesty of purpose and desire to have impartial 
justice sustained. 

In 1842 he married Miss Antoinette Chittenden, daughter 
of Judge Chittenden. The union proved a most happy one, 
blessed as it was with seven children, three of whom — two 
daughters and a son — are now living. In 1852, the family 
removed to this city, and have since lived here, enjoying the 
educational advantages and social o|iportiiiiities which a large 
town affords. 

Judge Thompson was elected county judge in 1851, and 
took his seat on the bench on the first of January the succeed- 
ing year. He held the position for two terms, and so high 
was his sense of honor that his interpretation of his duties 
would not admit of the reference of su]iplementary or sum- 
mary proceedings; he heard them without additional pay. 
He was far from being a contentious man, usually advising 
his clients to avoid getting into law, if possible. Many thought 
and spoke of him as "The Peacemaker." In the course of 



his life he settled, or amicably adjusted, more suits than he 
ever carried into the courts. When we consider that to do 
this he was compelled to sacrifice prospective fees, we begin 
to realize, in a slight degree, what manner of man he was. 

During the war he was active in advancing every scheme 
that would benefit the Union cause. He frequently addressed 
the ]ieople, to bring them to a true ajijireciation of the great 
principles at stake. 

In his latter years he has devoted much time to the fitting 
up of his grounds and the cultivation of fruit. AVlien relieved 
from his office cares his time was spent in his garden, where 
he watched tlie wonderful transformations of Nature with a 
never-failing interest. As a rule all men, as they advance in 
life, become more careful observers of the natural beauties 
surrounding them. "One of the most common, yet, when 
considered, one of the most touching characteristics of reced- 
ing life, is in its finer percejition of externa! nature. You 
find men who, in youth and middle age, seeming scarcely to 
notice the most striking features of some unfamiliar landscape, 
become minutely observant of the rural scenery around them 
when the eye has grown dim and the step feeble. They detect 
more quickly than the ]iainter the delicate variations made by 
the lapse of a single day in the tints of autumnal foliage ; they 
will distinguish, among the reeds by the river-side, murmurs 
that escape the dreamy ears of the poet." So wrote Bulwer 
in his " Caxt(^niana," and it aptly describes the observing 
habits of our Judge Thompson, whose chief pleasure in his 
declining years was in horticultural pursuits. 

No member of the bar was more universally respected. His 
life was a great success, not in the accumulation of an immense 
property, but in building up a reputation such as the mere 
possession of wealth cannot give. His good name is left to 
his family, and it is an inheritance of which they may feel 
justly proud. 

He died January 12, 187G, in his sixty-sixth year. His son, 
William C, has entered the law-office of Hon. X. Whiting, 
with whom his father was a partner. His daughters, Nettie 
E. and Nellie C, have enjoyed the advantages of the best 
schools of their native city, and are graduates of the same. 



-'00 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 




^^yJ^^ /M^'O/nr^^ 



The root of John Wioslow's ircnoalogical tree runs back 
to the days of the Puritans seven generations to Kenelui 
Winslow, a brother of Governor Edward Winslow, the first 
governor of Plymouth colony. John had many character- 
istics that indicated his Puritan origin. He bore himself 
steadfastly in whatever course he had murked out to pursue, 
moving onward with a well-defined purpose, and always act- 
ing from the promptings of his judgment and convictions. 
He was never borne away from the rock of principle on 
which he had placed himself by any sudden passion or im- 
pulse. His life, therefore, from boyhood to the ripe age of 
seventy-one years, flowed on in a strong, steady current, 
undisturbed by those adverse elements of mental constitu- 
tion that make the lives of many men a never-ending sea 
of trouble. 

Without attempting to follow the ancestral line forward 
from the original progenitor in this country, we will simply 
record that Samuel Winslow, the father of John, was liorn 
in Warwick, Massachusetts, April 21, 17G5, from whence 
in his childhood he removed with his parents to Ponifret, 
in the State of Vermont, where they died. John's grand- 
mother's maiden name was Goodspccd. His father, Samuel, 
married Lucy Frasier in 1794, and the twain commenced 
their life partnership at Woodstock, Vermont, where John, 
tlie fifth child, was borji to them December l!l, 1S(I2. 

His parents, eleven j'ears after their marriage, in May, 
1807, removed from Woodstock to the Black river country, 
then comparatively a wilderness. They settled on a forest- 
covered farm, two and three-fourths miles from the present 
city of Watertown. 

The road passing through the farm, and on which the 



farm building's are situated, is known as the Smithville or 
Field Settlement road. There was no road between the 
farm and the village of Watertown at that time. The 
dwelling into which the family moved was constructed of 
logs. The loft, which was the sleeping-apartment of the 
children, was open to the storm, and soon after the arrival 
of the family, in the night-time, a heavy storm came on, 
and John related that his mother covered himself and 
brother, to shield them from it, with a half skin. His boy- 
hood surnwndings were those of a pioneer life. The howl 
of the wolf, prowling in the darkness of the night in the 
forest surrounding the humble dwelling, was a sound familiar 
to his ear. 

On that farm he spent his days, except the last five or 
sis years of his life, during which ho resided in the city of 
Watertown. He had but limited facilities for education, 
attending school for a few weeks on two or three different 
occiusions, completing his education, so far as the schools 
were concerned, with one term at the academy at Lowville, 
Lewis county. 

On October 18, 1827, at the age of twenty-five years, 
he was married to Betsey Collins, daughter of John Collins, 
who at that tim(! lived about a mile and a half from the 
then village of WatiTtown, on what is known as the Beaver 
Meadnw mad. Five children were born of this marriage, 
namely: Lucy J., wife of G. W. Candee, Esq., Bradley, 
Norris, Jennie C, wife of Dr. H. B. Maben, and Bessie, 
wife of Rc'V. E. How, of the Central New York Conference 
of the Methcidist Episcopal Church. The three first-named 
reside in the city of Watertown, Jennie C. resides at Utica, 
and Bessie resides at Elmira, New York. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



201 



John Winslow, in his early manhood, was interested in 
the condition and srrowtii of the eomuiuiiity with which he 
had grown to man's estate, and in whicii he lived. January 
19, 1826, he wa.s commissioned ensif:n of light infiintry in 
the 76th regiment of infantry by Gov. De Witt Clinton. 
The next year he was promoted to be lieutenant, and com- 
missioned by Gov. Clinton. Sept. 26, 1828, he was furtlier 
promoted to the position of captain, and comTiii.ssioned a.s 
such by Lieutenant-Governor Nathaniel I'itcher, acting 
governor of the State, in the same regiment. His mother 
died August 26, 1826, and his father died Dec. 21, 1832. 
About three years after the death of his father he purcha.scd 
the interest of the other heirs in the homestead farm, which, 
with a small number of acres adjoining, and on which he 
had resided since his marriage, comprised a farm of about 
two hundred acres. At his father's death three sisters and 
himself were all that survived of his fiithcr's family of eight 
children. To raise money to purchase the interest of the 
heirs in his father's cstjite a mortgage had to be put upon 
the fiirm, and to the extinguishment of that mortgage, and to 
provide for his increasing and growing family, he diligently 
devoted his best energies. Prosperity attended him. Rut 
the quiet course of events with him was suddenly inter- 
rupted, and a great shadow fell upon him in the death of 
his wife. The life of this amiable, intelligent. Christian 
wife and mother came to a close at the age of thirty-seven 
years. The five children were all too young to realize tliat 
in that mother's death there was a loss to them, as well as 
to him, irreparable. Standing beside her open grave, the 
husband and father, with his mind filled with a sense of 
his terrible bereavement, his voice trembling with emotion, 
said that he had followed to their last resting-places father, 
mother, brothers, and sisters, all save one of his father's 
family, but no one of those afflictions had occasioned such 
intense sorrow as the parting forever in this world from 
his dear wife. 

Mr. Winslow was called to different civil positions by 
the suffrages of his fellow-citizens. He was several years 
assessor of his town, four years supervisor, was elected to 
the Legislature in 1849. (The daguerreotype from which 
the portrait at the head of this sketch was made was 
taken that year, when he was forty-eight years old. ) Sub- 
sequently he was ten years one of the commissioners of 
excise for Jefferson County. 

He took a deep interest in agriculture, and fir many 
years was an active member of the Jefler-son Countj' Agri- 
cultural Society ; was president of the society in 1853. For 
several years previous to his death he was a director and 
vice-president of the Agricultural Insurance Company, an 
institution devoted to the insuring of farm property. Sir. 
Winslow was again married May 23, 1844, to Miss 
Sarah Bates, daughter of Merrick Bates, Esq., of Houn.s- 
field, who still survives him. By this marriage he had 
one son, John, born May 21, 1845, who resides at Water- 
town and is a hardware merchant. 

Mr. Win.slow was thoroughly domestic in his tastes and 
habits. He took a deep interest in the welfare of his 
children ; was ready at all times to assist them by his coun- 
sels, and in a pecuniary way when necessary. He watched 
their cour.se in life with tenderest solicitude. His life was 



free from every species of vice and immorality, his daily 
walk being a continuing precept and example of integrity 
and uprightness. He died at his home in the city of 
Watertown, July 7, 1874, in the presence of his wife and 
children and other relatives and sympathizing friends, after 
a brief illness, of congestion. A large concourse of his 
neighbors and fellow-citizens attended his funeral. His re- 
mains were interred in Brookside Cemetery, where a plain 
granite shaft — granite from Massachusetts, the home of 
his ancestors — marks his last resting place. 



BRADLEY WINSLOW. 

Incidents in the life of an individual are, in a large de- 
gree, an index to character. Ordinarily, circumstances do 
not more make the man than man the circumstances. 
Many times, it is true, famous people are made such by the 
exceptional occurrence of events. Notably, as an instance, 
is this true of General Grant ; for it is universally be- 
lieved that but for the hapjiening of the great Rebellion 
General Grant would have lived and died comparatively an 
obscure citizen. In that great crisis of the nation's career 
the opportunities were found for the development of those 
characteristics that have made him one of the most illus- 
trious men of his time. To become prominent as a citizen, 
and wield large influence in an educated and intelligent 
community, is a certain mea.sure of success, indicating high 
capabilities and characteristics which justly entitle the pos- 
sessor to lionorable mention in the chronicles of the locality 
in which he lives. 

The subject of this sketch, though yet in middle life, fills 
such a position. Bradley Winslow was born August 1, 
1831, at the home of his father, the late lion. John Wins- 
low, on the Winslow homestead, 2J miles from the city of 
Watertown. His facilities for education, in the early years 
of boyhood, were such as the district school afforded, — at- 
tending school for the first time at the .school-house in the 
Graves neighborhood, about midway between his father's 
house and the then village of Watertown. His first teacher 
he remembers as Miss Mary Ann Stevens. The school 
district in that neighborhood having been discontinued, he • 
attended several seasons the district school at Fields' Settle- 
ment, and was successively under the tuition of Miss 
MeWayne, a sister of Andrew MeWayne. Esq., of the 
town of Cape Vincent, W'illiam Scoville, Hon. Chas. A. 
Benjamin, of this county, and H. H. Smith, at present one 
of the Board of Education of the city of W^atertown. When 
fourteen years old the brightness of Mr. Winslow's boy- 
hood days was clouded by the untimely death of his 
mother, who was an amiable, intelligent. Christian woman. 
Although too young at her death to fully appreciate the 
value of such a mother's influence, he has never ceased to 
deplore her loss or to feel that had she lived her influence 
would have made his life brighter, better, and happier. 
March 21, 1847, he lefl his paternal roof and went to 
reside with Hon. W^illard Ives, his uncle by marriage with 
his father's sister, Charlotte. Working through the sum- 
mer on the farm on which Mr, Ives then lived, he at- 
tended with him, in September of that year, the State fair 



202 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



at Saratoga Sprinirs, and saw for the first time, at Rome, 
New Y^ork, the locomotive-engine and railway-car. About 
the 1st of December of the same year he was sent by his 
uncle to the seminary at Cazemivia, where he nnnaiiied 
until the next spring. Returning, he worked during the 
summer on the farm and went back to the same seminary 
in the fall, and remained through the winter. In this way 
he spent alternate summers and winters on the farm of his 
uncle and at Cazenovia for two years. The winter of 1850 
-51 he attended school at Falley Seminary, in the village 
of Fulton, Oswego county. Then, remaining home until 
the fall wf 1852, he entered as a student at Wyoming 
Seminary, where he remained during the school year. Re- 
turning home, he went to work on the farm near the village 



Mr. Winslow was maiTied Nov. 15, 1855, to Miss Ger- 
aldine M. (,'ooper, daughter of John C. Cooper, of Adams. 
There are a son and two daughters the offspring of this 
union. The son, John Cooper Winslow, has recently 
graduated from Dartmouth College, and is pursuing the 
study of the law in the office of his father. 

January 1, 1S5U, Mr. Winslow opened a law-office on 
Court street, in what was then known as the Peck block. In 
the spring of the same year he associated with L. J. Bige- 
low in law ]jractici>, under the firm-name of Winslow & 
Bigelow, conducting business in the same place. In the 
fall of 1859 was elected district attorney, entering on the 
duties of the office January 1, 18G1. Served as district 
attorney until ISlil, meantime conducting some important 




of Watertown where his uncle now resides. Though 
reasonably skilled in tlie manual labor of the farm, the 
prospect of the future as a farmer did not seem inviting, 
and he entered upon the study of the law in the office of 
Hon. James F. Starbuck in the fell of 1853, at the age of 
twenty-two. He pursued the .study of the law with Mr. 
Starbuck till the fall of 1854, when lie entered the law- 
school at Poughkoepsie, where he remained until the Tiext 
spring. Returning to Mr. Starbuck's office, he continued 
studying until July, when he was admitted at a general 
term of the Supreme Court, lu>ld at the Woodruff House, 
as attorney and counselur in all the courts of record in the 
State. He remained witii Mr. Starbuck until January 1, 
1856. 



criminal trials with success, notably the trial of Sprague, for 
murder, who was defended by John Clark with the earn- 
estness and great ability which charaelerized that gentle- 
man's efforts in behall' nf hi> clients. Mr. Winslnw's sum- 
ming up ill that case to the jury, foi' so young a man, was 
warmly commended by those who heard him. The trial 
was conducted in Washington Hall, wliieli was crowded to 
its fullest cajiacity during the dcising scenes. 

The .sjiring of IStil. memorable evermore as the opening 
of the great drama of our civil war, found Mr. Winslow a 
member of the Black River Corps, a military organization 
of the villagi? of Watertown. Engrossed in tlie pursuits 
of civil life, he could not at once grasp the idea that the 
citizen soldier was summoned to the scene of actual and 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



203 



I 



bloody war. But shortly after tlie news came of the tiring 
upon Fort Sumter, Mr. Wiuslow met John A. Haddock in 
the Paddock Arcade, who, with some asperity of tone, 
asked what the Black River Corp.s intended to do in the 
emergency, remarked that the organization was in the way 
of other j)eople going to the help of the government. Mr. 
Winslow felt keenly from that moment that a responsibility 
rested upon liiin, and within an hour afterwards sought 
Captain Potter, in command of the corps, and urgently 
appealed to him to call a meeting of the members and as- 
certain their feelings with reference to offering their services 
to the country. Captain Potter was averse to the war at 
first, but so far yielded as to sanction the calling a meeting 
of the corps. Such a meeting was soon held, with the 
result that the corps would not go as an organization, but 
a company was organized in which a large number of the 
members of the old corps enlisted. Captain Potter was 
elected captain, and Mr. Winslow first lieutenant. The 
company proceeded to Elmira, one of tlie depots for the 
assembling of State troops, where a regiment was or- 
ganized, mostly of Jefferson County troops. William C. 
Brown was elected and commissioned colonel, and Captain 
Potter was commissioned lieutenant-coloneh On the pro- 
motion of Captain Potter, Lieutenant Winslow was elected 
and commissioned captain, and, holding this position, de- 
parted with the regiment early in July. 1801, for the seat 
of war, taking up the line of march through Baltimore, 
over the very ground hallowed only a short time previous 
with the blood of the sons of Massachusetts. Captain 
Winslow's company had the right of the regiment, and was 
first in the column of march. On the resignation of Lieu- 
tenant-Colonel Potter, in July or August, same year. Cap- 
tain Winslow was promoted lieutenant-colonel. In October 
following, while the Thirty-fifth Regiment was encamped 
near Falls Church, Virginia, Lieutenant-Colonel Winslow, 
in command of a scouting-party which had penetrated to 
the rear of the rebel outposts, surprised a reserve pickets 
post, and captured, up a tree. Lieutenant H. J. Segal, of 
Stuart's Cavalry. This incident was illustrated in Franh 
Leslie s Illustrated Xeirspuper. under date of October 2(5, 
ISGl. A few weeks later, while in command of another 
scouting-party, he surprised another picket-post near the 
same place. A rebel liorseman, disobeying the order to 
surrender, was wounded, and his horse killed. So near did 
the party penetrate to Fairfax that they distinctly heard the 
" long roll" beaten at that place, where a large force was 
stationed. These incidents of the soldier's life have been 
alluded to because in the breasts of the few battle-scarred 
veterans who still survive, and who once in awhile meet in 
civil life t(i talk over the martial exploits in which they 
participated, they will revive pleasant memories of those 
heroic days. 

Colonel Winslow was with his regiment in the march to. 
the relief of General Banks at the battle of Cedar Moun- 
tain, arriving on the field in time to cover tlie retreat. He 
took part on that retreat in the skirmish at Rappahannock 
Station, and in the battle of second Bull Run. I'uringthat 
campaign Colonel Winslow contracted typhoid fever, which 
so impaired his health that he resigned from the service in 
December, 1862, and received an honorable discharge. His 



health becoming restored, when the call in 1864 for uOO,000 
men was issued, he assisted to raise the 186th Regiment 
N. Y. v., and in September of that year was commissioned 
and mustered into service again as colonel of the regiment. 
The regiment, soon after its organization, joined the army 
of General Meade, then making its la.st great campaign 
against the rebel army under General Lee, and w;xs assigned 
to the Second Brigade, Second Division, Ninth Corps. 
During the remainder of the campaign the regiment was 
actively engaged in the trenches on picket duty in the lines 
before Petersburg; took part in the afiair of the 31st of 
October, in the attempt to force the Weldon railroad. On 
the morninsr of the 2d of April, Colonel Winslow's regi- 
ment led the attack upon the fortification known as Fort 
Mahono, in front of Petersburg, and, in a gallant charge, 
captured the work. In an attempt to get po.ssession of still 
another fortification to the left, and in the same line with the 
one already taken. Colonel Winslow fell, shot through the 
body, — a minie-ball entering between the lower ribs on the 
right side, and coming out to the left of and near the spine. 
On the 13th of June following. General S. G. Griffin, who 
was the commander of the 2d Brigade, and who on the 2d 
of April succeeded Major-General Potter (the latter being 
wounded) to the command of the 2d Division, addressed 
General Winslow a letter, from which we have been per- 
mitted to make the following extract : 

IlEADguARTBns Skco.nd Division, Ni.nth Army Coki'S, 
Ale.xandria, Va., June \?; 1865. 
My iiKAK Colonel, — It is with sincere pleasure that I inform you 
that I have recommended your ])romotion to tlie rank of Brijjadier- 
General by brevet for bravery and galhmt conduct on tlie tield at the 
assault on the enemy's lines in front of Petersburg. April 1,'. IS*).'). . . . 
... I am very happy, Colonel, to make this acknowledgment of 
your meritorious services as commander of your regiment, and of the 
gallant and judicious manner in which you handled your regiment in 
my presence during the engagement of the 2d of April, — an cngiige- 
ment that will be forever memorable in our nation's history. 
With sincere esteem, I have the honor to be yours, etc.. 

S. G. tiltlFFlX, 

jirti/u<lter-0'tneral Commamlivfj. 
CiJL. Bkaolev Winslow, ISOth N. Y. V.. Watcrtown. 

The.se words of commendation are those of an able and 
experienced officer, who voluntarily penned them as a sincere 
expression of his esteem. His recommendation went for- 
ward with the indorsement of General Parke, the corps 
commander, and of General Jfeade. In due time the Presi- 
dent of the United States confirmed the appointment of 
Brig.-(jeu. by brevet upon Col. Winslow, and it was con- 
firmed by the senate. The commission thereujion issued 
by the President recites that it was bestowed for gallant and 
meritorious conduct in the as.sault before Petersburg, Virginia. 

We cannot take leave of this honorable military record 
without mentioning the further fact that afler the close of 
the war General Winslow was appointed a lieutenant in the 
regular army, and ordered to report for duty to the com- 
manding officer of the 22d Regiment of U. S. Infantry. 
This appointment was wholly unsolicited, and w;is declined. 
And there remains still to be added the further fact that, 
in 1868, Gov. R. E. Fenton commissioned General Winslow 
a brigadier-general in the National Guard, and appointed him 
to the command of the 16th Brigade, — a position which he 
h;is since held. In the preparation recently made by the 



204 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



governor of the State to suppress riots, General Winslow 
was placed in command of the Uh Division by special order 
from the adjutant-general's office. 

In November, 1865, before his wound was fairly healed, 
he was elected district attorney for the second time, and 
held the office for the term of three years. During liis term 
several important criminal trials occurred, including one 
indictment for murder in the first degree and others for 
high crimes. 

In his profession General Winslow has attained to the 
front rank of the bar of Jeffijrson County. He was ad- 
mitted to practice in the District Court of the United States 
for the Northern District of New York, August 3, 1807, 
and to practice in the Circuit Court of the United States 
for the Northern District of New York, December 10, 1869. 

In politics General Winslow is a Republican. In 1856, 
in his early manhood, he espoused the cause of that party, 
and has since been a constant supporter of its principles. 
He has spoken in nearly all the towns of this county in 
behalf of its principles and candidates, and in 1872 ad- 
dressed meetings, with good acceptance, under the direction 
of the Republican State Central Committee, in different 
places in the counties of Cortland, Onondaga, Tioga, and 
Schuyler. In Dec, 1875, he was elected mayor of the city 
of Watertown. He left the mayor's chair at the close of 
his term with words of commendation from all parties for 
the excellence of his administration. In all the positions, 
civil and military, which General Winslow has held, he has 
discharged the duties appertaining to each with ability and 
fidelity. 

Mr. Winslow's life from youth up has been one of con- 
stant activity. Though honors, military, political, and pro- 
fessional, arc his a.s the result of his patriotism, ability, and 
energy, he is still in middle life, and turns to the practice 
of his chosen profes.sion of the law with all the energy and 
honorable ambition which characterized his earlier years. 



HON. OR VILLI'] HUNGERFORD 

was born in Farmington, Oct. 29, 1790. He removed 
with his father's family to Oneida county, and in the spring 
of 1804 to Watertown. He soon after conimcncod a clerk- 
ship in Judge Foster's .store, at Burrville, and in 1807 or 
1808 removed with him to Watertown, and afterwards 
became a partner under the firm of Foster & Hungorfcird. 
This firm was extensively engaged in suj)plying, upon con- 
tract, provisions to the United States army at Sacket's Har- 
bor, during the war. In 1815 he commenced mercantile 
business for him,self, and continued in trade till 1842. In 
that year he was elected to Congress, and served tlie 19th 
district in our national legislature four years. At an early 
period in the history of the Jefferson County Bank he be- 
came a stockholder, and was concerned in its management 
for many years, as cashier and president. In 1847 he was 
nominated by the Democratic party for the office of Comp- 
troller, but was defeated, the vote being as follows : 



.Ii'fftTfdin County. 

For 0. Huilf^erlnnl 

For Miihiril Fillinuri^ 



■1403 j For 0. Huii;;iTnrlil i:ifi,027 

3893 j For Millar.l Fillmore... 174,750 
For Lewis Tii|i|.nn 489 | For Lewis Tftppan 10,408 



In the promotion of the railroad from Rome to Cape 
Vincent, Mr. Hungerl'ord engaged with great ardor, labor- 
ing with a zeal and energy that knew no weariness or dis- 
couragement, and the citizens of Jefferson County will ever 
have reason to be grateful to his memoi'y for the efficiency 
of his efforts. He held the first office of president of the 
company at the time of his death, which occurred April 6, 
1851, after a short but severe illness of twelve days. 

His character has thus been summed up by the editor of 
the New York Re/ormcr ; 

"As a man of business he was prompt, decided, active, 
and correct. His judgment was clear and sound, and he 
possessed the faculty of obtaining for his plans the entire 
confidence of his business associates. If in his ]>rivate 
affairs he was e.xact, he was also rigidly honest. No deceit 
or guile ever found utterance, but manful uprightness char- 
acterized all his transactions. As a politician he was a 
conservative, .shrewd and calculating; a man of but few 
words, but many thoughts. The Democratic party achieved 
many victories under his leadership, and were beaten but 
seldom. His plans were carefully laid and vigorously ex- 
ecuted, his influence Wiis exercised without effort, and he con- 
trolled without being felt. * * * In his private character 
he was exemplary, generous, and friendly. In his public 
bestowments, munificent. Institutions of learning received 
liberal indorsements from his generosity." While in Con- 
gress he was appointed, at the first session of his first term, 
on the committee of Revolutionary Pensions and on Ac- 
counts, and the business tact and ability which he displayed 
raised him high in the estimation of his associates; and at 
the next session he was placed on that most important of 
committees, that of Ways and Means, where he fully 
sustained the reputation he had acquired, — that of being a 
thorough business man. In all the domestic and social 
relations of his life his deportment was highly exemplary, 
and at his death meetings of the citizens of Watertown, 
of directors of the Jefferson County Bank, of the railroad 
company, and the as.sociations of which he was a member, 
were held, to testify their sorrow for his death, and to ex- 
tend their sympathies to his bereaved family. 

He was a warm friend of the JeflFerson County Agricul- 
tural Society. He took great interest in the Jefferson 
County Bible Society, and was for several years its presi- 
dent. 

From the funeral sermon preached by his pjustor we 
((uote ; 

•' In the death of Mr. Hungerl'ord our village and the 
whole community has sustained a great loss. He had grown 
up with our village. Here he launched his bark upon the 
ocean of life, and here his voyage was ended. 

" On account of his influence, and the important trusts 
which had been confided to his hands, being in the full 
maturity of his strength, his judgment ripened by ex- 
perience and years and his natural force unabated, I know 
of no one in the whole coniinunity whose death would have 
been regarded iis so great a calamity as his. The as.sembling 
of this great congregation, as a tribute of respect to liis 
memory, shows how he was estimated. A prince has fallen 
in the midst of us. The death of such a man is a public 





^^:^^:^.^^^7^ 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



205 





I 



The subject of this sketch, Dr. Ainnsii Tr»>wbriilge, was hnin in 
Ponif'ret, Windham county. Connecticut. May 17, 177'.'. His jtarents 
were farmers by occupation, and whose ancc^t^)^s were early ccttlers 
of the New Ennjlnnd States, and supposed to lie of English descent. 
lie Uibored on tlie farm at home until he was fourtten years uf age, 
availing himself of the common selmol in the winter sras^ons. After 
that period he received the superior advantages of an academical edu- 
cation, when he made those attainments in classics and English which 
fitted him for a professional life. At the age of seventeen he com- 
menced a course of study with Dr. Avery Downer, of Preston City. 
New London county, a veteran surgeon of the 1U\ ulutionary Way. 
At the age of twenty he was lulmitted to practiee, and received a 
diploma frnm the State Medical Soeiety. He afterwards spent a year 
with Dr. Thomas Hubbard, a man of high reputation as a surgeon 
and practitioner in medicine. He soon after removed to Lnnesboro', 
Massachusett;;, and practiced in cnmpany with l>r. .Tar\ is. 

Dr. Trowbridge entered upim his new field under disadvantages, 
contending with older and able competitors, and yet he was success- 
ful in gaining for himself high social standing and a good reputation 
in his practice. At the age of twenty-six, and in the year I8tt.'), he 
married Miss Gloriana H. Itillings, of lianesboro'. Mas-^achusetts. 
With his wife he removed to Trenton. Oneitla county. New York, 
where he. in coni]iiiny with Dr. Luther Guiteau, gained high rank in 
the practice of surgery, which in after-years became of so much ser- 
vice to wounded soldiers. 

In lSt*H he came with his family anil made a pormantnt residence 
in Watertnwn. when ho entered at once upon a large and extensive 
practice in company with Dr. Paul Hutchinson. The doctor was a 
Kepublieiin id" the old Jetfersnnian school, and tu<»k active part in the 
great j'oliticnl questions of the day, and became conspicuous in his 
]iarty. He was the author of a series of political essays published 
by Thomas "Walker, of Utica. The object of this series of essays was 
to sustain the administrati(»n by argument, rchitive to grievances so 
multiplied with <uir relations to (ireat Britain. It identified the author 
very strongly with the j)arty with winch he wns connected. 

A deelaratinii of war passed both bouj^es of Congress June 18, 
1S12. Brigadier-lieneral Brown, of Brownsville, selected Dr. Trow- 
bridge, and recommended to Guvcrnor Tompkins his appointment as 
surgeon in the militia of .rcHVrstHi, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties. 
He was at once appointed, and. under <icneral Brown's orders, organ- 
ized and arranged suitable hospital i:|Uiirters at Sacket's Harbor, 
Cape Vincent, and Ojrdensburgh. Thi^ wns a period of no small 
moment in the doetor's life, opening up a wide field fnr the practice of 
surgery, and aflording an opportunity for ri-iiehing a position at the 
head of his profession. It would be impossible to portray his promi- 
nence ami usefulness in the army without giving the marches, sieges, 
and battles of tnir armies during the entire war. His headquarters 
were mostly at Sacket's Harbor during the winter of lSi2-13. From 
the beginning until the close of tin- war he was so identified with the 
army that his history involves the history of the war jtself. 



He was associated at this time with Surgeons Buchanan and Cafon 
of the navy, and Prof. .1. Watts, M.D., of McComb's regiment of 
artillery. Immediately on his return to private practice ho was 
appointed assistant justice on the bench of this county, and in 1818 
he was appointed judge. In ISI't he wiis appointed sheriff of the 
county, whieli office he held lor two years, continuing his medical 
practice. In 1S;!4 he was app(tinted Profcssctr of Surgery and Medical 
Jurisprudence in the Willoughby University, of Lake Erie, in Ohio, 
where he gave annunl lectures of eight weeks to his class in college. 
In 1S:SS he gave up Ins practice nnd ride in Jefferson County to his 
son, Amasa, Jr.. an<l removed his family to Pninesville. Ohio, ten 
milts Irom the medical college. In 1S41 liis hopes reposed in hia 
talented son, with whom he had left his extensive practice, were sud- 
denly blasted by learning of his deafti, which occurred in Watertown 
city, Ijy a eollisli n with a pair of runaway horses, which resulteti in 
throwing the doctor to the pavement with such force as to break liis 
neck. 

The doctor upon the death of his son resolved tn resume his old 
practice in Jefferson County, and in the year 1S41 again scttletl in 
Watertown, where he remained until his death, .April 11, 1859, aged 
eighty years. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Trowbridge were born nine children, viz. : Glo- 
riana B.. Amasa, Catherine, Amasa, Jr., William R., Arnlrew B-, 
Frances C, Helen M., nnd Cornelia E. Trowbri'lge. William R. 
Trowbridge was born in Watertown. August 2'2, ISIH. He, during 
his minority, receive<l the advantages afTonlcl by the best scho»ds of 
Watertown for obtaining an education. At the age of twenty-one 
he went to Louisville, Kentucky, and (ngage<I as clerk in a dry-goods 
house; afterwards he went into business for himstlt". Previous to 
going to that place he had b«en in Utica and New York. Upon the 
deatli of his brother, Amasa, Jr.. he came back to his native town, and 
began the study of medicine with his father. Attended lectures in 
Willoughby University, Ohio, and received his diploma from that 
institution, anil entered a partnership with his father at home in the 
practice of his profession. Since (bat time (lS4t>) he has ranked 
among the most active and eminent physicians of the county. 

In lSf>2 he was appointed surgmn of the eighteenth Dist. regiment 
N. Y. V. by (Jovernor Morgan. In the same year he resigned that 
posit ii'n anil ret ti rued to his jiraclice at home. He is now in his sixty - 
second year, and is next to the oldest citizen living in this city that 
was bom here. 

In the year 1845> he married Miss Louisa M., daughter of Syh'cster 
and Uoso Smith, ot Watertown. 

They have five children ; Edward, Helen R., Sylvester S., Frederick 
G., and Willian). All are living. 

Dr. Trowbridge has always been fond of spending any leisure days 
and respite from his ])ractice in prospecting among the works of 
nature, and has collected and has in his possession the largest private 
collection in the Slate of the various kinds of birds, animals, and 
minerals. 



206 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 




E. B. FOWLER. 



Tlic subject of this sketch was burn in Steuben, Oneida 
county, New York, July 19, 1800. He was third son and 
fourth child of Silas and Betsey Fowler, wlio had seven chil- 
dren. His father was of New England birth (ilassachusetts), 
and his ancestors of English descent. His mother, Betsey 
Hough, was also of Ma.ssachusotts and of English descent. 

His father was a fanner by occupation, but prominently 
identified with the interests of his town and county, and was 
known as Squire Fowler. Limited in means, his father, hav- 
ing a large family, was unable to give his children anything 
more than the principles of a business education, and, a.s in 
the ca,se of the subject of this memoir, these princi]>lcs were 
so deeply laid as to result in a successful business career. He 
labored on the farm of his father until be became of age, going 
to school winters. At about the age of twenty -seven he went 
to Turin, Lewis county, and engaged in the mercantile liusi- 
ncss with his brother, George J. Eowler, and soon after entered 
in partnership with Orrin Wool worth in the same business, and 
were the leading merchants of that section. In 1S31, Febru- 
ary 13, lie married Miss Jane Bush, daughter of Major Oliver 
Bush, of Turin, Lewis county, formerly of Wcstticld, Massa- 
chusetts, and supposed to be of Dutch descent, and lur grand- 
father with a family of seven sons were among tlie |)ioneers 
of that county. 

In 1833 he removed to Antwerp, and engaged in tlir nur- 
cantile business and the purcha.se of produce, doing a large 
business in butler and cheese. This business he followed for 
some twenty years, and finally abandoned it to organize the 
"Agricultural Jlutual Insurance Company,' and removed to 
the city of Watertown in the year 1853. 

When he abandoned his mercantile life, he devoted his 
indomitable energies to a single object, — that of develojiing his 
pet scheme of farm insurance disconnected from a general 
business ; and when others faltered he persevered, until his 
labor wa.s crowned with success and his company duly or- 
ganized for the transaction of business. Mr. Fowler was then 
appointed general agi'Ut of the com])any, which oftice he held 
for many J'ears. He lived to see the company, for the success 



of which he labored so long, a success, and to know that its 
formation was the forei-unner or cause of the formation of 
other companies, which have resulted in establishing a nnich 
larger insurance interest in this city than in any city of its 
size in the State. 

Wherever energy, perseverance, and incloniitablc will were 
requisites, Mr. Fowler was an invaluable eu-woikir ami was 
sanguine in the result of his efforts. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Fowler were born four eliililren, viz. : 
Julia Frances, Carrie Jane, Florence L., and Charles B. Of 
these, Florence L. died in infimcy. Julia F. resides at home 
with her mother. Carri(! J. married H. P. Herring, and re- 
sides in Minnea)iolis, Minnesota. Charles B. residc's in AVater- 
town, and is very prominently identified with the company 
in the place made vacant by the death of his father, being 
one of its directors and an agent of the company. 

E. B. Fowler died July 12, 1877, in his .seventy-seventh 
year. His widow is now in her seventy-fourth year. 

In polities Mr. Fowler was a Republican, originally belong- 
ing to the old Whig party and in bis earlier life a very active 
member of the party. Upon bis death the Agricultural Insur- 
ance coni|iany of Watertown adopted the following resolu- 
tions. 

" Whocas, Earl B. Fowler, wlio was connected with this 
company a.s general agent and director from its organization 
imtil compelled by impaired health to sever such connection, 
deiiarted this life at his residence in this city Thursday, July 
12, 1877 ; it is therefore 

" Jiesiilred, That in the death of 5! r. Fowler, who was so long 
associated with us and to whose jiersevering efi'orts is due the 
organization of the old Agricultural ^Mutual Insurance Com- 
pany, which was the pioneer company out of which has grown 
the large insurance interests of this city, we lose a comjianion 
and friend whose early efforts are duly appreciated and whose 
memory will be cherished by us. 

" Resolved, That in the life of ilr. Fowler we have an ex- 
am|)le of energy, industry, and perseverance whieli it should 
be our ]>ride to emulate.'' 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



207 





^^r^Tg/i 



■v^--^-^'. 




o 



c^ 




euC^ 



'U^ 



I 



Tho subject of this sketch was born in llnrapsliire 
county, Massachusetts, Januarj- 1((, 1804. He was eldest 
son of Elijah and Abi<;ail Streeter. His father was a 
native of Vermont, and his mother of Ma.ssachusctts V)irtli. 
In the year 1S19 bis father came with his family and 
settl(-d in the town of Champion, Jeffer.soli County, and 
carried on the shoeniakin<j; trade until a sliort time before 
hi.s death, when he came to Watertown, and resided with 
his son Nelson. He died August 21, 1830, aged forty- 
nine years. The mother died before leaving Massachu- 
setts, and in the year 1S(I6, May 20, aged twenty-throe 
years. 

Nelson, upon arriving at his new home, was soon after, 
in the year 1821, apprenticed to Thomas Pock, of Water- 
town, to learn the tailoring business, and at the end of 
three years, having served his full time, be established 
himself as a tailor. Industry and economy were his early 
characteristics, and by a strict attention to his work he 
was enabled, in ISoO, to open busine.ss as a merchant 
tailor, which he continued until 1844, at which time he 
was firmly established as a careful manager and had accu- 
mulated sufficient to enable him to open a ready-made 
clothing house, manufactuiing most of his goods. This 
he continued until 18G4, when ho intrusted it to the 
hands of his son, John C. Streeter, who has conducted the 



aifairs of the house on an extensive scale down to the pres- 
ent time, and is to-day one of the most enterprising men 
of the city of Watertown. 

Mr. Streeter is the pos.se.ssor of one of the finest blocks 
of the public sijuare of the city, which stands as a monu- 
ment to tho energy of one who, unaided and alone, has 
contributed largely to the interests, in business circles, of 
the city of which he is a citizen, and who has, from a poor 
boy, risen far above the apprehension of want. 

Mr. Streeter cast his first vote in the Whig party, but 
at tho close of that party he joined the ranks of the Demo- 
cratic party, and stands firm to its principles to the present 
time, and has been connected with the public interests of 
his county as sheriff and of his city as tru.stce. 

In 1.S28, and at the age of twenty-four, ho married for 
his first wife Miss Aurelia A., daughter of Widow Parsons, 
of Lewis county. New York. From this marriage were 
born four children, viz : John C. Cornelia, Aurelia. and 
Augusta A. Only John C. and Aurelia arc living. His 
wife died in the year 1837, January 19, aged twenty-seven 
years. 

For his second wife ho married Miss Eunice H. Burpee, 
of Jefferson County, town of Lorraine, October 22, 1837, 
who bore him one son. Henry W.. who is now a practicing 
physician in Watertown city. 



208 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 




HENRY HOPKINS. 



The sulijpct of this sketch was born in Stratford, Connecti- 
cut, February 10, 1804. Ho was the son of Joseph Hopkins, 
of Waterbury, Connecticut, and grandson of Josepli Hopkins, 
a lineal descendant of a family of his ancestors who cniiicrated 
from England on the ship Mayflower in the year 1620, and 
settled in the State of Connecticut. His fatlier and uncles 
were soldiers in the Revolutionary War. His father was a 
silversmith by trade, but engaged also in shipping and milling, 
and being unfortunate in the shi])ping busine.ss, losing his .«hip, 
he, about the year 180.5, removed to Bridgeport, Connecticut, 
and in the year of the great eclipse (1808) removed to the 
town of Rutland, Jeft'erson County, with his family, consisting 
of himself, wife, and eleven children, and settled, as it were, in 
the wilderness, there being very few' clearings and log houses. 
He began clearing off the forest and making the land tillable; 
was in very moderate circumstances, and unable to do but 
little for his children beyond their support. When Henry, 
who was the youngest son of the family, was twenty-six years 
of age, his father died. The year previous he had purchased 
liis father's farm, consisting of two hundred and twenty-five 
acres, and the same year of the death of his father (1830) he 
married Jliss Celestia Tyler, daughter of David and Chloe 
Tyler, of Rutland. 

He carried on farming for a few years, and connected with 
that interest in the year 1837 the produce trade, buying butter, 
cheese, and pork, and shipping from Sacket's Harbor to Os- 
wego and New York. He is said to have paid the first money 
for butter to take to market paid in the county. In the year 
1839 he formed a copartnership with John A. Sherman and 
continued the produce business, and they were the most exten- 
sive buyers in the county, largely controlling the trade for 
many years. 

Henry Hopkins continued in partnership with Mr. Sherman 
for a few years, and again engaged alone in tlie same business, 
and at times dealing largely in stock. 

He continued as a dealer in produce and stock, shipping to 
Boston and New York, and in his farming, until the year 1871, 
when he removed to the city of Watertown, and after a year 



erected several re.sidences on Winthrop street, in one of which 
he now resides. Upon coming to the city he engaged in his 
old business, but his age soon warned him that his business 
days were fast drawing to a close. He is now in his seventy- 
third year, and is classed among Jefferson County's pioneer 
representative men, having by his economy and prudence 
accumulated a large property. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Hopkins were born five children, viz. : 
Charles, Catherine', JIartha, Henry, and Mary. 

Catherine lived to the age of thirty, and, while principal of 
the Mount Holyoke Seminary, Massachusetts, died March 7, 
1865, 

Martha married II. P, Dunlap, of Rutland ; had one child, 
and died in the year 1866, Dec<>mber 9, 

Charles married Miss Mahala Love, of Norwich, New York ; 
resides in New York. He is general insurance agent of the 
Equitable Life Insurance Company. 

Henry married Miss Mary Parmalee; resides in the town of 
Rutland, and owns and occupies the farm first purchased by 
his grandfather in the year 1808. Has two children, Mary C. 
and llenry T 

Mary married E. H. Thom]]son, of Watertown city, and re- 
sides at the same place. He is one of the prominent grocery- 
men of the city. 

In the year 1863, the mother of these children and wife of 
Henry Hopkins, while visiting friends in Middlebury, Con- 
necticut, was taken ill with the typhoid fever and died. 

Henry Ho]ikins was married a second time to Mrs. Chloe 
E. Burnham, widow of the late Dexter M. Burnham, and 
daughter of Otis .\ndrus, of Rutland, a native of New IIam)i- 
sliire. 

He is a member of the Presbyterian church, and since his 
connection with that body has contributed at times largely 
for building churches and the support of educational and re- 
ligious interests in his vicinity. 

In politics he was originally a Whig, and upon the forma- 
tion of the Republican ])arty united with it, and has ?ince 
stoi>d firm to its princi])les. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



209 





SOLOMON U. GALE. 



Mils. buLUilO^ u. liALE. 



SOLOMON 0. GALE. 



The subject "f this sketch wjis born in the town of Cliam- 
liion, JeH'orson County, October 2-'), 1812. He was the son of 
Nehemiah Gale and Lucy Parker. His father was a lineal 
descendant in the seventh generation from Richard Gale, who 
emigrated from England in tlie year ItUO, and settled in 
Watertown, Massachusetts. The old homestead originally oc- 
cupied by Kicluird Gale has remained in the family until 
about the year IMfiO, and was sold to General Hanks, who has 
refitted it for a tine residence. His fatbi'r was born in Ver- 
mont, and his grandfather. Deacon Solomon Gale, was born 
in ilassacluisett-s, and removed to Vermont in the early jiart 
of his life, and owned the farm upon which the battle of Ben- 
nington was fought. In the year 1810 his father came to Jef- 
ferson County from his native State and settled in Chamjiion, 
this countj-, as a farmer ; but having opened an extensive ore 
bed for his father before leaving Vermont, he (|uite largely 
explored parts of this and adjoining counties in search of ore. 
and was successful in some places, as the Wicks bed in \n%- 
werp. 

His father, being born August 24, 1788, was twenty-four 
years of age upon the breaking out of the war of 1812, and 
was engaged in the service ; was on board the " Julia" when 
the attack on Prescott was made. At tlie close of the war 
he settled in Hounsfield. 

In his father's family there were six cblUlri'n, all sons, of 
which the subject of this memoir was second scm, and until he 
was thirty years of agi' remained with his father on the farm, 
going to school some winters in the old log school-house, and 
receiving only a limited knowledge from books, but suflicient 
to enable him to teach scliool, and was engaged as a teaclier 
for .some six terms. 

While Solomon was a small boy an instaiue of characteristic 
integrity occurred, widely known in JetFcrson County, known 
as the Whittlesey atlair, and which ]iroved fatal to the United 
States payunister Whittlesey, who daimeil to have been robbed 
of some thirty thousand dollars. Whittlesey marked a package 
of the money and dropped it in the road, expecting some one 
would pick it up and jiut it in circulation, when he would have 
14 



a pnma facie case against him of the robbery, and bj' hard 
swearing by Whittlesey could be sent to State's prison. Ne- 
hemiah Gale found it, and, instead of putting it in circulation, 
advertised it. The circumstances raised a suspicion of fraud. 
Whittlesey aucl lii> wife were searched, and the amount less 
the money found by Gale was found in the possession of the 
wife of Whittlesey. The wife drowned herself in Black river 
to cover her shame, and the husband was taken in charge by 
the government. 

Solomon, in the j'ear 1842, December 22, married Miss Jane 
Griffin, daughter of John Griffin, a native of Dutchess county. 
He then purchased the old homestead in Le Kay of the heirs 
of his father, and remained upon it until he removed to Water- 
town city, 1862. While in Le Ray he was connected with 
the most important interests of his town, and by economy and 
judicious management owned at one time in the town some 
three hundred acres of land. He has been one of the assessors 
of the city for the last six years. 

Originally a Whig, upon the formation of the Republican 
jjarty joined its ranks, and has stood firm to the principles of 
the party since. ^ 

His wife w-as in early life connected with the Christian 
church, and has remained a faithful member of that body 
until the present. 

His father was killed by the effects of a kick from a horse, 
in the year 1844. His mother died in the year 18-59. 

Solomon Gale is classed among the active business men of 
his day. 

He had two adopted sisters, Lucy Guernsey and Sarah ilott, 
both of whom are now married and settled in life, and, by the 
lessons of morality and virtue impressed upon their minds by 
their adopted mother, are examples of representative woman- 
hood. 

He is strictly temperate in his habits, which is only charac- 
teristic of his fiu'efathers, and it is said that of the nine genera- 
tions who have been in this country no one of the family ha.s 
ever been convicted of crime, or drunk from the use of intoxi- 
cating liquors. 



210 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 





Mll.lON CAlU'KNTIll. 



MRS. :\111.T0N' (\\KPF.NTK1!. 



MILTON CARPENTER. 



TIio subject of this sketeli was born in IInntinn;ton, 
Fairiiclil county, Connecticut, February 17, 1801. 

He was fourth son in a family of nine children of William 
Carpenter and Charity Hawloy. His father was a native 
of Rhode Island, and of English descent; the grandfather, 
Calvin, was supposed to be descended from one of three 
brothers who came to America about 1G20. Wilton lived 
with his father until he was fifteen yciirs of age, and then 
served an apprenticeship of six years learning the thinner 
and currier's trade, — three years in New Milford, Connecti- 
cut, and the other three years in O.xford, New York. 

Soon after the close of his apprenticeship he came to 
Watortown, this county, but, not being able to get work, 
went to Kingston, Canada, and remained there three years, 
working at his trade, returning to Watertown in the year 
1S2G. After two ycjirs he entered into partnership with Mr. 
Kitts in the manufacture of morocco, and continued with 
him until ISIM. The firm was burned out in ISoIl It 
may be said here that in connection with tlieir morocco 
business they dealt quite largely in wool, making their 
principal s;iles in Albany and I'rovidence. 

Mr. Carpenter, after tlie di.-svolution of the partnership 
with Mr. Kitts, carried on business alone for some two 
years, and, competition being so great, he reliiujuishcd the 
business, except to occasionally work at his trade by jobs 
or by the day. 

In the year ISod he went to War. aw, WiscoM.-in, and 



for the most part engaged in carpenter and joiner business. 
Only remaining four years, returned to Watertown, and 
the most of the time since, when able to work, has been 
with his son in St. Lawrence county, who is a tanner and 
currier by trade. He, at the age of twenty-eight, iu the 
year 1829, married Miss Rachel Nash, of Albany, New 
York. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter were born nine children : 
Cyrus, Caroline, John M., Mary, Milton, Gea*-ge, Sidney, 
Horace, and Hattie. Of these only four are living, viz. : 
John M. is one of the successful and active dry goods and 
grocery merchants of liis native town and city of Water- 
town. Mary is married, and resides in JIacomb, Illinois. 
George resides in Hillsborough, New York. Hattie is 
married, and resides also in the town and city of her birth. 

Mr. Carpenter has been a life-long Democrat, never 
seeking notoriety, a plain, unassuming man, moving in the 
unostentatious circles of society, lionored and respected by 
all who know him. His wife was spared to enjoy his so- 
ciety until she was sixty-five years of age, and died in 1874. 
He is now in his seventy-seventh year, looking down life's 
journey as onl}' a little way, but cared for by his son, John 
M., and daughter-in-law, Mrs. John M. Carpenter. 

His .siin, John M., was married January 17, IS.tG, to 
Miss Ainaiula Jane, daughter of Samuel Graves, of Water- 
town. .\e\v York, and have ihreo cliikhon living, viz. : 
ll:uliel M:iy, Fled. M., and John M. Carpenter, Jr. 



HISTORY OF JI:FFKIIS0N COUNTY, NKW YORK. 



211 




EVELYN F. CAUTKR. 



The subject of tins sketch was born in the town of Clin- 
ton (formerly Killinjpworth), Connecticut, March 14, 1811. 
He was fourth child and second son of a family of five 
children of Ilubbel Carter and Eunice Parnialee, of New 
En-^land birth (Connecticut). His father was said to be a 
lineal descendant of one of five brothers who emigrated 
from England and settled in Connecticut during the first 
days of the settlement of that State. 

His father died when he w;is ten years old, and his 
mother died when he was only two years of age. Evelyn 
was adopted by Peter Farnliam, a sea-captain, upon the 
death of his mother. The captain was unfortunate in his 
business operations, and Evelyn was again left without a 
guardian. Thrown upon the world unaided and alone, and 
with his adopted mother to care for at an early age, h& 
worked in the factory and in the shop, struggling with pov- 
erty, until about twenty-eight years of age, and in the }'ear 
181)8 he removed and settled at Evans' Mills, in the town 
of Le Ray, this county. Previous to cowing to this county, ■ 
and in the year 1836, he married Miss Eniogene Pratt, of 
Durham, Greene county, New York, daughter of Abijah 
Pratt and Polly Post, originally of Connecticut, and of 
English descent. 

Upon coming to Jefferson County, he settled as a farmer 
upon one hundred and sixty-seven acres in the town of 
Le Ray, considerable of which he cleared of its original for- 
est, carried on dairying and grain-raising, and became one 
of the representative fanners of his town. 

In 1853, Mr. Carter, with several others, became the 



incorporators of the Agricultural Mutual Insurance Com- 
pany, of Watertown, New York, which name was soon 
after changed to the Agricultural Insurance Company, of 
Watertown, New York. This enterpri.se st;irted with a 
very small beginning, but has become one of the largest 
insurance companies of the State. 

Jlr. Carter being one of the charter members of the 
company, has been connected with it ever since, and in the 
year 1875 gave up his farming interest to his son, Revilo 
Carter, and came to Watertown city, and directly connected 
himself with the operations of the company, and upon the 
death of Mr. Cooper, president of the company, he was 
elected vice-president, with John A. Sherman as president. 

jMr. Carter, in polities, is a Republican, never seeking 
political preferment. 

He has been connected with the Presbyterian church 
for .some twenty years, and at the same time he united with 
that body his wife, .son, and two daughters, Catharine E. 
and Celia A., all connected themselves with the siune 
church. 

He has enjoyed the ofiice of elder of the church since 
1860, and has always contributed largely to both the inter- 
ests of church and school. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Carter were bom four children, viz.: 
three previously mentioned in this sketch, and one died 
in infancy. Kate E. married Rev. E. H. Pratt, a Presby- 
terian clergyman, of Durham, New York, 1871. 

Revilo Carter married Miss Martha Avery, of Chelsea, 
Massachusetts, 1875. 



212 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 




WINSLOW PATTRIDGE. 



The subject of this sketch was born in Chesterfield, 
Cheshire county. New Haujp.shire, July 1, 1791. He was 
of a family of twelve children, being the fourth son of 
Joseph and Sarah Pattridge, both of whom were of New 
England birth. His father was of Scotch descent; but 
his mother, Sarah Warren, was a daughter of Captain War- 
ren, and a near relation of General Warren of the Revolu- 
tionary War, and supposed to be of English descent. His 
father was a farmer by occupation. He lived at home until 
he was of age, and then went for himself, and for the first 
few years learned the cloth-dressing and wool-carding busi- 
ness. Entered a partnership with Jonathan Wood in the 
same business, in Otsego county, and remained there for 
two years, and in the year 1818 removed to Jefferson 
County and settled where the city of Watertown now is. 

Previous to leaving Otsego county he married Mi.ss Le- 
vina Wood, daughter of Jonathan Wood, of Mas.sachusetts, 
and of English descent. This was in the year 1816. 

On coming to Watertown he at once commenced his 
business of cloth-dro.ssing and wool-carding, and after a few 
years erected a building for the purpose of and began the 
manufacture of cloth. This business he continued until 
about the year 1S4G, meeting during his business career 
with success, and accumulated a fine property. He rented 
his mill and retired from active l)usiness, but tlie next 
year his mill was burned, whicli resulted in a total loss to 
him. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Pattridge were born ten children, five 
of whom died while young. 

The eldest son, Jo.seph Curtis Pattridge, received the best 
advantages the schools of Watertown could aflford, and then 
graduated at Union college, took u]) the study of law. 



which he practiced for a few years, and entered the service 
of the United States in their war with Mexico as pay- 
master, and at the close of the war, 1849, he returned 
home, engaged in the milling business and speculating in 
land in Minnesota; but his life was cut short, and he died 
1857. 

Julia Ann married Luther J. Darwin, Esq., an attorney 
of W^atertown, and resides in that city. 

Robert Kirkwood married Miss Catherine Seaver, and 
resides in California. 

Levina E. and Caroline M. reside at home. Winslow 
Pattridge died June 2, 1864, in his seventy-third year. 
His wife and widow is now in her eighty-second year, re- 
taining apparently actively all the faculties of her mind, 
and now in her declining years cared for by two kind 
daughters. She is numliercd among the living representa- 
tive pioneer women of Jefi'erson County. 
• Mr. Pattridge's education was neces.sarily restricted to 
the rudiments taught in the common schools of his youth, 
and which he was able to acquire by the best use of his 
opportunities in the winter months of his boyhood years, 
while his summer months were long vacations with severe 
labor on the farm. He had a fine constitution, and during 
his life was a man of great activity, and, besides his other 
bu.siness, he erected a large number of first-chL^s dwellings 
on Areenal, Clinton, Massoy, and Ten Eyck streets, by 
which he carried the reputation as one of the best builders 
in town. 

He was a kind husband, father, aTid friend, and a use- 
ful and much-esteemed citizen, and left with his family a 
more valuable legacy than money, " the example and influ- 
ence of a pure life." 




^BIsTEK/ •W. I»E0K:. 



Prominently identified with the pioneer history of the town of 
Brownville was Deacon Eliphalet Peck, one of the earliest settlers 
of that town. He was a native of Connecticut, and we find, by 
reference to the genealoiiieal record of tlie family, that the first 
American stock arrived in New Enjrland cotemporary with the 
pilgrim fathers, and have since been conspicuous in the hi^to^y 
of this country as eminent churchmen, -ioldiers, and citizens. 
Two of the descendants of the Peck family are now bishops of 
the Methodist Episcopal church, notably. Jesse T. Peck, of this 
State. The mother of the subject of this sketch, Lois Webb, was 
also a native of Connecticut, and came of a good old New Eng- 
land ancestry. Eliplialet Peck served at Sackefs Harbor during 
the War of 1812. He was a man universally respected for his 
general good qualities of head and heart. He died in Clayton, 
in 1868, in the eighty-fourth year of his age, deeply lamented by 
all who knew him. 

Abner W. Peck was born in the town of Brownville, Jefierson 
County, New York, on the 8th of February, 1822. His father 
was a farmer, and he followed the same avocation during his 
boyhood, working on the farm during the summer months, and 
attending the district school of his native town winters. At the 
age of seventeen he commenced teaching school, and for several 
consecutive summers he continued in that laudable field of use- 
fulness, alternating teaching and working on the farm. When 
quite young he was elected to the responsible position of super- 
intendent of schools for the town of Clayton, whither he and his 
father's family had removed in the year 182.'). In the fall of 
1856 he was chosen to represent the Third assembly district 
(now the Second) in the State legislature, and in 187o was made 
sheriff of his native county, which position he at present (1877) 
occupies. In these various offices Mr. Peck has given general 
satisfaction, alike to his constituents and the people at large. 
Faithful to every trust in him reposed, careful of the interests 
committed to his charge, and honest in the administration of his 



official duties, there exists no wonder hia official career has 
been crowned with honor, success, and distinction. 

In 1852 he was united in marriage with Miss Laura Pearsons, 
daughter of Esquire Chesterfield Pearsons, an old and worthy 
citizen of the town of Orleans, and especially identified with the 
history of La Fargeville. Five children— Uwo daughters and 
three sons — have blessed this union, namely ; Florence, Flora, 
Frank II., Carlton C, and Fremont, in whose education their 
parents have expended much money and care, and, we may add, 
with the most gratifying results. Both daughters were honorably 
graduated from the Ilungerford Collegiate Institute, of Adams, 
and the two elder sons received their education at the University 
of Canton, this State. Frank H. has particularly distinguished 
himself by his scholastic attainments, as evinced by his success- 
ful competition in a class of twenty-one for admission as a cadet 
to West Point. He has there eminently sustainetl his reputation 
as a diligent scholar, and now, after about a year's study, stands 
third in his class in mathematics, which is an almost unpre- 
cedented record in that institution. 

The rest of Mr. Peck's family have been faithful scholars, and 
will doubtless distinguish themselves in the various stations in 
life which they are destined to occupy. 

For the past two years Mr. Peck and family have resided in 
Waiertown, the seat of his official capacity. Their place of per- 
manent residence, however, is on the old homestead in the town 
of Clayton, towards the purcha.se of which he paid his early 
earnings. The good, old spot, with its sacred memories of early 
toil and care, hope and success, and with the .additions which by 
industry and careful management Mr. Peck has been enabled to 
m.ike to it, occupies a place in the hearts of the family which no 
other place on earth could fill. The portrait of this gentleman, 
together with this brief family sketcn, is inserted at the solic- 
itation of his many friends, as a token of respectful regard. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



2i:{ 




<::^M^.Wa/^^/ 



In writing out iinything like a full history of this eouuty, traji- 
lional or nlherwise, the name phicud at the hea<l uf this article is 
among the few that would occur so often as to satisfy the most casual 
observer that, "for weal or woe/' he must have had very mut-h to do 
in the affairs of the people of Jefferson County, in moulding the char- 
acter of their civil and religion?; institutions, aud in shaping the 
ilestinies of the generations that should follow. 

From the very nature of the case, the early men of any given 
community are men of character; and as they stand out iu the fore 
front of the battle of life, they not only seem conspicuous as actors, 
but, as they are in very deed, directors in all the evolutions which 
take place in the ever-varying scenes of pioneer life. Yankee born 
and Yankee bred, he was one of the first to "calculate" the chances 
which were beginning to be presented at the commencement of the 
present century, of winning fame and fortune by plunging into the 
profoundesi depths of the great forests lying stretched along the 
river St. Lawrence and the great lakes. 

Hart Massey, the third son of Deacon Jonathan Massey, and one 
of a family of eight song and three daughter?, was born in Salem, 
New Hampshire, December 5, 1771. In 1792 ho removed with the 
family to Windsor, Vermont, and in 1795 married the daughter of 
Deacon Nathaniel Swain, youngest of a family of seven children, 
three sons and four daughters. She was a native of Reading, Massa- 
chusetts, was born in the year 1771, and had removed to Reading, 
Vermont, with her father's family, as pioneers in that State. After 
their marriage they removed to a new town called Saltash, now 
Plymouth, where they endured all the hardships of pioneer life. In 
this wilderness home, four mile:* from human habitation, were born 
to them three chililren, Mary, Solon, and Stillman. 

In 1800 he esime to Watertown, where he purchased ninety acres 
of land fronting on Washington street, to which he soon added one 
hundred acres adjoining, and on the ground of the present railroad 
depot. The western part of the city, from Washington street to a 
line beyond the railroad, was his farm, and was the theatre of his ac- 
tive and laborious life. He erected hi.-; first cabin on the present site 
of the Arcade, simultaneously with Henry Coffcen an<l Zachariah 
Butterfield. 

He removed his family to this new home, in the Black river 
vicinity, iu the spring of lyol. March 7. The first religious mcet- 



ing.-' iit the vicinity were lield at his home the first Sabbath aft.-r 
the arrival of his family. On the UUh of July, ISOS. he was ap- 
pointed colonel and inspector, having previously held the office of 
quartermaster in Colonel Abijah Putnam's regiment, and adjutant to 
Colonel Gershom Tuttle. He held the office of collector of the port 
and district of Sacket's Harbor during the embargo and non-inter- 
course period and the War of 1S12. when the wh<»le frontier of the 
country was to be watched, and in the exercise of this trust was sub- 
jected to peculiar trials and difficulties, from the opposition of those 
who, from the violence of party spirit, deemed it meritorious to evade 
the laws and embarrass the operations of government in the prose- 
cution of measures to which they were opposed. 

At the close of his services as collector he retired to private life, 
but always evinced a lively interest in whatever tended to the im- 
provement of the town and county, and was particularly active id 
founding and supporting the county Agricultural Society, of which 
he was for several years the president. 

In educational and religious matters he was also an efficient actor. 
On several occasions he was appointed to minor county offices, and in 
1820 was made county judge. In these various capacities he won 
the respect and esteem of the public, and proved himself the pos- 
sessor of a sound and vigorous mind. He lived to a gootl old age, 
and was enabled to contrast the advanced state of the county, in its 
agriculture, mechanical arts, facilities for locomotion, religious and 
educational privileges, with the time when he cast his lot among the 
heroic band who undertook, fifty years before, to carve out a fortune 
for themselves in these northern wilils. 

His third child and second son, StiUman, mentioned above, now in 
his seventy-eighth year, being born April 10, 180^, on account of 
sickness common to children when only three years old. which caused 
deafness, has led a very quiet life as a farmer, which occupation he 
followed until he was sixty-two years of age. Since then he has 
lived in the heart of Watertown city. Jlis golden wedding was cele- 
brated on the same location where he was a babe on his mother's knee, 
and during the latter years of his life he has written many incidents 
relative to the early settlement of Watertown, which have been pub- 
lished, and received favorably by the public. He married Miss Almira 
Ingalls, who still lives to cheer her husband, having lived together 
fifty-one years. 



214 



HISTORY OF JEFFEESON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 




SOLON 3IASSEY 



was born in Reading, Windsor county, Vennout, July 29, 
1798. lie was one of tliree children comprising tlio family 
of his father, the late Judge Hart JIassey, who came to 
Watertown in the spring of 1801. His early education 
was sucli as was afforded by the village schools of Water- 
town, with tlie exception of six months at Fairfield Acad- 
emy. His school drill was confined to the common English 
branches, reading, writing, arithmetic, geography, and Eng- 
lish grammar. His easy, graceful, and correct use of the 
English language proves that his early advantages were 
well improved. His school education closed at the age of 
fourteen ; from that time until he was eighteen he worked 
on his father's farm summers, and taught school during the 
winters. 

His first experience in teaching school was at the ago of 
fourteen, when, during the two-weeks' absence of the teacher, 
he took charge of a large school of eighty pupils, ranging 
in age from five to twenty-one. It is quite likely his mental 
discipline, and knowledge of men and things, was acquired 
as much by teaching as by attending .school. When he was 
nineteen he taught the primary department at the Aurora 
Academy, in Cayuga county, for one year, and at the close 
of the year received the thanks of the trustees, and a cash 
present of thirty dollars over and abuvc his stipulated 
wages. It was here he formed tlie aii|uaiiitance of .Mis.j 
Esther Mary Boalt, who afterwards becaine liis wife. 



After liis marriage, in the fill of 1818, he removed to a 
farm on the Sacket's Harbor road, two miles from Water- 
town. Here he lived for seventeen years, and here were 
born his seven children. In 1835, in consequence of a 
severe injury received some years before, which disabled 
hiui for farm work, he removed to Chaumont, and engaged 
in mercantile business. Here his wife, who had been an 
invalid for .some years, died, and he afterwards married 
Alalhea, daughter of Captain Seth Bailey, of Watertown. 

In 1846 Mr. Masscy was the candidate of the old Whig 
party for county clerk ; but the party proved to be in the 
minority. He was also nominated for member of assembly 
in 1849, when he was defeated by Alfred Fox, of Clayton. 

He removed to Watertown in the fall of 1849, and was 
appointed Loan Commissioner in 18.52. In 1850 he was 
invited by Alvin Hunt, editor of the .Jcffcrsiminn, to write 
a Series of articles for his paper, descriptive of the pioneers 
of Watertown and vicinity. Accordingly, under tlie sig- 
nature of " A Link in the Chain," he wrote biogra]>liical 
sketches of many prominent men and women of this count}', 
most of which were published in the Nexo York ReJ'urmer. 

In 185G he entered into a copartiiershi|i in the milling 
bu.siness with the late Peter S. Howk, of the Fagle .Mills, 
which continued fur three years. 

In ISGO Mr. Massey was elected Police Ma,';istrate I an 
oflice answering to thai of Recorder under the city charter ), 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



J15 



in which capacity he served until November, 1865, when 
he resigned the office, and soon after removed to Osborne, 
Ohio, to spend the remainder of his life with liis children 
there, his wife having died in March, 18G5. 

In 1829 the First Presbyterian church of Watertown 
elected Mr. Massey as one of its ruling eldjrs. lis also 
served as ruling elder in each church with which he was 
afterwards connected. 

While on a visit to his formc^r home and friends, in Jef- 
ferson County, ha was taken sick at the house of his son, 
Dr. W. P. Massey, in Brownvilie, New I'^ork, and died 
August 12, 1871. 

A biographicjil sketcli, written soon after his death, by 
one who knew him well, pays the following just tribute to 
his character : 

" Solon Massey was fortunate in his birth and training, 
for he was the beloved son of pious, exemplary parents. 
He was essentially a J'dir man, although he loved a good 
joke, because he could appreciate all bright, attractive 
things, yet judgment was the predominant characteristic of 
his mind ; and this, added to much reading and a taste nat- 
urally refined, made him the accurate historian and the 
ready writer. His mind was formed from no school, nor 
after any model. He was a simple, unpretending Christian 
gentleman, pure in life and with a kind word for all." 

Another, who was intimately associated with him for 
many years, said : 

" He was a man in wlioin a large meijsure of goodness 
dwelt, and his life Wius as near blameless as often falls to 
the lot of mortals to live. But one chief beauty of his 
character was, that he was not content to live a merely 
blameless life. His whole course in life was marked by 
active benevolence. His time, his talents, his n)cans, were 
given ungrudgingly to every effort that gave hopeful prom- 
ise of shedding blessings on the pathway of mankind. He 
was one of the most unselfish men, whore good was to be 
done, that it has been my lot to know. No sacrifice seemed 
too great on his part to carry forward and to give vigor and 
strength to those enterprises that embraced in the reach of 
their benevolence man's whole nature, covering the life 
that now is and that which is to come. He had a heart 
that could be touched by human want and human woe, 
whether that want or woe related to body or mind, and if 
1k3 did not extend relief, it was because his hand was not 
as large as his heart. His Christian sympathies were wide 
and far-roaching, embracing the whole man and man in 
every condition, and they were of the icorking rather than 
tlie weeping kind. In some of the official trusts committed 
to him he was brought much in contact with the criminal 
classes and the outcasts of society. Here his (juick insight 
of human character, his great kindness of heart, his fath- 
erly, Christian counsel, his wise commingling of justice with 
mercy, wrought great good in many instances. 

" Into whatsoever field he entered, he sought to become 
of practical u.se there, identifying himself at once with 
every good and noble work for God and humanity." 



Another said : " The epitaph upon his tomb should be, 
' He was a Christian,' for this is the key to his benign and 
graceful old age, his kind and endearing manner, his sym- 
pathy with all good work, and his earnest labors for the 
personal and spiritual welfare of every member of the circle 
in which he moved. The example he has left us is our 
richest legacy." 



EDWARD SWAIN MASSEY. 

The subject of this sketch was born in Watertown, Octo- 
ber 18, 180G. He was the son of Hart Massey and Lucy 
Snaiii, who settled in Watertown in the year 1800, at 
which time there were only three log houses, conslituting a 
village in the wilderness. At the entrance of Paddock's 
Arcade Hart JIassey, with his wife and three children, 
Mary, Solon, and Stillman, located in a log house, and in 
that log house, on the first Sabbath it was occupied by the 
family', the neighbors being invited in, Wits held the firet 
public religious service ever enjoyed in Watertown. Of 
his father's family were ten children, of whom Edward 
Swain was the fifth child and fourth son. 

In this large family Edward grew the centre of the 
group, and did his full share of labor necessary to convert 
a wilderness into a garden village. He lived at home until 
he was twenty-one years of age, and the same year, May 
28, 1828, married Miss Nancy Kilbourn, of Champion. 
To them were born two children, Fred. K. and Emma S. 
Massey. His wife died April 17, 1832. 

For his second wife he married Mi.ss Esther Rnigg, 
daughter of Jairus Bragg, of Newport, Herkimer county. 
By his second wife he had six children, Maria E., George 
B., Mary E., J. Edward, Albert P., and Annie M. Massey. 
All are living except the eldest. 

Edward Swain Massey was the first child born in Water- 
town, and received such impressions from parental training 
while young as fitted him for his sub.se(|uent career of useful- 
ness. The year after his marriage, assisted by his father, 
he built a residence on what is now Massey street, in which 
he lived until his death, and which is now occupied by his 
devoted wife and children ; an engraving of which, with its 
surroundings of trees planted by his own hands, will be 
found on another page of this work, under his portrait. 

During his day he engaged, besides his regular occupa- 
tion as a farmer, in building, and erected several tine resi- 
dences in the city. He was also superintendent in the 
erection of the Fiist Presbyterian church. When only 
twenty-one years of age he united with the Presbyterian 
church, and continued faithful to his profession through 
life, and his life was the Christian epistle known and read 
of all. He contributed liberally for the support of church 
and all other enterprises benefiting mankind, and looking 
to the establi.shmcnt of good society in his village and 
town. He died March, 1873. 



216 



IIISTORy OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 




EDWIN A. HOLBROOK 



waj" boni in Madrifl, St. Lawrence county, in the yrar 1S17. Ho 
studietl medicine in his native town, but ruUntiuisUed its prauliee in 
consequence of an impaired constitution. He became a resident of 
Watertown in the year 1852, since which time he has been a success- 
ful praetitioner in the art of dentistry, devoting a portion of his time 
to literary jjursuits. writinj^ for pnl)lic journals, and public speakinj;. 
In 1S76 hv published sin originiil volume of fiver tive hundred pagi-s, 
entitled '* Life Thoughts," L-ontaining some four humlred anil thirty- 
eight pages of ])oems on a variety of subjects, the remainder bring a 
short bir)graphical sketch of his life, essays, etc. The work met with 
a ready sale. At the time of the compilation of this history he had 
material for another volume as large as the one published. His poems 
are very rapidly written, being almost a spontaneity. 

Below will be fimnd two of his poems on themes the most attractive 
afforded by nature antl art in JefTerson County. 

M'ATKIiTOWX. 

Synonym of bUv^sings ! euphonious namo! 

In litauty aOoriiiiiK thi; fair pag'- of fuiiiu ! 
As the wi'inl stream of life down tlie apes de8cenlIin^', 
Ittt lights and Itx rthadnwti iri biirnioiiy Mt'iidiii);;, 

Thy beautiful river tluWH onward the same ! 

For her countless lifo-fiivors a tribute I bring, 
Tu lu>r niurtmiring endeiice in hiirniony sing; 
Where U(»w the waves Ilowitig in rbytbniirnl nieutiurt' 
That l»reak on (tie ahures of the urecn isles uf p!eanure, 
.\re kit(siti({ the liiw uf the grcoii hndu of xpring. 

Where Hcorning her fetters, and breaking away, 
Iluwii catararts leaping and burcitin^ iti s{)nty, 

I heed the wibl song without rhythm or measure, 

Am fmni the hmd inniult the (jud-given treasure 
Of weiilth is flislilling that knows no decay. 

And rising aloft, atiove handct and hil!. 

I ratch the wild cadeneo that roinett from the mill — 
From the liamnier and anvil in deep e)ii»riiH ringing— 
Kroni nature and art a.s a tironth of thanksgiving. 

But never a breath from the worm of the still. 



Health, beauty, and wealth, like a godiless divine. 
Preside at this fountain of natnre's pure winu, 

From genius and labor ]uire blessinjis distilling, 

The sweet cup of plenty and happini-ss Jillint:, 

More precious to nioi-tjtle tlnni gold from the mine. 

And I look through the shadows, the blessing and L-heer, 
Far back, ere the days of the first pioneer; 
When the biini of the wheel was utdicard on the river, 
When the Indian untanie<I, with his rude bow and quiver, 
I'lirsued on the track of the wolf and the deer. 

When the cabin was reared by the fearless and bold. 
And the white man made elaim to his rights on the w.dd. 
And the sonml ol bis axe broke the stillness of morning 
That proved to the native the signal of warning, 

The time had arrived when bis tent be must fold. 

AVliat hai"dsliips thoy braved, with their forms bent to ii.ij. 

That we might inherit a more willing soil. 
"I'm well we remember the blessings they brought us, 
And profit withal by the lessons they tauglit us, — 

To live by true labor and not "by its spoil. 

Wc grieve for the absent, and miss eaeh fair form, 
Their faces so cheerful in sunshine and storm. 

They sleep well in Brookside, adorned by their labors. 

(.1 ! sadly we miss them, the true friends and neighbors: 
Our hearts for the brave pioneer still beat warm. 

Those laielniarks how few who still with us remain! 

And the fell tdow thnt severed the " Link in the Chain" 
Ueminds us of historiet^ still left unwritten. 
That the last namo will soon from tlie record be strieken 

Of those who have labored thai othem may gain. 

O'er their mouldering ashes still green be the si)d, 
And hallowed the lields where their busy feet trod. 
We trust that their sitinls in glory have ri.sen, 
And wait on llie shores of the bright streams elysian 
That Mow by the fields and the gardens of God. 

Hail, noble Black tiver ! fo swift and so free, 

The pr ide nf a people thou ever shall he. 
Thon boldest the prize, honest lal)or re4iuiting, 
Thy strength and thy beauty the strangr-r mviting, 

A prosperous town owe.H its good name to time. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



21' 



Hail, city of fuliage and pvi-r-jsreen trees! 

Hail, ewcet hum of indtiBtry lH>riK' un th« breeze I 
TJinii iiew-bom of cities tbo fairest of ilaiighten, 
Mature in thy years, yet the chihl of Ihi- walerit. 

Thy name is haptiamal, thv mission, to |il(>nsi>, 
June, 1870. K. A. H 

RIVKR ST. LAWRENCE. 

I Mtancl on tliy tthore, where rude sentinels hoary 

Have guardcil throiiKb ages ihy rounte to the Kt*a; 
And thy l)riKht cparliling waters rerteet hark the story, 
Thatlikens the tide ol all tming to t)iee: 
KlowiuK forever, 
FatteriiiK never, 
H*'autifnl river, 
On, on, to the sea! 

Here culm in their beauty thy waters are steeping, 
As the trill of the waves ripple wofl to lh<» shore, 
And evergreen ttlmtlows iiiglit-walche^ are keeping. 
And stara of bright promise look down evermore : 
H>>antifnl river. 
Faltering never, 
Ril>pling forever. 
Soft, sua to the shore! 

Now o'er thy bine surface soft zt-phyrs are atrftying. 

And all dimpled with emileM, as yunth blushing and fivt; 
Ami the Htanit and the shadows like naiads are playing. 
And nature's green foliage seems dancing with glee: 
Onwanl forever, 
Faltering never. 
Beautiful river. 
All blushing and free ! 



X6 streams of affection, tliy bright waters meeting, 

Flow onward together, away and away; 
Now severeil by islands, now rushing, now greeting, 
Itown catnmct^, foaming and bursting in itpmy : 
Lingering never. 
Wonderful river. 
Ku!>lting forever 
Away and away ; 

So the river of li/r has flowed down through the ages. 

Now placid, now rnshiug, an «ave after wave 
Has recorded the ep«H-h« on time's n»cky Images, 
Kngniveii in granite, in coral and cnve: 
Mystical rivi-r, 
lingering never. 
With rhythm forever. 
In wave after wave! 

Still onward thy flow t*»w'rd the mystical oceun. 

Forever replenithetl by brooklet and stream ; 
Hero mirror of beauty, there whirletl in cuinmution, 
Like the river of rivers, the pride of my theuie^ 
On nows Ifiit river, 
Tuw'rd the All-giver, 
Replenished ever 
Ry brooklet and stream ! 

Flowing forever, stream, bn>oklet, and river. 

River of life to the ocean of love ; 
From cataract's foam to the green isles of pU-a«ure, 
Reflecting the beama from the brightness above: 
Flowing forever, 
SVonderful river. 
Back to the (iiver— 
Tlie ocean of love ! 




HENRY W. SHEAD. 



I 



Amuiig the prominent and well-known lmsinc^^s men of 
Watertown none occupy a more exalted place in the gen- 
eral estimation of the people than does Henry AV. Sliead. 
He is a native of Jefferson County, havini; been born in 
the town of Champion on the 11th of April, 1819. 

In 1862 he embarked in the millini; business at Water- 
town, bavins; purchased the old Union mills, which, under 
the efficient management and sound business integrity that 
characterizes all his operations, have acf|uired a reputation 



as enviable as it is wide-spread. Nor is liis ]iartner, Mr. 
I. A. Graves, behind him in the general qualifications of 
a successful bu.«iness man. 

On the 9th of September, 1855, Mr. Sbcad united in 
marriage with Miss Caroline L. Carpenter, of Watertown, 
who. after twentv-two years of happy wedded life, on the 9th 
of June, 1877, died, leaving a bereaved husband, three inter- 
esting children, and a host of friends to mourn her loss. 
The familv con,sists of Mary G., Henry N., and Caroline L. 



218 



UISTORY OF JEFFEUSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 




^/t^'//^0^ 




The subject of this skctcli was born in Litchfield county, 
Connecticut, SepteiiibiT 7, 1792, and was tlic eldest of two 
wjns and one daughter of RohwcII and Lois Patterson 
Woodruff, of faniili(;s wliidi were aniotifr the early settlers 
of that .State, and were of English extraction. 

About the year ISO.t he came with his father's family to 
Jcff'ersfjn County, wlio located near Sanford's Corners, in the 
town of Le Ilay, and jmrehased a thousand acres of land, 
the fanns of Captain Thoni:i8 Jewett and Octavo Blanc 
now being a part of the purchase. 

During the war of 1812-15 he wa« called out to serve 
in a cavalry regiment, and engaged principally on jiicket 
duly on the northern frontier. 

When lie became of age or soon after fabout the year 
ISHJ; he eatnc; to Watertown, before it became a village, 
and <-onimenecd a bii.siness that grew to large jiroportions 
before he resigned it. This wajj the tin, hardware, iron, and 
stove trade. 

In his clear-headed business way he early saw that the 
necessities of the new-comers of this then newly-settled 
country could not afford U) go a two-days' journey or 
more to procure the common necessaries in his line of 
trade, so he organized a system of having his teams deliver 
them at their homes and selling them at fair prices, and 
taking in return such commodities as they |irr»(lui;ed in 
payment. This tradf- cxU'uded over not oidy all the northern 
(bounties of this Stale ihi-n settled, but look in the western 
counties as fur us liuffalo. In several instan;cs his teams 



went into the State of Ohio, and made regular trips to much 
of the then settled portion of Upp(;r Canada. 

Under his skillful management this was made profitable. 
Among the salesmen who sold his manufactured goods in 
tliis way were Hiram Converse, of this city, Augu.stus IJ. 
Butterfield, now in Illinois, Harlow Herrick, Solomon 
Childs, and many others. 

October 5, 1817, he was married to Rosana T., daughter 
of Eli and Roxana Terry Bush, both natives of Connecti- 
cut. Mrs. Woodruff was born in Oneida county, this State, 
and was a woman of comely person, and more than ordinary 
intellectual ability and force of character. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Woodruff were born nine children, all 
of whom became adults, viz. : 

Horace W., married to Maria A. Osgood, and now resides 
in New York. 

Lois P. married Howell Cooper, and is now a widow, 
residing in this city. 

Maria D. married Pearsfjii Mun<ly, and died .M:iy 1(1, 1S7] . 

Frederick B. married Helen Frazell, .nnl IpoiIi have been 
dead many y(!ars. 

ICnima ,\. married Henry Keeji, who died July 30, 18C0, 
and she some years after was again married, to Judge Wil- 
liam Schley, of Savannah, Georgia, but still resides in New 
York city. 

Mary M. married Henry Cadwell, of Eric, Pennsylvania, 
and, in a f w years, became widowi'd, and u short time after- 
wards followed him to the final resting-place. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



219 



Norman W. died at St. Louis, unmarried, aged about 
twenty-five. 

Abbio A. married Allen C. Beach, and died in licr early 
womanhood, Sejiteniber 8, 1S5(!. 

Sarah M. married Koswell P. Flower, and their residence 
is about equally divided between Watertown and New York 
city. 

Soon after his marriage came the time when jieople could 
afford better buildings, and Mr. Woodruff's hardware and 
stove business was largely increased. The old-fashioned 
open wood-fire was abandoned, and the wood cook-stove 
took its place in the kitchen, the then principal living-room. 

Then, as our new county began to develop, and enlarged 
lumses became a neecs.sity, reijuiring hardware to enrich 
and complete, and new rooms to be furnished with modern 
heating apparatus, he kept pace with the demand and with 
his enterprise supplied it. In order to do this, he drew 
upon Albany, Troy, and other ])oiiits when his goods had 
to be hauled from these distant places by teams in winter 
and summer, for then there was no PJrie canal or railroad. 

His business well established, he commenced acquiring 
real estate on the north side of the Public Square, as well 
as other places, until he owned about three-fourths of it. lie 
always had full faith in the future of Watertown, and as it 
grew up he was ready to make improvements on his prop- 
erty to meet the demand. First, he built the Woodruff 
block, of three stores, and afterwards the iron block, of five 
stores, all in the then advanced modern style. The railroad 
being secured, he then, with his sons-in-law, Howell Cooper, 
Henry Keep, and Pearson Mundy, connected with him, 
erected the Woodruff House, which to-day is a fitting 
monument to his sagacity and enterprise. 

Upon his entrance into Watertown he became identified 
with all its interests. After the village was incorporated 
he served as trustee and president many terms. He was 
chosen among the first by the firemen to be their chief 
engineer, and held it as long as he would, although ho was 
pleased with its duties. This was before the days of the 
water-works, and when wells and cisterns were relied upon 
to extinguish fires. The by-laws required every house- 
holder to have leather buckets according to the size of house 
or building, which the occupant was to take to the place of 
the fire on the alarm ; and all the citizens were liable to be 
ordered into the ranks to carry the water from the resources 
to the engine. Others, and often women, aided to hand 
back the empty buckets. On the occasion of a serious fire, 
if any able-bodied looker-on refused to get into lino and do 
duty, the chief would order him to do so, and, if he still 
refused, whether rich or poor, the chief would apply his 
whip tci him until he did so, always with the approbation 
of the firemen and the public. He always appeared on 
horseback, and it was a matter of wonder how, in the dead 
of night, he could get up, saddle his horse, and be among 
the first on the ground. He was very fond of the saddle, 
and, with his favorite horse, would make long journeys in 
it. An instance of it was when an agent came here to sell 
a large tract of land located in Alexandria, Theresa, and 
Antwerp, which he stated he was required to sell at once 
and fur ready cash unly. He applied to several jiarties and 
then to Mr. Woodruff ; made the j)rice one dollar per acre. 



and gave him the refusal of it for three days. The next 
morning Mr. Woodruff mounted his horse and rode that 
day to Utica, eighty-four miles, arriving there in the even- 
ing. He at once went to the house of his friend Samuel 
Stocking, laid the propositidn before him, and invited him 
to join in the purchase, which he readily agreed to. They 
then went to the cashier of the branch of the old Bank of 
the United States, located there, had him open the bank 
and furnish them the money to pay for it. The next day 
Mr. Woodruff returned home, and the trade was consum- 
mated within the time specified. It proved to be a good 
one. 

In 18:!t5 he, in connection with Mr. Stocking and John 
Jacob Astor, purchased a large tract of land at Green Bay, 
Wisconsin. This did not turn out well, and some years 
after he sold his interest to Mr. Astor. About the .same 
time he purchased quite a tract of land near Ottawa, Illi- 
nois, which proved a good investment. His natural prefer- 
ence for real estate led him to purchase a large farm on the 
opposite side of the river. Here he was enabled to gratify 
his fondness for good stock. He alwajs had the best pair 
of horses he could find. Among others he sold one piair to 
Mr. Astor, which could be seen for many years in Broad- 
way and admired, and another to the governor-general of 
Canada. 

In politics he was a Conservative Democrat, but never 
sought or accepted any political ofiice ; but in all business 
matters of the county he took a prominent official part. 
For a great many years he was superintendent of the county 
poor-house, making frequent visits at all times, informing 
himself in regard to the treatment of the iinnates, the pur- 
chase of suj)plies, and the preservation of the meats by 
thrusting his fingers in the brine and tasting it, and giving 
his practical directions to the ovor.secr accordingly. In these 
visits he would drop many a dollar in the hands of the 
worthy inmates, to enable them to have an extra cup of tea 
or procure tobacco or other things that would add to their 
comfort. He early became a stockholder and director in 
the Jefferson County Bank, and upon Orville Hungerford 
being elected to Congress in 1842, the then president, and 
declining a re-election, Mr. Woodruff v/as elected president, 
and continued so for some fifteen years and until his death. 

When the project of building a railroad from Rome to 
Watertown and Cape Vincent was started, Mr. Woodruff 
was one of the most earnest advocates of it, and at once 
was ready to contribute his full share of money for that 
jmrpose. He was elected among the first directore of the 
enterprise, and it is no injustice to other inirties to say that 
without his money and inffuence, together with that of Or- 
ville Hungerford, the road would not have been built when 
it was or for many years after. They not only subscribed 
liberally to the stock, but gave with others liberal indorse- 
ments to notes to carry the work through to completion. 

Mr. Woodruff's regard and respect for the early settlers 
of the county was particularly shown in his attendance at 
the funerals of his numerous acquaintances ; whether in the 
village of Watertown or other villages, or in the county, 
his carriage would be generally in attendance, and he would 
often go on horseback, and if requested, as he usually was, 
take charge of it. 



220 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



His charities wore numerous, but never ostentatious, for 
the left hand rarely knew what the right did. In his fre- 
quent rides on horseback he called upon many worthy and 
needy persons. On Christmas and other days he would 
drop a five- or ten-dollar note in their hands, or .send cords 
of wood or bags of flour, and ride away before the re- 
cipients had time to thank him. The extent of this was 
never known until after his death, by these persons speak- 
ing of it. 

He had many clerks and a great number of apprentices; 
among the former was Hon. W. W. Wright, of Geneva, 
late canal commissioner, and Lorenzo W. Prentice, now of 
Watertown ; of the latter most of them went west, and 
have made a good record. 

From the foregoing it will readily be seen what the gen- 
eral character of Mr. Woodruff was. He had a perfect 
detestation of an untruthful man, as he never was known 
to tell a lie himself, — neither would he prevaricate or mis- 
lead any one by his statements. 

In his business he was prompt himself and re(|uired all 
others with whom he dealt to be the same. If they wanted 
an extension of time on payments, he wanted them to come 
and say so on the day. When they did so he was never 
known to distress them. 

With his large and prolonged business life be was never 
known to have a litigated lawsuit. He at all times kept a 
watchful eye out for young men embarking in business, and 
gave them encouragement by words and counsel, and pecu- 
niary aid if worthy and they needed it. 

His death occurred January 10. 1857, aged sixty-five 
years. This hasty sketch would be incomplete and unsatis- 
factory to the writer if he did not in the most heartfelt way 
close it up by a lovable reference to the companion to 
whom Mr. Woodruff in early life gave his afl^'ection, and 
who shared with him his business success, his domestic 
and family trials in raising a large family to maturity 
and usefulness. 

This esteemed mother, grandmother, and great-grand- 
mother still presides as the empress of the old homestead. 
Sixty years after her marriage, and in the nicst lovable way, 
receives the daily, monthly, or yearly attendance of her off- 
spring, who most willingly pay tribute to her and ask her 
blessing. And all her descendants unite in saying, " May 
God bless her, and may her cheery years continue indefi- 
nitely to make them happy as she has done, and when her 
work is done may she find eternal rest !" 

This old home is dear to all the family, for while death 
has freiiuently entered its portals and removed loved and 
dear ones, yet other and pleasant gatherings have assembled 
under its hospitable roof 

Births, deaths, and weddings have taken place often 
there, and among the latter was once a noonday wedding. 
The tables were loadetl with refre.slunent.s, which were par- 
taken of by those in attendance ; short time for toasts ; 
train to leave soon ; champagne was drank to bride and 
groom, and then, as the children numbered nine, all tall, 
averaging about six feet, the following toast was given : 
"To the mother of fifly-four feet of Woodruflfs." It is 
not necessary to say that all the goblets were emptied and 
that Mr. Woodrufl^ should require tliat they should be 



filled again and drank, notwithstanding that this living 
pyramid was higher than his famous Woodrufi' House, of 
which he was justly proud. 



CHARLES T. WOODRUFF. 

The subject of this sketch was born in the town of Water- 
town, December 25, 1814. He was son of Simeon and 
Rosannah Woodrufi', who had a family of twelve children, 
and wore among the first settlers of the town of Watertown. 

His father was a native of Litchfield county, Connecti- 
cut, and, previous to his marriage, came and settled in 
Oneida county, New York, and there married (1798) Miss 
Rosannah, daughter of Roderick Adams, of Simsbury, Con- 
necticut, who.se ancestors were of J]nglish descent. In the 
year 1799 his father left Steuben, Oneida county, and, with 
his brother Benjamin, came and settled in the town of 
Watertown. Returning the same fall to Steuben, spent 
the winter; and in the spring, with his wife and one child, 
Chloe, came to his new home in the wilderness to carve out 
a fortune. 

He first took up some one hundred acres of land, and 
began clearing off the forest and making the land tillable ; 
but, after a few years, sold his farm to his brother Ben- 
jamin, and removed to the town of Pamelia, where, as a 
fiirmer, he resided until 1843, and returned to the town of 
Watertown, where ho lived to be eighty years of age, and 
died in the year 1853. 

The wife of Simeon Woodruff, and mother of the subject 
of this memoir, after a life of devotion to her family and to 
the church, having united as a member of the first class 
formed in Watertown in the Methodist Episcopal church, 
lived to the very advanced age of ninety-nine full years, 
and, in the early part of her one hundredth year, died, 
honored by all who knew her, in June, 1876. 

Charles T. Woodruff was the ninth child in the family, 
and lived at home until he was eighteen years of age, at 
which time he went to learn the carpenter and joiner trade, 
and has spent a large part of the time up to 18(50 in carry- 
ing on that trade. Since that time he has been engaged in 
farming and brick-making in the city of Watertown, a 
location on Black river, and well adapted to such a business. 

In the year 1850, at the age of thirty-five, he married 
Miss Mary Ann, daughter of John Clark, of Ellisburg, 
Jefferson County. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Woodi\ifF were born five ehildriMi : 
John C, Ada V., Rosa E., Abby M., and Charles E. 
Woodruff. All are living at home except the eldest, John 
C, who is married, and lives near his father. 

Charles E. has entered the law-othee of Judge Wright, of 
Watertown city, and is preparing himself for the profession. 

^Ir. Woodruff is now in his sixty-third year, and, with 
the exception of four years spent in Maumoo cit>', Ohio, 
has remained in his native county. 

In politics he is a Republican, and earlier in life took an 
active part in public interests, and placing honest men in 
places of political preferment. 

He and his wife are attendants upon the Universalist 
church, and contribute to the support of that body. 




RisiDCNCE or HIRAM D£Y/EY. ESQ.,Watertown.N.Y. 



mm 
















\ 3 



- > <■' 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



221 




GENERAL ABNER BAKER. 



The subject of this sketch was born September 17, 1791, 
in Northampton, IMa.s.sachusetts. He was third son, in a 
family of eleven children, of Abncr and Lois Baker, of 
Hebron, Connecticut, and a lineal descendant of Edward 
Baker, who was born in England, emigrated to America in 
the fleet under Governor Winthrop, which sailed from 
England, and arrived at Boston July, 103(1; the fleet con- 
sisting of eleven vessels, and bringing some seventeen 
hundred persons. Edward Baker .settled at Saugus (then 
Lynn), ^Massachusetts, on the south of a hill since called 
Baker's hill. 

His father resided in Northampton, but about five years 
after the birth of our subject he icmoved with his family 
to Goshen, in the same county, where he remained until 
March, 1804, — eight years; after which he removed to 
Deerfield, Oneida county. New Y'ork. He did not feel 
settled yet, but in March, ISOG, he removed again to Malta, 
in the then new county of Jetterson, New I'ork. 

During all this time, and up to 1802, he worked with his 
father and brothers on the farm, or farms, in the several 
homes which have been described, getting about three 
months' -school each winter, and thus acquiring what little 
education lay at the foundation of his capacity for business. 

After that he started out ■' on his own hook," at the age 
of seventeen, to '' try his hand" at such methods ;uj he 
might invent to acijuire au independence. He came to 
Watertown, and hired to Abraham Jewett to work in his 
brick-yard. His winters were occupied in assisting to pre- 
pare wood for the use of the yard in the following seasons, 
and in going to school just " to keep his hand in, ' and to 



perfect hiuLself in arithmetic, writing, etc. He continued 
on with Mr. Jewett for several years, becoming master of 
the business and " boss of the yard." 

In 1811 there was a prevalent sickness through the 
country — a malignant type of typhoid fever — which was 
very fatal, setting at naught the skill of our best physicians, 
and overriding all barriers to its desolating progress through 
entire families and neighborhoods. Our subject did not 
escape the dreaded epidemic. lie found himself comin" 
down with the fever, and immediately turned his steps 
towards that well-remembered home in Lorraine, where he 
could avail himself of the skill and care of his mother and 
.sisters. While he was in health he did not so much miss 
the little attentions and kindness which go to make up our 
enjoyment. But when lie was stricken down among com- 
parative strangers, and a lingering and perhaps fatal sick- 
ness and premature death were staring him in the face, 
then he felt and realized more than ever before the truth of 
the saying, " There's no place like home." 

But it was to share with others in the family, — those 
gentle, loving oflBces of mother and sister ; for though he 
was spared to get well, yet two brothers and one sister died, 
viz., one brother aged sixteen, one aged nine, and one sister, 
— Mrs. Oliver Taylor, — aged thirty. During the same 
period, and by the .same epidemic, two brothers of Mr. 
Baker. Sr., died at the old home in Northampton, Massa- 
chusetts. It will thus be seen how " wave after wave" 
rolled over them as a family, and that " clouds and darkness 
were for the time around about the throne." 

These were the first and oidy deaths in this large family 



222 



HISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



up to this time, and the youngest of the twelve was now 
four years old. It was not until April, 1830, that another 
death occurred in the family, — and that was the loved and 
cherished mother, who died at the full age of sixty-eight 
years. 

The father passed on through all the periods which are 
generally supposed to be specially critical in advancing age 
and natural infirmities to the ripe and green old age of 
ninety-one years and nineteen days, ending his protracted 
span of life peacefully and hopefully at Norwalk, Ohio, in 
the family of his son, Hon. Timothy Baker, September 15, 
1845. 

Our subject, as we have said, made brick-making his 
business for several years during his younger days. He 
■was married January 2, 1817, to Miss Eunice Hull, a 
daughter of John Hull, of Lorraine, removing her to Water- 
town in February thereafter, and commenced housekeeping 
in the little house now owned by Dr. Robinson, and on the 
Washington street front of his lot. 

It was as boss of Jewett's brick-yard, in that particular 
locality now known as Goodale's lane, that the writer of 
this article formed an acquaintance with liim, while hauling 
the brick of his make for the walls of the house built in 
1812 by the late Hart Mas.sey, on Massey avenue, in Water- 
town village. That acquaintance ripened up into friend- 
ship as stable as the materials of those wall.';, which now, at 
the end of almost fifty-five years, arc so perfectly preserved. 

He has lived on the same house-lot, though for many 
years in a hou.se better comporting with his altered circum- 
stances, and on the other side of the lot, during all this 
half-century of housekeeping. 

His active business cajiacity led to his election as one of 
the town constables at an early day, while he was yet a 
young man. It was before the " non-imprisonment act," 
and while the collection of debts was enforced by the fears 
of the " debtor's room'' in the common jail, or a tedious 
sojourn on the " limits" until some friend could be " moved" 
to interfere and pay the debt or become surety. 

A good collecting constable was one who could .show 
mercy to the unfortunate debtor while at the same time he 
could look after the interest of creditors. Such an officer 
was Abner Baker, Jr., during those many years in which 
he was elected to the office of either sheriff or constable, 
and I am yet to form the acquaintance of the first man 
who charged (jeneral Baker with inhumanity and oppres.sion 
on the one hand, or unfaithfulness to the interests of cred- 
itors on the other. 

In the fall of 1867 he was elected by the old Whig party 
slicrifT of the county, — the duties of which office he had 
performed as under-slieritf during the last preceding term 
under Sheriff Chauncey Baker. This term, to which he 
was elected in the fall of 1SG7, was one requiring more 
than ordinary prudence, a.s well as tact, courage, and firm- 
ness on the part of the sheriff of any of the counties bor- 
dering on the Canada line, on. account of the progress of 
whaj, was known as the " Patriot War." It cost our gov- 
ernment and its officers, both civil and military, a good deal 
to hold the reins of government in firm hands, and at the 
same time avoid tramiiling on the rights of individuals on 
either side of the line of the frontier. 



Mr. Baker was drawn into the ranks of our Stat« militia 
about 1819 or 1820, being commissioned as adjutant of the 
Seventy-si.xth regiment New York State militia, commanded 
at the time by Colonel Anson Hungerford. He held that 
office for two years, after which he was elected captain of 
the Watertown company of infantry militia. 

He was now in the line of " promotion," and rose very 
rapidly. At the end of two years he was promoted to the 
rank of lieutenant-colonel of the Seventy-sixth regiment, 
where he served two years ; then colonel of the same five 
years ; then brigadier-general of the fourth brigade for four 
years, and finally major-general of the twelfth division for 
four years. 

Some time about 1856 he became involved in pecuniary 
embarrassments, from which he partially' recovered by being 
placed again, by the courtesy of his old Whig friends, in 
the office of sheriff, the business of that period making the 
office one of considerable emolument. 

It only remains to speak of his connection with the organ- 
ization and conduct of the Union Bank, in Watertown, as 
among his public acts. He as.sisted in originating that bank 
in 1852, and was among its directors from the first to the 
present time ; while he held the office of president for three 
successive years previous to 1S57, when he resigned to 
assume the duties of sheriff during his last term. 

General Baker's last days were full of affliction, suffering 
on account of a paralytic stroke. He died July 25, 1872. 
His devoted wife survives him, now in her eighty-fourth 
year, cared for by a kind niece, Miss Martha W. Bennett. 
An engraving of the residence of the late General Baker 
will be seen on the opposite page, showing fruit-bearing and 
ornamental trees of over half a century's growth, planted 
by his own hands. 



WILLIAM HOWARD. 

The subject of this sketch was born in Springfield, Mas- 
sachusctts, October 16, 1825. He was the son of William 
Howard and Susannah Williams. His father was a native 
of South Carolina, and his grandfather, Henry Howard, 
with his brother, emigrated from England and came to 
Boston about the time of the breaking out of the Revolu- 
tionary war, and enlisted in the war on the side of the 
colonists, and never saw each other afterwards. The giMnd- 
father, at the close of the war, settled in Soutli Carolina, 
and marrying in that State, removed to Hampden county, 
Massachusetts, with his family, in the year 1800, and 
moved again with his family to Jefferson County, and set- 
tled in the town of Wilna, near Carthage, about the year 
1828, and died. Before coming to this counry his father 
married, and had nine children, of which William is the 
third son and seventh child, and came to this county with 
his father in the year 184;>. His lather was a farmer by 
occupation, and settled in the town of Waieitown. Fmni 
the time William was ten to eighteen years of age he 
worked in the cotton-mills in M;i.<.sachu.sctts, but on coming 
to this county learned the tinsmith trade, which, in con- 
nection with the hardware and stove business, ho has car- 
ried on until the present time. 

In the year 1843 he iiiairicil Mi.-<s Laurinda I'elton, of 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



223 



Spriiifrfield, Massachusetts. She died 1850. For his sec- 
ond wife he married Jlrs. Helen JI. FanniiiL'', daughter of 
Peter M. Jlyer.s, of Orleans, Jefi'erson County. She was 
born in this county January 1, 1836. Her father was a 
native of Little Falls, Herkimer county, and her great- 
grandfather, Henry, was of German hirth, but her great- 
grandmother was of English birth. Hi.s father, sub.sc<|uent 
to settlement in Watcrtown, moved to Houn.sfield, where 
liis wife died, in 1854, he returning to South Iladley, 
IMas.saehusetts, where he died in 1872. 

To Mr. and Mrs. William Howard were born two chil- 
dren, Charles W. and Frankie M. Howard. The youngest 
died April 2(5, 187G. 

Mr. Howard is numbered among the active business 
men of Watertown city, and with limited opportunities for 
an ediu-ation wliile young, and jieeuniarily unaided, he has 
met the obstacles of life, and aeeuniulated sufficient compe- 
tence for the comfort of himself and family. 

An engraving of his residence, and the portraits of him- 
self and wife, will be found on another page of this work. 



EGBERT D. WHITNEY 

was born in the village of Watcrtown, February 19, 1822. 
He wa.s the third son of a family of nine children of Job 
Whitney and Sylva Delano. His father cjime to Water- 
town from Vermont when only ten years old with his father. 
Job Whitney, Sr., as early as 1802, when the whole country 
was a wilderness. 

His father was a farmer by occupation, and met the ob- 
stacles of pioneer life with his large family, giving them as 
much of an opportunity for an education as his means would 
permit. His flither was a soldier in the war of 1812, and 
was in the battle of Sacket's Harbor. Besides his occupa- 
tion as a farmer he engaged in lumbering, shipping some 
awa}' to Oswego. 

The subject of this sketch remained at home, attending 
school winters, until about the time he was of age, and then 
went into company with Daniel Smith for one year, making 
brick. At the close of which time he began business alone, 
and has continued the same, that of making brick, and in 
the same place, until the present time. An engraving of 
his residence and surroundings, under the portraits of liim- 
self and wife, will be found on another jiage of this work. 

At the age of twenty-nine, in the year 1851, he married 
Miss Ann Safford, daughter of Joseph Safford, of Oswego 
county, of New England descent. 

They have four children, viz. : Juliett E.. Frank C, Etta, 
and Lillie B. Whitney, living. One son, Egbert A., the 
eldest, lived to be twenty-one years of age, and died July 
8, 1873. 

Mr. Whitney is a Republican in politics, but never takes 
any active part, except to cast his vote. 

lie and his wife are both members of the Methodist 



Episcopal church of AVatcrtown, and contribute of their 
means for the support of both church and school. 

His grandfather coming into the country as one of its 
pioneers, and hLs father being young, the incidents con- 
nected with the first settlements of the town received 
through his father, and to some extent experienced by him- 
self, are still fresh in his memory. 

Mr. Whitney is classed among the active business men 
of his day, and pecuniarily has made his business a success. 
The result of his labors may be seen in connection with 
almost every brick building in the garden city of Water- 
town. 

PLINY MONROE. 

The subject of this sketch was born in Delhi, Delaware 
county. New York, July 17, 1804. He was eldest son of 
Noah and Loui.sa Jloiiroe. His mother was of German 
birth, having emigrated to America when only six years of 
age with her father and mother. In 1811 Noah Monroe 
and his family removed to Delaware countj', and settled in 
the town of Rodman, this county. Pliny remained at 
home until he was some sixteen years of age, and then 
went to live with Egbert Chaniplin, his brother-in-law, 
until he was of age, and at the age of twenty-one was to 
receive a colt and pair of steers. He served his time, but 
only received the colt. He then struck out into the busy 
world for himself, and started farming. At the age of 
twenty-three he married Miss Samantha, daughter of Elihu 
Ball, of Rutland, but formerly of New Jersey, and of 
English descent. Soon after his marriage he purchased a 
small farm, and, unaided and alone, by judicious manage- 
ment and economy, added projierty to property and acre to 
acre until he at one time owned some three hundred acres 
of land. He and his wife have secured sufficient compe- 
tence to place them beyond the appearance of want. 

In the year 1864 they removed to Copenhagen, and re- 
maining there only three years, removed to Watertown 
city, where they now reside, having erected a very fine 
residence, an engraving of which, underneath the portraits 
of himself and wife, will be found on another page of this 
work, showing the result of their toil and labor, and show- 
ing, also, what has resulted from a small beginning of only 
one crown in their po.sscssion at the time of their marriage. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Jlonroe were born Dennis D., Morris 
C, Marcellus, and Franeelia A. Monroe. All are living 
except the eldest, Dennis D., who died at the age of twenty- 
two in the year 1850. 

Mr. Monroe is a Republican in politics, and looks as well 
to the principles as to the men who represent them when 
he casts his vote. He is now in his seventy-fourth year, 
having resided in the country over threescore years. His 
wife is now in her seventieth year, being a native of the 
county, having been born October 9, 1807. They cele- 
brated their golden wedding July 17, 1877, on which occa- 
sion there were present representatives of four generations. 



224 



HISTORY OF JP]FPERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 






AARON BROWN, 



who died at Lorraine, May 9, 1870, aged eighty-six years, 
was born at Killingly, Conn., in 1784, and was .son of p]ben- 
ezer Brown, who died in 1832 at Lorraine, aged eiglity-two 
years, and wlio wa.s a soldier in tlie Revolutionary War. 
From Killingly the family moved to Argyle, N. Y., and 
remained there a short time, and thence removed to a place 
on the south side of Sandy creek, now in tlicvillagc of Adams, 
west of the railroad, in the year 1801. Aaron came there 
on foot, with his axe on his shoulder, which he used in clear- 
ing up the forest for about a year, wlien he sought out a 
new location at what is now the small village in Ijorraine, 
and which was then a wilderness, there being less than half 
a dozen families in that region, wliich was tluMi within the 
boundaries of Mexico, but soon was organized into the town 
of Malta, and shortly after Lorraine. Being a man of 
medium stature but great physical strength, unusual ac- 
tivity, decision, energy, and enterpri.se, he soon established 
the foundation of his future success. Commencing with 
removing the forest, converting the timber into ashes for 
sale in exchange for articles needed, clearing up the lands 
for agricultural u.ses, by perseverance and untiring industry 
he, as early as 1811, not only had paid for a considerable 
quantity of land, but had commenced the mercantile busi- 
ness in a small room in the hou.se in which he lived and 
kept a small inn, and that business was continued by him 
(a part of the time jointly with his elder brother, Joel) 
until as late as 182"). In the mean time his labor, enter- 
prise, and accumulation had caused the erection of a saw- 
mill and grist-mill, which were long thereafter continued 



by him in operation, and, indeed, almost to the time of his 
death were kept up through his means. At times he was 
operating in the early days two or three saw-mills, a grist- 
mill, and one, and for a time two, distilleries, and during 
all his life was averse to speculative investments, having 
invested largely in farming lands. 

His school education was what he acquired in three 
months' attendance at common school, yet by study and 
experience he was enabled to write and keep his own account 
'books, and to compute interest by mental computation with 
near the rapidity and as accurately as one educated to it by 
the books. 

Frugality, eiu'rgy, activity, probity, jjerseverance, charity, 
and liberality were his well-defined characteristics, and he 
was noted for his strictly temperate habits, never using 
.spirituous li(|uor, although he, in early days, manufactured 
large quantities of it, and using tea and coffee only as a 
medicine iq) to the later yeare of his life. He, from early 
manhood, was a devoted and regular attendant at religious 
services at the Baptist church near his residence, to the 
con.stru('tion and maintenance of which he was always 
much the largest contributor. No poor man left his door 
hungry, and a fair portion of the accumulation of his labors 
and enterprise was always ready to be loaned to aid the 
needy, for which he never charged above, and often less 
than, the legal rate of interest. His judgment and advice 
were sought by all his neighbors and aci(uaintances, and 
generiJIy accej>ted, as to business aflairs. 

lie held the offices of town clerk, commissioner of high- 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



ways, and justice of the peace for several years; but all 
parties to suits before him, under his advice, settled without 
trial, he generally charging no foes therein. He wa.s also a 
representative from Jefferson County in the State Assembly 
in 1830. He was always an active supporter of the Demo- 
cratic party. 

Whether in the field, at the mill, or elsewhere, among 
the workmen, in the church, in political affairs, or enter- 
prises pertaining to the town, he wa.s recognized by those 
associated with him as the leading ma.ster-mind, who.se 
judgment, plans, or action, when known, were generally 
adopted and acquiesced in. He, with ids neighbors, has- 
tened at earliest warning to the defense of liLs country at 
the battle of Sackt't's Harbor. 

February 1, 1810, he married Betsy Burpee, daughter 
of Ebenezer Burpee, then a resident of Jaffrey, New Hamp- 
shire, who was also a soldier in the Revolutionary War, and 
who removed to and died in Lorraine in 1832, aged .seventy- 
two years ; and she is now living on the old farm, and was 
eighty-six years old Feb. IS, 1877. 

At his death Aaron Brown loft surviving three children : 
Mrs. A. B. Bishop, Henry M. Brown, of Lorraine, and 
Levi H. Brown, of the city of W^atertown ; his elder son, 
Moses Brown, having died in Lorraine in 1853. 

Aaron had four brothers : Joel, the eldest, for many years 
resident at Pierrepont Manor, and engaged extensively in 
mercantile and other business, was one of the proprietors 
of a line of stages running from Watertown to Salt Point 
(now Syracuse), Rome, and Utiea, and died at Lorraine 
Aug. 8, 1872, aged ninety-four years and ten months; 
and Ebenezer, Parley, and Water; the latter, the youngest, 
died Dec. 25, 1875, aged seventy-throe ; the other two 
died previously. 

Scarcely a man resided in that town during the half- 
15 



century succeeding its first settlement that did not seek and 
obtain cheerfully-rendered a.ssistance of some kind by Aaron 
Brown. 



LEVI H. BROWN 

was born in Lorraine, Jefferson Co., N. Y. He worked on 
a farm until he was nineteen years old, then started out to 
obtain an education. Graduated at Union College in 1843. 
Read law with Judge Jones, of Schenectady, and Judge 
Calvin Skinner, of Adams. lie was admitted to practice 
in the Supreme Court in July, 1846 ; read and practiced 
law at Adaras from October, 1843, to June 1, 1852, when 
he removed to Watertown, whore he practiced his profes- 
sion until the present time. From June 1, 1852, to April, 
1854, he was a member of the firm of Moore & Brown, 
and from May, 1854, to December, 1871, he was a mend)er 
of the firm nf Brown & Beach, .sub.sciiuent to which he 
conducted the business alone until 1876, and since the 
latter date under the firm-name of Brown & Gip.soti. He 
has mainly devoted his time and energies to his profes- 
sional business, occasionally engaging in political affiiirs 
for diversion and amu.sement. In 1857 he was elected 
supervisor of the town of Watertown, over Willard Ives, 
and in 1876 he was mayor of the city of Watertown, 
elected in December, 1875, over Ambrose W. Clark. lie 
was also elected a director in the Jeflerson County National 
bank, to fill a vacancy occasioned by the death of 0. V. 
Brainard, in January, 1807, and has been continued in that 
trust, and has also, for a number of years, been largely in- 
terested in farming interests. In 187G ho became inter- 
ested in the Watertown Spring- Wagon Company and the 
Watertown Printing^ Company, being president of the 
former and a director of the latter. 



HISTOEY OF THE TOWNS. 



WATEKTOWISr. 



TnE history of this town is so closely intermingled with 
that of the adjacent city of the same name that it is some- 
what difficult to separate them. In this case, as in other 
similar ones, the only way is to keep in mind that the terri- 
tory of the present town is the subject under consideration, 
and that all which has occurred outside of its present 
boundaries is irrelevant to our purpose. These boundaries 
are as follows : Beginning in the middle of Black river, on 
the line between the old survey townships numbers 2 and 3 
of the " Eleven Towns ;" thence south to the southeast 
corner of township No. 2, six and a third miles ; thence 
west to the southwest corner of No. 2, six and a half miles ; 
thence north to the middle of Black river, seven miles ; 
thence easterly along the centre of the river two and a half 
miles, to the city boundary ; thence southerly, westerly, and 
northerly along that boundary, at various angles, but in a 
general semicircular direction, for six and a half miles, as 
laid down in the history of Watertown city, to the centre 
of Black river, .striking two and three-fourths miles from 
the point of deflection ; and thence easterly along the cen- 
tre of the river, two miles and a quarter, to the place of 
l)eginning. 

The surface of this territory is moderately broken in the, 
central and western parts, rising into hills of considerable 
height in the southern and ea.stern portions. Black river, 
wliich, as just shown, runs along the north side of the 
II (irtl) eastern and northwestern sections of the present town, 
is a rapid stream, affording abundant wator-powcr within 
the territory of Watertown city, which would doubtless be 
utilized were it not for the superior advantages and close 
proximity of Watertown city. Besides this, the principal 
stream is a branch of Sandy creek, which heads in Rut- 
land, enters Watertown about two miles south from its 
northeastern corner, runs southwesterly about four miles, 
and then pa,sses across its southern line into Rodman. An- 
other stream, called Mill crook, heads near the centre of the 
town, and also runs southea-sterly, its waters finally making 
their way into Black River bay near Sackct's Harbor. 
From the western part of the city acro.ss the northwestern 
part of the territory under consideration, and thence south- 
west towards the lake, extends a narrow marsh, commonly 
known as the " Long Swamp." 

The soil of the west part of the town is a dark loam 
interspersed with gravelly ridges, while in the eastern por- 
tion the gravel becomes largely priidomiriant and small 
bowlders are abundant. The original growth of timber in 
226 



the east was very largely sugar-maple, with smaller qnantitios 
of beech, basswood, and elm, and some pine near the river. 
Going westward, the maple became less abundant, and con- 
siderable birch was found on the low ground. 

This town, together with that part of the city south of 
Black river, was originally township No. 2 of the " Eleven 
Towns." The early titles having been delineated in chap- 
ter four of the general history of the county, it is only 
necessary here to say that at the beginning of settlement 
it was owned, together with Adams in this county and Low- 
ville in Lewis county, by Nicholas Low, of the latter place, 
his agent being Silas Stow. The town,ship (the present 
city and town) had been surveyed in 179G by Benjamin 
Wright into fifty-two lots of from 400 to G25 acres each, 
but it was not until 1800 that its settlement was actually 
begun. 

In March, 1800, Deacon Oliver Bartholomew, a native 
of Connecticut and a revolutionary soldier, who had al- 
ready reached the age of 42 years, made his way from 
Oneida county through the trackless forest, and made the 
first settlement in the present town of Watertown, close 
to its northwestern corner. This earliest of the town's pio- 
neers survived the perils and hardships of frontier life for 
more than half a century, dying in June, 1850, at the age 
of 92 years. 

Up to this time township No. 2 was a part of the gigantic 
town of Mexico, Oneida county, which town extended from 
Oneida lake on the south to Black river on the north, and 
from the same river on the east to Lake Ontario on the 
west. But almost .simultaneously with the advent of the 
first settler, namely, March 14, 1800, Watertown was 
formed by an act of the logislaturc. It comprised town- 
ships numbers 1, 2, and 3 of the "Eleven Towns," now 
known as Ilounsfiold, Watertown, and Rutland, and the 
main part of the city of Watertown. All the inhabitants 
(unless Deacon Bartholomew had already arrived at his 
destined home) were in what is now Rutland, and it was 
there that the first town meeting of the town of Water- 
town was held. The name was probably derived from 
Watertown, Massachusetts, — being considered especially 
appropriate on account of the river, which ran for near 
twenty miles along the then northern boundary. Owing to 
the destruction of the early records by fire, we cannot give 
the names of the first officers ; but they doubtless lived in 
Rutland. 

Bartholomew had bought his land in Oitobir previous 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



(1799), and at the same time purchases were made by 
Simeon and Benjamin Woodruff, E. Allen, James Rogers, 
and Thomas Delano. Duniii,' the year 1800 the two Wood- 
ruffs, Jotham Ives, and perhaps others, came on and built 
cabins preparatory to settlement ; but the only man who 
remained through the winter in the present town was Dea- 
con Bartholomew. The next year, Simeon and Benjamin 
Woodruff, with their families, their father, Jonah Woodruff, 
and their younger brother, Frederick, came on and located 
where the two first-named had built their cabin, a short dis- 
tance northeast of Burrville, in what has since been known 
as the Woodruff neighborhood. Jotham Ives, afterwards 
one of the prominent men of the county, made a perma- 
nent location in that year, at the extreme western part of 
the town, in the district now called Field Settlement, as 
did also his brothers, Joel and De. Titus Ives. It is said 
that Jotham Ives raised the first wheat in the present town 
of Watertown. There were numerous other settlers during 
this year, for when Watertown had once been fairly discov- 
ered, and its advantages duly observed, it filled up with 
groat rapidity. Among those who settled in the eastern 
part of town in 1801 and 1802 were William Sampson, 
Rev. Ebcnezer Lazelle, Thomas and Job Sawyer, John 
Blevan, Abram Fisk, Lewis Drury, Sherebiah Fay, Aaron 
Bacon, Jonathan E. Miles, Jacob Stears, Seth Peek, Hen- 
derson Howk, Silas Howk, Job Whitney, and Caleb and 
Nathaniel Burnham. James Wilson settled in 1802, on 
" Wilson Hill," south of Burrville, cutting his own road 
from Adams. His son John, then an infant, so far as we 
can learn, is the earliest surviving resident of the town. In 
the central part were Eli Rogers, Aaron Brown, Elijah 
Allen, James Rogers, and others ; while in the west were 
Joseph Wadleigh, Bennett Rice, Thomas H. Biddlecom, 
John and Zebediah Buell, Friend Dayton, and others. We 
give also a further list of others who had purcha.sed land in 
township No. 2 in 1800, and most of whom, though per- 
haps not all, located in the present town of Watertown 
during the years 1801-2 : Silas Alden, Heman Pellit, 
David Bent, Luther Demming, Ira Brown, Calvin Brown, 
Abram Jewett, N. Jewett, Benj. Allen, James Glass, Henry 
Jewett, Ephraim Edwards, and John Patrick. All these 
purchases were made by contract, and it was not until 
August 20, 1802, that the first deeds in the township 
were given to Jotham Ives, P]lijah Allen, David Bent, 
Ezra Parker, William Parker, Joseph Tuttle, and Joseph 
Moors. 

Meanwhile Mr. Stow, as agent for the proprietor, seeing 
that the settlement \v;ls likel}' to be very rapid, made a con- 
tract with Hart Ma.ssey, under which a saw mill and a rude 
grist-mill for grinding corn were to be built that season. 
Massey was to furnish three acres of land and erect the 
mills, while Stow was to contribute provisions, mill-stones, 
irons, and, in short, whatever cost money. The expenses 
were to be equalized when the work was done, and the 
mills to be owned in partnership b}' Stow and Massey. 

The point chosen for these important structures was on 
the branch of Sandy creek before named, a few rods below 
the somewhat celebrated cascade upon it. This c;jscade is 
just within the present town of Watertown, on its eastern 
edge. The stream, coming from the eastward, pours in several 



separate channels over successive ledges of rock, falling some 
sixty feet in the course of a few rods. In high water, even 
at this day, these falls j)resont an interesting view, and when 
the country was covered with woods the volume of the 
stream was such as to give promise of a valuable wafer- 
power. In this, as in many other cases, clearing up the 
forest dried up the water, and the more wheat there was 
raised the less chance there was for grinding it. 

The saw-mill was built according to contract, and the 
grist-mill was completed in 1801 or 1802. These were the 
first mills of any description in Jefferson County south of 
the river, and are both still u.sed for their original purposes. 
In 1802 they were sold to Captain John Burr, who, with 
several sons, located there at that time, and remained for 
many years. One of the sons, Theodore Hurr, was after- 
wards an eminent engineer and bridge-builder. From this 
family the place received the name of Burrville, which it 
has ever since retained. 

Going back a few months, we will narrate the first ex- 
citing event which occurred in the present town after its 
settlement. We condense it from an account published 
many years ago in the Watertown Jeffersonian, by the late 
Solon Massey, and preserved in Hough's " Hi-story of Jef- 
ferson County." In the autumn of 1801, Friend Dayton 
was keeping bachelor's hall with his brother-in-law in a log 
cabin on a piece of land which he had contracted for, lying 
near the present road from Watertown to Brownville, on 
the slope of what was long known as Folts Hill. A grand 
squirrel-hunt was in contemplation by the dozen or so of 
men in the township, and one evening, just before it was to 
come off, Dayton took down his gun to prepare it for action. 
Not knowing it was loaded, he carelessly laid it across his 
knees with the muzzle pointing towards his brother-in-law. 
While manipulating the lock, he still more carelessly pulled 
the trigger, and was astounded by the deafening report of 
his gun and the cry of his friend, who fell to the floor, ex- 
claiming, "I am shot! I am shot!" There was no light 
but that from the fire-place, the men were both evidently 
much frightened, and, without waiting to make an exami- 
nation, Dayton set out at the best speed he could make 
through the darksome forest to seek Dr. Lsaiah Ma.ssey, who 
had just located himself in the little settlement which has 
since become the city of Watertown. Mrs. Hart Massey 
was alone in her house, her husband, his brother the doctor, 
and other boarders being out in the log barn husking corn. 
Suddenly a man burst headlong through the door, gasping 
for breath, and crying out, " I have killed my brother, and 
want the doctor !" This abrupt statement, of which the 
last part was somewhat inconsistent with the first, greatly 
startled the matron, but she soon directed Dayton to the 
barn, and henself began preparing bandages and putting up 
some candles. Fltiuipped with these, besides his regular 
ammunition, the doctor was soon on his way on horseback 
towards Dayton's residence. It was the first ease of sur- 
gery in Jefferson County, and the young doctor beciime very 
nervous, as he approached the place, at the idea of stumbling 
over a dead man when he opened the door. He found the 
door fiistcned, but, on rapping and telling who he was, he 
was admitted by the wounded man, who had secured the 
door lest the wolves should be attracted by the scent of his 



228 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



blood. The injury was found to be a flesh-wound, and 
under proper tieatujent the young man rapidly recovered ; 
but the aflFair wa.s the most exciting event of 1801, and was 
long remembered by the settlers of that primitive era. 

On the first day of April, 1802, the town of Rutland was 
formed by the legislature, reducing Watertown to the present 
limits of Watertown, Hounsfield, and the main part of the 
city. 

The first minister in the town, and perhaps in the county, 
was Rev. Ebenezer Lazelle, who came in 1801 or 1802, 
and, oddly enough as it sounds to modern ears, he owned 
the first distillery in town, situated at Burrville. He is 
supposed to have built it ; at all events, he owned it in 
1802. 

Immigration was very rapid, and in the fall of 1802 there 
were about sixty families in the present town. Clearings 
were appearing in every direction, but the deer still bounded 
swiftly over the hills by day and the wolves howled dis- 
mally in the darksome glades by night. The latter seldom 
attacked men, but were considered dangerous if goaded by 
extreme hunger or excited by the smell of blood. Solon 
Massey also relates an account of a lively chase which came 
off in the western part of the town in the fall of 1802. 

Jotham Ives, the first settler in what is now the Field 
Settlement, at that time employed an old man named Knowl- 
ton, who lived near the present residence of James and 
Isaac Brintnall (about a mile from Ives'), to help him kill 
his hogs. Knowlton stayed to help cut up the pork in the 
evening, and when he started for home was presented with 
a couple of the hogs' " plucks' in addition to his pay. It 
was suggested that there might be danger from the wolves 
on account of the blood on his clothes, but he declined an 
invitation to stay over night, and Mr. Ives advised him if 
followed to fling away the plucks for the wolves to quarrel 
over, and thus escape to his clearing. Sure enough, ere he 
had gone far he heard the sharp howl of a wolf: this was 
answered by another, and still another, in quick succession, 
and in a few moments a full band of these dismal musicians 
were playing their most startling crescendoes in his rear. 
He quickened his pace along the dim foot-path which was 
the only road through the forest, still hoping that he was not 
the object of their attentions. But ere long, though the 
howls died away, he heard behind him the sound of pattering 
leet rushing over the autumn leaves with 

" That long, strong gallop vbich can tiro 
The bouod's deep hate, the hunter's fire," 

and felt that he must put forth his best efforts. With all 
the agility which his age would permit, he sped onward 
towards home, still clinging to his two "plucks," and losing 
ground every moment in comparison with his fierce pur- 
suers. Kre he could reach the brush fence which .sur- 
rounded his little clearing, his enemies were close upon his 
heels. As a last resort, he flung down one of the plucks. 
For a moment or two the animals halted to snarl over the 
tempting niorsi'l, and during that brief interval Mr. Knowl- 
ton scrambled over the fence, rushed across the few rods of 
open ground, and all exhausted burst in upon his startled 
family. 

Other animals, more intcrestin" than, if not so savage as 



the wolves, were the beavers, which were common in the 
town at the beginning of settlement. A small brook was 
dammed by these industrious workers some two miles 
southwest of the city, the adjacent ground was overflowed 
and turned into a " beaver-meadow," and when a highway 
was laid out acro.ss this tract it was called the Beaver 
Meadow road, which name it has retained to the present 
day. The dam was just where the railroad from Watertown 
to Sacket's Harbor now crosses the low ground in question. 

One of the earliest settlers, named Matthews, related to 
Mr. James Brintnall, who in turn repeated to the writer of 
this sketch, an account of his visit to the city of beavers in 
the day of its prosperity. Across the little creek was the 
dam, composed principally of logs ground down and dragged 
into place with immense labor by the tireless architects, 
filled out with nio.ss and {Sticks, and finished with a heavy 
coating of mud. 

The meadow was broad and the water was less than a foot 
in depth. Above its surface rose the mud-huts of the 
beavers, with no opening visible to the eye. Mr. Matthews 
stealthily approached, and could hear the inhabitants busy 
within their mansions, but an unguarded movement disclosed 
his presence, and the next instant he .saw them rushing 
away through the shallow water, without any of them hav- 
ing appciired above its surface. Mr. Matthews determined 
to investigate the mysteries of beaverdom, and accordingly 
took off the top of one of the huts. He found a comfortable 
chamber above the surface of the water, well cushioned with 
moss and loaves, and evidently serving as both bedroom and 
parlor for the beaver family. There was neither door nor 
window, but in the floor there was an aperture through 
which the occupants could pa.ss down into the lower cham- 
ber. This was nearly full of water, and had an opening 
into the pond beneath the .surface. Thus, these intelligent 
and industrious animals had comfortable rooms in which to 
dwell, and were, at the same time, safe against all ordinary 
assailants. Bears and wolves could not smell them through 
the impervious walls of their huts, and would never think 
of tearing off the roofs of their houses in order to destroy 
the occupants. If there was an alarm, the beavere could 
flee in an instant into the water. 

But bears, wolves, deer, and beaver all fled before the 
swiftly-advancing tide of immigration. It is doubtful if 
another town in the State was settled with more rapidity 
than were the fertile fields of Watertown, after the work 
was once begun. The axes of the pioneere resounded in 
every direction, and the smoke of their cabins rose from 
every valley and hill-side. Of course the fateful dramas of 
birth and marriage and death were soon enacted in these 
lately untrodden wilds. The first birth was that of a son of 
Adam Bacon, at WatcrtoWn Centre. It was quite a common 
custom in those days for the first male child born in a town- 
ship to receive the name of the proprietor, and to be pre- 
sented with a lot of land by him. Tradition asserts that 
on the nest visit of the proprietor of Watertown the jubi- 
lant father informed him th; t a son had been born to him 
(Mr. Bacon), and added, " I have named him after you." 
" Ah 1 have you ?" replied the person thus addressed, put- 
ting his hand in his pocket. '• Well, here is fifty cents for 
him I" 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



22!) 



The first girl bom in lli« prL'sent town of Watertown was 
Sally Rogers, daughter of Eli Rogers, who also resided near 
the Centre. The first death, so far as known, was that of 
John Arnold, residing on the creek below Burrville. We 
are unable to say what couple first led the way into the 
temple of Hymen (which, in this case, was doubtles-s a log 
cabin ), so there is all the better opportunity to imagine the 
pioneer bride and groom as surrounded throughout their 
united career with all the blessings which love and joy 
could bestow. 

In MiRch, 1803, Tillcy Richardson, commonly known 
a.s Captain Richardson, an old Revolutionary fioldier, lo- 
cated himself in the valley, about a mile and a half south- 
west of Burrville, where he was long a prominent citizen, 
surviving until 1852. His daughter (now Mrs. Lydia 
Skcclcs), born in the fore part of 1804, is the oldest native 
of the town, now resident in it, whom we have been able 
to discover. What is also noticeable in tiiis land of change, 
she resides on the same farm on which she was born nearly 
threc-fdurths of a century ago. Jo.seph Sheldon came with 
Captain Richardson, and settled on '• Dry Hill," in the 
south part of the town, wiiere he was long a prominent 
citizen. 

We have mentioned the distillery at Rurrville, owned 
by the Rev. Mr. Lazelle. In 1803 he sold it to Thomas 
M. Converse. The original deed is now in the po.ssession 
of the nephew of the grantee, Hiram M. Converse, of 
North Watertown. In it the grantor is described as "' Rev- 
erend Ebenezer Lazelle," and the distillery as being " near 
Captain John Burr's mill." Mr. Converse soon after be- 
came the proprietor of a store at Burrville (the first in the 
present town of Watertown), in company with the late Hon. 
Jabez Foster, the firm-name being Foster and Converse. 
After Mr. Foster's removal to Watertown village, about 
1807, Mr. Converse continued the business alone, also 
managing his distillery and an a.shery, and being the lead- 
ing man of the little village until his de.ith in 1811. Or- 
ville Hungerford, afterwards one of the distinguished men 
of the State, was a clerk for Foster &, Converse during their 
partnership. Timothy and Anson Hungerford were early 
and prominent .settlers between Burrville and Watertown 
Centre. 

By a law passed March 21), 1803, a State road was pro- 
vided for from Rome to ]?rownville, running through the 
western part of this town, and another ruiuiing down Black 
river through the northeastern part. Both were speedily 
constructed, and each has since been allied the State road. 

The first church in town, and probably the second in 
the county, was the First Congregational church of Water- 
town, organized at Burrville, in Caleb Burnham's barn, on 
the third day of June, 1803, by Rev. Ebenezer Lazelle. 
The first members were twelve in number, viz., James 

Thompson, Gershom Tattle, Thomas Sawyer, Hinman, 

Joel Goodale, Mrs. JIartha Pettit, Mrs. Sarah Tuttle, 
Susannah Sawyer, Jcruali Eno, Chloe Bailey, Hannah 
Eddy, and Sarah Taylor. The first deacons were Thomas 
Sawyer and Samuel Calkins, as afipcars by the early records. 
When Mr. Bnrnhani wanted his barn to put wheat in, 
llie elnireh held meetings in divers jilaees ; in the ball-room 
(if Cdluiiel Tullle, in the wagon shop of Deacon Sawj'er, in 



school-hoases and private houses. There was no r^^Lir 
pastor, and the prcacliing was mostly by missionaries from 
older localities. 

In 1805 the territory under consideration ceased to be a part 
of Oneida county, the new county of JeflFerson being formed 
by the legislature at that time. The county-seat was fixed 
at the little village of Watertown, tlie gi-owth of which 
rapidly increjised, and the surrounding town of course had 
a considerable acee.s.s of immigrants, who desired to be near 
such a promising market. Among those (it is impossible 
to give a full list) who located in the east part of the town, 
from 1803 to 1812, were Jonathan Baker, whose widow 
died during the present year, lacking but a few weeks of 
ninety years old, William Huntington, John (lothani, Seth 
Bailey, Doris Doty, Cyrus Butterfield, Cyrenius Wood- 
worth, Levi Cole, Samuel Thurston, Captain Job Whitney, 
Anthony and Andrew Sigourney, William Fellows, and Sam- 
uel Thurston. In the centre were Corlis Hinds, Reuben 
Scott, Benjamin Green, and many others. In the west the 
most prominent settler was Elijah Field, of Woodstock, 
Vermont, who, in 1805, purchased the Buell farm on the 
western line of the township. He had no less than nine 
sons and three daughters, most of whom were of mature 
age, and settled near by, but over the line in town.ship 
number one, now Houusfield. The whole district on both 
sides of the line has since been called Field Settlement. 
Among those in that part of the town, besides those already 

named, were Adam Blodgett, Samuel Bates, Bates, 

Spencer, and A.saph Butterfield. In the northwe-st 

were Captain James Parker and others. An anecdote con- 
cerning the gentleman last named and one of his family 
was related by Mr. Masscy, which we reproduce here in 
condensed form as an indication of some of the troubles 
which beset the early settlers. 

Captain Parker desired some hemlock-gum to use in the 
manufacture of potash, and also wanted some groceries from 
the little store at Watertown village. So he gave his oldest 
sou, Alexander, a youth of fourteen or fifteen, a silver dol- 
lar, bidding him take an axe and a bag, procure some gum, 
and purchase the groceries, all on the same trip. After 
dinner young I'arker proceeded to the foot of the Folts 
Hill, where there was a large hemlock forest on the south 
of the road. To avoid the risk of losing his dollar (a great 
sum in those days), he struck his axe into a tree and jilaced 
the coin in the notch. The task of gathering the gum was 
a long one, and he unthinkingly strayed far from the point 
where he had located his primitive bank. When, at length, 
he had obtained a sufficient quantity, he started back, loaded 
with his axe and bag of gum. He traveled far longer than 
he thought was necessary to reach the road, but saw no 
sign of the desired pathway. Then he suddenly remem- 
bered that he had passed three .springs looking just alike, 
and each covered with the yellow scum of iron-ore. He 
was old enough to know that traveling in a circle was a 
common phenomenon with those who were lost, and it 
quickly occurred to him that he was precisely in that posi- 
tion. 

Meanwhile, night was rapidly coming on. The wolves 
were disappearing before the settlers, but there were still 
some in the forest, and the prospect was not pleasant. 



230 



HISTOKY OF JEFFEKSON COUNTY, NEW YOKK. 



Convinced, however, that he could not find his way out in 
the darkness, Alick seated himself at the foot of a large 
tree, and with his bag of gum beside him, and his axe be- 
tween his knees, he prepared for sleep or battle, according 
to circumstances. 

In the mean time. Captain Parker had become alarmed at 
the approach of night without his son's return, and started 
out to see what was the matter. Finding, on his arrival 
at the village, that the boy had not been there, the alarm 
was instantly sounded. The men and boys at the village 
rallied promptly, while Parker hurried home to call out his 
own neighbors. All met, late in the night, near the hem- 
lock wood, which they rightly conjectured he had entered. 
Half of them had guns, and many of the others were pro- 
vided with horns, which then filled the place of bells, 
telegraphs, and other means of conveying signals. The 
company, having organized in bands, provided themselves 
with pitch-pine torches, and agreed on a few necessary 
signals, moved forward into the forest; every rod of ground 
being inspected, and the horns being sounded at regular 
intervals, both to preserve the line of march, and to attract 
the attention of the boy. 

Meanwhile, the youth himself, after keeping himself 
awake as long as he could, had dropped into a profound 
slumber at the foot of his tree. Whether he dreamed of 
the comforts of his rude home, or w;is disturbed by visions 
of ravenous wolves standing open-mouthed and fiery-eyed 
around him, our account does not say. At all events, he 
remained in deep slumber until past midnight. Suddenly 
he was awakened by a tremendous blast, only a short dis- 
tance away; on springing up he heard the well-known 
sound of horns along the line of searchers, and saw their 
torches gleaming among the trees. Comprehending the 
situation, he put liis axe on his shoulder, took his bag of 
gum in hand, and advanced to meet the rescuers. After 
the first expressions of joy, three shots were fired in quick 
succession to notify the line that the boy was found ; the 
men quickly collected, and then, with many congratulations, 
dispersed to their homes. But in one respect the history 
of this event is deficient ; we are not informed whether 
Alick found the dollar which he had deposited in the side 
of the tree. Perhaps it is there yet. 

On February 17, 1806, the town of Hounsfield was 
formed from Watertowii by the legi-slature, corresponding 
in size to survey-township number one, and reducing Water- 
town to the size which it retained up to the incorporation 
of the city in 18G9. 

There was not much chance for anytli ing but farms in 
the western part of the town. A distillery was early 
erected on the Wadleigli jilace on Mill creek, which was 
afterwards changed to a grist-mill, Lut this has long since 
been abandoned. 

Hurrville was at this period (|uite a rival of Watertown. 
William Lainpson, the ])ioncer blacksmith, had also an axe- 
factory, with a trip-hammer carried by water, where lie 
made edge-tools, and which was kept in operation till 
about ten years ago. James Mann built a tannery there 
about 1 8(l(;. A few years later it passed into the hands 
of Thcophilus Uedlii'ld, best known to the old settlers as 
Deacon Redfield. He kept six or eight men at work in 



his tannery, and as many more in his shoe-shop. About 
1809 a carding-machine was built a little below the grist- 
mill. Afterwards, but before the war, a cloth-dressing 
establishment was put up nearer the foils. There had 
been a hotel from the first, the earliest landlord whom 
any one remembers being Septimus S. Adams. 

All these establishments, together with the store, a.shery, 
and distillery of Mr. Converse, made (juite a lively little 
place. There was no organized church in Watertown vil- 
lage, and many of its people used to go on foot and on 
horseback to attend religious services at Burrville. Mr. 
Hart Massey made the journey very regularly ; he and his 
boys walking, and his wife riding on horseback, with her 
daughter behind her on a pillion. When there was no 
minister, sermons would be read by Dr. Brainerd or Judge 
Strong. 

But Watertown was all the while gaining ground, and 
the people did not like the idea of going five miles to 
church. It was proposed to build a church edifice at 
Watertown Centre (where there was a tavern and a few 
houses) for the accommodation of both villages. In Feb- 
ruary, 1811, the "Religious Society of Watertown" was 
formed, with the view of carrying out that idea. The 
trustees were Tillcy Richardson, John Sikes, Thomas 
Sawyer, and William Fellows, representing Burrville and 
vicinity ; Hart Massey and Isaac Benedict, on the part of 
Watertown Village; and Aaron Brown, the tavern-keeper, 
at the Centre. It was voted to build a church at the latter 
point ; but nothing further was done, and the next year the 
breaking out of the war prevented all action in that direc- 
tion for the time being. 

Log school -houses, covered Viith "troughs" (/.e., half-logs 
hollowed out and laid in a row with the hollow part up, 
covered by another row with the hollows down), were the 
first educational temples of the town. In these assembled 
not only great flocks of children (for the pioneers were a 
prolific race ), but the congregations which listened to the in- 
spiring words of the early preachers, as they made their toil- 
some way from one rude settlement to another. Among those 
who preached through this town, besides the Reverend Mr. 
Lazelle, already mentioned, were " Father Puffer," celebrated 
for his knowledge of the Bible, which a doubtful tradition 
asserts he could repeat from beginning to end, Rev. B. Ty- 
ler, Rev. N. Duttoii, Father Bliss, Rev. Libbcus Field, one 
of the Fields of Field Settlement, who still survives, a 
resident of Hounsfield, at the age of 98. Rev. Hezekiah 
Field, another member of the .same family, and Rev. David 
Speer ("Father Speer," as the latter was affectionately 
called), resided in Rodman, but lie ]ireachcd throughout 
Watertown in the pioneer days, beginning as early as 1805. 
He continued his .services lor more than fifty years, and 
died in extreme old age, attended by the respect and affec- 
tion of all who knew him. 

The principal physician in town was Dr. Craft P. Kim- 
ball, who began to practice at Burrville before the War of 
181 "J, and continued to do so till his death, in 1872. The 
manufacture of potash was, of course, a most important 
business during the settling up of the town, for this would 
bring cash when hardly any other production of the country 
wimld pay the expense of transportation to market. When 



HISTORY OP JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



231 



the embargo was declared iu 1808, stopping intercouree 
with Canada, and thus preventing the exportation of potash 
by the only available route, which was down the Saint Law- 
rence, the people of Jefferson County felt as if they were 
ruined, and many of them did not hesitate to evade the 
law by every means in their power. Numerous were the 
expedients resorted to to facilitate the removal of the 
precious article. 

We have before spoken of the Folts hill, ou the road 
from Watertown to Brownville. It was so called from a 
shrewd Mohawk Dutch farmer of that name, who lived 
there, and who wa.s reputed particularly expert in conducting 
the secret trafiBc in potash. Many a score of barrels of 
potash, either belonging to the surrounding farmers or pur- 
chased from them by William Smith, the Watt^rtown mer- 
chant, was quietly forwarded by secret roads to the St. 
Lawrence and thence into Canada, through the sharp man- 
agement of the person referred to. Hart Massoy, the col- 
lector of this di.strict, was well aware what Folts was about, 
and was constantly on the watch to detect him in some 
overt act, but without success. Once Folts himself thought 
he was caught. He had had a lot of potash stored in his 
barn, waiting a good chance, and one dark winter night he 
was engaged with one or two assistants in loading it into 
the sleigh of a neighboring farmer, preparatory to starting 
for the Saint Lawrence, by way of a secret road cut through 
the woods north of the river, for this very purpose. Sud- 
denly up drives Collector 3Iassey in his cutter. 

" Hello, men ! what are you doing here?" cried the officer, 
dimly seeing through the darkness what was going forward. 
Folts was hard pushed for a moment, but his shrewdness 
did not desert him. 

" Veil," said he, " Bill Smit, he got me to keep some 
potash for him till he can sent it off to Utica, 'cause dis 
tam embargo won t let him sell it in Canada, vere it would 
pring sometings, and dese mens is ju.st pringing it to my 
parn. Come, poys, hurry up ; it is so colt as der tuyvel ! " 
and forthwith the men began to roll the barrels inlu the 
barn instead of out of it. 

Massey watched them to the end, saw the barn door 
fiistened and the team start for home, and then, as he could 
not prevent Folts from keejiiiig potash in his barn on its 
way to Utica, he drove on to the village. The smugglers 
watched him till they were satisfied that he was safely 
housed, then returned and loaded up the potash, which was 
soon on its way to Canada. After being circumvented in 
similar ways a number of times, Massey was at length de- 
lighted to be informed very privately that Folts had a 
(|uantity of potash storeul in an old building belonging to 
him, situated in such an out-of-the-way place that it was 
very evident the article w:is destined for illicit exportation. 
Obtaining a team and driver, he proceeded to the designated 
place, and sure enough after much .searching he found two 
tea-boxes and three barrels, evidently all full, and carefully 
concealed from the ordinary observer. Loading them up, 
he returned to the village with his prize, and, as it was 
then evening, placed a guard over it lest it should be carried 
off in the night. For once he had got ahead of old Folts. 

The next morning he proceeded to examine his capture. 
Alas ! the t'Ca-boxes were tilled with sawdust and a few 



stones, while the barrels were packed with other refuse 
matter. His wily opponent had carefully preiiared the 
decoy, and had then purposely managed to have information 
furnished to the collector. Not satisfied with this triumph, 
the farmer sued the officer before a justice of the peace for 
carrying off his boxes and barrels, and, we believe, actually 
collected a small sum from him. 

Not only w.xs an immense amount of potash illegally ex- 
ported to Canada, but large fiuantities of manufactured 
goods were imported in the same way, and nobody felt very 
bad about it. It seems as if we had heard long ago of very 
respectable members of society engaging in these transac- 
tions, and of deacons of the church hiding smuggled goods 
in the old long clock-cxses then so common, while the 
revenue officers made a cursory examination of the house. 
There were very good people in those days, but they were 
not quite so immaculate iis some are disposed to claim. 
They certainly had the virtues of industry, energy, and 
perseverance to an almost unlimited degree. By the time 
of the War'of 1812, Watertown looked very much like an 
old settled country. On the principal roads more than half 
the houses were of frame, the trough -covered log school- 
houses were abandoned for frame ones, and the whole town 
was pretty well cleared up, except on some of the liills and 
along the river in the northeastern portion. 

Among the settlers of 1809 were Anthony and Andrew 
Sigourney, brothers, who located in the Woodruff settle- 
ment in the eastern part of town. Anthony Sigourney's 
son, Alanson P., born the following December, is still 
living on the old homestead, to whom and to his brother, 
James M. Sigourney, four years younger, we are much in- 
debted for information regarding that part of the town. 
Anthony Sigourney bought the form of Enos Scott, who 
died about a year ago, aged a hundred years and six 
months. Mrs. Simeon Woodruff died last summer, in 
Illinois, at the age of ninety-nine. A hardy, long-lived 
race were the pioneer men and women of Jefferson County. 
Another instance of this hardihood is to be found in James 
Brintnall, who was among the few new-comers of 1812, 
settling on the farm in the western part of the town, on 
which he now resides at the age of eighty-eight, though 
apparently as strong as most men of seventy. He has been 
our principal authority for events occurring in that locality. 

When the War of 1812 broke out, general consternation 
spread over all this section of the country. Instant in- 
Viision was expected, accompanied by all the horrors of 
Indian massacre, which the events of the Revolution had 
but too sadly taught our fathers to look for as the inevit- 
able result of British hostilities. With the first news of 
war came an order directing Gen. Brown to call out all the 
militia of the county. After the first excitement was over, 
the service of the militia was principally performed by 
alternate drafts from the various regiments. The principal 
events of that war on this frontier are detailed in the 
military history of the county ; we shall only refer here to 
a few matters pertaining especially to the town of Water- 
town. Its militia belonged to the TGth regiment, under 
Col. Tuttle, and whenever there was considered to be 
danger of inva.sion, which w.as frequently the case, they 
were called out en iikissc. Ah, then, what hurrying to 



232 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



and fro among those who went ! what tears and trembling 
on the part of the women and children who remained de- 
fenseless behind ! Old ladies long told how, in their hus- 
bands' absence, they took their children and some blankets 
into the wheat-fields, night after night, and slept there, 
hoping tlius to escape the tomahawks and scalping-knives 
of the Indians, should those terrible marauders seek their 
houses. 

The first uniformed militia company in Jefferson County 
was the Watertown Ilifies, formed prineijially in the eastern 
part of that town in the spring of 1813. William Samp- 
son, of Burrville, was the first captain ; Jonathan Miles, who 
lived down the creek from Burrville, was the finst lieutenant; 
the ensign's name is unknown ; and John Gotham (after- 
wards Colonel Gotham) was orderly sergeant. Most of 
the young men and middle-aged men of that locality were 
in it. S(iuire William Huntington had four sons in it ; 
there were five Delanos, three Woodruffs, two Woodworths, 
two Sigourneys, etc. The company organization was kept 
up until 1846, when it was disbanded on the Tepeal of the 
old militia law. 

When Saeket's Harbor w;is actually attacked in May, 
1813, expresses came galloping in hot haste through the 
county, and on every side the farmers were seen hurrying 
in hot haste, on foot and on horseback, with guns on their 
.^boulders, towards the endangered post. The Watertown 
Rifles turned out in full force. Benjamin Woodruff hap- 
pened to be away from home. Arriving several hours later, 
he shouldered his rifle and .started for the harbor, drawing 
powder to u.se from the Watertown Arsenal on the way. 
Finding it too coarse to prime his flintlock rifle, he bought 
some priming-powder at a store at Saeket's Harbor while 
the battle was going on, and then took his place with his 
comrades. Four citizens of the western part of Water- 
town were captured in that affair and taken to Halifax. 
Two of them, Mcs.srs. Aycrs and Iiigalls, died in Halifax ; 
Mr. Graves and anotlier returned home. Meanwhile, the 
women, children, and old men listened with terror to the 
booming guns, often as.sembling in large numbers for sym- 
pathy and counsel. In the Woodruff district they gathered 
on the highest point of Beiijaniin Woodruff's farm, whence 
the smoke of the conflict and the lake bej'oiid could plainly 
be seen. All the men were gone except old Jonah Wood- 
ruff, the patriarch of the settlement. Long they listened 
with fast-beating hearts to the .sounds of conflict, but at 
length the noise died away, and they saw the British fleet, 
headed by the " Royal George," slowly sailing out of the 
harbor. All was yet uncertainty ; they could but hope that 
the invader was defeated, and time soon proved their hopes 
to be well founded. On Wilson Hill there was a similar 
a.ssemblage at the house of James Wilson. 

After the war the church (|uestion came up again. Even 
during the conflict, the people at the county-seat had organ- 
ized Uie " Watertown Eculcsiastical society" for secular 
puryioses, and by this time they were so strong that the 
Burrville folks evidently thought it useless to continue the 
struggle. In October or November, 1815, the regular 
plaeeof meeting of the Fir.st Congregational church of Water- 
town was removed to Watertown village. The old religious 
organization remained the same, but it Wiis united for secu- 



lar purposes with the Watertown Ecclesiastical society, and 
two Burrville men were added to the board of trustees of 
the latter body. Six years later the church was changed 
into the First Presbyterian church of Watertown, by which 
name it is .still known. 

A little after the war Mr. Abel Brigham came to Burr- 
ville, from Whitesboro', Oneida county, and replaced Mr. 
Converse as a merchant, remaining there five or six years. 
But Watertown village had by this time demonstrated its 
ability to hold the foremost position in the county. All 
business centered there, and Burrville found itself more and 
more left out in the cold. 

The tract between the State road and the river, in the 
northeast part of the town, was the latest considerable sec- 
tion to be settled. A man named White moved in there 
and made a clearing about 1820, and about 1821 William 
Huntington settled at the point now called Huntingtonville 
(nearly north of the Grove Hotel), built a dam across to 
Huntington island, and erected a large saw-mill. Shortly 
afterwards a scythe-factory was built at the same point. 
This was followed by a shingle-machine and clover-mill, 
and Huntingtonville bid fair to be an important u)anufac- 
turing village. But Watertown and high water were too 
much for it. Between 1840 and 1850 the buildings just 
named were carried off one after another by the impetuous 
floods of Black river. Finally the dam shared the same 
fate, and Huntingtonville as a manufacturing place ceased 
to exist. In 1828 a hotel was opened by Charles Tuell, 
on the State road about four miles east of the centre of 
Watertown village, now called the Grove Hotel. A public- 
house has been kept there ever since 1828, except between 
183G and 1844. 

About 1825, Captain Sampson erected a blast-furnace at 
the top of the Burrville cascade. It was kept up only a 
few years, and was the last serious effort to establish manu- 
factures in that vicinity. Deacon Redfield moved to Water- 
town, the tannery passed through several hands, and was 
finally abandoned. The carding-mill, the cloth-dressing 
works, and, finally, the axe-factory, all shared the same 
fate. 

On October 14, 1833, the "Burrville Society" was 
formed by persons of the Congregationalist, Methodist, and 
Universalist denominations for the purpose of erecting a 
Union church edifice. Dr. Craft P. Kemble, George M. 
Jeiiks, and Elnathan Lucas were the first trustees. The 
next year a small house of worship was erected by this 
society at Burrville, at an estimated cost of S1550. This, 
it will be understood, was a secular society, merely having 
charge of the house, Watertown having captured the Burr- 
ville church. In 1834 a new Congregational church was 
organized at Burrville, which is still maintained. For 
many years the church edifice was used by the three de- 
nominations before mentioned, but of late all but the Con- 
gregationalists have ceased to hold regular services there. 

The town, which forty years before had been an unbroken 
forest, had now become one of the best cultivated and most 
fertile districts in the State. The village of Watertown, 
which was still a portion of the town, with its numerous 
manufacturing and nicrcantile cstablislinionts, furnished a 
ready market for (he piuducts of the sunuuiidiMg fMrnis, 



IIISTOrvY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YOltK. 



233 



but at the same time prevented the development of any en- 
terprise in that portion of tlie town wliich is now separate 
from the cit)'. 

Tlie next event of any consequence, outside of the usual 
routine of agricultural prosperity, was the building of the 
AVatcrtown and Sacket's Harbor plank-road, in 1848. 
About two and a half miles of it is the northwestern part 
of the present town of Watertown. It has since been 
turned into a macadaniized road. It was followed by plank- 
roads radiating in almost every direction from Watertown 
village ; in fact, there was at that period a general furor for 
plank-roads throughout the country. The Watertown Cen- 
tral plank-road ran from the village pavements south to 
Watertown Centre two miles, and was coini)leted in August, 
1849. It was designed to connect with a line of roads to 
Syracuse, but the early completion of a railmad prevented 
the consuinmation of the enterprise. The Watertown plank- 
and turnjiike-road was finished in September, 184lt, from 
the village east along the State road some three miles 
to the Rutland line. The Watertown and Great Bend 
plank-road, running for about the same distance along the 
south shore of Black river through the northwestern part 
of this town, was also completed in 1849. All but the la.st 
have since been macadamized. 

These enterprises were succeeded by a still more impor- 
tant one. In September, 1851, the Watertown and Rome 
Railroad was completed to the former village, running for 
about five and a half miles through the present town. In 
1873 the Carthage, Watertown and Sacket's Harbor Rail- 
road company completed its road to the city of Watertown, 
two and a half miles being in the town under consideration. 
In 1874 the same road wa-s extended to Sacket's Harbor, 
which gives this town two and a half miles more of rail- 
road. Both roads are now leased to the Utica and Black 
River Railroad. 

All these enterprises contributed to increase the popula- 
tion of Watertown village, and by 18G9 its numbers were 
sufficient to entitle it to a city organization. Such an or- 
ganization was accordingly formed on May 8, 18G9, leaving 
the town of Watertown with the boundaries described at 
the beginning of this chapter. By the census of 1870 the 
remaining population was 1377, by that of 1875 it was 
1279. 

The principal business of the town is dairying, though 
all kinds of grain can be raised with great facility. There 
are five cheese-factories within its limits, turning out near 
forty thousand pounds of cheese yearly. 

The prineijial history of Burrville has already been given. 
It.s business hiLs nearly all been absorbed by voracious 
Watertown. It now contains a grist-mill (the same erected 
in 1802), a saw-mill, an axe-helve factory, a harne.ss-.shop, 
a grocery, a hutel, a post-office, with a daily mail from both 
east and west, and about thirty houses. 

The ''Congregational Cluireh uf Burrville," the firet 



church at this point, has been mentioned in the previous 
sketch of the town. The present church was organized on 
February 14, 1834, by the Rev. David Spear. It was then 
composed of thirteen members from tlie First Presbyterian 
Church of Watertown, three from the Congregational 
Church of Rutland, and one from the Congregational 
Church of Sinithvillc. The first deacons were William 
Lamson and Caleb Burnhain.* 

The names of the ministers are not given in the records, 
but as nearly as can be ascertained they were as follows : 

David Spear, John Covert, Truman C. Hill, Bellamy, 

Yale, W. W. Walcott, Frederick Hibbard, Alvin Par- 



melee, G. M. Jenks, W. W. Warriner, James Douglas, 
Richard G. Keyes, S. W. Chancy (seven years), A. B. 
Dilley, and Albert Lee. Mr. Lee officiates at both Burr- 
ville and Rutland, as most of his predecessors have done ; 
the services at the former place being held at the Union 
house of worship erected in 1834, as before mentioned. 

List of Supervisors of Watertown, from 1805, — the pre- 
vious records being destroyed : Corlis Hinds, 1805 to 1808, 
inclusive; Tilley Richardson, 1809 and '10; William 
Smith, 1811 ; Egbert Ten Eyck, 1812 to '19, inclusive; 
Titus Ives, 1820 to '2G, inclusive; Jabez Foster, 1827; 
Titus Ives, 1828; Daniel Lee, 1829; Henry H. Coffecn, 
1830 to '34, inclusive; Orville Ilungerford, 1835, '36, and 
'37 ; Joel Woodworth, 1838, '39, '40 ; Orville Hungcrford, 
1841 and '42 ; John Winslow, 1843, '44, and '45 ; Orville 
V. Brainard, 1846 and '47; George C. Sherman, 1848; 
Adriel Ely, 1849; Kilborn Hannahs, 1850; Orville Hun- 
gcrford, 1851 ; Robert Lansing, 1852 ; David D. Otis, 1853 
and '54; Adriel Ely, 1855; Willard Ives, 1856; Levi II. 
Brown, 1857; Henry H. Babcoek, 1858; Ambrose W. 
Clark, 1859 and '60; David W. Baldwin, 1861; H. H. 
Babcoek, 1862 ; Edward S. Lansing, 1S63 and '64 ; George 
A. Bagley, 1865 to '68, inclusive ; Wilbur F. Porter, 1869 ; 
John Winslow, 1869 (elected at a special meeting after 
formation of city) ; Charles Richardson, 1870 to '75, in- 
clusive ; Henry S. Barbour, 1876; Charles Richardson, 
1877. 

Present Officers: Supervisor, Charles Richardson; 
Town Clerk, Burt W. Gifi"ord ; Justices of the Peace, Amby 
H. Gragg, Orrin A. Graves, Dexter W. Jones, and Charles 
L. Cummings; Asses.sors, William C. Baker, Thomas E. 
Beccher, and Valora W. Smiley ; Commissioners of High- 
ways, Charles G. Rexford, Samuel Wilson, and Volney W. 
Hart; Collector, Jay White; Constables, Lester Hunger- 
ford, Thomas E. Beccher, and E. Collins Baker; Auditors, 
Cornelius V. Losee, Chandler C. Chase, and Eugene How- 
land ; Excise Commissioners, Albert Gurnee, Solomon H. 
Knapp, and Nathaniel N. Burnham ; Sealer, Wines R. 
Skeeles. 

- The lattLT, whu died in lS5.'i, left a lej^acy of about two tttousuiid 
dollars to the church in whicli he had otHciated. The late Jostjih 
Sawyer also left it a legacy. 



234 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 




EBENEZER TOLMAN 



was one of a family of eijrlit eliildrcii of Ebonozer and Mary 
Tolnian. His father was a native of Attlehoroiigh, Massa- 
chusetts, and a lineal descendant in the fifth generation 
from Thomas Tolman, wiio emigrated from England, and 
settled in Dorchester, M assaclnisetts, with his two sons, 
Tlionias and John, in the year 1035. The family repre- 
sented in this sketch is descended from the latter of the 
two sons, John. His grandmother on liis father's side, 
Mary, was daughter of Deacon Bonjiimin Slack, of Attle- 
borough, Massachu.setts, a wealthy farmer. His mother 
was daughter of William and Sarah Clarke, William Clarke 
being a descendant of the celebrated Dr. Adam Clarke, 
author of " Clarke's Commentaries." and his wife Sarah 
(whose maiden name was Locke) a descendant of William 
Locke, who came to America in the year 1034. 

Ills liitlier, Kbenezer, Sr., Wiis a carpenter and joiner by 
trade, and carried on farming to some extent, but gave his 
children as liberal an education as his means and the op- 
juirtunities would atrord,and was not only a man of general 
intelligence, but representative in his pursuits in life. He 
was a soldier at the battle of Runker Hill, and accom- 
jianied Arnold on his successful expedition against (Quebec, 
and was taken prisoner there by the British, and for an 
attempt to break out of prison wjus placed in irons, and 
kept in that way in prison several uiouths. Upon lii.s re- 



lease he re-entered the army, and was appointed sergeant, 
but the endurance and privations were so great, liis health 
failed, and he was obliged to leave the army. 

He died December 27, 1838, aged ninety years. 

Ebenezer, Jr., came to Jefferson County with his brother 
William, and sisters Retsy, Cynthia, and Mary, in the j'ear 
1817. Married Miss Hopeftd Randall, of Massachusetts, 
May 5, 1816. To them were born seven children. He 
died February 7, 1875, having led a life of integrity of 
character and honesty of purpose. An active business 
man, respected by all who knew him. 

His wife died March 23, 1845, — a woman amiable in 
her ways, patient in her labor, and consist<;nt as a member 
of the church to which she belonged. Both she and her 
husband were members of the Congregational church at 
Barrville. 

His son Augustus desires to place the engraved portrait 
of his father uiHin a page of the history of the town where 
he lived for nearly threei|uarters of a century. 

Augustus was born 1818, and at the age of thirty-five, 
in the yc^ar 1853, married Miss Sarah Louisa Goddard, 
daughter of Nathan F. and Matilda Goddard, of Clayton, 
Jcfl'er.son Counly. Tlicy have two children, Charles A. 
and Luella A. 

Auifustus resides on the old houiestcad. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



235 





ALEXANDER I'AUKER. 



MILS. ALEXANJiER PARKER. 



ALEXANDER PARKER 



was eldest soil of .lames and Martha I'arker, who ouine to 
AVatcrtown with their family in 1801. His i)arcnts were na- 
tives of New Hamjishire, and at the time of the birth (Septem- 
ber .S, 1787) of the subjeet of this memoir resided in Ackworth, 
Cheshire county, New Hnmjishire. The family of whicli he 
was a member consisted of fatlier, mother, and nine children, 
some of whom were born in the town of Watertown after 
their arrival. His father bouf^ht some three hundred and 
twenty acres of timber land, and with the help of his boys 
cleared up a larjje farm — a jiortion of which is now owned and 
occupied bj' the youngest son, James — on the road fromWater- 
town to Brownsville. His father was one of the first officers 
of the Jeft'erson County Agricultural Society, obtained tlie 
first prize offered for fruit and best-cultivated orchard in the 
county, and made the first barrel of cider manufactured in 
the count}'. His father was a soldier of the Revolutionary 
War, but never had a pension, and three of the sons were in ' 
the battle of Sacket's Harbor in the late War of 1812-14. He 
was a member of Trinity church, Watertown, and warden of 
the same for many years. His father died in 1828, and his 
mother in 1841 ; the former at the age of sixty-four, the 
latter at the age of seventy-two. 

Alexander was fourteen years of age when he came to this 
county. At the age of seventeen he went on foot back to 
New Hampshire, and remained with his grandfather nearly 
one year, attending school. Keturning to Watertown, he with 
his father bouglit fifty acres of land in Antwerp, which con- 
tained valuable ledges of rocks, with a view of manufacturing 
milbstones from them. He was led to do tliis from the fact 
of his uncle being a millwright and counseled him so to do, 
and together they built the first grist-mill erected in Jefferson 
County, which was located at Burr's Mills. Their manu- 
factured stones were taken in sleighs to llocbester and other 
marts of trade, and disposed of, yielding them a good profit. 
In the year 1808, January lii, he married Miss Betsey, daughter 



of Deacon Oliver Barthnlnmew, of Watertown. ilr. Bar- 
tholomew was also one of the pioneers of the town, coming 
there in the year 1800 and settling near James Parker's. 

Alexander and his wife lived in the rude log cabin .so com- 
mon in that day in Antwerp for about one year, and returned 
to AVatertown. AVorked his father's farm for a few years, and 
in the year 181.5 purchased a farm now just out of the city 
limits, occupied and owned by his youngest son, James A. 
Parker, and on which in a fine brick residence, surrounded 
with trees of over a half-century's growth, all the work of 
his own bauds in the days of his activitj'. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Parker were born ten children, viz.: 
Horace, Emelinc, Lewis, Daniel, Franklin, Cynthia, Charles, 
Kliza A., George, and James A. All are living except Dan- 
iel, who died September 1, 187(1, aged sixty-two years. 

AVhile yet a young man he was considered by his towns- 
men a fit person to discharge the duties of the various town 
offices, and he always acquitted himself to the satisfaction of 
his fellow-citizens. He was for many years captain of the 
militia company of the town, and bore that title through life. 
He was in middle life connected with the fljiiscopal church in 
AVatertown, and officiated as warden of that church for many 
years, and continued a member until his death. May 29, 
1871. 

His wife still survives him, and is now, in her eighty-.second 
year, still active in body and mind ; and it may be said here 
that there is no i)erson living who has been in AVatertown so 
long as herself AVell and faithfully has she fulfilled her allotted 
destiny. She has in every sense of the word been a " help- 
mate" to her husband and her large family of children. Her 
numerous friends and all her ac<iuaintances " rise up and bless 
her." 

The youngest son, James A., married Miss Cornelia A., 
daughter of David and Asenath Burnett, of Cape A'incent, in 
the year 18."><i. Tbcv have six children living. 



236 



HISTORY OF JEFFEKSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 





(I 




0-<<£-,«^:^^^i-.^3d:^ / ^U^cA^^JLy 



Tlie subject of this sketch was born in the town of 
Wateitown, Jeftersou County, New Yoric, March 20, 1814. 
He was second sou of a family of seven children of Cratus 
and Olive Parker. His father was a native of Berkshire 
county, Massachusetts, and his ancestors, on his father's 
side, of English descent. His mother (whose maiden 
name was Fuller) was a native of Vermont, and came with 
her lather to the town of Rodman when she was only four- 
teen yeare of age. Her father was among the pioneers of 
that town. His father came to Watertowii in the first years 
of the century, and his grandfather was among the first 
settlers of the county. 

He resided at home and worked on the farm, taking care 
of his parents until he was of age. His father removed to 
the town of Adams when Jeremiah was only ten years of 
age. There he remained until he was thirty-three years of 
age, and returned to Watertown and purcha.sed one hundred 
and ninety acres of land, and subse(|uently making addi- 
tions thereto, until he wa.s the pos.scssor of some five hun- 
dred and forty acres. 

The old homestead is now occupied by his sons, Frank M. 
and Tiionias C, and the land remains in the family as a 
monument of his ambition and toil. 

In tlic year ISoG, September "JO, while living in Adams, 
he married Miss Fransiria, daughter of Thomas B. and 
Rachel Keiiyon, of Amsterdam, Montgomery county, New 
York. Her father and mother were both natives of Rhode 
Island, and lived during the la.st years of their lives with 
their daughter, Fransina Parker. Her father died at the 
age of eighty-five, in the y*^'"' 1B64, and her mother died 
1847, at the age of si-vty-eiglil. Jeremiah Parker was a 



man of almost unexampled activity and perseverance, and 
what he accumulated was by his own exertions. Unaided 
and alone, and without any of the opportunities afforded at 
the present day fur an education, he became one of the 
most judicious and intelligent fiirniers of his town and 
county. When only fourteen years of age, as an example 
of his untiring ambition, he actually cut one hundred and 
forty cords of three-feet wood for his grandfather, the con- 
sideration being a sucking colt, which in after-years, with 
its mate, was drowned in the St. Lawrence river, as he was 
crossing on the ice. 

To Mr. and Mre. Parker were born four children, viz., 
Alvira, died in infancy. Frank 51., married Mi.ss Maranda, 
daughter of Abel and Hannah Wilder, of Franklin county, 
Massachusetts ; they have two children, Nettie F. and 
Charles J. Thomas C. married Miss S. Iniogene, daughter 
of Chauncy and Clarissa Huntingdon, of Rutland ; they 
have one son, Luman H. Ella D. died at the age of 
twelve years, in the year 18G5. 

In politics Mr. Parker was originally a Whig, but updu 
the formation of the Republican party joined its ranks. 
Never active in political matters, and never neglected busi- 
ness for any political preferment. He held the oflSce of 
ensign in the Patriot War of 1837-38, and at its close 
ranked as captain. 

He united with tlie First Baptist ehunh of Adams in 
the year 1854, and remained a member of that body until 
his death, May 19, 1872. His wife and widow united 
with the .same church, 1837, when only twenty years of 
age, still retaining her membershiji with that society. She 
now resides with her sons on the old homestead. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



237 




FRANCIS SMILEY. 



The subject of this sketch was born Miiy 13, 1792, in 
the State of Vermont. He was the son of John and Eliza- 
beth Smiley, of New England birth, and wliose ancestors 
were of Scottish origin. 

When about nine years of age Francis came to Uve with 
an nnele in l^ituhfieid, Herkimer county, New York, and 
remained there until he was fourteen years of age, when 
his father and family liaving removed from Vermont to 
JofFerson County, Francis also came, and with his parents 
settled in the town of Watertown. His father died about 
1812, and his mother about the year 1847. At the age of 
twenty-three, and in the year 1815, he married Miss Betsy, 
daughter of Shubael and Anna Adams, of Connecticut 
birth, but of the town of Watertown at the time of this 
marriage. She was born June 27, 1797. He first settled 
in Rutland after his marriage, remained there for only a 
few years, and after living at Eurrville for one year, he re- 
moved to the west part of the town of Watertown, and 
settled on the farm now occupied and owned by his third 
son, Velora W. Smiley. 



To Mr. and Mrs. Smiley were born five children, viz., 
Robison Eldridge, Alathca Jewett, Robert J., Velora W., 
and Elmina Lovilla. 

All of these children are dead, except Robison E. and 
Velora W., the former at present connected with the Rome, 
Watertown and Ogdensburgh Railroad, as freight agent, 
which position he has held, for a large part of the time, for 
the past twenty-five }"ears. 

In politics Mr. Smiley was originally a Whig, but upon 
the formation of the Republican party joined its ranks. 
Coming to the county in the year 1806, Mr. Smiley was 
recognized among the early settlers of the town of Water- 
town, and was known through his life as a man of integrity 
of purpose and uprightness of character. 

He died February 16, 1875. His wife died October 13, 
18G9. Robison E. married Elizabeth Welch, of AVater- 
town. She died 1850. For his second wife he n)arried 
Sophronia B., daughter of the late Peter Doxtater, of 
Adams. Velora W. married Miss Harriet M., daughter of 
Austin and Minerva Everett. 



238 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 




AUSTIN EVERKTT 



was born in Sharon, Connecticut, December 11, 1797. He 
was the son of Eli|ihalet and Rhoda Everett, wlio eanic to 
Jefferson County, and settled in the town of Watcrtiiwn, 
on an adjoining farm with Francis Smiley, one of the 6rst 
settlers of the town. Eliphalet died March 27, 1815. 
His wife was a descendant of Deaeim \Vm. Peck, who came 
to New Haven, Connecticut, in the year 1638, being of 
English birth. She died June 2, 1851. Upon coming to 
this country they took up one hundred and twenty-four 
acres of timber land, which they began clearing of its origi- 
nal forest, and lived upon it until their death. Austin, 
second son and fourth child of the family of children, re- 
mained on the farm \uitil he was of age, receiving only a 
Very limited education from books. At the age of twenty- 
two he married Mi.ss Hannah Moss, of Dorset, Vermont. 
This was in the year 181!), December. 

To them was born one daughter, Harriet, June 30, 
1822, who died in infancy. 



His first wife dying, he married his second wife, Miss 
Minerva, daughter of Ezeriah and Martha Crandall, of 
Johnstown, New York. She was born August It), IS(JI). 
By his second wife he had two children, Harriet M. and 
Elmore. 

Harriet M. married Velora W. Smiley, son of Francis 
Smiley, one of the first settlers of Watertown. Their mar- 
riage took place January 17, 1849. They have two chil- 
dren living, Fred. E. anil Claire B., one having died, 
Charlie J., at the age of eleven years, March 26, 1865. 
Elmore Elverett died at the ago of thirty-seven, October 
13, 1868. 

Austin Everett was numbered among the pioneers of 
this county ; was held in high e.steem by his townsmen ; 
held the office of under-sheriff, under John Fay as .sheriff. 
In politics he was a Democrat, and ({uite active in his party. 

Mrs. Everett still survives her husband, active in both 
mind and body. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



239 




^X/^ J^^^Ul O/yi^- 



The subject of this sketch was born in the town of Nel- 
son, New Iliimpshive, November 7, ITO;"). He was the 
fifth child and tiiird son of a faniil}' of eight children of 
Ebenezer and Mary Tolman. His father was a native of 
Attleborough, Massachnsetts, a lineal descendant in the 
fifth generation from Thomas Tolman, who emigrated from 
England and settled in Dorchester, Massachusetts, with his 
two sons, Thomas and John, in the year 1635. 

The family particularly represented in this biography is 
descended from the latter of the two sons, John. 

His grandmother on his father's .side, Mary, was daugh- 
ter of Deacon Benjamin Slack, of Attleborough, Massachu- 
setts, a wealthy farmer. 

His mother was daughter of William and Sarah Clarke, 
William Clarke being a descendant of the celebrated Dr. Adam 
Clarke, author of Clarke's " Commentaries," and his wife, 
Sarah ( whose maiden name was Locke ), a descendant of Wil- 
liam Locke, who came to America in the year ltj;i4. His 
father, Ebenezer, was a carpenter and joiner by trade, and car- 
ried on farming to some extent, but gave his children quite a 
liberal education, and was not only representative in his agri- 
cultural pursuits, but as a man of general intelligence. He 
was a soldier at the battle of Bunker Hill, accompanied 
Arnold on his unsuccessful expedition against (Quebec, and 
was taken prisoner there by the British, and for an attempt 
to break out of prison was placed in irons, and kept in that 
way a prisoner for some time. Upon his release he re- 
entered the army, and was appointed sergeant, but the en- 
durance and privations were so great his health foiled, and 
he was obliged to leave the army. He died December 27, 
1838, aged ninety years. 

Ebenezer, Jr., Betsey, Cynthia, William, and Mary came 
to Jefferson County. William, at the time of his first 
visit to this county, was twenty-two years of age, remain- 
ing some four years ;».s a laborer ; returned to JIassaeliu.setts, 
where ho remained for six years. In the year 1S27, Oc- 
tober 9, he married Miss ALiry, daughter of Timothy and 



Abigail Bancroft, natives of Massachusetts. Her father 
being a descendant of Thomas Bancroft, who emigrated 
from near London, England, to the town of Lynnfield, 
Mas,sachusetts, in the seventeenth century, and died IG'Jl. 
After his marriage he returned to Jeffer-son County, town 
of Watcrtown, and settled near where he now resides, and 
began securing a competence for himself, and by judicious 
management and economy owns at the present time .some 
three hundred and twenty-one acres of valuable farming 
land. Mr. Tolman, although in his eighty-second year of 
age, is still active, but recently, on account of an injury 
received, has not engaged in his accu.stomed labor. 

Very few of the men of Jefferson County can look back 
througii so many years and cite the various changes as Mr. 
Tolman. In politics he was first a Federalist, afterwards 
a Whig, and upon the formation of the Republican party 
joined its ranks and espoused its principles. 

In the 3car 1841 he united with Trinity church at 
Watcrtown, and has since remained a member of the same, 
and now is the oldest male member of the church. His 
wife, in the year 1835, united with the Presbyterian church 
at Burrville, and still retains her membership with that 
to-day. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Tolman were born five children, viz. : 
Solon B., Cornelia A., Amanda Mary, and William 
Orville. The third child, Henry, died in itifancy. Solon 
B. married Miss Lodusta Archer, and resides in the towQ 
of his birth, and is a farmer. Cornelia A. married Mr. L. 
T. Sawyer; have two children. He is a farmer in the town 
of Watcrtown. Amanda Mary is a resident of her native 
town. William Orville married Miss Mary Ophelia Bailey, 
of Watcrtown ; have three children, and is a farmer near 
his father. 

The family of Tolman is among those families which 
make up the representative men of the town, and in which 
may be found that integrity characteristic of the old Puritan 
stock, fnini whence they are descended. 



210 



IlISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 





JOSEPU SAWYER. 



MRS. JOSEPH SAWYER. 



JOSEPH SAWYER. 



The subject of this sketeli was horn in the town of Plym- 
outh, Vermont, March 7, ITIU. He was son of Deacon 
Thomas Sawyer (born Septonibor 7, 1757) and Susannah 
Wilder (born Decouibor 3, 1756), who had a family often 
children. His father was a lineal descendant, in the fifth 
generation, of Thomas Sawyer, who cauie to this country 
from Lincolnshire, Englund, in the jcar ItJoO. and settled 
in Rowley, Essex county, Mas-sichusetts, in 163i>. Thomas, 
Jr., son of the emigrant, with his son, Elias, were taken 
prisoners by the Indians, and carried away into captivity in 
Canada, in the year 17H5, October 15. They suft'ered very 
much for want of something to eat, the Indians having 
nothing for themselves and their prisoners to eat but the 
carcass of a dog. They were taken to Upper Canada and 
given up to the governor. While as prisoners they built 
the first saw-mill in that country. The governor relea.sed 
them aflor they had taught others to run the mill. Elias 
returned to Ma.«s.ichusotts ; married fii-st, Beatrice Houghton, 
and for his second wife, Miss Hart, who bore him two chil- 
dren, Thomas and Elizabeth. Thom:is was the link in the 
genealogy above referred to, and with his wife. Susannah, 
removed, 1779, to the town of Plymouth, Vermont, and 
here struggled for twelve years, until a large family had ac- 
cumulated around him. 

With a desire to st.v the Black river country, which then 



w.TS held up with such glowing .iccounts, he disposed of his 
property, and, in the fall vf 1800 came, on horseback, to ex- 
plore this great northern wilderness, in search of lands that 
were cheap and good. Hart Massey, Jonathan Wilder, and 
James Parker were simultaneously affected with the same 
desire. When he arrived at Wat«rtown, he found Judge 
Cuffeen and Captain Butterfiold here with their families, 
occupying each a little log cabin. Being a carpenter, he 
assisted in hewing out floor-plank from basswood logs. He 
made his .selection in the southe;ist part of the town, where 
his children and children's children are still occupying in 
their generations. An engraving of the present residence 
and surroundings of L. T. Sawyer, his grandson, will be 
found on the opposite page of this work, under the portraits 
of himself and wife. Thomas returned to Vermont for 
his family. His friends pronounced it a haairdous under- 
taking and fraught with danger, and a palpable case of 
" tempting Providence," upon which it was presumption to 
expect the blessing of God. 

They bade adieu to friends dear, and in eighteen days 
found them.selvcs at Judge Hubbard's, in Champion. 
Leaving their teams at Jonah Woodruff's, came on to 
Watertown, and put up with their old neighbor, Hart 
MiLssey, who had been here since the 7th of March, eleven 
days before them. The incidents of settlement, the rude 





Photos. Br Bahta Wat£Ftowh.N.Y 



f^ifs L T. Sawyer. 



L T. Sawycr. 




RisiDLHCL of L.T.SAVWfff, Wat£Rtown,N. Y. 



HISTORY OF JEFFKRSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



241 



log shanty, the large family of twelve children, the re- 
union of old friends, are subjects of a sketch in the town 
history. 

Mr. Sawyer was distinguished for his unobtrusive piety, 
and his house became the home of the Now England mis- 
sionary. He and his wife were two of the nine persons 
niaiviiig uji the organization of the first Congregational 
cliureh formed in the town, which was organized at Burr's 
Mills, 180;j. 

Mrs. Sawyer was a woman of micommnn energy and 
excellence, and in the early .settlement of Watertown sup- 
plied the place of a female physician, with a practice ex- 
tending to several adjoining towns. She was distinguished 
for kindness and good nature, both at home and abroad, 
and was a great favorite with her graiulciiildrcn, to whom 
her characteristic advice on parting was, " Be a friend to 
everybody, and you will never want a friend." 

He died, 1825, aged si.vty-eight years, leaving his part- 
ner to live along to the extreme age of ninety-one years, 
before she was called to her rest. His grandson, Hon. 
Lorenzo Sawyer, LL.D., is now United States circuit 
judge of California. 

Joseph was only seven years of age when bis father 
arrived at Watertown, and on the very farm upon which 
the family located he lived nearly seventy-four years. In 
the year 1818 he married Miss Mary, daughter of William 
Pepper. She was born in Otsego county, 1797, and came 
to Jefferson County in 1809. Soon after her marriage she, 
together with her husband, united with the First I're.sby- 
terian church at Watertown ; but upon the organization 
of the church at Burrville they connected themselves with 
that body, and remained faitiiful members of it until their 
death. 

Her life as a wife, a mother, and a Christian, was of 
the most exemplary character. Siie was hospitable. Her 
home was the centre of attraction to a large circle of friends 
and relations. She died in Watertown, April 12, 1873. 

Joseph inherited from his Puritan ancestry a strong at- 
tachment for the Bible, the Sabbath, and the worship of 
God. He was an exemplary Christian man. He lived to 
be eighty -one years of age, and died December 3, 1874. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Sawyer were born eight children, — two 
sons and six daughters. Only three are living ; the eldest 
and youngest died in infancy. Elvira died August 20, 
1843, aged twenty-three years. IMclissa married Dr. Wil- 
liam Clark in 184.5, and located at Centnd College, Ohio. 
She died 18.51, leaving one son, who survived her only two 
weeks. Charlotte died November 10, 1851, aged twenty- 
one years. Of those living, Laurontius T. married Miss 
Cornelia, daughter of \\'illiam and Mary Tolman, 1855. 
16 



They have two sons, William Herbert and Fred. L. 
Live on the old homestead. Mariette married Orman 
Sawyer, 184G; reside in the town of Watertown, and have 
nine children. Fannie married George Hammond, 1858. 
They have three children. 



JOHN B. BALL. 



The subject of this sketch was born in Lowville, Lewis 
county, September G, 1811. He was the son of Jonathan 
Ball, of New England birth (New Hampshire), and grand- 
son of J(jnathan Ball, who was also of New England birth ; 
was in the battle of Hunker Hill, and was a soldier all 
through the Ilevolutionary War. 

His father was a soldier of the War of 1812 ; moved to 
Lewis county, while a young man, with his father, during 
the early years of the eighteenth century, and became one 
of the pioneers of that county. 

John w;is second son and third child of a family of six 
children, and lived at home, working on the farm until his 
father's death in 1831, and for three years after carried on 
the farm for his mother ; and at the age pf twenty-three 
he married Miss Mclinda Bailey, born in Watertown, Jan- 
uary 17, 1813, and daughter of Seth Bailey and Rebecca 
Loomis. This was in the year 1835, April 15. In 1838 
he came to the town of Cape Vincent, Jefferson County, 
and settled as a fai'mcr. Remaining there for seven years, 
he removed to the town of Watertown, and settled where 
he now resides. An engraving of his residence and sur- 
roundings will be found on another page of this work. 

He first purchased some one hundred and fifty-five acres, 
and has since made additions, until he owned at one time 
over six hundred and seventy acres of land in this county 
and other counties of this State and other States. 

He is among the most intelligent and judicious farmers 
of the county, and, although limited as to educational 
privileges while young, and not receiving very much means 
from his father to begin life with, he has become, unaided 
and alone, a successful business man of his town. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Ball were born eight children, viz., 
Irene, Lucinda, John N., Charlotte, Silas D., Burton B., 
Eva J., and Fred. A. Ball. 

Of these Irene and Charlotte are dead ; the rest are resi- 
dents of the county of their birth. 

In politics, Mr. Ball is a Republican, never taking a 
very active part in politics, and never neglecting business 
for political preferment. Held in high esteem by his 
townsmen, and respected by all who know him. 



ADAMS. 



Tnis town, like many others in the southern part of the 
county, before tlie division of Oneida county formed a part 
of Mexico, which has fitly been termed the mother of 
towns, and was set off April 1, 1802. It received its 
name in honor of President John Adams, and included 
No. 7, or Aleppo, and No. 8, or Orpheus, of the " Eleven 
Towns," or the " Black Kiver Tract." This area was main- 
tained until No. 8 became a separate town, with the name 
of Rodman. Adams is nearly square, its sides measuring 
about six miles from east to west, and not quite seven from 
north to south. On the north it borders on Hounsfield 
and Watortown ; east, on Rodman ; south, on Lorraine and 
Ellisburg ; and on the west, on Hender.son. The surface 
is generally level, excepting the northwest portion, which 
is somewhat broken by the lake riilge, which here traverses 
the town ; but much of the most elevated land is susceptible 
of cultivation, and there is comparatively little waste land 
in the town : even what seems most sterile affords excellent 
grazing. The ground was originally quite heavily timbered 
with maple, beech, birch, elm, and butternut, a consider- 
able area of which yet remains. There were also large 
bodies of cedar, and a limited quantity of pine, which con- 
tributed largely to the early wealth of the town, .supplying 
much of the fencing and building-material of the present 
improvements. The soil is generally fertile : a black mould, 
sandy loam, or a loam somewhat mixed with clay, underlaid 
by limestone, with outcroppings of this rock on high ground. 
The town is well watered, having the North Sandy creek 
and many tributary brooks in the south, and Stony creek, 
with numerous small branches, in the northern part. Both 
streams are fed by springs, and afford permanent water- 
power. 

The distinguished surveyor, Benjamin Wright, said, in 
1790, " No. 7 is a good township; there is fine soil and good 
timber. The Big Sandy creek is a large stream, 1 chain 
80 links wide." 

Town No. 7 fell to the share of Nicholas Low, in the 
subdivision of the eleven towns by ballot, and was surveyed 
by Benjamin Wright, in 179(J, into 56 lots, numbered from 
west to east and from north to south, commencing near 
Hendei-son bay, and ending on the line of Lorraine. Mr. 
Wright cimijilained of local attractions, that rendered it 
impossible to run straight lines. The lots varied in con- 
tents from 240 acres to C76 acres, and the whole made an 
aggregate of 26,505 acres. This tract of land had been 
mortgaged to William Constable, June 15, l"y6, by Hen- 
derson, Low, Harrison, and Hoffman. It was assigned to 
the Bank of New York, but Low succeeded in getting a 
release, June 16, 1804. 

In June, 1799, a company, consisting of Nicholas Salis- 
242 



bury, Robert Fulton, Caleb Ellis and son Daniel, Joel Guile, 
Abrara Wilcox, John and Gideon Howard, and Elihu 
Phillips, followed up the creek from Ellisburg, through this 
town and Rodman, and the former was so struck with the 
piobable feitility and value of the town that he went to 
New York the same fall, and purchased a tract one mile 
below the village. About a dozen, whose names are given 
in the following list, took up lands the same fall. This list 
is taken from the land books of Nicholas Low, in the hands 
of I. W. Bostwick, Esq., of Lowville, the agent under 
whom the town was mostly settled : 

1798, Elisha Phillips: 1799, Oct. 29, Stephen Shippey, Enon D'Es- 
tning, Nicholas and Alex. Salisbury, Solomon Smith, Daniel Corn- 
stock, David Smith, Abrnm Ripley, and Jonathan Cnhle: Nov. 6, 
Klijih't Edmonds, Alexander Dewey : Nov. 14, Geo. Cooper, Jeboida 
Page, Solomon Truman, John W. Smith, Francis McKee, Robert 
Myrick ; Dec. 1, Squier Read, Daniel Fox, Zaceheus Walworth; 
1800, Josiah Godfrey, Jcnks Seaman, Simoon Forbes, Ebenezer La- 
zelle. David and Stephen Grommons, Isaac Baker, Samuel Fox, Geo. 
Houseman, Peter Doxtater. Paul Stickuey, Elias Avery, James Mc- 
Cumiier, Kussell Smith, Eben'r Brown, Amos Clailin, Joshua Corn- 
stock, Matthew Wilkie, Consider Law. In 1801, .\hijali MiIler,John 
Freeman, .Tosiali (Jodfrey, Daniel Talcott, llezekiah Tiffany, Joseph 
Cook, Phincas Rose, Robert, Solomon, and Asher Robbins, Simeon 
Meacham, Timothy Pond, Barnabas Wcllman, Wm. Thomas, Abel 
Uart, Henry H. Walrodb, Chauncey and Roswell Mills. In 1802, 
Nathan Loveland, Cornelius Uinds, Sylvanus P. Da<;gart, Abel Love- 
land, Roswell Taylor, Roswell Coe, John Richard, David Higgens, 
Aaron Farr, John C. Toll, John C. Scott, James Streetor, John 
Kudder, Jose|ih Landon. In 1803, Truman and Theodore Bunce, 
John Jones, John Wentworth, Sylvanus Barney, James Randolph, 
D. G. ^r. Gaylord, James llenclerson. Thomas James, Absalom Price, 
David (Gardner. In ISOl, Job Taylor, Eliphalet Adams, Abel Myrick, 
Darius Markham, .John C. Dickinson, John "Weaver, Aaron Webster, 
and subsequently many others. 

Although in the fall of 1799 many parties were in look- 
ing for lands, yet no settlement was made until April 16, 
1800, when Nicholas Salisbury, from Western N. Y., found 
his way into town through Lowville, by a tedious journey 
of twenty-six days, bringing with an ox-team and sled his 
family and goods, fording the streams with great peril, and 
camping at night wherever necessity compelled them. Solo- 
mon Smith and son accompanied, as hired men. John 
Smith, Francis McKee, Consider Law, David Smith, Peter 
Doxtater, and others, several with families, came into town, 
and began small clearings, mojstly in the valley of Sandy 
creek. The terms of purchase were S3 per acre, and an ob- 
ligation to clear two acres and build a house w'ithin a certain 
time. In the spring of this year came David Smith, taking 
up 500 acres of land where Adams village now is ; and 
later in the season witnessed the arrival of numerous settlers, 
mostly from Oneida county. Those on foot came by way 
of Re<lfield, but this route was then impa.ssable for teams. 
In 1 SO 1 , Jacob Kellogg, John Cole, and many others 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



243 



moved in, and in the second or third following years a 
flood of immigration soon filled up the town, which every- 
where presented small patches of clearing, rude huts, blind 
paths through the forest, destined to become roads, and 
from every side echoed the woodman's axe, that gradually 
prepared the way for cultivation. 

The first deeds of land to actual settlers were given 
August 20, 1802, to George Houseman, Peter Doxtater, 
Francis McKce, Robert Myrick, and David Smith.* The 
first acre of clearing in the town was cut in May and June, 
1800, by Samuel Fox, three miles above the village. On 
March 21, 1801, occurred the first death, that of Alexander 
Salisbury, who was drowned wliile attempting to cross Sandy 
creek in a scow above the dam, at Adams village. The 
marriage of his widow to Daniel Ellis, June 8, 1802, is 
supposed to have been the first wedding in town. 

To Nicholas Salisbury belonged the honor of erecting the 
first building, — a log house, in 1800. He soon after put 
up a frame house near the same place, a mile below the 
village, which yet remains. Mr. Salisbury was an active, 
enterprising man, serving the town in various capacities. 
He died at his adopted home Dec. II, 1834. A short 
distance above the village lived Jacob Kellogg, who moved 
from Paris, N. Y., in 1801. He was a useful citizen, and 
reared a large family, some of whom yet live on the home- 
stead, where he died in 1854. 

THE LISK AND WRIGHT SETTLEMENTS 

were farther above Smith's Mills. At the former place 
settled Eliphalet Edmonds, at whose house the first town- 
meeting was held, and who afterwards became a prominent 
citizen ; Francis McKee and Bradford Lisk, who had a 
tannery in operation many years ; a Blr. Munn, who had 
a tavern at the same point ; Priam Thompson, P]lijah Fox, 
Appleton McKee, Myron Cooper, and others, whose de- 
scendants became prominent in the town. Here, also, lived 
the Fox brothers, Samuel and Daniel, the former of whom 
cleared the first ground in the town ; the latter lived on the 
farm he had hewn out of the wilderness until his death, 
June 23, 1873. He was born at Groton, Conn., March 1, 
1771, and was, therefore, more than 102 years old. All 
of the above came before 1802. A number of years later, 
the well-known brothers, Thos. R. and Joseph L. Greene, 
lineal descendants of Gen. Nathaniel Greene, came from 
Berlin, N. Y., and settled in this locality. Thos. R. after- 
wards removed to Adams Centre, where he died, in 1874. 
Jo.scph L. is at present a resident of Adams village, being 
one of the foremost citizens. He had three sons, George 
E., who died in 1870 ; David 51., who was a naval ofiScer 
eight }-ears, and is at present deputy State engineer ; and 
Albert S., who is engineer in the United States navy. 

In 1803, Cyrus Eddy, from Mas.sachusetts, located two 
miles north of the village, and lived there until his death, 
in 1859. Of the two sons he reared, Justus survives, 
living in Adams village ; and to him we are indebted for 
much valuable information pertaining to the town. The 
ensuing year brought more iniinigraiits from the old Bay 
State. W. Wright, with a family of eight ; Canni Wright 

» Dr. llousli. 



and family, twelve members ; John Wright and wife ; Eli 
Wright ; Rufus Nims ; Lemuel Arms and his sons, Rich- 
ard, Luman, Hiram, and John ; and others, — thirty-eight 
in all. Of this large number, Luman Arms, at Adams 
Centre, aged 81, and Eli Wright, at Adams village, now 
93 years old, are the only survivors living in the town. 
Many of those mentioned above served in the War of 1812, 
and the influence of their lives produced a marked effect 
upon the town. 

THE THOMAS SETTLEMENT, 

on Sandy creek, a few miles below Adams village, derives 
its name from the well-known Thomas family, who settled 
here in April, 18u0. There were four brothers, William, 
Benjamin, Ezra, and Ira, who made the journey from Hali- 
fax, Vermont, by ox-team through the wilds. They imme- 
diately began clearings, and the ensuing year were followed 
by their mother and two younger brothers, Elihu and Joel. 
Many of the farms in this part of the town were opened by 
them, and when the country was imperiled, in 1812, they 
went to the defense of Sacket's Harbor, participating in the 
action at that place. A noted characteristic of the family 
was their fondness for martial music, and their ability to 
execute the good, soul-stirring old tunes. For many years 
the Thomas drum corps was one of the institutions of the 
town, and many an Independence day and social gathering 
were enlivened by the rat-tat-tat of their drums. Elihu 
Thomas is the only survivor of the brothers living in town, 
although many of their descendants remain, noted as useful 
citizens. 

A Captain Barney kept a tavern at the corners in the 
settlement about 1810, which he continued a number of 
years. A small stock of goods was added, and a store kept 
in connection with the inn. Becoming involved, he closed 
out his business, moved to Watertown, where he kept a 
hotel, and 3'ears after was accidentally drowned in Black 
river. Farther up the road towards Adams, 0. Salisbury 
opened another tavern, in 1811. This, also, was discon- 
tinued as soon as the village became a trading-point. 

William Gilbert, from Marlboro', Vermont, came to 
Adams in 1810, and was for many years one of its promi- 
nent citizens. Edward Barney came about 1801, and was 
a sort of a physician, although never schooled for the 
profession. 

CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 

The first town-meeting was held at the house of Eliphalet 
Edmonds, and at the election held March 1, 1803, the fol- 
lowing oflicers were chosen : Supervisor, Nicholas Salisbury ; 
Clerk, Phineiu; Keith ; A.ssessors, D'Estaing Salisbury, John 
W. Smith, David Grommon, Thomas White; Collector, 
Isaac Baker; Overseers of the Poor, Thom:is White, 
David Comstock ; Commissioners of Highways, Paul Stick- 
ney, Jacob Kellogg, Simeon Hunt; Constables, Isaac 
Baker, Anson Moody; Fence-viewers, David Comstock, 
David Smith, George H. Thomas, George Cooper; Pound- 
keepers. Jacob Kellogg, Benjamin Thomas ; Overseers of 
Highways, Abraham Ripley, James Perry, Euan Salisbury, 
John Cowles, Consider Law, Solomon Bobbins, Hezekiah 
Tiff'any, Thomits White, Daniel Mansfield, Asa Davis, 



244 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Squire Read, Abel Palmer ; Deer-reeves, David Comstock 
and Simeon Hunt. 

The following have served as supervisors since the or- 
ganization of the town : 



1803-12. Nicholas Salisbury. 
1813. Jacob Kellogg. 
1814-17. Nicholas Salisbury. 
1818-20. Eliphalct Edmonds. 
1821-26. William Hart. 
1827-28. Isaac Baker. 
1829-30. Cyrus Eddy. 

1831. Chaunciy Baker. 

1832. Isaac Baker. 

1833. Cyrus Eddy. 

1834. Wells Benton. 

1835. David J. iM. Howard. 

1836. Isaac Baker. 

1837. Samuel Boml. 

1838. D.J. M. Howard. 
1839-10. John II. M'hipplc. 
1841. Robert B. Doxtatcr. 



1842-43. Rufus Herrick. 
1844. Abram Sheldon. 
1845-47. Joseph L. Greene. 
1848. Charles Potter. 
1849-52. John C. Cooper. 
IS53. Josejih L. Greene. 

1854. John C. Cooper. 

1855. John II. Whipple. 
1856-57. Justus Eddy. 
1858-62. Charles A. Benjamin. 
1863-G4. George W. Bond. 
1865-67. Charles A. Benjamin. 
1808-70. Royal Fuller. 

1871. Oscar D. Allen. 

1872. Royal Fuller. 
1873-77. 0. Dc Grasse Greene. 



Important special tmon-meetings were held Nov. 10, 
1803, when a remonstrance was voted against taking 
three ranges of lots from the north side of the town to 
annex to tlie contemplated town of Newport; also to agree 
to the division of the town on the line between towns 7 
and 8 ; in April, 18i;>, " for the purpose of making pro- 
vision for the maintenance of Mary Richards, said woman 
being struck off to Zepbemah Tucker, by the town paying 
him S44 (other expenses of said meeting amounted to 
812.50— total, S56.50);" April 23, 1823, at the oflBce of 
William Doxtater, when the vote of the town relative to 
the selling of the poor was reconsidered, in all ca.sos except 
those already sold. At the sale of the poor in 1822 and 
1823 the bids ranged from 75 cents to $2.50 per week. 
The subject of maintaining the poor occasioned much legis- 
lation, and in 1S23 the town voted against adopting the 
poor-house and house of industry recommended by the su- 
pervisors. At a later day appropriations were made to 
secure the removal of several indigent families. In the 
main, the poor of the town have received proper care. In 
1804 it was voted, — 

" That tho fines incurred by Thomas, James, and John Richards 
for selling liquors be remitted to them." 

" That the pound-keepers provide pounds that they will bo ac- 
countable for." 

" That hogs run at largo with yokes." 

In 1805, voted : " That Peter Doxtater's One for killing doer be 
remitted to him." 

Captain Daniel Compstock and Lieutenant Jacob Kel- 
ogg were elected poor-masters, and agreed to pay interest 
for the money they should receive. 

1807.— "That cattle shall not run at large, within half a mile of 
Smith's Mills, between tho first day of December and tho fifteenth 
day of March." 

1808.—" That Benjamin Sawyer's fine for selling liquor shall not bo 
collected." "That Mansfield's fine for profane swearing shall not bo 
collected of Dr. Eli Eastman." "That C. Lewis' fine for profane 
swearing shall not he collected of Ephraim Joy." 

1812.— A penalty of $5 was voted for allowing Canada thistles to 
go to seed. 

1813.—" That ten dollars be given for every wolf or jtainlci- killed 
in the town of Adams." 



Wolf bounties of S5 were offered in 1803 ; of $10 from 
1804 to 1814; of 815 in 1815. A bounty of 810 for 
wild-cats, and SI for foxes, was also voted this year. 

In 1844, Isaac C. Baker, collector in 1842, who had 
lost 840 in the discharge of his duties without being in the 
fault, owing to the failure of a bank of whose issue he held 
bills, was ordered to be reimbursed. 

May 19, 1846, a special meeting was held to determine 
the sentiment of the people on the license question : 231 
voted /«;•, and 338 aijaiiift licen.se. Again, April 27, 1847, 
the matter was tested, and the vote stood 227 for, and 285 
against license. The town-meetings were formerly held at 
Adams village, but for many years past have been held at 
Union Hall, Adams Centre. 

THE .'UILIT.^RT HISTORY 

of the town includes the names of a number who served in 
the war for American independence : Peter Doxtater, who 
was taken prisoner by the Mohawk Indians and kept three 
years, served as a scout in the Revolution and received a 
pension from Congress in 1834. He died at Adams, Dec. 
1, 1842. Others on the pension-roll were John Merriam, 
Abel Bassett, Danforth Doty, Lucy Thomp.son, and Cyn- 
thia White. Paul Stick ney was a sailor under Paul Jones, 
and Preserved Red way was one of Washington's body- 
guard. He was also present, as corporal of the guard, at 
Gen. Burgoyne's surrender. 

Many of the citizens served in the War of 1812, and a 
company of " Silver Grays," composed of men not liable to 
military duty, among tliem several Revolutionary patriots, 
was formed iti town, and once or twice repaired to Sacket's 
Harbor, but was never mustered into the regular service of 
tho government. 

Tho late civil war called many of the loyal sons of Adams 
to the defense of the Union. A ready response was given 
to the first calls for volunteers, and when 300,000 more 
were asked to enroll themselves, the town showed a willing- 
ness to share the burden by voting a bounty. A special 
meeting was called Dec. 10, 1SG3, and of the 258 votes 
cast but 7 were against paying a 8300 bounty. Aid to 
volunteers was also voted Feb. 11, 18G4, ^larch 21, 1864; 
and on Aug. 12, 1864, a meeting was iield authorizing the 
town-board to issue bonds and pay volunteers 81000; 129 
per.sons pledged themselves in favor of this measure, and 4 
against it. Liberal and praiseworthy provision was also 
made for the care of the families of those who enlisted. 
A record of the names of those in the Union army appears 
in another part of this book. 

ROADS, RAILROADS, AND TELEGRAPH L1.\ES. 

The first settlers of the town had only blind paths 
through the woods for roads ; and when streams were 
reached, they had to be forded or crossed on foot-logs felled 
across the narrow channels. But roads were located be- 
tween the different settlements at an early day, and in 1802 
the Sandy creek was bridged at Smith's mill. In the 
spring of 1804, the State road to Rome, via Redfield, was 
opened, and ten years later, the State road from Salina to 
Adams, where it intersected the Rome road. It was long 
best known as the " Salt Point road. ' 



••:^J^ 



vs^ 



vM 



^ ^- 





Giles Faf^kei^. 



f^RSFiHODA PAfi'KE'?- 



L'_'?'r-*iisy?(^ ._.,._. 



;«!*i 




Res. or GILES PARKER, Adams. JErrcusoH County. N. Y 





' 1 Adams 




j^e^. 




I Wk v/in^c, AikkT.j 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUxVTY, NEW YORK. 



245 



The bridges at Adams village have been swept off sev- 
eral times by the floods to whioh Sandy creek is peculiarly 
liablo, and their iiiaiiitciiance has cost tho town a consider- 
able sum. A tax of $Mi) upon the town of Adams was 
authorized April 13, 1839, for the purpose of building a 
bridire across the north branch of Big Sandy creek at the 
village. Jjiberal appropriations for the improvement of the 
roads and the building of bridges were voted in 1850 and 
1851 ; in 1853, $1000 w.is voted for this purpose, and the 
two succeeding years, §1500; and in 18G0, $1000 was 
voted to be paid in four installments. The town was 
thoroughly districted and a better class of bridges built. A 
stone bridge at Adams village was completed in 18G3, and 
the bridges and roads of Adams will now compare favorably 
with tho.se of other towns in the county. 

The certificate of organization of the " Adams and Elli.s- 
burg Plank-road (^o." was recorded Feb. 14, 1849. Among 
those interested in this road were Judge Skinner and 
others. The plank, being hemlock, soon rotted away, and 
the road was abandoned about lS;j5. 

The '■ Rome, Watertown and Ogdcnsburgh 11. 11." was 
built through Adams in 1851. It traverses the town in a 
general north and .south direction east of the centre, 7.12 
miles, and has an elevation atiove tide, at Adams, of 59G 
feet, and at Adams Centre, of GOO feet. At botii of the 
points named it has stations, which handle large (juantitics 
of freight for those places and the country east and west 
of the road. There are also a number of express and 
pa.s.songer trains daily, affording easy and rapid communi- 
cation. 

In 1850, O'Reilly's Merchants' Telegrapli Line was 
erected along the stage road, and an office opened. Other 
lines were soon after built along the railroad. At present 
the Montreal and the Dominion companies have offices at 
Adams, and the former an office at the Centre. 

The importance of Henderson Harbor as a lake-port, and 
the necessity of having a line of railway leading through 
northern New York and the New England States, which 
is not subject to snow blockades, and, at the same time, 
affords local traffic by passing through a fertile country, led 
to the formation of the " Boston & Henderson Harbor R. 
R. Company," at Adams, April, 1872. The articles of asso- 
ciation provide for a route from Henderson Harbor, tbroush 
Jefferson, Lewis, and Oneida counties, into Herkimer, to 
Salisbury, there to intersect with a road leading to Boston 
^•ia Iloosac Tunnel. The capital stock was fixed at $2,000,- 
000, and the length of the road estimated at 108 miles; 
$80,000 having been subscribed, a board of directors was 
chosen, consisting of S. D. Hungerford, W. A. Gilbert, G. 
W. Bond, and D. A. Dwight, Adams; W. P. Davis and 
Simeon Mather, Henderson ; Charles P. Riggs, Turin ; W. 
D. Allport and Elam Coolcy, Rodman ; John C. Wright 
and Lucien Clark, Copenhagen ; John B. Clark, Woodville ; 
and Arnold Webb, South Rutland. 

May 15, 1872, officers were elected: S. D. Hungerford, 
president ; J. C. Wright, vice-president ; D. A. Dwight, 
secretary; and G. W. Bond, treasurer. At the same time, 
Octave Blanc, C.E., was appointed to make a survey under 
the giMieral direction of John C. Wright, the chief instiga- 
tor and promoter of the project. From his report, made 



to the board at Adams, Jan. 16, 1873, it was learned that 
a favorable route could be secured passing through the town 
of Adams, south of the village, at an estimated cost of 
$19, 021. 54 per mile. Me:(sures were taken to raise the 
required stock by enlisting capitalists, when the financial 
crisis of 1873 intervened, and the prosecution of the work 
has been temporarily abandoned. 

AQRr'ULTURE 

has from the first been the leading industry of the people 
of Adams, and some of the cereals, especially barley, liere 
produced are widely noted for their excellence. But it was 
not generally known, until about 1850, that the soil and 
climate of the town were especially favorable to the growth 
of vegetables, such as peas and beans. Its situation on the 
eastern shore of Lake Ontario gives the town the benefit 
from the precipitation of moisture in the form of heavy 
dews, which seem more essential to the perfect maturity of 
the above vegetables than any other condition. Since this 
has been fully demonstrated, nearly all the seed-peas and beans 
of the country are raised in this and the adjoining towns ; 
and, as a result of tliis industry, appeared ./. M. Cleveland's 
Secd-IIduse. Beginning in a small way, in 1851, to rai.se 
seed-peas and beans, his business has increased to very ex- 
tensive proportions, — the yearly product now being about 
15,000 bushels. This is grown on contract by 200 farmers, 
the seed being furnished by Cleveland, who takes the crop 
at a stipulated price, if it agrees with the conditions of the 
contract. It is then conscientiously cleaned and properly 
handled by trained employees, and in houses specially 
adapted for this purpose. Mr. Cleveland's sales are made to 
wholesale dealers only, and in 1875 amounted to $40,700, 
— one firm alone ordering $10,000 worth. The supplies 
for the United States Patent Office are also obtained from 
this source. Thirty varieties of peas and eighteen of beans 
are grown. 

Contemporary with the foregoing is T. V. Muxon's Seed- 
Bouse, which is conducted essentially on the same princi- 
ples. Mr. Maxon has been established since 1854, and has 
reduced the business to a .system worthy of imitation. His 
seed-bouses are models of convenience, and enable him to 
handle the 14,000 bushels grown annually with compara- 
tive ease. The reputation of his seeds may be judged from 
the fact that a single firm has ordered as much as $15,595 
worth in a single year. In 1877 he grew 28 varieties of 
peas and 30 of beans. Both of these houses are at Adams 
village. 

One of the foremost breeders of the county, and among ' 
the first to pay attention to 

l.MPROVED LIVE-STOCK, 

is General S. D. Hungerford, of the " Valley Park Farm," 
near Adams village. In 1853 he began his importations 
of the best strains of Ayrshire blood, and from which 
nearly all the thoroughbred and grade Ayrshire animals in 
Jefferson County originated. The importations were from 
Scotland direct, and consisted of " Kilburn," " Mary Grey," 
"Ayrshire Lass," " White Lily," and "Queen of Ayr." 
These were followed, in 1854, by "Lady Ayr," "Cherry 
Blossom," and " Challenge." From these Gen. Hungerford 



246 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



has bred many fine animals, having at present several espe- 
cially worthy of note, illustrations of which appear in this 
work in connection with the view of the " Valley Park 
Farm." " Scottish Chief" is a magnificent 5-year old animal, 
of perfect symmetry and pure blood. His pedigree may be 
found in " A. H. B., No 404." " Lady Lyons" is an animal 
of faultless beauty, and " Prince Albert" promises to perpet^ 
uate the liigh reputation of the herd. 

A herd of short-horns was also imported in 1854, among 
the most noted being " Flourish," " Red Rose," " Lady 
Gowan," and " Rosamond." Although a fine class of ani- 
mals, Gen. Hungerford has directed his attention almost 
exclusively to Ayrshires, believing them to be better adapted 
for dairy purposes. His herd at present numbers 80 ani- 
mals, among which is a cow which has very appropriately 
been named " Old Creamer," and is undoubtedly the cham- 
pion milch cow of the world. She has yielded in three 
days the enormous quantity of 302 pounds of good milk, 
as follows: June 11, lOOJ pounds; June 12, 100 pound.s ; 
June 13, 101 i pounds. She gave 2820 J pounds of milk 
in the month of June, an average of over 94 pounds per 
day ; 2484 pounds in the month of July, an average of 
over 80 pounds per day ; and in the month of August 75 
pounds per day. A day's milk generally makes 4 pounds 
of butter. " Old Creamer" is nine years old, and weighs 
1080 pounds. A portrait of this extraordinary animal, as 
well as the " Centennial Team" of matched heavy draught- 
horses, also the property of Gen. Hungerford, and found 
with the " Valley Park Farm" view, will give the reader 
a good impres.sion of their beauty and size. They are dapple- 
gray, 18 hands high, and weigh 1800 pounds each. They 
are full brothers, " Charles" being 9 years old, and " Wil- 
liam" 8 years ; are three-fourths Messenger and one-fourth 
Clyde, and have trotted half a mile in two minutes. The 
team was exhibited at the Centennial Exposition, and re- 
ceived the diploma for being " a very superior team for any 
purpose." They are in many respects a most remarkable 
team. 

About 1852, H. C. Averill, of Adams Centre, engaged 
in horse-breeding, purchasing a splendid Black Hawk stal- 
lion, " Green Mountain Chief," whose record for speed is 
well remembered. He has since then combined that blood 
with the P^than Allen stock, getting a very desirable breed, 
of which he has made a specialty. In 1873 he sold $1 1,000 
worth of this stock, one colt alone bringing $3000. At 
present Mr. Averill has a number of fine hor.ses, among 
them " Ethan Allen 3d," " English George," who has made 
2.20 time, and " Little Giant" and " Little Charlie," a beau- 
tiful little team. The last three are illustrated with his 
residence. Other breeders of blooded horses are J. D. 
Snell, of Adams Centre, and R. P. White, of Adams vil- 
lage. The latter was at one time extensively engaged, having 
a stable of 80 hor-ses. His barns are noted for their beau- 
tiful appearance and complete appointments. 

In 1873, David G. Aldrich, of Worcester, Mass., im- 
ported eleven head of " Lcviss" cattle, among tlum a calf 
dropped April 8, 1873, which became the property of Dr. 
Bemis July 4, 1877. "William Tell, Jr.," is a handsome 
chestnut-brown, is symnielrical, and weighs 1803 pounds. 
The doctor has also two tine cows of the same blood, pur- 



chased of Mr. Aldrich, and these animals are supposed to 
be the only " Leviss" stock in the State. 

" The Ellisburg, Adams, and IIender.son Agricultural 
Society" was organized about 185G. Fair-grounds were 
leased at Belleville, and for ten years exhibitions were held 
there. Afterwards fairs were held at Adams, on the " Val- 
ley Park Farm," the last one occurring in 1875. The 
present oificers are William H. Eastman, president ; G. B. 
R. Whipple, secretary. 

The " Union Agricultural Society," of Adams, Rodman, 
and Lorraine, was formed about 1857, among its chief 
promoters being S. D. Hungerford, R. P. White, T. V. 
Maxon, Albert Webb, and Hugh Heustis. Very success- 
ful exhibitions were held for many years on the " Valley 
Park FaiTD," at Adams ; but lately the interest has not 
been sufficient to warrant the holding of a fair. These 
societies accomplished a great deal of good, educating the 
masses to a higher and better appreciation of agiiculture. 
A prominent feature of the fair was the address by some 
noted orator ; Edward Everett, Elihu Burritt, Horace 
Greeley, George W. Bungay, and others having been thus 



engaged. 



THE DAIRY INTERESTS 



of Adams deserve especial mention. The peculiar nature 
of the soil and the many springs and streams of the town 
adapt it admirably for grazing ; and the products of the 
many private dairies and cheese-factories have attained an 
enviable reputation. Of the latter class, 

The Snilthfield Cheese-Factory is the pioneer in the 
town, and perhaps in the county. It was built in 1861 by 
a company, composed of A. D. Stanley, 0. M. Stanley, D. 
JL Hall, and Charles Mills. The plan for the factory and 
the machinery were procured by A. D. Stanley at Rome; and 
its capacity enabled them to use the milk from 700 cows. 
At present it is not conducted on so extensive a scale, and 
the milk from 300 cows only is used by the present pro- 
prietor, Fayette Stanley. Next in the order of time is the 
Adams Factory, built at Adams village, in 18r)4, by In- 
graham, Lewis & Heusties. It is a large, well-arranged 
building, with an excellent supply of water from a spring 
on the hillside, and h;js a manufacturing capacity of 
150.000 pounds per year. It is at present operated by 
Ingraham, Whitford & Co. The F. M. & J. B. Muzzy 
Factory was built the same year, and has been operated by 
the above parties ever since. The yearly products are 
65,000 pounds. /'. <S'. Maxsous Factory, west of Adams 
Centre, was erected in 1867. It is supplied with good 
machinery, and produces 70,000 pounds yearly. 6'. ^1. 
Benjamin's Factory, north of Sniithville, was built in 1866, 
and has been operated with some intermission ever since. 
Product, 25,000 pounds. N. Thomas' Factory, estab- 
lished in 1877. Product, 18,000 pounds. Lewis' Cream- 
cry, in the Greene settlement, by Frank Lewis, opened in 
May, 1877. Uses the milk of 185 cows. 

Hop-growing receives some attention in the western part 
of the town. A. D. Stanley commenced the culture in 
1863, growing five acres. This has been increased to 17 
acres. He has a large dry-house, and is well established in 
the bu.'^iness. 




ffESiDENCEor H.H.CROSBY, ADAMs.JtmRsoNCo.,H.Y. 




CnCLlSH GCOffCE 

Residence or H.C.AVE.RILL,AaAusCcNTLfi.JufERsoNCo..lt.y. 



HISTORY OP JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



247 



THE GREENE SETTLEMENT. 

The ancestry of the numerous Greene fiiinilies, now re- 
siding in Adams, whose members number more than tliree 
hundred, belonged to Rhode Island, wliere one of thera, 
Charles Greene, served during the Revolution, and after- 
wards removed to Rensselaer co., N. Y. Here he reared 
a family, which, in 1805, immigrated to Lewis co., and in 
1810 several of them became citizens of Adams, at a place 
which has since borne their name. Of the elder Greenes, 
Charles was prominent in securing the settlement of a large 
number of liis friends from the eastern part of the State, 
and served as an agent for Bostwick, of Ijuwille, in settling 
land. He is still living in the town, at the advanced age of 
99 years. A son, Leandcr R., and a number of grandsons, 
Paul, Jr., De Estaing, De Forrest, and De Grasse Greene, 
are well-known and useful citizens, yet living in or near the 
settlement. 

North of Greene's lived a well-known surveyor, Capt. 
Sills, and I5a.Kter Adams, also a jironiluent man, and both 
early settlers. 

A blaeksmitli-shop was opened at this place many years 
ago by Joshua Clark, which was remodeled for a store-room, 
and a stock of goods kept a short time by Samuel Marot 
and Lorenzo Rhodes. Charles Greene and Samuel Crosby 
built a saw-mill, on the brook flowing through the settle- 
ment, about 1835. The present mill is operated in part by 
steam-power, and is complete in its arrangements. It is 
owned by Whitford & Brown. 

The first school at Greene's was taught in a small frame 
house about 1815. For many years it stood upon the hill 
north of the main settlement, so as to accommodate the 
jnipils from the Sills' neighborhood. Afterwards it was re- 
moved and changed to a dwelling for Dewey Bell. The 
cemetery is under the management of the people residing 
in its immediate vicinity. 

NORTH ADAMS. 

Among those who came at an early day to this locality 
wa.s Roger Read, from Vermont, in 180G. He was a well- 
known citizen, and reared three sons who became identified 
with the interests of Jefl'erson (bounty. Asahel Read, now an 
aged man, resides at Watertown ; Heman Colton, then a 
young man of 19, came fnmi Otsego countv and opened a 
large farm here. He still lives in the town, being almost a 
centenarian, and a son, Chauncey, resides on the homestead. 
Farther west lived Benjamin Sweet and Albert Rico, both 
prominent in their respective neighborhoods. A grist-mill 
was erected on Stony creek, in this neighborhood, prior to 
1812, by a man named Waddell. Willet Ranncy was the 
miller for many years, but .sold his interest to E. & A. 
Read, who, in turn, sold to Samuel Cook. He improved 
the dam and built a new mill opposite the old one, in 1828, 
calling it the " North Adams Pioneer Mills," by which 
name it is yet known. It is a two-story frame, with three 
runs of stone, and remains unchanged in most respects. 
About 1836, James Moulton became the owner of this 
property, and the title still vest.s in bis heirs. Saw-mills 
wore built above this point: one by Heman Colton, which 
was operated fifteen years ; one by Philo Ellenwood, which 
was destroyed by fire, rebuilt by him, and sold, in 1807, to 



James Hodge, who moved it to the east branch, where it 
is at present operated by him ; and near the same point a 
turning-mill, with a corn-grinder attached, was built and 
operated a number of years by Richard Oatman. Below 
the " Pioneer Mills" Gideon Gifford put up a saw-mill, in 
1830, which was operated until it was burned down, in 
1847. 

The North Adams post-ofiSce was establislied about 1 845, 
on the mail-route from AVatertown to Salisbury's Mills, and 
Benjamin Sweet was appointed postmaster. A short time 
after the office was given to Albert Rice, who moved it to 
his house, where it remained until 18G2, when William 
Stanley' was appointed. It was soon after discontinued. 

THE SECOND CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 

of Adams was formed at the house of Roger Re:»d, by 
Rev. D. Spear, November 1, 1809, and consisted of Timo- 
thy Betts and wife, Simon Reed and wife, John Patrick, 
Elizabeth Miller, E.sther Price, John Barnard and wife, 
Ebonczer Foot and wife, Lydia Read, and Sally Lyon. 
Meetings were held in school-houses for several j'ears with- 
out having a settled pastor. 

On December 5, 1816, a society was formed at the house 
of Asber Robbins, having the .same name as the church, 
of which John Barnard, Asher Robbins, and Iluel Pearsons 
were trustees. January 28, 1817, Simon Read, Daniel 
Hall, Jr., and Amos Bosworlh were added to the trustees. 
In the latter part of this year the society numbered more 
than seventy members, and steps were taken to erect a 
church. In 1818 a frame house 30 by 40 was built at 
John Grave's; and on November 11 of that year their 
first jiastor, Edward W. Rossitcr, was installed. The church 
now entered upon a career of prosperity, in which its mem- 
benship was increased tosevei'al hundred. In August, 1823, 
a number of the members residing at Smithville witlidrew 
and formed a society of their own. This .sej)aration, in,stead 
of proving beneficial, proved fatal to both of them. The 
North Adams society continued to worship at the old place 
until 1839, when the church was moved a mile east, to its 
present locality. A new society was also formed, styled 
the " North Adams Congregational Society," and Heman 
Colton, Elisha Read, and Ephraim Read elected trustees. 
For several years the church flourished ; then came a period 
of declining interest, which, together with other causes, de- 
creased the membership of the church to such an extent 
that services were suspended in 1856, and have never been 
resuuKnl. 

The last official meeting was held September 3, 1855, at 
which time Asahel Read, Eli.sha Read, and James Graham 
were elected trustees. It was decided to put the church in 
charge of a committee, which should be responsible for its 
safe-keeping. The house lately became the property of 
Caroline Rice, who has donated it to the public for school 
purposes. Rev. Rossiter was followed as pastor by Abel 
L. Crandall, D. Spear, Austin Putnam, P. Cook, Lewis M. 
Shcpland, and Henry Budge. The most ofthe.se preached 
alternately here and at Smithville. The last pa.storal re- 
port of which there is any record was made June IS, 1850, 
from which it appears that the church then had 14 male 
and 22 female members. A Sunday-school was conducted 



248 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



several years by Iltiiian Colton, ami a meuibursliip of 20 
was reported. 

The cemetery opposite tlie cliurcli, coutainiiig half au 
acre of ground, neatly inclosed, and also the one near 
Rice's, are eontrullcd by such of the jiublic as live in the 
immediate localities. 

EAST ADAMS, 

or State Ro.\d. Some of the first settlers of the town 
made homes in tliis locality, many coming prior to 1805, 
and some in 1801. Among these were the Heath, Groni- 
niou, Loveland, Truman, Harris, and Talcott families, repre- 
Bcntatives of which yet remain near the place where their 
sturdy ancestors first broke the sulenin (|uiet of the forest 
wild. In later years the Davis family settled in this neigh- 
borhood, and one of the sons, Joseph, built a store at the 
corners, where he was in trade a number of years. The 
house yet stands among the cluster of buildings which have 
since been erected. 

Farther north, near the Watertown line, Daniel Talcott 
built a tavern at an early day, dedicating it to good cheer 
by inclosing a demijohn of good whisky in the gable of the 
house. It had the reputation far and wide of never being 
out of what was considered, if not a necessary of life, a 
creature comfort wellnigh indispensable. The house has 
become a quiet farm dwelling, but the bottle of liquor re- 
mains as placed by the good-natured builder. 

At this place Union Post-oflSce was established February, 
1827, with E. M. Howard first postmaster. The name 
was afterwards changed to Appling, and D. M. G. Howard 
appointed postmaster. It was discontinued about 1840. 

ADAMS BAPTIST CHURCH 

was formed at the house of David Grommnn, in September, 
1802, and on October 13, 1805, the Lord's Supper was first 
administered. In June, 1806, Elder Timothy Heath was 
employed, and meetings were for some time held at his 
house and barn ; and December 14, 1824, a society was 
formed, with Daniel Tallcott, Jacob Heath, and Asa Lewis 
trustees. In the same year a church was built one mile 
from Adams Centre, on the State road, and in 18158 their 
present church was erected, at a cost of about $3000. 
Timothy Heath, Joshua Freeman, Charles Clark, Thomas 
Bright, J. T. Temple, John L. Bishdj), E. E. Williams, 
Alvah Freeman, William Garnett, C. W. Babcock, James 
M. Beeman, Moses Barker, and E. P. Weed have been 
pastors since the formation of the church. Several notable 
revivals have been enjoyed, which largely augmented the 
membership. At present it numbers 230. The church 
lias been renovated and repaired, being now in fair condi- 
tion. The sittings nuniber 500. A Sabbath-school was 
organized about 1825, which at present has 110 members. 
V. Webster Heath is superintendent. 

THE STATE ROAD CEMETERY 

is controlled by an association formed for this purpose in 
18C8, when William Fuller, Rc.yal Fuller, R. J. Hill, 
Daniel Fox, George Hall, D. S. Lovclund, Simeon Love- 
land, Lyman Heath, and R. W. I'hclps were chosen trus- 
tees. This board .secured half an acre of ground which 



had been donated to the Baptist Society by Elijah Harris 
in 1835, and which had been u.sed for burial purposes since 
that period. Subsequent additions have been made until 
its area comprises 3i acres, which has been neatly inclosed 
and otherwise improved. Richard Otis was the first per- 
son interred, Oct. 18, 1824. The total number interred is 
975. The present ofiicers are : President, R. Fuller ; Sec- 
retary, D. S. Loveland ; Trustees, William Fuller, Royal 
Fuller, R. J. Hill, John Snell, Daniel Fox, Linus Love- 
land, I), S, Loveland, William Oatman, and B, F. Harring- 
ton. 

SMITHVILLE VILLAGE, 

which was founded by Jesse Smith, is partly in Henderson. 
The portion lying in Adams is on lots and 17, on Stony 
creek, which here affords excellent water-power. Settle- 
ment was begun here in 1804 by Daniel Hardy, although 
a little cast of this point Chauneey Wills, from Connecti- 
cut, took up land in 1803, In 1805 he built a saw-mill 
on Stony creek, the first in the west part of town. He 
lived here until his death, in 1821, having reared a family, 
of which John Mills, now residing on the homestead, is the 
only survivor. In 1805, Abel Myrick, Henry Knapp, 
Samuel and Andrew McNitt, and others located in this 
vicinity. Soon after a couple of young men, named Kendall 
and Powell, built a dam across the creek, and put up a small 
saw-mill. This mill and all the improvements made by 
them were purchased by Jesse Smith, from whose settle- 
ment at this place dates its real history. Few men have 
lived in the county who have been more active or energetic 
than he. Beginning life as a jobber in clearing land and 
making potash, he extended his business until it included 
milling, distilling, and general merchandising. Gradually 
ho became interested in the lumber trade and the commerce 
of the lakes, until his operations extended unto every lake 
city. From comparative poverty he arose to affluence, and 
controlled a business which for extent and ini]iortance has 
had few parallels in the country. He remained identified 
with the interests of Smithville and Sacket's until 1838, 
when he moved to Newark, Ohio. There are yet living 
people who can remember "Uncle Jes.se," and the time 
(about 1825) when the cash sales of his several business 
enterprises at Smithville amounted to more than SI 200 per 
day. Smith erected a large i'rame grist-mill opposite his 
saw-mill, which being deemed insufficient for his require- 
ments was sold to the Carter brothers, and a substantial 
stone mill built down the stream on the Henderson side. 
This is the present structure owned and operivted by Bab- 
bitt & Benjamin. The saw-mill, after having numerous 
owners, is now the property of Leonard A. Wheeler. In 
connection with his mill Smith had a large distillery, whose 
products were conveyed to Sacket's Harbor and shipi)ed to 
Montreal and Quebec. 

A Mr, Sprague built a tannery which was conducted at 
various times by him, 0, H. Rundell, and Abrani Cromer, 
and was destroyed by fire while belonging to the latter. 
Upon vacating the old mill it was turned into a wagon-shop 
by Carter ]5ros. This, al.so, was destroyed by fire and a 
new one rebuilt on the site. Afterwards F, B. Hallett and 
othei-s used it for a cabinet-shop, and it is at present occu- 



O' 




,,fL.. !*> 



■4??^^- 




Vaiu/ Fakk Farm^ FHOFIRTY or MM-§- 



t'::'^;::.t- :''v^'y) 




WWkBii^OAUS.Jcfferson County, N. Y. 



o 
en 



CD 

m 

2 




in 

rn 
m 

Z 
1*1 




r 
S 
z 

s 



Co 
> 

r- 
n 



> 






HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



249 



pied for tliis purpose by Hallett. Among the other wheel- 
wrights were H. Yates & Co., John Downie, and A. AVake- 
field & Co., who carr}' on a shop. 

A carding-niill was operated at Smithville about 1830 by 
Samuel Eaton, and afterwards by D. Hardy and Willard 
Dodge. This, too, was cousumed by fire. Jesse Smith 
had a large cooper-shop, giving employment to many men. 
Other shops were carried on by lilisha Peck and Duane 
Cooley, tiie cooper for the past twenty-five years. John 
Ivery was perhaps the first blacksmith. He was succeeded 
by his son Jonas. Other sons of Vulcan were John Corey, 
David Hunter, and Joel Smith. John Corey and F. Bab- 
cock arc the present smiths, each conducting a good shop. 
Shoemakers abounded, Vernon Brigham being one of the 
pioneers. 0. H. Kuiidell carried on the trade ou a large 
scale, having from five to ten workmen. George Lewis 
and Captain Collins have shops at present. Duncan Camp- 
bell and WetheriU were clothiers at an early day, and 

had a largo establishment. 

Tiic first tavern was kept by Daniel Hardy, prior to 
1810. He was succeeded by Brooks Harrington, who 
erected a frame house for this purpose. In 1828 he built 
a large brick house on the Henderson side, which is yet 
occupied as the Smithville Hotel by Alfred Seeley. In 
connection with the house is a large hall, where the public 
meetings of the place are held. 

The first store was kept in a small frame house on the 
corner opposite the inn, by Jesse Smith. He enlarged the 
building from time to time, and it has been used for mer- 
cantile purposes ever since, being at present occupied by 
William H. Bice. In 1831 Jesse Smith erected a splen- 
did stone store-house on the south corner, at present the 
stand of A. P. Hall. Besides these mentioned, Robert 
McGregor, Dudley and Burr, John Bi-shop, Bliss and Oibbs, 
Abram Cromer, George Babbitt, TI)onias Angel, II. Knapp, 
and A. Schuyler were also engaged in business as general 
merchants. 

A post-office was established at Smithville at an early 
day, with Brooks Harrington postmaster. Among others 
who had charge of the office were George Babbitt, C. A. 
Mills, Davis, A. P. Hall, and W. H. Rice, the pres- 
ent incumbent. Tiie mail service was from various points, 
but it is at present daily from Sacket's Harbor. The busi- 
ness transacted amounted to about $100 per year; letters 
daily. 30 ; and papi-rs, 2.50 per week. When the Sacket's 
Harbor & Ellisburg Riilroad was in operation it pa.ssed 
near the village, and had a station on the Henderson side. 

The "Smithville Library" was fonnwl Feb. 16, 1824, 
with Abel L. Crandall, Henry Keith, Daniel llall, Jr., 
John M. Bart, C. M. Adams, IloswcU Bosworth, and 
Brooks Harrington as trustees. Quite a library (302 vol- 
umes of standard books) was collected, but on account of 
the removal of some of its members the library was dis- 
solved in 1845. 

Dr. E. Adams was located at the village, about 1825, as 
one of the first physicians. Since then Doctors Seymour, 
Breed, Pierson, and Lord have been practicing the healing 
art. The latter is the present physician. 

Smithville has about 2(10 inhabitant.s, most of whom 
have become residents within the past twenty years. As a 



business centre its importance has departed, but as a quiet, 
cosy village, with beautiful surroundings, it must ever at- 
tract attention. 

In 1820 a large frame school-house was erected jointly 
by the district and the several religious denominations of 
the village. This house was used for meetings and school 
purposes until 1845, when a new school-house was built. 

TIIK FIRST METHODIST KPISCOPAL CHURCH 

and Society of Smithville was formed Oct. 31, 1844, with 

Horace Ivory, John Shanley, .John D Gillett, James Mor- 
ton, and John Bailey, trustees. The old school-house was 
purchased and repaired as a place for meetings. It was 
used eight or ten years, when the meetings were discon- 
tinued, the society abandoned, and the house used for other 
purposes. 

ADAMS CENTRE. 

This pleasant village, of 500 inhabitants, is situated on 
the upper lake-ridge, which here forms a plain, three miles 
north of Adams, and ten miles by railroad from Water- 
town. The location is very favorable, and, being sur- 
rounded by a rich farming country, the place has become 
noted for its many comfortable homes, substantial business 
men, and beautiful streets. Settlement in this locality was 
first made in LSlt), by Luman and Hiram Arms, who opened 
a farm just north of the village site. The place was densely 
timbered with cedar and the hard woods of this section, and 
clearings were made with great difficulty. The first house 
where the village stands was built by a man named Priest, 
who sold out to Luman Arms before it was entirely com- 
pleted. South of the village lived R. Warrincr, who kept 
a tavern in a frame house as early as 1810 and continued 
it until about 1827. It was the first public-house in this 
locality, and was a great place of resort. Other settlers 
came to the Five Corners (now Adams Centrej in 1818, 
and in 1822 Hiram Arms built a wagon-shop, where the 
trade was carried on by him and his brother for more than 
forty years. Julius Palmer built another shop in 1850 ; 
and soon after Pliny Wright put up a building for a like 
purpose. Both places are now occupied as wagon-shops. 
A blacksmith, named Wellman, came in 1823, and others 
of the craft, soon followed, and opened shops, several of 
which yet remain. 

In 1827, Luman Arms built a .substantial two-story 
house, which he opened as " Arms' Inn." Additions were 
made from time to time, and the house has ever been used 
for hotel purposes, being now known as the Talcott House. 
The house known as Merchants' Hotel was u.sed as a pri- 
vate residence until 1807, when Dr. Wilder had it changed 
to an inn. After the completion of the railroad, a hotel 
was built near the depot by E. Oatman, which is generally 
used for this purpose. 

Jonathan Davis built the first store, about 1830. His 
business increa.sed so much that he erected a fine business 
block, where he remained a successful merchant many 
years. Upon retiring from trade he was succeeded by 0. 
Davis and W. D. Arms. Calvin Green built a store in 
1835, and Joseph Dewey another a little later, where 
Joseph Davis was in trade a number of years. 

Union Block, the only brick stiucture in the place, was 



250 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



erected in 1860, by II uU & Whitford, general merchants at 
that time. The upper story forms a fine hall, which is 
used for town-meetings and public gatherings. 

The first physician to locate permanently in the village 
was John T. Dickinson, who remained in practice many 
years. Several years after his settlement, A. P. Hale, an 
eclectic, located there; in 184G, E. R. Masson began prac- 
tice; in 1855, Wm. C. Bailey, who still continues; about 
the same time C. D. Potter ; and, later, Dr. Wilder. Be- 
sides Dr. Bailey, Dr. C. F. Wright is at present also in 
practice. 

The manufacturing interests of the place are limited to 
the "Adams Centre Sa.sh- and Blind-Factory," 0. De 
Grasse Greene, proprietor, and established by him in 18(58. 
It is operated by water-power from a spring-pond, a view of 
which appears in this work. Mr. Greene is also a builder, 
and carries on his business on a large scale in .several well- 
arranged buildings. 

The " Handy Package Dye-Factory" w;is erected by Dr. 
C. D. Potter, in 1874, the manufacture of the dyes having 
commenced in 1870. A new building, 20 by 40 feet, two 
stories high, was erected in 1877, to accommodate the 
growth of the business. The factory is supplied with an 
engine, printing-presses, and employs ten hands. The 
goods are in great demand, and orders are received from all 
parts of the Union. 

A rlsumi of the business of Adams Centre shows : 
architect, 0. De Grasse Greene ; attorney, A. E. Corley ; 
phj-sicians, Wm. C. Bailey, J. F. Wright ; general mer- 
chants, Jacob Tittsworth, J. C. Heath, E. C. Crosby; 
druggist, M. D. Tittsworth ; furniture and undertaker, R. 
C. Langworthy ; millinery, Mrs. J. E. B. Curry, Mrs. J. 
C. Heath, and Jlrs. Jacob Tittsworth ; grocer, George 
Horth ; hotels, Taicott House, F. A. Talcott ; Railroad 
House, B. K. Dewey ; flour and feed store, Alvah Green ; 
and express and station agent, Daniel Fox. There are al.so 
3 wagon-shops, 3 blacksmith-shops, 2 cooper-shops, 1 tailor, 
1 harness-maker, 2 shoemakers, and a few other shops. 

The post-office at Adams Centre was established at an 
early day, Danford Doty being one of the earliest ])ost- 
masters. Since then the office has been held by C. Hub- 
bard, D. Fox, C. D. Potter, and M. D. Tittsworth, the 
present incumbent. It was made a money-order office 
August 1, 1871, and the orders given and received 
amounted to 810,000 per annum; registered letters, 80; 
letters received daily, 225 ; sent, 320 ; newspapers per 
week, 1500. 

The Adams Centre Cornet Band was organized in 1871, 
with fifteen members; J. C. Heath being the first leader. 
At ])roseiit there are fourteen members, and George L. Fox 
is the leader. In September, 187C, the band competed for 
a silver service at the Jefferson County fair, receiving the 
prize. The instruments used are full nickel-plated, and the 
music executed consisLs of selections I'rom classical writers. 

The " Union Cemetery Association" of Adams Centre 
was formed April 1, 18G7, and nine trustees chosen, as 
follows: Ji\iinan Arms, Joel l>ewey, Leonard II. Green, 
Abram Sheldon, A. J. Green, Eli A. Secly, Chas. Potter, 
Peter W. Dyer, and Hiram Segur. Charles Potter was 
elected president, and E. A. Seely superintendent, which 



office he has held ever since. The association secured the 
old burial-ground, south of the village, which was set aside 
about 1808, and which contains the graves of a number of 
soldiers of 1812, and enlarged it to about four acres. The 
ground was surveyed into 344 lots, with appropriate walks 
and drives. John Cooley was the first interred in the new 
ground, April 30, 18G7. The number of burials since that 
date has been 225 ; number in the old ground, 240. The 
cemetery is well situated, is inclosed with a neat fence, and 
presents a very fine appearance. The present officers are : 
Silas Chamberlain, A. J. Green, Henry Yates, E. A. Seely, 
Charles Potter, R. Q. Green, R. C. Langworthy, Hiram 
Segur, Leonard R. Green, trustees; R. C. Langworthy, 
president; and C. D. Potter, secretary. 

THE ADAMS CENTRE UNION GRADED SCHOOL. 

The first school-house in the village was a small plank 
building, near the forks of the road, erected in 1823, by 
L. and H. Arms, 11. Warriuer, and Major Earl. This was 
used until 1829, when a stone hoase was built, in which 
schools were taught until the present .structure was erected 
in 1857. This is a two-story frame, with three rooms, and 
was occupied as a district school-house until 1876, when 
the school was graded, a board of education elected, and 
the house came under their control. The first board was 
composed of C. D. Potter, J. A. D. Snell, J. J. Witter, E. 
C. Crosby, T. Williams, W. Fuller, A. J. Green, Asa M. 
Green, J. Q. Anus. J. Q. Arms was elected president, 
C. D. Potter clerk, and J. C. Heath treasurer and col- 
lector. Rules and regulations for the government of the 
board and the school were adopted, and W. C. Porter em- 
ployed as principal and teacher in the senior department. 
There are, besides, two assistants in charge of the primary 
and junior departments. The attendance is 120 pupils, 
and the school bears an excellent reputation. 

THE SEVENTH-DAY BAPTIST CHURCH 

of Adams dates its origin to 1817, when several families 
of that faith removed from Berlin, N. Y., to Adams Centre, 
and soon held meetings. June 9, 1822, the church was 
formally organized, with a membership consisting of Rev. 
Wm. Greene, Charles Greene, Jared G. Potter, Joseph 
Greene (2dj, James Main, Ethan Greene, Elisha Crosby, 
Rus.sel Greene, Sela Burdick, Mercy Greene, Roswell 
Saunders, Amy Greene, Olive Sweet, Martha Greene, 
Mary Saunders, Sarah Crosby, Amanda, Betsey, Cynthia, 
Clarissa, and Mercy Greene (2d). Of this number Charles 
Greene, now past 99 years, is the only one living. At the 
same time, William Greene was ordained pastor by the 
Revs. William B. Maxson and Daniel Coon, and Jared Pot- 
ter was elected deacon. Regular preaching was now main- 
tained for fifteen years in the .school-house in Greene's Set- 
tlement, until the church at the " Five Corners" (Adams 
Centre) was erected. It was a small wooden structure, 
completed in 1837. In 18G8 this building was raised up, 
18 feet added to its length, and a lecture-room made of the 
basement. It is heated by a coal furnace, and the audi- 
ence-room will seat 400 people. The membership of the 
church is 292, and the work is in a flourishing cnnditinii. 
A Sabbath-school is connected with the church, under the 







■A. J':' 



^:;.^- 




J. C. Cooper. 






Xs;^ 













■■"''■•• J-iUikO^ 






■■•'.l£'!. 



■v< 



„"^'/"'t'y'-.<«>i; 










- - ■! ill 



im 






v( 




re 



Hf] 




*« 




y^fitH 



jMrww"''- — ^• 




Res. or MRS.J.CCOOPEft. AoAMsJErrLRsoN Co. NY 








-i>SS 



.trsaisep.; .-rt- 'liSi ii 




RES. OF T. V. MAXON, ADAM 




EttERSON COUNTY, N. Y. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



251 



suporinteiidence of S. W. Maxson, having more than 200 
members. 

Tlie pastors of the cliurcli fur the past fifty-five years 
liave been : Wm. Greene, Eli S. Bailey, Giles M. Lang- 
worthy, Joel Greene, Alexander Campbell, James Summer- 
bell, George E. Tomlinson, and Asa Prentice, tlie present 
pastor, and to whom we are indebted for this information. 
Jan. 3, 183G, a church society was formed, with Edward 
Whitford, Elisha Cleveland, Joseph S. Maxson, Asa L. 
Maxson, Benjamin Maxson, Charles Greene, Joseph Greene, 
Jr., Job Spencer, and Sela Burdick, trustees. The present 
board consists of Andrew J. Greene, Samuel M. Potter, 
and James C. Heath. 

A brief statement of the doctrines of the Seventh-Day 
Baptists may not be inappropriate in tiiis connection. The 
belief is essentially the same as that held by the regular 
Baptists, excepting this : they believe that the seventh in- 
stead of the first day of the week is the Bible Sabbath ; 
they maintain that the .seventh day was constituted the 
Sabbath at creation, and that, as its ob.servance was enjoined 
in the Decalogue with the other moral precepts, it is morally 
and religiously binding u])on all mankind ; that it was ob- 
served by Christ and his aiiostles; that there is no evidence 
in the New Testament, direct or indirect, of a change of the 
day ; and that soon after the death of the apostles the first 
day began to be observed as a festival in commemoration 
of the resurrection ; and subsequently, by the authority of 
an apostate ehurjh, aided by the civil power, the Sunday 
superseded the Sabbath of the Decalogue. 

While Alexander Campbell was pastor of the above 
church there was a division of opinion respecting some of 
the doctrines he taught, which resulted in the withdrawal 
of himself and .seventeen members. These, in March, 
1852, formed themselves into a new church, styled '• The 
Independent Seventh-Day Baptist Church of Adams." A 
house of worship was erected the following summer, in the 
southern part of the village, at a cost of §13(10, which was 
dedicated December 15, 1852. 

The Evangelical Seventh-Day Baptist Society was funned 
Jan. 3, 1853, with II. Bunce, job Spencer, and Joel Saun- 
ders, trustees. Under the ministration of Campbell the 
church grew in numbers and influence, having had 82 
members in Aug., 1853. Several years later Jlr. Camj)- 
bcll returned to the fold of the old church, when the new 
began to decline. At this stage, in 18G1, seveial ministers 
of the Advent faith appeared, and under their forcible 
preaching a number of the new church wore led to accept 
tiiat doctrine. In March, 1862, a church was organized, 
with Samuel Walsworth and wife, Job Spencer and wife, 
Edward Spencer and wife, Jasper ]j. (Jreen and wife, Wil- 
liam Green, Henry Hunee and wite, Hannah Green, and 
L. Green, members ; and Samuel Walsworth, deacon. It 
was styled " The Seventh-Day Advent Church at Adams 
Centre," and as its members were chiefly those of the new 
Seventh-Day Baptist Church the society was controlled by 
them, with the same name, and posses.siun taken of the 
church. The present trustees are J. L. Green, D. B. 
Green, and Edmund Spencer. The membership of the 
church is 57, with S. N. Walsworth and Henry Brown, 
deacons. No regular pastor is maintained, but M. E. Cor- 



nell, J. N. Andrews, and others have preached to this peo- 
ple at various times. About 1870 a Sabbath-school was 
organized by Joel Saunders. Its present membership is 
50, and Z. M. Lewis is superintendent. In 1876 the 
church building was renovated and repaired, and it now 
presents a neat appearance. 

ADAMS CENTRE BAPTIST CHUKCH. 

About fifty members having withdrawn from the old 
Adams church, for the purpose of forming themselves into 
a church at the Centre, on Dec. 17, 1852, they were organ- 
ized with the above name. Abram Sheldon, J. W. Horton, 
and L. Allen were elected deacons. Meetings were held 
in the school-house until the completion of their church. In 
March, 1853, the "Adams Centre Baptist Society" was 
formed, with 32 members, and Oliver McKee, Ezra Hull, 
and Silas Glasier, trustees. The following summer a fine 
frame church, 4-1 by 60 feet, with a tower in front, was 
erected on the principal street of the village, at a cost of 
$6000. It was dedicated Jan. 12, 1854, by the Rev. 
Butterfield, of Oswego. In 1877 the house was thoroughly 
renovated, and, with the parsonage, presented to the society 
by Deacon Abram Sheldon, is estimated worth $10,000 
The present trustees are Silas Chamberlain, Eli Seeley, and 
John Snell. 

Since the formation of the church, Revs. Teeple, Blunt, 
Wardner, Mills, Garfield, Hammon, Sawyer, Maine, and 
Williams have been pastors. During Revs. Blunt and 
Sawyer's connection there were notable revivals, which 
augmented the membership of the ehurch. At present it 
numbers 17G. A Sunday-school was organized in 1854 by 
Rev. Teeple, which at present numbers 118 members. D. 
C. Maine is the superintendent. 

ADAMS VILLAGE. 

The location of this large and thriving village of 2000 
inhabitants is on Sandy creek, one and a half miles from 
the Rodman town-line, and extending on its south to the 
towns of Lorraine and Ellisburg. The principal part of 
the village is in the valley of the creek, mostly on its north 
bank, although some of the private residences are on the 
terraces along the stream, giving the place an elevated ap- 
pearance beautiful to behold, and admitting the display of 
much fine taste. The streets are wide, graded to a con- 
siderable extent, and cleanly kept. Outside of the business 
part of the village they are lined with rows of maj.le, beech, 
and elm, or the handsome mountain-ash trees. The private 
dwellings are fine, varied in architectural construction, and 
indicate refinement and denote wealth. They almost in- 
variably stand removed from the road, and the door-yards 
are adorned with shrubbery, native trees, and statuary. 
The busin&ss houses are substantial, and, without being or- 
nate, present a fine appearance. In healthfulness, beauty 
of location, and the reputation of its citizens for culture and 
morality, the place h;»s raw cpials ; and Adams deservedly 
ranks as one of the finest villages in the State. 

The settlement of David Smith in 1800, and the desir- 
able improvements he made, attracted a large number of 
settlers within the next few years, .so that in 1806 nearly 
every att4,ndaiit cleuieut of an older community existed. 



252 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



From this time the growth of the phice was steady, but not 
remarkable, until the completion of the railroad quickened 
the business life, and the building of its churches and 
schools brought that refinement which has since character- 
ized the general tone of the village. David Smith lived in 
town until his death ; and nearly all of those who were 
pioneers with him have long since departed. None live to 
tell the story of the founding of the town, and but a few 
to recount the struggles of its early life. In the village, 
Perlcy D. Stone, C. J. Witcomb, and Era.«tus Hale yet re- 
main of the hundreds that came three-quarters of a century 
ago. 

MPNICIPAL GOVERNMENT. 

An effort was made in 1823 to obtain an act of incor- 
poration for the village, but failed to receive the necessary 
support. The application bore the names of Elihu Morton, 
David Smith, Benjamin Wright, and John Burch. It was 
finally incorporated under the general act, Nov. 11, 1851, 
and confirmed by a vote of 79 to 51, on Doc. 19, the same 
year. The original plat of 812 acres has never been en- 
larged. A special election was held in February, 1852, but 
the first regular election was held iMarch, 1852, and resulted 
in the choice of the following officers : Jeremiah Griswold, 
J. H. Whipple, C. Skinner, C. R. Totman, W. Benton, 
trustees; William Merriam, Samuel Harmon, Samuel 
Greene, assessors; 5Iason Curtiss, clerk; Nelson Greene, 
collector; S])encer Woodward, treasurer ; Alonzo Maxon, 
Seelye Hungerford, Perley D. Stone, Ji re-war Jens ; and 
Samuel B. Bliss, pound-master. Since 1852 the following 
have been trustees and clerks of the village, — the last named 
in each year being the clerk : 

1853.— Thomas P. Saunders, J. H. Whipple, Justus Efldy, William 
Grenell, Julius K. Biirllctt. and Xclson Greene. 

1854. — Calvin Skinner, Saiuuel M. Bond, William A. Gilbert, C. • 
E. Totman, E. S. .'Salisbury, and Ilart (Jrencll. 

1855.— Justus Kddy, Jeremiah Griswold, William Greuell, S. J. 
Mcndell, S. M. Bond, and Graham G. (ircnell. 

1S56. — William M. Johnson, David Smith, E. Y. Morton, U. Gren- 
ell, William II. Wheeler, and William 1). Fo.x. 

J857.— J. C. Cooper, Norman Wood, R. P. White, AV. }I. Wheeler, 
R. 0. Clark, and G. G. Grenell. 

1858.— Calvin Skinner, 0. N. Smith, Spencer Woodward, E. Y. 
Morton, S. J. Mendell, and G. G. Grenell. 

1850.— G. W. Bond, Asa Lvous, 0. X. Smith, C. M. Totman, E. S. 
Salisbury, and William D. Fox. 

I860.— William A. Gilbert, E. Y. Morton, Nelson Greene, S. M. 
Bond, Seelye Hungerford, and A. J. Lovelec. 

ISCl.— W. A. Gilbert, A. Kcllojjg. N. M. Wardwell, Seelye Hunger- 
ford, G. W. Grant, and G. B. H. Whipple. 

1862.— T. P. Saunders, G. W. Bond, 0. N. Smith, A. Kellogg, J. 
H. Donne, and (!. B. R. Whipple. 

ISC'}.— T. P. Saunders, A. Kellogg, George Frasier, T. C. Chitten- 
den, U. F. Overton, and A. D. Ripley. 

1801.- H. F. Overton, T. C. Chittenden, G. W. Bond, A. Kellogg, 
George Frasier, and G. B. R. Whipple. 

1885. — R. 11. Huntington, Philip Sterne. William H, Witliington, 

A. J. Lovelec, G. G. Wileo.x, and G. B. R. Whipple. 

1860). — Norman Wood, J. A. C. Kellogg, H. F. Edmonds, George 

B. Nolton, W. II. Wheeler, and 0. B. R. Whipple. 

1867.-11. F. Overton, O. G. Wileo.\, T. C. Chittenden, A. Kellogg, 
S. N. Bond, and 0. B. R. Whipple. 

1868.— J. M. Cleveland, R. E. Smiley, 11. R. Phillips, Nathan 
Vickery, J. C. Kellogg, and T. C. Chittenden. 

],S6».— J. M. Cleveland, W. A. Gilbert, S. N. Bond, II. R. Phillips, 
A. Kellogg, and J. A. C. Kellogg. 

187ft.— J. M. Cleveland, W. A. Gilbert, C. K. Stone, 0. N. Smith, 
A. Kellogg, and T. T. Carter. 



1871.— W. A. Gilbert, A. W. Ingraham, D. B. Lookwood, 0. N. 
Smith, H. R. Phillips, and Ilart Grenell. 

1872.- Norman Wood, J. M. Cleveland, D. B. Lockwood, W. E. 
Overton, S. II. Pitcher, and Hart Grenell. 

1873.— Norman Wood, W. H. Wheeler, S. U. Pitcher, Hart Grenell, 
A. B. Uuson, and T. T. Carter. 

1874.— Hart Grenell, A. Kellogg, H. 0. Kenyon, A. B. Gilbert, 
George Frasier, and B. Ingraham. 

1875.— J. M. Cleveland, W. H. Withington, N. M. Wardwell, 
George Frasier, Frank W. Estes, and S. P. Armsbury. 

1876.— J. M. Cleveland, N. M. Wardwell, S. H. Pitcher, T. P. 
Saunders, A. B. Huson, and S. P. Armsbury. 

1877. — J. L. Greene, A. B. Gilbert, Asa Lyons, D. B. Lockwood, 
L. G. Fish, and L. M. Ripley. 

On May 27, 1852, the village was divided into five wards, 
and a code of by-laws adopted. These laws have been fre- 
quently revised, to meet the changes brought on by the 
growth of the place. The village was also divided into 
three fire-wards, and rules adopted to insure its safety from 
tire. April 23, 1852, an appropriation of $()50 was voted 
to purchase a fire-engine and its necessary apparatus. A 
short time after, a Button machine was purchased, and on 
May 24, 1853, the "Tempest Fire-Comj)any" was formed, 
with 44 men. The organization has been preserved to the 
present. Lester Fish is foreman, and T. C. Chittenden is 
chief engineer. In 1853 two reservoirs, of 500 barrels ca- 
pacity each, were constructed in the northern and the south- 
ern parts of the village. The following year a brick build- 
ing on the south side of Sandy creek was purchased for an 
engine-house and lock-up, or village jail. This is the only 
building controlled by the corporation. 

A fire-comjiaiiy was formed in Adams about 1836, and 
a small cr.ink-engine pureha.sed by voluntary subscriptions. 
These provisions against the destructive eleuient have ma- 
terially lessened the damage cau.sed by the several fires 
which visited the place in 1860 and 18GG. On the night 
of Dec. 15 of the first-named period, Webster Bros.' store, 
in the middle of the row of buildings on the west side of 
5Iain street, was burglarized and set on fire, presumably to 
destroy the evidence of the crime. A strong wind, amount- 
ing almost to a gale, prevailed at the time, and before the 
progress of the flames could be stayed the entire row was 
consumed. Among the buildings destroyed were Saunders 
& Holman's machine works. Carter's block. Skinner's block, 
Rosa's store, and Doxtater's corner store. David Mitchell 
was apprehended for the crime, and, u)ion trial, was sen- 
tenced to the penitentiary for life. Equally destructive was 
the fire which desolated the east side of the street in April, 
1866. All the buildings, from the mill, north, to the cor- 
ner, including the old Whijiple block, a good two-story 
brick, erected in 1845, as well as the old Whitney House, 
a stone structure on the northwest corner, were destroyed. 
Instead of retarding the growth and prosperity of the vil- 
lage, those fires purged the place of a poor class of build- 
ings, and caused the erection of the spleiulid business liouses 
now lining the jiriiicipal business street. 

Among the most active and enterprising builders and 
business men of the village is T. P. Saunders. It was 
owing to his energy and foresight that the first public hall 
was erected, in 1851, before the future of the place was 
assured. It was a large frame structure, with a hall 45 by 
75 feet in the fourth story. This building, in common 



CD 












life--- 





.-fcf^ 



TOWN f 



. j!^S.*t.u»J^^ . V. . 



»f 




r>i/?M V(£w XNO Residcncc or J. L 




'OENCE. 



^_ .*t-. -<r-:N_^-,.v 



-'■ -^^ 




^£ENE, ESQ., AoAMsjErmRsoN Co. N. Y 





A . D STA.ULE.Y. 



Mf^s.AD Stanlvt. 




^ -■^■r^-i^tf-,.^-^ ■ 



RES or A.D.STANLiY, Adams. JcrrcHsou Co. H. Y. 



HISTOKY OF JEFFEESON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



253 



with his large factory, in the same locality, and many 
others, was destroyed by fire. Nothing daunted, Mr. Sauu- 
der.s began at once to biiilJ the large brick block which 
now occupies the site of the old factory. Other buildinL;s 
followed, until almost the entire west side of 3Iaiii street 
was reconstructed by him. In 18GC he began his largest 
and nuKst noteworthy enterprise, — the building of the 
"Cooper House Block," on the corner formerly occupied 
by Doxtater's store. This is an imposing three-story 
edifice, 52 by 1-18 feet, with a basement. The lower por- 
tion is fitted up for a first-class hotel, with elegant parlors, 
dining-rooms, and offices. A portion of the upper floor, 52 
by DO feet, was prepared for a public hall, with the usual 
appointments of such places, and a seating capacity for 
1000 pcrson.s. On the 1st of January, 1867, the hotel 
was formally opened by a public meeting, when the ladies 
of tlie village bestowed Mr. Saunders' name upon the hall, 
in honor of the builder. 

On the opposite side of this building is the Whitney 
Block, now Huson House, erected in the most substantial 
manner, 40 by 00. feet, three stories high, and admirably 
arranged for hotel purposes.' On the east side of the street 
is the large llungerford and Bond Block, fitted up for 
stores and oSices. " Jackson Hall," in the Mendell Block, 
erected in 1854 by Sidney J. Mendell, deserves mention in 
this connection. The building is a large frame, and was 
designed for stores and offices. The hall was commodiou.«;, 
and was used for public meetings until Saunders' was com- 
pleted. The location of the building, being away from the 
business centre, has prevented its use for its intended pur- 
pose, and it is at present occupied as a carriage-factory. 

THE M.VNOFACTURINO INTERESTS 

of the village date from 1800. That year David Smith 
built and got in operation a saw-mill near where the pres- 
ent mill stands. It did a great deal of work, yet it was 
not able to sui)ply the demand for hunber, and even the 
slabs were u.sed in building. From this circumstance the 
village was sometimes called "Slab City." A larger mill 
replaced the first one, which has long since been destroyed. 
In the western part of the village there is a good saw-mill, 
owned by Saunders & Wright. 

In 1802, DaVid Smith got in operation a small grist- 
mill, near his saw-mill, that superseded the stump-mortars 
of the early settlers, and relieved them from the necessity 
of making tedious journeys to Coffeeu's mill, in Butland, 
or voyages in open boats from the mouth of Sandy creek 
to Kingston. The mills had a wide reputation, and their 
owner's name was for many years synonymous with the 
name of the village. About 1827 the old mill was super- 
seded by the present "Adams Jlills," built by David 
Smith's son, Willard. It is a frame, 50 by 72 feet, three 
stories, and basement. The old-fashioned water-wheels 
have been replaced by the nioderu turbine, and ordinarily 
there is enough water to furnish power for tiie four run of 
stones with which the mill is supplied, and which give it a 
grinding capacity of 500 bushels per day. The property 
has been owued and operated a number of years by Frasier 
& Pitcher. 

Tanneries were built at an early day, Seth Gaylord having 



one soon after his settlement, in 1806. A portion of the 
buildings were afterwards transformed into -a brewery, by 
Samson Jackworth, and later into a malt-house, by A. Kel- 
logg, for which purpose it is yet used. William Doxtater 
had a tannery on the site occupied by Ripley's shoe-store, 
which was discontinued in 1832. 

The "Jefferson Tannery," erected in 1831, on the site 
formerly occupied by the distillery of Hale, Hart & Wil- 
liams, by Wright, Grenell & Co., has been conducted ever 
since. In 1847, J. S. Lewis became the proprietor, and for 
several years carried on the business on a large scale. At 
present he does custom-work principally. 

In the lower part of the village John F. Weaver built a 
tannery in 1850, using some of the old building erected 
for the mill. This he aud his son have carried on since, 
using 27 vats, and manufacturing 1000 sides annually. A 
specialty is made of finishing leather. Among the workers 
in leather at an early day were Isaiah M. Cole and Jeremiah 
Griswold, harness-makers, and Chauncy Smith and Edward 
Willard, shoemakers. 

A hoe- and fork-factory was built in 185G, by a stock 
company, which soon sold out to T. P. Saunders and David 
O. Holniau. They turned it into a general machine-shop, 
and it was operatetl a.s such until destroyed by fire. New 
shops were afterwards built in the lower part of the village, 
near the saw-mill, and water-power used. Work was carried 
on in an extensive way, employment being given to 20 
hands. For the past few years the shops have lain idle. 
Saunders & Wright are the proprietors. 

Among the early workers in wood and iron were Ward 
Fox, blacksmith, and Joseph D. Smith, wagon-maker. The 
Niblock, Philips and Mariott carriage-works were estab- 
lished in 18G4. Two buildings are occupied, and six men 
are employed in producing general carriage-work and farm- 
wagons. The old Mendell block was changed into a car- 
riage manufacturing establishment in 1874, by E. T. Lit- 
tlefield. Farm-wagons and all kinds of running-gear are 
also produced. Hands employed, ten. 

Wheeler's Planing-Mill and Sash- and Blind-Factory, an 
illustration of which appears in this work, was established 
in 1800, by W. H. Wheeler. A dam across Sandy creek 
supplies power for the different shops, giving employment 
to ten men. Mr. Wheeler is also a lumber-dealer, builder, 
and contractor, and many of the buildings of the place 
have been designed and erected under his supervision. 

Brown's Furniture-Factory was established by Perley D. 
Stone and Samuel Bond in 1817. The trade was carried 
on by these parties forty-four years, and they were succeeded 
by Overton Bros. The present factory is on Sandy creek, 
and is operated by wat«;r-power. J. S. Brown, proprietor. 

There were, also, pot- and pearl-asheries, distilleries, — by 
E. Morton, Hale, Hart & Williams, — and carding-mills, 
at an early day, and, later, a boot- and shoe-last factory, a 
candle-factory, a woolen-factory, aud other small factories 
which have been discontinued. 

A large malt-house of brick, 80 by 240 feet, with slate 
roof, was erected at the depot, in 1S55, by Rufus P. White. 
Its capacity is 80,000 bushels, and there are two drying- 
kilns. In June, 1877, Mr. White sold his interest to W. 
11. Waite and Henry 0. Kenyon, who are now conducting it. 



254 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



The first in Adams to engage in mercantile pursuits was 
Jesse Hale. He brought a small stock of goods with 
him from Oneida county when he came to the county in 
18(14, and had for several 3'cars the only store in the place. 
He died in 1808, leaving a son, — Erastus, — who is yet a 
citizen of the village. In 1806, Hale & Hart opened 
another store, which was conducted by them until 1809, 
when the firm became Hale, Hart & Williams, and as such 
they carried on a large trade, operated a distillery, and fur- 
nished supplies for the army in 1812. In 1815 there was 
a di.ssulution of the firm, and Hart took the goods to a new 
store on the north side of the creek, the business up to that 
lime having been done on the .south side. He retired from 
trade in 1825. In 1811, H. Brown began business, but 
sold out in a few years, and the principal trade was then 
carried on by M. V. V. Rosa. For more than thirty years 
he was a successful merchant, and retired with a competency, 
removing to Watertown in 1850. John H. Whipple began 
trade in 1820, and continued until 1859. About the same 
time Frederick Harter opened a store, remaining twenty 
years. In 1828, Erastus Hale embarked in trade, being a 
successful merchant many years. William Doxtater & Son 
were in trade many years, retiring in 1848. About this 
time Whipple, Eddy & Johnson opened a store, which they 
conducted several years. S. N. Bond engaged in business 
in 1845, and has continued in trade ever since, either alone 
or in partnership. Some of the leading firms since 1845 
were Bond & Co., Angel & Chittenden, H. Miller, Stearnes 
& Carter, Salisbury & Bond, and Waite & Co. 

In 1860, A. P. Redway began the book trade at Adams, 
and was in 18C2 succeeded by D. A. Dwight, who associ- 
ated Justus Eddy with him the following year. They 
have been in trade ever since as Dwight & Edd_y. Besides 
the firms already mentioned as being in trade at present, the 
following are some of the principal busincs.s houses: Dry 
goods, Hungerford & Arms, D. E. Taylor; clothing, Love- 
lee & Kilby, E. B. Cooper, E. S. Sali.sbury ; hardware, 
Thompson & Little, John Wait & Son ; drugs, Withington 
& Kneeland, Fox & Ingraham, Lyman Buckley ; grocers, J. 
0. Brown, J. E. Cook, A. H. Coughlan, A. Oilman ; boots 
and shoes, R. Ripley & Son, Chandler & Lampson, B. F. 
Thayer; fancy goods and millinery. Miss L. J. Bullock and 
E. Bersie; jewelry, S. A. Barney, R. F. Steele ; harness, M. 
L. Hodge, Loren Ripley ; photographere, G. P. Heusted, 
Silas Arm.sbury ; flour and feed and coal dealer, C. K. 
Stone ; dentists, M. D. Manville, R. T. Kirkland ; express 
agent, R. J. Traver ; liverymen, Lockwood & Huson, C. H. 
Andrus, C. M. Totman. There are also 2 paint-shops, 2 
meat-markets, 1 bakery, 5 blacksmith-shops, 3 cooper-shops, 
1 gunsmith-shop, and 3 insurance agencies. 

THE UOTELS 

of Adams deserve a prominent place in its history. Early 
an important point on one of the principal thoroughfares 
from the interior to the border, numerous public-houses 
were kept along the State road and at Adams. At this 
point Abel Hart was the first to open an inn, in a frame 
house on the site of the " Huson House." This site has 
been used almost continuously for hotel purposes since 1 803. 
The present is the fourth structure built for a hotel, and 



was erected by Wm. Whitney in 1867, upon the destruc- 
tion of his stone building. It is well arranged, has 30 
rooms, and is finely kept by A. B. Huson, who became the 
proprieter in 1876. Among the other landlords were Ben- 
ton, Whitney, and Dayly. South of Sandy creek was a 
noted hotel stand, where " Dad" Williams kept a well-known 
tavern many y^cars until his removal to the west about 1830. 
John Burch, Waldson, and Ranney were among the pio- 
neers who dispensed good cheer in the village. In later 
years the last-named hotel was best known as the " Lock- 
wood House." Its use for this purpose has been discon- 
tinued. In 1867, N. Gaylord opened the large hotel widely 
known as the " Cooper House." This has been kept sub- 
sequently by the Cooper Brothers, J. W. Bertram, and H. 
C. Case, into whose hands it passed in 1877. Under his 
management it is becoming quite popular. There are 40 
rooms, and the appointments are first-class. 

THE BANKING INTERESTS 

of the village are intimately connected with its growth and 
trade, and have aided largely in giving Adams its present 
business character. 

The "Jefferson County Bank" was located at Adams 
June 20, 1817, as a compromise between Watertown and 
Brownville, both a.spirants for the location. A fine, sub- 
stantial brick house was erected for its use, and it had, 
for a short time, a very flourishing existence. It was re- 
moved to Watertown in 1824, and its .subsequent hi.story 
will be detailed in that connection. The bank building has 
been converted into a dwelling, at present occupied by P. 
C. Maxon. 

The " First National Bank of Adams" was established 
Aug. 27, 1863, with a capital of 875,000, and S. D. Hunger- 
ford, president, and R. H. Huntington, ca.shier. Its oflliee 
was in the Hungerford bank building, and it was, in some 
respects, tributary to that institution. On March 17, 
1873, it was merged into the Deposit National Bank of 
New York. 

The " Adams Bank" was not one of issue, but was, 
more properly, a broker's office. It was opened, in 1872, 
in the Whitney Block, by Gilbert & Babcock, and con- 
ducted by them until their interests wore purchased by 
Hungerford and Huntington and transferred to their own 
bank, previously established. 

The " Hungerford National Bank," which is the only 
bank in the place, was established, in 1845, as the " Hun- 
gerford Bank," Solon D. Hungerford sole owner, with 
850,000 capital. September 1, 1853, it was changed to a 
banking association, with the same name, and the capital 
increa.sed to SI 25.000. The first board of directors were: 
Solon D. Hungerford, Jeremiah Griswold, Philander 
Smith, M. R. Patrick, N. M. Wardwell, George Gates, 
Almanzo Braddon, Roswell Kinney, and Samuel Ward- 
well. In 1865 it was changed to a national bank, with 
the capital remaining at 8125,000. The present officei-s 
are S. D. Hungerfnrd, president; G. W. Bond, cashier. 
The last-elected board of directors (January, 1877) are: 
Solon D. Hungerford, Hart Grenell, S. D. Kimlmll, A. M. 
Wardwell, Luther Haven, G. W. Bond, R. II. Hunting- 
ton, J. A. Lawyer, and Abram Sheldon. The bank build- 




THOS. f? Off E£N£ 




Resioehce of MRS. THOf R. GREENE ,Aoams Cent i^jErrnR sou Co.,N. Y. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



255 



ing is a substantial, detached two-story brick structure, 
erected in 1865, and is owned by the bank. The vaults 
and safes arc of the best known construction and material, 
with time-locks and all modern inipruvemcnts for security 
against burglarious assault. 

THE POST-OFFICE 

at Adams was ostablished about 1806. That year a mail- 
route was established from Rome, through Redtield via 
Adams, to Sacket's Harbor. April 28, 1810, a new route 
was established from TItica, via Cumden and Adams, to 
Brownvillc; and on March 3, 1825, from Watertown, tiia 
Adams, to Sandy Creek. The mail service at present is by 
railroad to points north and south, and by stages to Lor- 
raine, Belleville, and Henderson. A man by the name of 
Perry was one of the first postmasters. He was succeeded 
by Lyman IMunson. Among others who held the office 
were George Andrus, T. C. Chittenden, Jason Marsh, Cal- 
vin Skinner, Zelotes Barney, IMason Curti.ss, T. P. Saun- 
ders, J. D. Smith, E. S. Salisbury, Nelson Green, T. C. 
Chittenden, and T. T. Carter, the present incumbent. 

A postal money -order office was established in 1872. 
The amount of the orders drawn for the year ending Oct. 
1, 1877, was $7G97 ; paid, 86270; number of registered 
letters received, 200 ; sent, 324 ; stan)ps and stamped 
envelopes sold, $2300. Letters received daily, 250 ; sent, 
260. Papers distributed weekly, 1200. This last item 
does not include papers mailed in bags. 

THE rilESS OF ADAMS. 

The Censor, an Auti-JIasonie sheet, by Theron Par.sons, 
was the first paper published at Adams. Its first issue 
bore date July 1, 1828, and its publication, at this place, 
w;»s continued until June 13, 1829, when it was removed 
to Watertown. Owing to its bitter hostility to M:\sonry, 
its enemies named it The Cancer, which soon caused the 
title to be changed to The Anti-Masonic Sun. 

The Jefferson Count!/ Democrat was the next candidate 
for public favor, appearing June 27, 184-1, under the con- 
trol of J. C. Hatch, who throe years after .sold to E. J. 
Clark. It was a four-page, 24-coluniii sheet, 24 by 36 
inches in size. In June, 1855, Clark sold his interest in 
the paper to Justus Eddy, who changed the name to the 
Jefferson Coitntj/ iVcics, independent in politics. In 1863, 
D. A. Dwight was associated with Eddy, and the paper 
continued by them until June, 1865, when it passed into 
the hands of George C. Bragdon, who changed the name 
to 77ie Adams Visitor. In the course of a year the office 
was destroyed by fire, and the publication of the paper 
was assumed by Do Long & Babcock, May 21, 1868. 
IM.irch 11, 1869, S. P. Pratt purchased Babcock's interest; 
and on the 15th of April, 1869, the form of the paper was 
changed to eight pages, and the name to Northern Temper- 
ance Journal, becoming the organ of the Good Templars. 
It was continued as such until Oct. 20, 1871, when Pratt 
& De Long changed the name to the Jefferson County 
Journal, and made it an independent sheet. March 30, 
1871, William J. Allen purchased Pratt's interest, and 
four months later, S. W. Hatch, De Long's, the new firm 
being Hatch & Allen. In the hands of these gentlemen 



the Journal has become an ably-conducted, well-patronized 
sheet, having 3400 bona fide subscribers, which is a larger 
circulation than that of any other village paper in the State. 
The office is well supplied with presses, operat*^d by steam- 
power. 

Tlie Adams Herald was founded March 31, 1876, by 
H. W. Gunther & Co., with C. W. Jennings as a.ssociate 
editor. It was a four-page, 2S-column sheet, local in its 
purpose, and intended as an advocate of the license system. 
It was discontinued at the end of its first year, the presses, 
tj'pe, etc., being incorporated with the Journal. 

Several amateur and ephemeral papers, as well as jour- 
nals, devoted to the interests of Hungerford Collegiate 
Institute, have also been published. The most noted of 
the latter class was the Institute Record, which met with 
considerable favor. 

THE LEARNED PROFESSIONS 

had representatives in the village at an early day, Dr. Eli 
Eastman being probably the first to settle as a physician. 
Prior to his coming, when medical attendance was re(|uired, 
the settlers were obliged to go twenty-five miles, through 
unbroken wilds, to what is now western Oneida county, 
using, in winter, snow-shoes to effect the journey. Dr. 
Eastman was greatly esteemed for his qualities as a physi- 
cian and a citizen, and resided in town until his death, 
September 6, 1844. Dr. Joshua Bealls came about 1806, 
and remained in practice a number of years. John Spaf- 
ford was located in the village, as a very successful physi- 
cian, from 1811 to his death, in 1828. Dr. Samuel J. 
Gaines was here from 1823 to 1831, and was accounted a 
good practitioner. Walter Webb came to Adams at the 
instance of Dr. Spaffi)rd, whose practice he assumed on the 
lattcr's death, and was located here until 1872, when he 
removed to Brooklyn. Dr. Wetmore was contemporary 
with Dr. Webb, and removed to the west in 1870. A Dr. 
Brownell came to the village in 1845, remaining until 1866. 
Dr. Bemis commenced his practice in 1854, and continued 
until 1875, when he retired. Dr. Paletiah Dwight was a 
practicing physician for fifty years in Henderson. In 1875 
he removed to Adams, where he at present resides. E. R. 
Maxson, LL.D., was also in practice in the village. Dr. A. 
P. Hale, a botanical, has been here since 1835; his son, 
A. Kent Halo, is in practice as an eclectic, having located 
in 1875. The same year M. W. Gallup located as a 
homwopathist, and now practices that system. Dr. Waldo, 
in 1863, was the first of that school to locate at Adams, 
remaining but a few years. Dr. Parley II. Jolinson, a 
regular, has practiced since 1865 ; and Dr. J. Pierce, of the 
same school, succeeded Dr. Bemis, being at present in prac- 
tice. 

The Icgtd profession of Adams has attained more than a 
local reputation. Lyman Munson came as the first repre- 
sentative, opening an office in Benton's tavern in 1804. 
Micah Sterling followed in 1806; removed to Watortown. 
Benjamin Wright opened an office in 1808, and was soon 
after elected surrogate. This office beheld 17 years. Among 
the students of Judge Wright was Charles G. Finney, in 
1821, who attained a national reputation as an evangelist 
and afterwards became president of the Oberlin College. 



256 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



David Wardwell came about 1812, and soon after associated 
Joseph P. Rossiter with him, but neither remained very 
long. Tiionias C. CliittenJen became an attorney at this 
place in 1812 ; was elected to Congress in 1838, appointed 
judge in 1840, and removed to Watertown in 1844:. He, 
also, had a law student, Orson Parker, who became widely 
known as an evangelist, changing from law to theology in 
1826. Calvin Skinner opened an office about 1824 ; he 
afterwards became county judge. Besides these mentioned. 
Perry, Channing, Burnham, Jason Marsh, Phelps, and 
Butterfield were here at an early day. About 1814, Judge 
Wright horsewhipped T. C. Chittenden, which resulted in 
a case of assault and battery. The matter was finally re- 
ferred to arbitration, and was settled by Wright's paying — 
for the liquor. Another case, showing the perversity of 
mankind and the wisdom of the law, was brought before 
Justice Randall in 1870. It was an action to recover the 
value of two hens, alleged to have been stolen from F. by 
M. Esquire Randall's decision having been unsatisfactory 
to the parties, an appeal was taken to the circuit court, 
where it was decided in favor of the plaintiff. The hens 
cost the parties $400. 

The bar of Adams has at present the following attorneys : 
T. P. Saunders, P. C. INIa.xon, T. C. Chittenden, A. J. 
Brown, E. F. Ramsdell, I. L. Hunt, Jr., G. B. R. Whip- 
ple, T. H. Breen, W. H. H. Taylor, and C. W. Hewitt. 

SOCIETIES AND ORDERS. 

" Rising Sun Lodge, No. 124, F. & A. M.," was organ- 
ized, probably in 1806, with Robert ^lerrick as the first 
W. M. Regular meetings were held until the anti-JIasonic 
times of 1827, when the lodge was suspended. In March, 
1851, it was resuscitated with the same name, the number 
being changed to 234. The officers and charter members 
were B. Wright, W. M. ; J. C. Cooper, S. W. ; J. Gris- 
wold, J. W. ; Dennis Waite, Alnianson Tibbetts, Herman 
Strong, J. H. Whipple, Elijah Wright, and Titus Bassett, 
members. The present membership is more than 200. 
An elegant hall was formally dedicated in 1807. The 
principal officers are, D. W. White, W. M. ; T. T. Carter, 
S. W. ; D. E. Taylor, J. W. ; and F. J. Kneeland, Sec'y. 

"Meridian Chapter, No. 86, R. A. M.," was chartered 
Feb., 1824, with 31 members and Joseph Enos, H. P., 
and H. P. Pond, Sec'y. Succumbing to the excitement 
of 1827, its hist meeting was held March 5, 1828. 

A dispensation was granted February 26, 1867, to form 
a new Chapter at Adams, which is at present known as 
" Adams Chapter, No. 205, R. A. M." It was organized 
with 30 members, and the following officers: T. C. Chit- 
tenden, H. P. ; C. K. Stearne, E. K. ; H. C. Brodic, E. S. 
The Chapter has at present 85 members, officered by R. H. 
lliiutington, II. P.; A. B. Watkins, E. K. ; and John 
Ross, E. S. 

Among the members who have become distinguished in 
State and National councils are B. B. Babcock, at present 
the Eminent Cdmmaiuler of the Grand Coraniandery of 
Ohio; and R. II. Huntington, tlie Grand Scribe of the 
Grand Chapter of New York. 

" Wenoiia Lodge, No. 323, I. 0. of 0. F.," was chartered 
Oct. 18. 1847, with C. W. Rogers, P. G. ; H. B. Whipple, 



N. G. ; S. D. Hungerford, Y. G. It had a very prosperou.s 
career fur about twenty years, when its meetings were dis- 
continued. There were at that time only about 40 mem- 
bers, a great deal of the interest having centered in Collins 
Lodge, in the adjoining town. 

'■ Oriental Encampment, No. 75, I. 0. of 0. F.," was 
formed by the following members withdrawing from Monte- 
zuma Encampment, at Watertown : J. D. Houghton, Alex. 
Dickinson, S. D. Hungerford, G. G. Grenell, J. S. Dodge, 
Justus Eddy, G. S. Dodge. This, too, was long since dis- 
continued. 

The Good Templars' Lodge, No. 50, was instituted during 
the early .spring of 1866 by State Deputy A. L. Smallcy. 
The charter members were D. E. Gardner, D. A. Dwight, 
Mrs. Dr. Walter Webb, Carrie Z. Webb, Jlrs. B. Randall, 
Anna Bosworth, Anna Penne}', James Penney, L. M. Cowles, 
0. N. Bosworth, Geo. Estabrook, B. Randall, Milo Ran- 
dall, L. R. Webber, R. F. Steele, and others. 

The lodge occupied Odd-Fellows' Hall for their meetings. 

The first officers were: W. C. T., D. E. Gardner; iv. 
V. T., Mrs. B. Randall; W. S., D. A. Dwight; AY. A.S., 
Carrie Z. Webb ; W\ T., Milo Randall ; W. F. S., James 
Penney; W. Chaplain, L. R. Webber; W. M., Geo. Esta- 
brook; W. D. M., Anna Penney; Lodge Deputy, D. A. 
Dwight. 

This lodge continued in existence for over six years, 
during which time much good was done in the cause of 
temperance. Every clergyman, and most of the leading 
men and women of the place, became members ; about 300 
in all. 

Although the lodge went down, yet a strong temperance 
sentiment remained in the community, which manifested 
itself in the spring of 1875, when, under the action of the 
Local Option Law, the town was carried for " No License." 
Numerous meetings were held in each school-house and 
church in the town, at which stirring appeals were made 
by all the clergymen and many of the laymen of tiie town. 
Strong effijrts were made by the friends of license by the 
use of influence and monc}' to prevent this desirable object. 
The town has been carried for " No License" each year 
since, this year — 1877 — by treble the majority of the first 
year. At first the law was attempted to be evaded, and, 
finally, defied, but a few prosecutions brought the rum- 
sellers to their senses, so that the law is now as operative 
as any law against crime in the town. 

Another powerful temperance revival commenced during 
the summer and fall of 1877, which reached its climax in 
a .series of meetings commenced on the 23d of September 
by Mr. J. R. McKelvey, which continued for one week, as 
the result of which 321 took the iron-chid pMye to abstain 
from everything that can intoxicate, as a beverage, in- 
cluding malt lif[uors, wine, and cider. As is the case in 
all such revivals, some have fallen awaj*; yet some who are 
the most benefited have firmly kept their pledge, and, as a 
result, very much good has been done. 

THE ADAMS LIBRARY 

was formed April 12, 1831, with Cyrus Eddy, William 
Chittenden, Walter Webb, Forester Dexter, and Wells 
Benton, trustees. Wells Benton was appointed librarian. 




MILL PROPEHTY or T, P. SAUNDERS, at RionELO, Oswco CoJ: 



•;.Y 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



257 



The society had accumulated about GOO volumes of standard 
books, and the library was successfully maintained about 
fifteen years, when tlic interest in the project had so much 
diminished that the annual dues of tlie members remained 
unpaid, and the property passed into the hands of private 
parties. 

THE ADAMS CORNET BAND 

was organized July, 1877, with sixteen members, and L. 
A. Ilawes leader. It is composed largely of the members 
of the old " Huogerford Collegiate Institute Band," which 
was organized in 1870, by C. 11. Ilorth, leader. It is 
reckoned a good band. 

The " Rural Cemetery Association" was formed under 
the general act, January 17, 1818, by thirty-three citizens, 
who elected Samuel Bond, Samuel Niblock, Jesse Wright, 
Nathan Saunders, Heman Grenell, Samuel Harmon, Calvin 
Wright, Peter Do.xtater, and Wells Benton trustees, and Peter 
Doxtater president. An acre of ground, which had been given 
for burial purposes by David Smith, in the early settlement of 
the place, was secured, and additions made to its area until it 
includes 4 J acres. The location is fine, and has been beauti- 
fully improved by the association by laying off walks, grad- 
ing the ground, and the erection, in 1850, of a handsome 
receiving vault. The present trustees are, A. B. Gilbert, W. 
H. Wheeler, N. Green, Joseph L. Greene, S. II. Pitcher, 
J. A. Washburne, W. W. Wright, Era.stus Hale, Henry C. 
Jones. President, Nelson Green ; Secretary, W. H. Wheeler. 

" Elmwood Cemetery" is governed by an association 
bearing its name, formed in 18G7. That year 18i acres 
of ground west of the railroad were secured for a burying- 
ground, and surveyed and platted by J. H. Curtis, of Bo.s- 
ton. The design is very elaborate, yet remarkable for its 
chaste beauty, including natural groves, terraces, lawns, se- 
questered walks, and fountains throwing streams eighteen 
feet high. Approaching the cemetery is a wide avenue, 
lined with elms ; and this noble tree has been liberally 
planted throughout the grounds, in appropriate keeping 
with the name of the cemetery. Seldom has Nature done 
so much for a spot consecrated to the dead, and, aided by 
the adorning hand of the artist, this has become one of the 
finest cemeteries in the county. 

The association was reorganized April 26, 187G, with 
James M. Cleveland, Rufus P. White, Austin W. Ingra- 
ham, George W. Bond, Henry 0. Kenyon, Mark D. Man- 
ville, Austin W. Fisher, Solon D. Hungorford, William E. 
Overton, and Philip Stearnes trust<;es. President, James 
W. Cleveland ; Secretary, N. M. Wardwell ; and Treasurer, 
R. H. Huntington. 

ADAMS PUBLIC SCHOOL. 

As early as 1802 a school was taught at Smith's Mills, 
which was attended by pupils living several miles around 
the place. A fair-sized two-story frame house was erected 
at an early day, and was used for school purposes until the 
wing of the present edifice was built. The old house was 
removed and transformctl into a furniture-factory. In 187C 
the site of the school-house was changed to a point east of 
the institute, and the present commodious structure erected 
at a cost of S4000. There are four well-arranged rooms, 
accommodating 20(1 pupils. The attendance in 1S77 wits 
17 



180, and 39 weeks' school was taught by C. D. Larkins 
and three a-ssistants. The school is ungraded, but boai-s an 
excellent reputation for thoroughness in discipline and the 
branches taught. 

A select school was taught in the old bank building by 
M. C. Manning, who afterwards became a distinguished 
Baptist clergyman, which was attended by a large number 
of the present business men of the village. Subse<|uently, 
Jason Marsh, now a citizen of Rockford, 111., and others, 
had charge of the school. 

The •' Adams Seminary" was established about 1838, as 
the result of an effort to locate a female seminary at this 
place. Judge Thomas C. Chittenden was one of the prime 
movers of that project. A small academic building was 
erected jointly by individual enterprise and the Universal- 
ists, who stipulated for the right to hold meetings in it on 
the Sabbath. Miss Willard, of Troy, was secured to take 
charge of the school, and conducted it successfully for 
several years. Subsequently it was opened to both sexes, 
and Ira Mayhew, afterwards superintendent of schools in 
Michigan, assumed the principalship. He was .succeeded by 
Foster Montgomery, who shortly a.ssoeiated Prof Stevens 
with him, and the school remained under their control a 
number of yeai-s. After this the house was used for private 
schools, but has for many years been occupied as a session- 
room by the Presbyterian society. 

THE HUNGERFORD COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE.* 

This thriving institution of learning is located at Adams 
village, whose inhabitants early felt the need of better facili- 
ties for education than the common .schools afforded ; ac- 
cordingly efforts were made at different times to found an 
institution of learning of a higher grade ; but, owing to 
local je;ilousies and the powerful oppo.sition of the friends 
of the Black River Institute, loaited at Watertown, and 
Union Academy, at B;!llovillc, they were not successful. 
In the year 1852 an effort was made to establish a graded 
school, but it resulted in fiiilure. In the year 1859, Cap- 
tain Sidney J. Mendell, filled with great expectations of 
the future of the village, to be brought about by a mineral 
spring located in the west part of the village, commenced, 
near the railroad depot, tiie erection of a large three-story 
hotel. When this building was nearly completed, pecuniary 
reverses overtook him, and the building passed, by fore- 
closure, into the hands of Gen. Solon D. Ilungerford, who 
had been one of the most active in former efforts to afford 
better educational facilities to the village. He proceeded 
to finish the building. While waiting to make some dis- 
position of it, the thought occurred to him that the long- 
sought-for educational institute might now be secured. To 
will, with him, was to do ; and accordingly, on November 
1, ISG;], he i)laced in the hands of Justus Eddy, Esq., 
editor of the Jefferson Connty News, a proposition : In 
consideration of the sum of $10,000 to be raised by the 
citizens of Adams and vicinity-, he agreed to give to a 
board of trustees, to be afterwards named, a good and suf- 
ficient deed of the property known as the Mendell hotel, 
with the single reservation that if they should sell or 

« Bv II. F. Ovorlon. 



258 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



otherwise dispose of the property the avails sjioiikl be used 
ti) erect another building for an academy within one mile 
of liis residence. On receiving the proposition of Gen. 
Ilungerf ird, ^Ir. Eddy pulilishcd a call fiir a pidjlic meet- 
ing to be hi'ld on Nov. Ml), 1SG3, at the Presbyterian lee- 
turc-room, to take it into consideration. At that meeting 
it was resolved to accept the otfer of Gon. Uungerford. 
A committee of the following gentlemen was ajipointed to 
devise means to carry the resolution into eflFect : Justus 
Eddy, Rev. J. N. Ilobart, Rev. G. W. Mackie, Rev. J. C. 
Vandercook, Dr. L. B. Waldo, H. F. Overton, B. Randall, 
W. A. Gilbert, and Andrew Blaekstone. This committee 
delegated to a sub-committee, compo.scd of the following 
gentlemen, the work of jirepariiig a platform on which the 
different church interests could be harmonized : J. Eddy, 
A. J. Brown, H. F. Overton, D. A. Dwight, and A. W. 
Gilbert, who prepared the following platform, which was 
adopted by the executive committee as a basis on which to 
raise the needful amount : 

Ist. The bo.ird of trustees shall c()n.=ist of twenty-four member?. 

2(1. At Icist twelve of the j>rinci|m] donors shall nominate the first 
board of trustees. 

Not more than one-third of the trusttcs shall belong to any one 
religious society. 

This platform having been submitted to Gen. Hunger- 
ford, and approved by him, also another resolution, allow- 
ing the trustees to u.se the income from the endowment 
fund in any way they might deem for the best interests of 
the school, the committee then called a public meeting of 
all persons interested, at the Presbyterian lecture-room, at 
which meeting B. Randall, G. W. Maekie, and W. A. Gil- 
bert were appointed a committee to obtain subscriptions to 
the endowment of 810,000. These gentlemen, about Feb- 
ruary 20, reported that they had obtained in good and 
valid subscriptions the sura of SI 0,568. A committee was 
then appointed to appraise the improvements of the hotel, 
who reported them worth 813,500. A public meeting was 
then called on March 4, 1864, and it was resolved that 
application be made to the Regents of the University for a 
charter, under the name of " Hungerford Collegiate Insti- 
tute," and with the following gentlemen as its first board 
of trustees: Hon. Jo.seph Mullin, E. R. Mason, LL.D., 
Geo. Frasier, Asa M. Whitfbrd, Wm. M. Johnson, S. I). 
Hungerford, B. Randall, W. A. (jilliort, Geo. Cooper, 
Justus Eddy, Geo. W. Bond, Philander Smith, Willard 

, Rev. J. N. Hobart, Rev. G. W. Maekie, Rev. 

F. F. Jewell, Rufus P. White, A. J. Brown, T. P. Saun- 
ders, II. F. Overton, Samuel Harmon, Hon. E. S. Salis- 
bury, A. W. Ingraham. 

After the charter was obtained, the position of principal 
v/x-i given to Prof J. U. Houghton, a gentleman of large 
experience and high literary attainments, who had long 
been at the head of Union acailemy at Hellevillc, Jefferson 
County, New York, an institution which he had raised to 
the first rank for scholarship among the academics in the 
State. He accepted the position, and tlie trustees pro- 
ceeded to fit up the building for school purposes, after plans 
prepared by him. To do this money was necessary, which 
was obtained partly by anticipating the interest of the en- 
dowment and partly by sub.scription, of which General 



Hungerford gave as much as all the others combined. The 
changes necessary to fit the building for an academy, to- 
gether with seats, heating apparatus, etc.. cost about S4000. 
On September 8, 1864, the school went into operation, with 
the following corps of teachers : Principal, J. D. Houghton, 
A.M.; Preceptress, Miss Emma N. Beebee ; Con. and 
Higher English, Mr. and Mrs. D. E. Gardner; Music, 
Mrs. J. D. Houghton ; Primary Department, Miss Cornelia 
Clark. 

About this time a very valuable mineralogieal cabinet 
was presented to the institute by Mr. John G. Webb, now 
of Florida. This cabinet was nearly destroyed at the burn- 
ing of the school building, which took place some years 
later. During the second year Prof. Holbrook was asso- 
ciated with 3Ir. Houghton as vice-principal. During Mr. 
Houghton's administration the school w;\s noted for its 
thorough scholar-ship and excellent discipline. At this 
time military drill, under Colonel E. S. Salisbury and 
others, was maintained, and in the opinion of the teachers 
was of great help in keeping up the discipline of the school. 
On January 29, 1868, the building was consumed by fire. 
At that time it, with its contents, w;is in.sured for 814,000. 
About 813,400 was paid to the trustees by the insurance 
company. February 3, five days after the fire, a meeting 
of the tru.stees was held at Hungerford's National Bank, 
when it was resolved to erect another building imtuediately. 
At this meeting the question of change of site was intro- 
duced, and the site upon which the building now stasids 
was selected. General S. D. Hijngerford then said he 
wished to be allowed to give the land selected to the 
trustees, if it could be procured. This offer was accepted, 
with thanks. The work of building was soon after en- 
tered upon with great energy. The trustees had at their 
disposal about 816,000. They were authorized to expend 
§20,000 in the erection of a suitable building for an acad- 
emy and boarding-hall, tliat should accommodate at least 
as many students as the former building. About June 1 
work on the new building was begun. The plans were by 
J. D. Houghton and Mr. White, of Syracuse. The mason 
work was under the direction of Asa Lyons, of Adams. 
The carpenter work was done by Wm. II. Wheeler, with 
David Gaylord, both of Adams, as architect in charge. 
Under this energetic management, seconded by the strenu- 
ous efforts of the building comiuittco, the house was inclosed 
in the fall of 1868. 

The size of the building is 97 by 129 feet, four stories 
high, and is heated by steam and thoroughly ventilated. 
It was found that the building committee had gone beyond 
the authorized limit,— 820,000, — having expended $20,240 
on the outside of the building. Various plans were pro- 
posed for raising the necessiu-y funds for its completion, 
dmong others that of bonding the village corporation, and 
a law was passed by the legislature for that purpose, but 
Wiis vetoed by Governor Hoffman. A public meeting was 
then held in the unfinished building to take into considera- 
tion ways and means to rai.sc money to finish it, at which 
General Huiigerlord agreed to give 85000, provided the 
sum of 812,000 should be raised by other parties. This 
offer he afterwards modified by agreeing to give as mucli as 
all others up to the sum of 810,000. About 87000 were 




Res, or MISS LJ. BULLOCK , Adams Jefferson Co..Hy. 



■ ■'■■ y 



^ 










hfts.of A.J. G'KtliN,Ao>^MsCENTtfc,jErfEnsoNCo..N.Y. 



HISTORY OF JKFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



259 



secured by citizi'iis, nnd the work of fiiiisliiii;^ (lie UuilJiiij; 
was entered upon, and on Au;j;ust 24, ISTO, the coinpleti'd 
building was dedieated to the interests for wliich it iiad been 
erected. 

On the 28th tiie school was opened in the new buildinsr, 
witii the following corps of teachers: Albert B. Watkius, 
A.M., principal ; Orlo I?. Rhodes, A.M., vice-principal ; Mrs. 
H. N. Butterworth, preceptress; Mrs. L. 1}. Woodward, 
teacher common English ; Miss L. Chatfield,oil painting and 
drawing; Jlr. W. H. H.Taylor, commercial; Mr. Gustavo 
Gunthcr, music; Jlrs. H. R. Watkins, Spanish and Eng- 
lish. Messrs. Watkins and Rhodes still retain their re- 
spective positions, and have succeeded by their earnest 
efforts, seconded by an efficient body of teachers, in build- 
ing up a reputation for the school for thorough scholarship 
sewmd to none in the State. 

There are six courees of study: 1, chis.^ical ; 2, English ; 
3, college ])reparatory ; 4, scienti6e or engineering ; 5, com- 
mercial ; G, music. 

There are three literary societies connected with the school, 
— '• Kiiiisas/ceaii," " Ko/iniKil/irdii," and '' dt/isoj>lii(iii." 
The library contains 1421 carefully-selected volumes, and 
is always accessible to the students. A public reading- 
room contains tlio latest papei's and magazines upon the 
table, and open at all pnjper hours. The chemical and 
philosophical apparatus is lull and complete, leaving but 
little to be desired by those who are pursuing the study of 
the natural sciences. The Institute has al.so a first-class 
mineralogical cabinet, which was mainly the gift of Wm. 
Rosa, M.D., of Watertown. and J. G. Webb, formerly of 
the State Geological and Mineralogical Survey. 

The influence of the school is beginning to show itself 
in the increased interest in literary and scientific subjects, 
and the trustees confidently look forward to the time when 
it shall have secured such a hold on the affections of the 
community in which it is located that a liberal endowment 
shall be cheerfully provided for it. The present officers 
and faculty <if the Institute, as given in the tenth annual 
catalogue, are as follows : 

Board of Tnistees. — Gen. S. D. Hungerfurd, Ju.stus 
Eddy, Geo. W. Bond, Edwin R. Maxson, A.M., M.D., 
l.L.i)., Rufns P. White, Hon. A. J. Brown, Hon. Joseph 
Mullen, LL.D., Henry F. Overton, W. V. V. Rosa, M.D., 
A. W. Ingraham, S. N. Bond, James M. Cleveland, Philip 
Stcarne, Samuel Nibloek, Thomas C. Chittenden, Esq., 
Henry O Kenyon, Hart Grenell, Albert B. Watkins, 
Henry J. Brimmer, A. H. Fisher, W. E. Overton, A. H. 
Coughlan, I. L. Hunt, Jr., Esq., W. H. Withington. 
Oftcers.—Cn'U. S. D. Hungerford, President ; E. R. Max- 
son, A.M., M.D., LL.D., Vice-President; Albert B. Wat- 
kins, Secretary ; Ilart Grenell, Treasurer. 

Faciilh/.—A\\)crt B. Watkins, Orlo B. Rhodes, Princi- 
pals. Albert B. Watkins, A.M., Ph.D., Metaphysics and 
Literature; Orlo B. Rhodes, A.M., Greek and Latin; 
Charles L. Williams, Natural Sciences and Mathematics; 
Prof Herm. Haydn, Instrumental Music; Wm. Cheese- 
man, Commercial Department; R. N. Jack.son. Penman- 
ship; Miss F. M. Hastings. Precept re.>is, French and Paint- 
ing; Mrs. L. B. Woiulward, English Department ; Mi-s. A. 
1?. Watkins, Spanish and English ; Mrs. O. B. Rhodes, 



German ; Mrs. H. F. Nefflen, Elocution ; Miss Jennie M. 
Clarke, Telegraphing. Primary department, Mi-s. O. B. 
Rhodes, Principal ; Assistants, Miss L. J. Martin, fall and 
winter terms; Miss F. A. Kcegan, spring term. Librarian, 
Orlo B. Rhodes. 

TIIE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 

of Adams village was organized as the " First Congrega- 
tional church of Adams," by the Rev. Ebenezer Lazell, 
July, 1804, and consi.sted of the following six members: 
Joshua Reals, Jacob Kellogg, Abram Griswold, David 
Comstock, Betsey Griswold, and Asenath Cooper. Divine 
worship had been established on the Sabbath, in ISOl, at 
the house of Jacob Kellogg, and in 1802 the first sermon 
was preached by the Rev. Woodward, a missionary. From 
the time of the formation of the church services were con- 
ducted according to the ordinances of the Congregational 
church, until 1821. January 27, 1821, while the Rev. 
George W. Gale was ])astor, the Presbyterian form of gov- 
ernment was adopted, and has prevailed ever since. The 
membership increased gradually, and there was no notable 
addition to its numbers until the completion of the church 
in 1818. The following year there were forty added. 

The following is a li.st of the ministers, and, as nearly as 
may be, a correct statement of their time of service and of 
the additions to the church during their labors respectively : 

Rov. Eljcnczer Lazell, 1801, organized as above; length of timo 
unknown. 

Rev. Mr. Phelps, 1806, length of time unknown. AJditious, 3. 
Additions in 1807, 3. 

Rev. David Spear, 180S, nine months; additions, 21). 

Rev. Chauncey Cook, 1811, nearly four years; additions, 2a. In- 
stalled. 

Rev. Mr. Burt, 1810, three munihs; additions, 2. 

Rev. Mr. Pitrter, 1810, two years. 

Rev. Eno8 Bliss, 1818, six months; additions, 35. 

Rev. George \V. Gale. April, 181!) ; installed by the St. Lawrence 
Presbytery, October 2J, 1819. Resigned in 1823; additions, 120. 

Rev. John Sessions, 1824, over five years; additions, 80. Installed. 

Rev. I. A. Ilart, 1830, probably one ami a half years; additions, 
9.3. 

Rev. D. A. Clark, 1832, one year; additions, 2. Installed. 

Rev. I>e.\icr Clary, 1833, less than one year; additions during this 
and part of the succeeding year, 36. 

Rev. J. Myers, 18:!4, two years; additions, 8. 

Rev. C. Jones, 1830, about nine months : additions during this and 
the two succeeding years, 10. 

Rev. John II. Carle, 1839; length of time unknown; additions 
during this and the year following, 12. 

Rev. R. 11. Kirk, 1810, about four years ; additions, 01. Installed. 

Rev. F. J. Jackson, 1840, eighteen months; additions during this 
and the two successive years, 33, 

Rev. P.C. lleadley, 1849, four years : additions, 22. Installed. 

Rev. E. C. Priehetl, 1854, two years; additions, 7. Installed. 

Rev. H. L. l)o.\, 1857; additions, 80. 

Rev. G. W. Mackie, April, 1802, three years; additions, 62. 

Rev. E. Lord, August 1, 1865, five years; aclditions, 133. 

Rev. G. il. Smith, .'Vpril 1, 1871, terra of service, one year eleven 
months; additions, 16. 

Rev, G. B. Barnes, November 1, 1873, present incumbent; addi- 
tions, 57. 

The total number who have united with the church is 
about 800. The present membership is 219. 

During Mr. Gale's ministry, a general revival of religion 
occurred, and in 1822, G3 united with this church, among 
whom was Charles G. Finney, who has since acquired a 



2G0 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



national celebrity as an evangelist, and is now president 
of Oberlin College. He had previously been a law student, 
under Judge B. Wright, and evinced an ability and sagacity 
that would doubtless have made him eminent in that pro- 
fession. His attention is .said to have been turned to re- 
ligious subjects under the preaching of the Rev. Jedediah 
Burchard,* who has attained a distiiietion not less general 
as a revival preacher, and of whose labors wc shall have 
repeated occasions to mention in the following pages. The 
preaching of Mr. Finney has been remarkable for the 
boldness and originality of his logic, and the strengtli and 
clearness of his arguments, which seldom fail to secure the 
undivided attention of his audience, without tho.se extra- 
neous aids to excitement which, in the hands of some, 
have produced analogous results. His first ministerial 
labors were performed in Lorraine, and previous to his 
commencing his career as a revival preacher he was em- 
ployed at Evans' Mills and elsewhere as a stated supply.f 

At about the same time that Mr. Finney's attention was 
directed to religious matters, Orson Parkers mind was 
awakened in a like manner. He soon after professed con- 
version, and became one of the most powerful revivalists of 
his day, being in.strumental in leading thousands to Christ. 

While Dr. Headley was at Adams, he wrote some of the 
most important books which bear his name, in addition to 
his pastoral duties. 

THE FIRST CONGREGATIONAL SOCIETY 

of Adams was formed Aug. 28, 1805, with Jacob Kellogg, 
Eliphalet Adams, Elijah Fox, and Simeon Meacham, trus- 
tees. About 1818 they erected a church, 30 by 40 feet, 
which was used seven or eight years, when it was sold to 
the Methodists. In 1825 the present church was com- 
menced, and completed for dedication July 2G, 182G. Its 
original cost was $7000, and it was enlarged and remodeled 
in 1858, and subsequently at a cost of about $4000. The 
building is a well-preserved frame, with an audience-room 
having 400 .sittings. 

The present trustees of the society arc 11. J. Traver, D. 
A. Bwight, and H. M. Wardwcll. 

The. first Session of the Eldership was organized Janu- 
ary 27, 1821, consisting of tlie following six moinbei's : 

Abel Clary, Jacob Kellogg, Josiah llinman, Westwood 
Wright, William Grencll, Samuel Bond. Benjamin Wright, 
Perley D. Stone, and John Tliiiman were elected March 
26, 1827. Rus.sel Stow, Hiram Arms, Hcman Grencll, 
Albert G. Redway, and Samuel Graves were elected No- 
vember 23, 1840. 

The rotary system of eldership was adopted May 26, 
1858. The church decided tliat the session should con- 
sist of nine members, the three oldest to hold their offices 
one year, the three next in ago two years, and the three 
youngest three years ; and thereafter one class to be elected 
annually, and hold their offices respectively three years. 



• After n life of eminent usefulness', the Rev. liurchanl imliil his 
earthly career at Adamn, uttering the words, " I am content," and 
calmly sank tu hi.s rest. His remains are interred in the rural ceme- 
tery. 

t Dr. Ilough. 



The following have been elected since 1858 : Samuel 
Bond, Samuel Graves, Perley D. Stone, Albert G. Redway, 
Sylvester Bliss, Samuel N. Bond, Graham G. Grenell, Gil- 
bert S. Dodge, Julius K. Bartlctt, Synus A. Merriara, 
Willet R. Willis, Azariah Dove; and the present board: 
Justus Eddy, Dalton A. Dwight, Joseph Withington, 
Austin H. Coughlan, A. Kent Hale, and John S. Redway. 

A Sunday-school was organized in 1825, with Rev. John 
Sessions superintendent. Dr. A. Kent Hale at present fills 
that office. The member.sliip of the school is 170, and 
there is a library of 300 volumes. 

The foregoing history was compiled, to a large extent, 
from data furni.shed by the pastor. Rev. G. B. Barnes. 

THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. 

Members of this faith lived in the town at an early day, 
and classes were formed in different localities prior Co 1828 ; 
but in that year they were formed into a circuit, and there- 
after supplied with a regular preacher. The members living 
principally at Adams village. 

The First S'icieti/ of the M< ihodist Episcopal Church 
of Adams was formed at that place October 24, 1828. The 
trustees elected were Laban Ross, Philip Younge, David 
Wright, Zophania Jacker, Chester McKee, Daniel Dike- 
man, and John Adams. This board was reorganized in 
1838, when John C. Cooper, Timothy Lawrence, William 
E. Whitney, Andrew Blaekstone, Stej)hen Kilbourne, Ly- 
man Wright, and Selah Hungerford were appointed trustees. 

The old Presbyterian church was secured as a place of 
worship and used by the Methodists until its destruction 
by fire in 1852. In 1853 a very neat and imposing frame 
edifice, 44 by 84 feet, was erected at a cost of §6000. The 
same year a parsonage was built on the adjoining lot, cost- 
ing $2000. In 1875 .several thou.sand dollaii» were ex- 
pended in renovating and beautifying the church, and it 
will now compare favorably with similar village churches. 
The estimated value of the proj)erty is $12,000, which is 
controlled by the following trustees : J. D. Burlingamc, 
J. C. Schram, Lester Fish, E. F. Ramsdell, Jacob Brim- 
mer, Austin Cisco, and I. L. Hunt, Jr. The growth of 
the ehureh-work was steady and effective, and the member- 
ship now numbers 225. The contributions of the church 
in 1876 amounted to $1430. 

The following reverend gentlemen have served as pastors, 
in the order named, since 1828: W. W. Nindc, David 
Kingsley, Schuyler Hoes, Harvey Chapin, Elijah Smith, 
Hiram IMattison, Arza J. Phelps. William Wyatt, Walter 
Hare, John Loveaee, John F. Dayan, Isiuic S. Hinghani, 
C. W. Lect, W. H. Hawkins, P. D. Gorrie, Hiram Matti- 
son, William X. Niiule, John W. Armstrong, William L. 
Tisdale, J. C. Vandereook, Frank F. Jewell, Lewis Mere- 
dith, Jolin T. Hewitt, Sidney 0. Barnes, Henry W. Ben- 
nett, and Eli C. Bruce, the present incumbent. 

A Sunday -school w:us organized soon aft<'r the church was 
formed, and lias been conducted ever since. There are 150 
members, and 418 volumes in the library. I. L. Hunt, 
Jr., is the superintendent. 

In 1844, Adams circuit, with the adjoining ones of Rod- 
man, Lorraine, Smithvillc, and a portion of Watcrtown, were 
formed into The Adams District, with the elders resident 




''-^ fy •Samuel' 'f'*^' 



^.^^^^pm^tyi^y'^Y^''^^ 



HISTORY OF JEFFEllSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



261 



at Adams. Revs. Lewis Whitcomb, N. Salisbury, I. Stone, 
George C. Woodruff, George t^ary, J. Phelps, Gardner 
Baker, Freeman H. Stanton, Daniel W. Roncy, Thomas 
Richoy, Melviu 1). Kinney, and Isaac Bingbaiu, at present 
in offic-e, have been elders of tliis district, and to their efforts 
the success of Methodism is due to a Iar<>-e extent. 

THE BAPTIST CHURCH AND SOCIETY 

at Adams village was organized March 30, 1837, with Jesse 
Wright, Hannibal Miller, and Spencer Woodward, trustees. 
Meetings were held in the school-house, and in the build- 
ing now used as an engine-house, until 1847, when a frame 
church was erected, costing $;J5U0, which was dedicated in 
January, 1848. This was used until 1871, when it was re- 
moved to give place to the present edifice, and it has since 
been transformed into a furniture warehouse. The same 
year, A. J. Brown, H. 0. Kenyon, and A. W. Ingraham 
were appointed a building committee, and under their su- 
pervision the magnificent structure on Church street was 
erected in 1871. It is built in Gothic style, of brick, with 
a handsomely variegated slate roof The main buildin- is 
40 by 90 feet, 32 feet high, and is relieved by a well-propor- 
tioned tower. On its west side is a two-story wing, 40 by 
45 feet, arranged into a Sabbath-school room, clunch par- 
lor, and pastor's study. The interior is embellished by neat 
frescoes and chaste furniture, and is heated by three fur- 
naces. The cost of the building was about §25,000, and 
it was dedicated Oct. 10, 1871, by Dr. Patton, oj" New 
York, and Dr. Bridgeman, of Albany. The present tru.s- 
tees are A. W. Ingraham, H. 0. Kenyon, J. S. Brown, W. 
D. Arms, and B. F. Hawcs. 

Rev. Charles Clark was the first regular minister, and 
liis faithful jiastoratc gave the church the character which 
became the corner-stone of its future prosperity. He w:is 
succeeded in 1850 by C. Ilartson, and a year later by M 
C. Manning. In 1857, H. 0. Reals became pastor, and 
his connection was blessed with many baptisms and acces- 
sions. He w;is followed, in 18(50, bv Wm. (Jarnett. who 
was succeeded in June, IStil, by I. N. Hobart. His pas- 
torate was noted for the changes in the cliurch membership, 
first of withdrawals, and then the lar-e incroa.se which fol- 
lowed. He remained with the church until iMarch, ISGtJ, 
and was succeeded the following September by Thomas Cull.' 
In 1SG8, S. P. Merrill was employed, and in 1874, William 
Ostler. The present p^istor, W. H. Hawley, w;ls settled 
January, 1875. 

The current expenses of the church are SISOO per year, 
and $:550 is raised annually for benevolent purpo.-es. The 
present membership is 2G3. 

A Sunday-school wtis organized February 12, 1847, with 
H. Miller, superintendent; A. J. Brown is the present in- 
cumbent. The school numbers 214, and has a library of 
300 volumes. 

THE EJIANUEL EPISCOPAL CHURCH. 

A proposition to organize an Episcopal church havin- 
been made to Bishop De Laneey, his consent was secured 
Jan. 22, 1849, and on the 4th of February the notice to 
torm a congregation was duly read by H. B. Whipple lav 
reader. On the 18th of February, 1849, the church'was 



legally formed, the Rev. J. M. Bartlett being rector. Henry 
B. Whipple and William Jlorton Johnson were chosen 
wardens; and John McCarty, D.ivid Gaylord, Hiram Salis- 
bury. Philip R. Ward, John Wright, Justus Eddy, Charles 
W. Rogers, and Thomas Dobson, vastrymen. Steps were 
at once taken to erect a chapel in the Gothic style, to cost 
not more than -52000. This wa.s so far accomplished, chiefly 
through the instrumentality of H. B. Whipple, afterwards 
and now a bishop of the church, that the corner-stone was 
laid Oct. 9, 1849. Justus Eddy, II. 15. Whipple, and C. 
W. Rogei-s were appointed a building committee Jan. 8, 
1850 ; a corporate seal was adopted, consisting of the words 
'•Emanuel Church, ISth February, 1849," with a cross in 
the centre. The chapel was recorded complete, June 19, 
1850, and Rev. William Heathcotc and Bishop De Lanccy 
requested to dedicate it. The building is a neat frame, 
surmounted by a spire, and was constructed within the 
limited cost. 

The Rev. T. F. Ward well succeeded the Rev. Bartlett 
as rector, and remained a year. The other rectors of the 
church have been the Revs. 0. E. Herrick, Wm. Paret, 
Jcdediah Winslow, Daniel E. Loveridge, and II. Ormsby, 
who resigned Sept. 2, 1876. At present there is no rector 
of the parish. 

On the 28th of April, 1875, a rectory was purchased on 
Main street for $2300. The membership of the church 
is 60, and the members of the oflticial board arc Albert B. 
Watkins and S. A. Barney, wardens; 31. D. Mannville, 
M. H. Fox, Henry Dodd, C. B. Gaylord, C. E. Segur, B. 
Ingraham, H. Haydn, and W. II. Little, vestrymen. 

A Sunday-school was organized twenty-five years ago. 
A. B. Watkins is superintendent. It has 30 members, and 
200 volumes in library. 

The acknowledgments of the publishers are justly due to 
the many who have furnished information in connection 
with the history of Adams, its villages, and numerous pub- 
lic and private institutions. To all we would say thanks. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



GENERAL SOLON DEXTER HUNGERFORD. 

General Hungcrford, who.se history is .so intimafdy con- 
nected with that of Jefferson County, and esijecially of the 
town of Adams, belongs to a family whose genealogy can 
be traced for at least two centuries. Thomas Hungerford 
came from the parish of Shetford, England, thirty or forty 
miles from London, and went to Hartford, Connecticut, 
before the year 1639. Mention is made of a descendant 
of the same name in the Hartford State Records, and in 
looking over the American Archives we find that one 
John P. Hungerford was an officer in the Revolution, and 
member of Congress from 1813 to 1817, and died at Tur- 
ford, Virginia, at the age of seventy- four. 

At the licad of the fifth generation wo have Dexter 
Hungerford, who married Marietta Burr, to whom were 



262 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



born five children. Tlie history of the Burr branch of the 
faiuil}' is a remarkable one, including the famous Aaron 
Burr, and other men of genius. 

The third of this family, the subject of our sketch, was 
horn March 12, 1808. His earliest home wa.s on a farm 
in Watertown. lie entered the dry goods store of Mr. 
Adricl Ely at the age of fifteen, which proved a business 
discipline of great service in shaping his successful finan- 
cial career. 

After remaining in this position for four years, he de- 
cided to j)rei)are for a collegiate course, but, upon the ad- 
vice of bis kinsman, Hon. Orville Ilungerford, he took the 
position of book-keeper in the Jefferson County bank for 
a year. At the e.\i)iration of that time he was promoted 
to the position of ti-llor, which office he held for eight years, 
when he was elected cashier of Lewis County bank, at 
Martinsburg. At the end of two years he was urged 
by his friend, Mr. Ely, and his uncle, Hon. Orville Hun- 
gerford, to go into banking on his own account, under the 
general banking law of 1838. 

Through the influence and at the tirgent invitation of 
his friend, Robert B. Doxtatcr, and other leading citizens, 
he was induced to found an institution at Adams, Jciferson 
County, called Hungerford's bank, with a capital of fifty 
thousand dollars, October 25, 1845, which he successfully 
conducted as an individual bank till September, 1853, 
when the capital was increased to one hundred and twenty- 
five thousand dollars, with the same name, and under a 
board of directors of which General Hungerford was pres- 
ident. The Jiankers' Magazine, after a notice warmly 
commending the management of the Hungerford National 
bank, as it became under the national banking law, men- 
tions a " remarkable fact connected with the history of 
Hungerford's bank. It has never suspended specie pay- 
ments during its existence of upwards of twenty years, 
having honored every and all demands in coin, till the ad- 
vent of greenbacks, in 1861." 

Mr. Hungerford is probably the oldest banker in the 
State, although scarcely beyond middle age, and has no 
superior in the successful management of this complicated 
business. For clearness of judgment, pleasing address, and, 
beyond all, honest and reliable financial management, he is 
equally remarkable. 

His love for agriculture has always been intense, both 
from the real pleasure it afforded and the beneficial influ- 
ence upon his health, while it was intimately connected 
with liis business operations. 

He has for many years been closely identified with the 
Jeflcrson County and New York Slate Agricultural so- 
cieties. For sixteen years he was on the executive board 
of the State society, and finally took the chair of president. 
His " Valley Park Farm" is one of the mo.st beautiful in 
the State. On this he keeps one of the best herds of 
thoroughbred Ayrshire cattle in the Tiiitcd States, and 
has been largely engaged in importing and breeding these 
favorites ; also " short-horns," Leicester sheep, and York- 
shire swine; and is now devoting much attention to rearing 
horses, having a just appreciation of this prince among 
animals. The Hostun Cnftiralor, May, 1SG3, mentions a 
particularly fiue group of cattle on the Hungerford estate. 



Railroad interests claimed a share of Mr. Hungerford's 
time and attention. His general enterprise found scopr in 
this direction during the first attempts to connect the north- 
ern part of the State with the great thoroughfares and com- 
mercial centres. 

Both money, time, and influence were alwa3'8 at com- 
mand. In 1855 he was elected a director of the Rome 
and Watertown railroad, at the earnest desire of such men 
as I'hilip Datcr, of New York ; and later of the Rome, 
Watertown and Ogdensburgh railroad. He was compli- 
mented by the capitalists interested, for bis substantial im- 
provements in the management of the road. The sound 
judgment and integrity seen here, as in all other financial 
concerns, received a significant testimonial in an incident, 
one among many, gleaned from a private letter addrcs.sed to 
a personal friend by one for years previous bitterly preju- 
diced agaiu.st Mr. Hungerford. 

In this the writer alludes to certain differences of opin- 
ion existing between Mr. Hungerford and himself, and 
states as his motive for voting lor the former's re-election, 
his "fearless ' discharge of duty in a position where so much 
'■knavery and dishonesty" exists. 

But a higher object than business enterjirise and success 
was at Mr. Hungerford's heart. 

Since 183G, when engaged in banking, " the idea of 
establishing a first-class educational institution in my native 
Country has been very much on my mind," says Mr. Hung- 
erford in reply to the question as to just ichen his attention 
was drawn to the greatest achievement of his life, the 
founding of Hungerford Collegiate Institute ; whose splen- 
did position among the literary establishments of the land 
is a joy to his own heart and an honor to his native State. 
An attempt was made about the year 1855 to erect the 
proper buildings and put the plan into operation, but owing 
to disagreement as to the site of the prospective edifice, the 
whole thing fell through for the time being. But in ISG-t 
a large building, erected for hotel purposes, fell into Mr. 
Hungerford's hands; this he offered to donate to a board of 
trustees selected from the several neighboring churches, 
consisting of twenty-four, proviileil the citizens would raise 
an eadowment fund of ten thousand dollars, the interest to 
be devoted to the payment of insurance, repairs, etc. The 
offer was accepted, a charter secured, and the institute put 
in successful operation for three years, when the building 
was burned down. 

Another site being obtained with the insurance money, 
avails of the old lot, and contributions to the amount of 
over eighty thous;ind dollars, the present structure was 
erected. 

At the opening of the first institute referred to, the 
exercises were of an unusually interesting character. Special 
trains were run to the village from neighboring places, 
General " Joe" Hooker being among the guests. These 
were welcomed by Rev. Mr. Ilobart, in behalf of the trus- 
tees, and escorted by the Watertown Cornet Band to Jack- 
son Hall. 

After music and congratulatory addresses, Dr. Fisher, 
President of Hamilton ('ollcge. delivered the inaugural 
address. 

The school opened witii one hundred and sixty students; 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



263 



and tlic promise irivcii hy its dawn was fulfilled in tlie j'cars 
that i'ullowcd, when it shed the light (f au enlightening and 
refining influence over the surrounding country. 

A uio.st inlort'Sting account of tlio dedication of the new 
and elegant buildings erected sub-sequcnt to tlie fire is given 
by the press. We (juote a few extracts : 

" On Wednesday, August 24, w;is consuniniatod in Adams 
the great public enterprise of tlie village and town. Its 
beginning and progress have beeu signalized by great liber- 
ality, clear foresight, excellent taste and judgment, and 
untiring energy. 

" The old institute building having been burnt some time 
ago, it was resolved to build a new one, and part of the 
means was at hand for the purpose. A commanding site 
was selected, a plan drafted with careful deliberation, and 
the structure commenced. The design w;is purpo.sely for 
something superior and costly, — something not easy to excel 
as au educational institute. It was rightly liclievcd that a 
way would be found to complete it when the money in 
pos.session should be exhausted. The work at length had 
to be stopped. Estimates called for two thousand five hun- 
dred dollars more, and how should it be raised ?' 

Finally, after eflforts in other directions. General Hunger- 
ford offered to double whatever sum might be raised. 
Pledges were soon gained for fifteen thou.sand dollars, which, 
with the founder's generous offer, made thirty ttiousand 
dollars; this, combined with the amount in the treasury, 
gave funds for a one hundred thousand dollar building. 
The elegant stone and brick building of to-day, with its 
admirable conveniences and great beauty, is the result. 

It is heated with steam and lighted by gas. Hot and 
cold water can be drawn in each story, and there are bath- 
rooms for both the gentlemen's and ladies' divisions. In 
the library and main hall, etc., is beautiful inlaid flooring 
of white and dark wood alternating. 

At the dedication llev. S. S. U. Greeley was the speaker 
of the day ; he was followed by citizens and invited guests. 
General Hungerford, owing to previous illness, took no part 
in the exercises, but, after loud and renewed applause, came 
out of the tinte-room in response to a call from the audience. 
He simply bowed and retired. 

Mr. Hungorford's military career dates back to the year 
183.T ; when cpiite a young man he was commissioned aide- 
de-camp to the brigadier-general of the Fifty-fiftli brigade 
of infantry. He was subsecjuently inspector of the Twelfth 
division of infantry. In 1858 he became captain of in- 
fantry in the Thirty-sixth regiment, and brigadier-general 
of the Eightcentli brigade of the Fourth divisioli of New 
Y^ork State militia in IS.'iU. In 18(>1, when the Rebellion 
broke out. General Hungerford, commanding the Sixteenth 
brigade, and also commissioned to inspect volunteer com- 
panies, was loyal to his trust and untiring in his efforts to 
co-operate with the government. He won the grateful 
recognition of the State and of his fellow-citizens at liome. 

Mr. Hungerford's ]iolitical career was made by liimstrl/, — a 
brief one, beyond his influence in connection with business 
and social relations, and his prompt action when it was 
needed as a citizen. 

He was by nature and education of the conservative 
school in politics. This fact, 'along with his general popu- 



larity, was the cause of his nomination to Congress by the 
Coalitionists of the Twentieth district in 18(i(i, when an 
effort was made to defeat the ruling party by a combination 
of all those dis.satisfied with its measures. Mr. Hungerford 
declined the nomination in a letter which was consistent 
with his principles, dignified and loyal, an honor to bis 
head and heart. 

But in no position has he been more honored and useful, 
although attracting less popular interest, than when presi- 
dent of the Jefferson County Bible Society, an office he 
held for several years. 

In his domestic relations Mr. Hungerford has been most 
happy. He married Miss Ann Huntington, of Watertown, 
who is still the light of a liome blessed with a son who 
gives promi.se of worthily bearing the ancestral name. 

Mr. Hungerford has always liberally and wisely, we 
believe, sustained the cause of religion in the community, 
and freely aided the church and parish of which he Ls a 
member. 

Neither he nor his friends claim for him exemption from 
human frailties and mistakes; but his fellow-citizens of the 
town and county in which his life has beeu so far spent 
will give him a place among the greatest benefactors of 
both. 



A. S. GRKENE. 



(cniKF ENGINEKtt C. S. NAVY.) 

The subject of this sketch was born in Adams, Aug. 3, 
1838. He attended select school at Adams Seminary, 
autumns and winters, until 1855. In November, 1835, he 
entered the " Rensselaer Polytechnic College," of Troy, 
N. Y., in advance standing, graduating with the degree of 
Civil Engineer in June, 1859, number five iu a class of 
twelve graduates, and which had numbered, from the time 
of his entrance, over one hundred individual members. 
Among the graduates in the same class were A. J. Cassatt, 
V.-P. Penna, R. R. Co. ; Walter Crofts, Supt. Shelby Iron 
Works, Ala. ; G. M. Greene, P. A. Engineer, U. S. Navy; 
Jas. R. Percy, late Capt. U. S. Engineers; Russell Sage, 
Supt. Milwaukee & St. Paul R. R. ; Frank G. Smith, Maj. 
4th U. S. Artillery ; L. J. de Vizcarrondo, Chief Engineer 
Cordova & JIalaga R, R., Spain ; and N. A. Williams, 
formerly engineer on the Brooklyn and Croton water-works. 

In December, 1859, he received permi-ssion to be ex- 
amined for admission into the engineer corps of the U. S. 
Navy ; passed the examination successfully, and was ad- 
mitted ;ts number ten in a class of sixty-three who were 
examined. In the first competitive examination for pro- 
motion he was advanced to the head of his cla.ss, which 
position has been maintained through all the subsequent 
grades up to the present time. 

His first cruise was made in the U. S. steamer "Susque- 
hanna," in 1860-61, on the coast of Mexico, the Mediter- 
ranean, and on the home st;ition in the early part of the 
late war. In the latter part of 18G1 he was detached from 
the " Sus(juehanna" and ordered to duty in the Navy De- 
partment, Washington, D. C, where he remained until the 
early part of 1868. He was then ordere^l on a cruise in 
the U. S. S. " Nyaek" to the South Pacific station, which 



264 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



continued until 1871. He was then detached, and after- 
wards served on board the iron-chid " Malio]iac," U. S. S. 
■' Nanta.sket,"' and U. S. S " Nipsic," on the liouie and West 
India stations. In 1873 he was ordered to duty on the 
board for tlie examination of naval officons for promotion, 
and later as a member of the U. S. commission to investi- 
gate the causes of steam-boiler explosions, at the same time 
superintending governuK^nt work in process of construction 
at Newburgh, N. Y. On the completion of this duty, in 
July, 1874, he was ordered to the U. S. S. " Benicia," 
North Pacific station, and in 1875 transferred to the U. S. 
S. " Lackawanna," same station, from which he was de- 
tached in August last, and in October following was 
ordered as a member of the board to examine officers for 
promotion, which duty he is now engaged in. 



SAMUEL FOX. 



The subject of this brief sketch wa.s a brother of Daniel 
Fox, the celebrated centenarian fanner. He was born at 
Groton, Conn., August 15, 1781, and spent the early years 
of his life at that place. His youth was attended by the 
usual privations of those times, and he was deprived of 
even the meagre educational facilities then exi.sting. Upon 
attaining his manhood he removed to Oneida county, New 
York, where he was noted for his skill as a woodman and 
his great power of endurance, often spending six months 
at a time in the dense forests, plying his avocation. In 
1800 he joined a party of immigrants going to Jefferson 
County, and located land that year in the town of Adams. 
Near the spot which became his future home he cleared the 
first acre of land, in the sunjmer of 1800. In 1802 he 
married Lucy Williams, of Rome, by whom he had 11 
children, 9 of whom attained mature age. Samuel Fox 
jjarticijiatcd in the battle of Sacket's Harbor and other 
engagements of the War of 1812. He was a man of (|uiet 
ways, frugal, temperate habits, and ]iassed the limited four- 
score years, closing this earthly life at Adams Centre in 
March, 1865. 



DANIEL FOX C2d) 

is the fourth of the eleven children belonging to the above 
family. He was born in the town of Adams May 16, 
1808, and has been a resident in it all his life. His boy- 
hood was spent on his father's farm until he attained his 
sixteenth year, when he was apprenticed to the carpenter's 
trade. Having mastered this, he became an active work- 
man, and scores of buildings in the town are the result of 
his handicraft. When the Rome, Watertown and Ogdens- 
burgh R. R. was built through Adams Centre he received 
the appointment of station agent, in which capiacity he has 
rendered such faithful service that he has hold the position 
ever since, being the only one in the em])loy of the company 
who has held the office for such a continuous length of 
time. In 18:!2 he married Betsey Harrington, of Rodman, 
who died in 1850. Two years later he married his present 
■wife. Miss N. C. Clark. By this union he has a son, 
George L., who is the assistant station agent at Adams 
Centre. 



LUMAN ARMS 

was born in Decrfield, Massachusetts, August 30, 1796. 
He removed with his father, Lemuel Arras, to the State of 
New York, in October, 1804, and made a permanent settle- 
ment on the farm now (jwned by Pjlisha Rogers, in the 
town of Adams, where the subject of this sketch resided 
for many years. Luman Arms married Caroline Arms, by 
whom he had six children, namely, Louisa, Julia, Emily, 
William D., Henry, and Caroline, and also one still-born. 
His wife died on November 30, 183C. On the 8(h of July, 
1830, he was married to Elizabeth C. Pierce, to whom four 
children were born. Of these, Harrison, Foster M., and 
Gertrude still survive, Stephen M. dying young. 

Mr. Arms has voted at fifty-nine general elections, first 
for the Whig, and subsequently for the Republican party. 

In 1827 he erected the hotel now known as the Talcott 
House, in which he ke])t tavern fur four years. He always 
took an active part in educational matters, and liberally 
supported enterprises of all sorts conducive to the public 
good. He was for many years a builder, and erected a 
school-house and other public and private buildings. He 
now resides in the village, and having been a temperate 
man he enjoys good health, and although now past eighty- 
one years, he can read without glasses, and is generally 
active and robust. He is generally considered as an honest 
man and an intelligent and worth}' citizen. (See portrait.) 



JOHN C. COOPER. 

A complete history of the town of Adams, or even the 
county of Jefferson, cannot be written without assigning a 
prominent place therein to John Cowles Cooper. In the 
best sense he was public-spirited. His clear views, prac- 
tical good sense, and energy made him a leader in all those 
enterprises of a public nature affecting the community or 
involving the affairs of the church with which he was con- 
nected. He lived seventy-six J'ears, and full fifty-five of 
these were spent in active business pursuits. Until his last 
sickness, preceding his death but a few weeks, he never 
ceased from labor. The habit of idleness he despised, and 
his example illustrated the s])irit of industry by which he 
was animated. 

Seventy-six years backwards from 1877, the year of his 
death, carries us to the iieriod of the pioneer settlement of 
Adams, when the surrounding county was covered with 
primeval forests, with occasional openings where some 
sturdy settlor had laid the foundations of a humble home 
and established the conditions which made po-^sible a life of 
manly independence. 

The boyhood of John C. Cooper had such .-iurroundings, 
and he grew to manhood with the rising and prosperous 
community in which his days were spent. His father, 
Miles Cooper, came to Adams at early day in 1803, from 
Durham, Connecticut, where he was born, and where his 
ancestors had lived before him. 

Miles Cooper erected a log house on what is now Church 
street, directly opposite John C. Cooper's late residence, and 
afterwards on the .<ame ground erected the first frame build- 
ing in Adams. John C. Cooper's mother's name was 





IKS. DANIEL rOK. 



DAN/EL rOX, Sf. 









DAN/EL fOX, J' 



SAMUEL rOK. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



265 



Ascnetli Cowles, and slie was also from Duiliam, wlierc 
she was luanied to Milts. John was tlie fourth child 
ill a family of nine children. His uncle Abner, elder 
brother of his father, was a sea-captain, and was taken 
prisoner by the Briti.sh in the Revolutionary AVar. George, 
another brother of Miles, was also a sea-captain. John was 
about fourteen years old at the time of the battle of Sandy 
Creek, and on that ineuiorable day in the history of our 
county his eager ears heard the heavy cannonade, and with 
the fleetncss of the forest deer he hastened (running without 
stopping) to the scene of the conflict. 

John C. enjoyed such adrantagcs of education as a new 
country afl'orded, which were necessarily limited. He had 
so much vitality and physical vigor that out-door employ- 
ment best suited his tastes, and his boyhood days were sjiciit 
in the severe work of clearing up a new farm, lie had 
ambition, and not a little of the adventurous spirit. At 
the age of twenty years, he and his cousin, Manus Cowles, 
each shouldering a knai)sack and gun, on foot performed 
the long and weary journey to the bank of the Mississippi. 
Almost the entire distance was through an unbroken wilder- 
ness, save occasional intervals of lake, river, and prairie. 

In 1823 he purchased a farm in the valley of the Sandy 
creek, about a mile and a half from the village of Adams, 
adjoining the farm of his father. The following year, 
September 15, 1824, he was married to Elvira Fox, daugh- 
ter of the late Daniel Fox, a centenarian of the same town, 
— John C.'s faim lying between that of his father and 
that of his father-in-law. His wife .survives him, and in 
her now centres the tender love of their children. Her noble, 
womanly ([Ualities endear her to a large circle of relatives 
andaci|uaintauces. Of this marriage there were nine children, 
namely, Charlotte, Elvira, Gcraldine, Melissa, Levi, Adelaide, 
Helena, Adelbert, and Dealton. Of these, Charlotte, Elvira, 
and Helena died in infancy. Adelbert met an untimely 
death, at the ago of thirteen, by the accidental discharge 
of a gun. Dealton, at the age of eighteen, filled with the 
spirit of patriotism that was prominently characteristic of 
his father, enlisted as a volunteer in the Kith Regiment of 
Artillery. He was made a sergeant on the organization of 
his company, and in a few months thereafter, by reason of 
his soldierly (|ualities, was promoted to be 2d lieutenant. 

While undergoing the .severe hardships and exposures of 
the service in the trenches in front of Petei-sburg, Virginia, 
in the summer of 1864, he contracted typhoid fever, and 
died at Chesapeake ho.spital. Fortress Monroe, in August of 
that year. In the death of each of these bright and most 
promising sons the father Avas occasioned a great sorrow that 
he carried with him to the end of his days. Of the other 
children, Geraldiue is the wife of General Bradley Winslow, 
of Watertown ; Melissa is the wife of W. S. Gilbert, Esq., 
of Watertown ; Adelaide is the wife of Jean R. Stebbeus, 
Esq., of Little Falls. 

John Cooper was a successful farmer, and brought his 
farm into a high state of cultivation. For several years 
he devoted himself to sheep culture, raising wool and 
slaughtering sheep for the Kingston market, — hauling the 
carcasses of the sheep to Kingston in the winter. 

In all the business enterprises in which he engaged he 
was singularly successful. There was but one drawback to 



Ills financial success, and that was his generous and sympa- 
thizing nature could not resi.st the appeals of others for aid 
in a financial way. In consequence of becoming surety upon 
the obligations of different persons he suffered heavy losses. 

In 1831 he connected himself with the Methodist Epis- 
copal church in Adams, although his religious training had 
been under Presbyterian influence, his mother being a de- 
voted adherent of that denoininatiou, and was one of the 
six persons (two only being females) who were organized as 
the Presbyterian church in Adams in 1804. He was an 
earnest, practical, and consistent Christian, devoted and con- 
stant always, — contributing liberally to the su])port of re- 
ligion and the denomination with which he was identified. 
No act of liis ever brought a stain upoti the faith he had 
embraced. For a time after his conversion he was a teacher 
and superintendent of a Sunday-school. 

His public spirit had an illustration in the zeal in which 
he engaged in the great enterpri.se of con.structing the 
Watertown and Rome railroad, undertaken about the year 
1846. He labored almost incessantly for several years in 
the pro.secution of this work, and was for a number of years 
a director of the company. He had at length the satisfac- 
tion of seeing the fruits of his labors in the coijipleted road 
(and the counties through which it was constructed) in the 
enjoyment of the manifold benefits it conferred. 

With his partner. Philander Smith, he was engaged for 
a number of years in the introduction and sale, in this 
northern section of the State, of Wood's mower and reaper. 
The business proved successful and remunerative. 

In 1853 the Agricultural Insurance Company was or- 
ganized. Two years later Mr. Cooper became a director 
and was made its president. These positions he continued 
to occujiy until his death. During his connection with the 
company it had, as it continues to have, an extraordinary 
prosperity, which it is not too much to say was largely 
attributed to his sagacity and prudent counsels. In his 
early manhood he was connected with the militia, and held 
a commission as ensign from Governor De Witt Clinton, 
bearing date Sept. 6, 1S25 ; was promoted and comuiissioned 
lieutenant April 28, 1827. 

In politics he was a Whig. On the dissolution of that 
party he tran.sferred his allegiance to the Republican 
organization. While a Whig his party was in a minority 
in the town of Adams, but such was his popularity that he 
was elected supervisor in 1849, and for three j'cars success- 
ively thereafter. 

As a husband and father he was most kind and consid- 
erate, manifesting always a tender regard for his wife and 
children, — his mind dwelling much uimhi the means by 
which to contribute to their coinl'ort and happiness. He 
favored heartily the organization of the Thousand Island 
Park Association, purchased a lot on the grounds of the 
As.sociation, and has left a substantial monument in the 
beautiful iron cottage known as " The Cooper Cottage," 
which ho erected on his lot for the use of his family. 

The life of John C. Cooper was well spent. He was the 
wise counselor ; he was faithful in the discharge of many 
confidential trusts ; the promoter of harmony and kindly 
feelings among neighbors; the steadfast friend; prompt 
with ready .sympathy always to alleviate the distress of 



266 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



otliers. In the varied ri'latiotis ho sustained to his church 
and to the coinmutiity at large no dishonor over tarnished 
his good name. His death occurred January 2G, 1877, after 
a short but painful illness, his sufferings alleviated so far 
as possible bv the loving ministrations of wife and cliildren. 
For six weeks preceding that event he was conscious that 
lie could not recover, and calmly made all necessary dispo- 
sition of his worldly affairs, tenderly solicitous fljr the 
welfare of those soon to be left without the benefit of his 
care and protection. In the contemplation of the great 
change awaiting him he was cheerful and hopeful, — his 
hope resting not on his own good deeds, but alone upon 
the merits of his Redeemer, whom he had learned to trust 
in every hour of need. And in the final hour it was most 
strikingly demonstrated that 

"The cham'ier where tiie good man meets his fate 

Is |trivih'gcd above the common w;t.Iks of virtuous life, 
Quite on tbo verge of Heaven." 



THOMAS R. GREENE 

was born at Berlin, Rensselaer Co., N. Y., Jan. 12, 1801. 
At the age of twelve he was left an orphan, and from 
that time forward had his own way to make in the 
world. His princijial occupation through life wa.s that of a 
farmer. In 1822 he married Polly Whitford, whom he 
survived many years. He was a second time married, Dec. 
27, 1858, to Mrs. Delia 0. Wright, who survives him, and 
who has caused to be inserted in our work a portrait of Mr. 
Greene and an illustration of his last earthly home. He 
died May 6, 1873, universally re.spected and e.steenied as an 
upright and honorable man, a good, practical business man, 
and a worthy citizen. He was several times elected to 
offices both in the town of Rodman, whither he removed in 
1835, and in Adams, where he made his home in 18G5. 
He was a brother of Joseph L. Greene, of Adams vil- 
lage. 



ALEXANDRIA. 



The first improvement in this town was made about 
1811 by Le Ray, who caused a clearing to be made at 
Alexandria Centre, to afford facilities to the first settlers, 
by supplying them with grain until it could be raised by 
thenfficlves. He paid twelve dollars per acre with the 
ashes and half the first crop for these jobs, and built a log 
barn. In 1811 the proprietors made the Morris and Ham- 
mond road, extending from Hammond village to the Red 
tavern, near Theresa, where it intersected another road 
from the river to Philadelphia. The former was cleared 
four rods wide, bridged and seeded with grass, but had be- 
come nearly closed up, when it was reopened as a part of 
the Military Road in 1820-23. The surface of the town 
is generally rough and rocky, but that portion underlaid 
by sandstone is level, with a thiti clayey and sandy soil. It 
may be pertinent hero to add that the Potsdam .sandstone 
substratum generally prevents a level surlace, but more 
liable to upheavals, and is covered with soil entirely brought 
from other fornuitions, and various in i|iialily with the 
sources from which it has been dirived. Where not cov- 
ered with drift, as occurs near Plcssis (formerly called Flat 
Rock from this circumstance), it is a barren rock, which, 
although exposed from time immemorial to the action 
of the elements, still preserves the traces of deluvial abra- 
sion. This rock never presents a fertile slope into the val- 
leys, but is bordered with abrupt precipices, at the foot of 
which oftentimes arc piled huge nia.sses that have tumbled 
from the fiicc of the ledge. On the other hand, where the 
surface is underlaid with a stratum of gneiss, as occurs in 
various parts of llu' town, the surface is almost invariably 
rough, with outero]i|)ings of rocky formations. 



ALEXANDRI.V IN TIIE WAR OF 1812. 

In Alexandria ocetirrcd an engagement during the war 
of 1812-15 which imparts considerable historic iiuportance 
to the town. And we may add, en passant, that the Briti.sh 
were mot with that courage and intrepid gallantry that 
characterized the Revolutionary struggle about forty years 
before. Also that, near htilf a century subsefjuent to the 
occurrence of the event about to be recorded, the descend- 
ants of those old heroes maintained the honor their fore- 
fathers fought to uphold. We tpiote from '• Hough's His- 
tory of Jefferson County :" 

"On the 14th of July, 1813, the 'Neptune' and the 
Fox,' the former a private armed boat, under Captain 
Samuel Dixon, mounted with one six-pounder and one 
swivel, and manned by twenty-four volunteers ; and the 
latter a public armed boat, under Captain Dimock, with a 
detachment of twent^'-onc men from the 21st Regiment of 
Infiuitry, under Lieutenants Burbank and Perry, sailed 
from Sacket's Harbor with /eUres ile manpir from the 
deputy collector of the district, for a cruise in the .St. Law- 
rence. This priv.ateering expedition was fitted out by M. 
W. Gilbert and others, and had for its object the cutting 
off of a delaeliment of the enemy's boats that were expected 
u]) the river laden with stores. Afler touching at Cape 
A'ineent and French Creek (Clayton), among the Thousand 
Islands, where they landed for muster and review ; and the 
morning being delightfully pleasant, they employed them- 
selves in drying and )>utting in complete order their arms 
and animunilion and cleaning out their boats, while a small 
boat of each was sent out for intelligence, which returned 
without gainin-r anv news. .\t nine a.m. thev hauled from 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



267 



the sliore, niiinncd a guanl-lmat to prevent surprise, and 
sent Lieut. Ilawlvins to 0;j;ileiisljurgh for intelligence ; and 
at five P.M. the ne.xt day Messrs. Baldwin and Catupbell 
arrived with news. At nine tluty left Cranberry ereek, and 
at f'uur A.M. on the 18tli .saw a brigade of British bateaux, 
convoyed by his Majesty's gun-boat, the ' Spitfire,' lying at 
Simmonds' Landing, preparing to .sail for Kingston. Upon 
this they pushed in fur shore, and .so completely surprised 
them that very few of the enemy escaped. The fifteen 
bateaux and the gun-boats were at once seized, without a 
.shot being fired on either side. 

" Previous to the attack, IJitut. Perry of the Ninth and 
Sergeant James, of Forsyth's company, with twenty- 
seven volunteers, were landed to cut off retreat. At nine 
A.M. the fleet landed in Cranberry creek, in Alexandria, 
and at eleven, sixty-nine prisonere were sent off to the 
harbor under guard of fifteen men of the 21st, in charge 
of ]jieut. Burhank. The ' Spitfire' was armed with a 
twelve-pound earronade, and carried fourteen men, with 
a large quantity of military stores. The bateaux had 270 
barrels of pork, and 270 bags of pilot bread, which was 
landed on the 2()tli, to prevent spoiling, and a request to 
the neighboring inhabitants for assistance was sent out, 
which brought a few militia, who, however, mostly left the 
same night. At sunrise on the 21st, the enemy to the num- 
ber of 250, with four gun-boats and one or two transports, 
were discovered in the creek ; these were met by thirty men, 
and attacked while landing ; twenty more being stationed in 
different places to prevent their approach. A cannonade 
commenced and was kept up some time ; two of the enemy's 
boats were so injured from our fire that most of their crews 
were compelled to leave them, and to cut flags from the 
shore to stop the shot-holes. At G a.m. the enemy retired 
to their boats, and sent a flag with the demand of surrender 
to sitve the I'fftisioii i>f lilond, which was instantly rejected, 
and the firing recommenced. It appeared that this was 
only an expedient to gain time, as the enemy hastily re- 
treated, carrying their dead and wounded. Their loss must 
have been considerable, from the (|uantily of blood seen 
where they embarked. Our loss was three killed and 
wounded. Af\er the action tree.s were felled across the road 
and creek to prevent a new attack, and on the afternoon of 
the next day, reinforcements arrived ; the boats which had 
been scuttled were repaired, and on the 23d they left tor 
Sacket's Harbor, where they arrived on the 27th. While 
passing Tibbet's Point they encountered the ' Earl of Moira,' 
were pursued and hit several times by her sliot, but not 
captured. The gunboat and several bateaux were sunk 
without consulting Captains Diinick and Dixon, and the 
owners ultimately lost most that was gained by the expe- 
dition." 

Aflerthe cessation of hostilities between the British and 
Americans, and traii(|uillity had become in a measure re- 
stored, the lauds now embraced were put upon the market, 
and permanent settlers began to come in. The first contracts 
were made payable in seven years, and required the settlers 
within one year to build a house equal to a log house 18 feet 
square, and to clear one-twenty-fifth part of the land con- 
tracted in a farmer-like manner. Prices began at three 
dollars per acre, and alter 1820 mineral reservations were 



inserted in contracts and deeds. Among the early purchasers 
and settlers were James Carnagie, Samuel Young, William 
Martin, Moses George, Leicester Hoadly, Elijah Root, 
John W. Fuller, Jerry Carrier, and others. 

Among other early .settlers might be mentioned the fol- 
lowing (see also in the sketches of the villages): Charles 
Rundlet, the oldest living pioneer in the town, in point of 
settlement, at least, came in from Vermont in 1817, and 
settled near Clear Lake. He afterwards moved to his present 
farm, near Plessis. 

John Spaulsbiiry, father of Francis, William, and John 
Spanlsbury, and other members of the family came from 
Sandy Creek, Oswego county, in 1819, and .settled on the 
place upon which Francis and his son reside. 

Austin Martin, Nathanic'l Goodell, Martin T. Morseman, 
George Pattcnson, Ileuben Ilinman, Alexander McAllister, 
Horatio Hubbard, Jabez, Charles, and John Birdsley, 
E])hraini Marvel, Jabez Peo|iles, Silas Morse, Samuel 
Morse, Joseph Huntington, Thomas Stickney, David and 
Clark Briggs, Solomon Makepeace, Elder Stowe, Jason 
Clark, John D. Davidson, Abraham Newman (father of A. 
D. Newman), William Carter, Daniel Wherry, Peter Lutz, 

Patten, Ephraim Hogert, George Rappole. The last 

seven named were .soldiers in the War of 177G. 

Abraham Newman, the only one of the old Revolutionary 
patriots who has any direct descendant residing in the town, 
was born in Stafford, Connecticut. He entered the Ameri- 
can army in 1770, and served three years. He settled in 
Otsego county, New York, in 1789 ; came to Alexandria, 
Jefferson County, in 1820, where ho died June 19, 1841, 

aged eighty-two. 

INCIDENTS. 

In 1819, Jairus Rich, the hunter, had an encounter with 
a panther. It occurred near Hyde Lake, about three 
miles from Ple.ssis. He had set his traj)s for wolves, and 
had arrived within a few rods of one of them when he ob- 
served a panther spring up and run with a trap to one of 
his hind legs. He fired but inis.sed the mark, and his game 
made off into the thicket, when he returned to a house, 
nearly a mile distant, procured a small dog, and having 
again repaired to the place and stationed himself where he 
coidd start the entrappi^J animal, he observed the head of a 
panther emerge from the bushes about five rods distant, 
upon which he fired and killed him instantly. He soon 
found that this was not the one in the trap, and a heavy 
shower of rain coming on, he found it difficult to reload his 
rifle, which he at length succeeded in doing. The dog 
meanwhile had engaged the other panther, upon which he 
fired and wounded, and finding that he could not load 
again, on account of the rain, he threw down his piece, and, 
seizing his hatchet, .sprang upon him, when there ensued a 
fearful struggle, in which finally the beast got under with 
one of the man's hand.s in his mouth, the hatchet was lost, 
but with the other hand he drew from his pocket a knife, 
opened it with his teeth, and finally succeeded in cutting 
the throat of the ferocious animal. The hunter was badly 
torn, but made out to crawl to the nearest house, where, 
after many weeks, he recovered, but carried the scars of the 
conflict with him to the grave. 

The following is related of the same individual : 



268 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



The bounties for the destruction of wild animals were 
then so great that tlie inducements for gain led to many in- 
genious methods for securing the rewards. Ricli having on 
one occasion trailed a she wolf to her den and killed lier, he 
found in her cave tea young whelps, but too small to be en- 
titled to the bounty. He therefore built a pen in the forest 
and fed them daily upon wild meats which he obtained in 
hunting until they were grown. He became strongly at- 
tached to one of them, which would follow him like a dog, 
but tiie temptation of tlie bounty was too strong to resist, 
and he slew his favorite pet to gain the premium. 

Another incident was where a hunter, in order to obtain 
a reward for his secret, professed to know of a .salt spring, 
to which he was induced to conduct a certain person, and 
in which he had previously buried a bag of salt. The water 
liaving been duly " analyzed" by measuring, evaporating, 
and weighing, a purchase of nearly 8U0 acres was made, 
without the knowledge of the spring by the landholder ; 
nor was the trick discovered before the bargain had been 
made. 

CIVIL ORGANIZATION. 

This town was erected from Brownville and Lc Ray, Ajiril 
3, 1821, by the same act that formed Philadelphia and 
Orleans, the first town-meeting being held at the house of 
Wm. Merrill. By the first act its limits included Theresa. 
Au act of Feb. 6, 1840, restored to the town of Orleans 
a small part that had been annexed to the latter. 

The town derives its name from Alexander, a son of J. 
D. Le Ray, who obtained a colonel's commission iu the 
Texan revolution, and fell in a duel in 1836. It is the 
most northern town in the county, and lies opposite the 
Thousand Islands, which here present the most delightful 
scenery.* 

The early records of the town are lost, lience it is im- 
possible to get an accurate list of the first town officers. 
The first Supervisor was James Shurtliff ; Clerk, Nathaniel 
Goodell ; Assessor, Ashley Tanner: In.spectors of Election, 
Allen Cole and Joel Porter. 

The Supervisors from 1829 to 1877 have been as follows, 
namely: 1829-32, John D. Davidson; 1833-35, Jason 
Clark; 1836, J. D. Davidson ; 1837, Jason Clark; 1838, 
John W. Fuller; 1839-40, Michael Lewis; 1841, Alex- 
ander Salisbury (at a special meeting in May, Jason Clark) ; 
1842, Jason Clark; 1843-49, Harvey D.Parker; 1850, 
George W. Clark; 1851, Moses C. Jewett ; 1852, H. D. 
Parker; 1853-54, Andrew Cornwall; 1855-57, Jason 
Clark; 1858, Wm. W. Buttcrfield ; 1859, Jason Clark; 
1860, Andrew Cornwall; 1861, Wm. W. Buttcrfield ; 1862 
-65, Andrew Cornwall ; 1866, Wm. W. Buttcrfield; 1867, 
Ebenczcr Campbell; 186S, Joseph E. McAllister ; 1869, 
Ebenezcr Campbell ; 1870-72, Wm. M. Thomson ; 1873 
-74, Newton Rand; 1875-77, Alfred A. Holmes, the 
present incumbent. 

Tlie officers elected at the annual town-meeting in 1877 
were: Supervisor, Alfred A. Holmes; Clerk, John I. 
Everson ; Justices of the Peace, Raliih Gurnee, Wm. M. 
Thomson, Silas G. Norton, Peter Tassey ; A.sscssor, John 
B. George; Auditors, Benjamin Fox, James E. Overocker, 



* See Iliiitor; of Alexandria Bay. 



Erastus Bailey; Inspectors of Election, District No. 1, La 
Fayette Steele, Almon H. Houghton, Henry Bailey ; In- 
spectors of Election, District No. 2, Prescott D. Patch, D. 
Snell, John H. Cline; Inspectors of Election, District No. 
3, Henry Halford, H. K. White, Ellis G. White ; Con- 
stables, Abram Weller, Liberty S. Simpson, John H. Crabbe, 
Hiram Hart, Orvis SpaLsbury ; Game Constable, Alfred 
Swan ; Commissioner of Excise, John Schultz. 

ALEXANDRIA BAY. 

The site of this village was selected by Cadwallader 
Child, in 1804, while surveying a road from the Friends' 
settlement to the St. Lawrence, as an eligible place for a 
port, and accordingly a reservation of a mile square was 
made by Mr. Le Ray for a village, which was surveyed out 
for that purpose by Edmund Tucker about 1818. Mr. Le 
Ray erected a tavern and warehouse, and for many years 
a thriving lumber trade was carried on, which continued as 
long as the supply lasted. This consisted of oak staves and 
square oak and pine timber. A considerable amount of 
valuable timber had been stolen from this town in common 
with the whole front of the State on the St. Lawrence, be- 
fore there was any one to assert the title of the proprietors. 
The lower wharf at this place was built by Fuller and Wal- 
ton in 1832, and the upper one by Walton and Ilamblin in 
1840. The port has always been a landing-place for the 
American steamers, and is an important wooding station. 
In the last two years (1852-53) about 12,000 cords have 
been sold each year. A custom-house was established at 
this port in 1828, subordinate to the Cape Vincent district, 
while John B. Esselstyn was in charge of that office. The 
deputies here have been Hiram Davis, Azariah Walton, 
John W. Fuller, A. Walton, Edwin Tanner, Martin J. 
Hutchius, and Ebenezer Campbell, the present incumbent. 
Mr. Walton held the office for eighteen and a half years, 
and Mr. Campbell for fourteen years. Among the earliest 
settlers of the village were Jerre Carrier, John W. Fuller, 
David Hunter (within half a mile of the village), Samuel 

Bingham, all ]irior to 1820 ; Ira Beckwith, Tillotson, 

Henry Westcott, Chauncey Westcott, before 1825 ; Azariah 
Walton, 1828. The place improved somewhat slowly, there 
being nothing but the lumber trade to sustain it. That, 
however, gave the embryo village the appearance of an active 
and busy settlement, which continued for many years. 

The first tavern was erected by Mr. Le Ray, as before 
stated, in 1818. The old building still remains a landmark 
of the pa.st, having acijuired a venerable antiquity. It is 
now owned by Chauncey Westcott, — him.sclf the pioneer 
settler of the place, — and is by him used as a carpenter- 
sho[) and store-house. 

The first log house was erected by John W. Fuller, in 
1818, and the first frame house by Dr. Jerre Carrier, in 

1820. The latter occupied the present .site of the St. Law- 
rence Hotel, of which, in fact, it fi)rms a part. 

The first store was erected by Messrs. Jerre Carrier and 
John W. Fuller, and stood on the Point, occupying the 
present site of the Centennial Ice-Crcam Saloon. 

The first school was a primitive log structure, erected in 

1821. It stood on the lot now occupied by the Reformed 
church. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



2G9 



The first church edifice was that of the Reformed Prot- 
estant Dutch church society, erected in ISIS, and opened 
for public religious worehip in 1851. 

AS A SUMMER RESORT. 

For more than a t(uarter of a centurj' Alexandria Bay 
has been visited as a summer resort. Its location in the 
immediate vicinity of the most numerous cluster of the 
Tliou.«and Isles, and its beautiful situation on the St. Law- 
rence, constitute the salient characteristics of its popularity. 
In 1848, Mr. C. Crossmon commenced keeping hotel at the 
Bay, and has licen continuously and succe.'isfully engaged in 
that busine.s.s ever .since. But it was not until 1S72 that 
the rush to the Bay commenced, although a few persons, 
some of thoni men of note, had made it their summer vaca- 
tion place fur years. Among these early visitors were Gov- 
ernor Seward, Martin and John Van Buren, Silas Wright, 
Frank Blair, Preston King, General Dick Taylor, and Rev. 
George Bethune. In 1872, President Grant and family, 
and a party of their friends, accepted an invitation from 
George W. Pullman, of palace-car notoriety, to visit his 
island cottage. Some splendid entertainments were given, 
and the people flocked to the Bay by thousands. This and 
the event of the sojourn there of the State Editorial Asso- 
ciation, at which time Messrs. Crossmon & Son prepared an 
out-door rep.ist for three hundred guests, which was pro- 
nounced by those present (and editors are generally fair 
judges of things gastronomic) to have been a capital feast 
in every particular, brought the place fijvorably before the 
public. In 1872-73 the present magnificent " Thousand- 
Island House" and the ef|ually fine " Crossmon House" 
were erected and thrown open to the public with becoming 
iclal. Since this time the popularity of the Bay has be- 
come a fixed fact, and no watering-place receives a better 
or more elegant patronage. While everybody concerned 
have done all in their power to enhance the beauties nature 
has so lavishly bestowed upon this most lovely spot and its 
eoiually glorious surroundings, to Mr. Charles Cro.ssmon is 
undoubtedly due, in a large mea.sure, the brilliant success 
that has attended the establishment of a watering-place there. 

The islands in the vicinity of the Bay are being rapidly 
utilized for cottages, and about seventy-five of these charm- 
ing and cosy temporary habitations have already been 
erected. Of these islands Wells, also known as Wellesley 
Island, a part of wliich lies opposite tlie Bay, is the most 
important. It contains upwards of eight thousand acres, is 
eight miles long and from three to four in width, and is 
inhabited by a thrifty class of citizens. Here, too, are 
located the International Camp Ground and Westminster 
Park, the former nominally under the au.spices of the 
Methodist Episcopal church, the latter under the control 
of tlie Presl)yterian body.* Hart's Island, opposite, and 
near Alexandria Bay, is tlie spot where, it is claimed, Tlio.s. 
Moore wrote his " Can.idian Boat Song," which has been 
sung for half a century in American and Canadian homes. 

In a recent publication is.sued in the interest of the Cros.s- 
mon House, the sports and pleasures of the place are thus 
enumerated : " Boating, fishing, hunting, cruising among 

* See farther on. 



the i.slands in row-boats or steam-yachts, vbiting the many 
points of historical or traditional interest, picnicking in 
large or small parties, open-air fea-sting and lounging under 
the trees near the water's edge, are terms which sum up the 
principal sports of the river." 

Of piscatorial .sports the writer discourses as follows : 
" Black bass and pickerel, large and gamy, abound in these 
waters. Many muscallonge are also caught every season, 
and the lady or gentleman who hooks and secures one of 
these best of all fresh-water fish becomes the heroine or 
hero of the day. Occasionally a muscallonge weighs as 
liigh as forty jiounds, a pickerel as high as twenty pounds, 
and a bass as high as six or seven pounds." 

The village contained, according to the census of Mr. 
Roltiers, compiled in 1850, 27 dwellings, 30 families, and 
164 inhabitants. It now has a population fairly estimated 
at 500. It contains 3 general stores, of which Carnell Bros., 
Sisson & Fox, and Wm. J. Woodworth are the proprietors 
respectively ; 1 grocery-store, kept by J. P. Thomson ; 1 
niillinory-store, harness-shop, 2 blacksmithios, 1 wagon- 
shop, steam saw- and plaster-mill, 2 magnificent hotels, — the 
"Thousand Island House," kept by 0. G. Staples, and the 
" Crossmon House," by Crossmon & Son, — 2 churches, — 
one each of the Reformed and Methodist Episcopal denom- 
inations, — a good public school, post-ofiBce, and telegraph- 
office, a lino of steamers, plying between Clayton, the ter- 
minus of the Utica and Black River R. R. and the bay, 
tri-daily during the season, several boat-houses, pleasure 
steam-yachts, ice-cream parlors, photograph establishments, 
and the numerous other essentials to a fashionable and de- 
servedly popular summer resort. 

Sunken Rock light-house, in front of this port, was 
erected in 1846, but was not used until the following year. 

REDWOOD, 

a thriving village near the line of Theresa, owes its origin 
to a glass-fijctory, established by John S. Foster, who for 
several years had been engaged in this business, as agent, at 
Boston, Burlington, Vt., and Bedford, Clinton county. In 
April, 1833, he visited this county, examined several local- 
ities, and finally selected this, which is on the .stream con- 
necting Mud and Butterficld lakes, the former of which is 
about 94 feet above the latter, affording a limited water- 
power, that had several years previous been improved by 
the erection of a saw- and grist-mill by David Smith, of 
Adams. Foster contracted with Francis Depau for a tract 
of about 10,000 acres, as agent, borrowed several thousand 
dollars of Depau, and the same summer erected the present 
glass-factory, and on Sept. 30, 1 833, the first glass was made. 
A village was surveyed by Thomas Clark, and named Janies- 
ville, but Mr. Foster gave the place the present name, from 
its similarity to " Redford," his late residence, in hopes of 
thus being able to compete in the sale of glass with an es- 
tablishment from which he claimed to have been unjustly 
discharged. His death, which occurred Jan. 2, 1834, put 
a stop to operations, and the tract and improvements, ac- 
cording to the contract, reverted to Depau. The flxctor}' 
was afterwards run by Schmauss & Co., Gerlach & Son, 
Ingleson, Forbes & Co., H. S. White, and from 1844 by 
Zeng & Co., from the Clyde glass-factory. This firm at 



270 



HISTORY UF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



first consisted of Lawrence W. Da Zcng, A. Burlingame, 
and Theodore Hinman. The hitter was succeeded by A. 
Salisbury, and this firm continued operations until July 1, 
1853, when a joint-stock compan}', with 812,0(10 capital, 
was formed, entitled the " Redwood Glass-Manufacturing 
Company." In 1859, W. W. Butterfield became connected 
with the concern as its president, and remained as such until 
1803, in the mean time having purchased all the stock. He 
subsequently operated the concern alone, until 1874, when 
he leased it for 3 j'ears to a stock company, which made 
but one blast in ten months, and at tlie expiration of their 
lease, in June, 1877, the property again reverted to W. W. 
Butterfield, its present owner. Owing to the low price of 
glass, operations have been temporarily suspended. 

The present grist-mill was erected in 1844, by H. S. 
White and Jo.se]ih Butterfield. It has four run of stone, 
and had originally a 24-feet overshot wheel, which was re- 
placed in 1870 by a turbine iron wheel. 

In 184G a wool-carding and cloth-dressing factory was 
built by Wm. Page. It is now temporarily lying idle. 

The village now contains 3 general stores, 1 hardware 
store, 1 boot and shoe store, 2 drug stores, 1 millinery es- 
tablishment, 2 hotels, a glass-works, a earding-wool and 
cloth-dressing factory, a sash, door, and blind factory, a 
cabinet shop, 1 grist- and 1 saw-mill, 2 wagon shops, 4 
blacksmith its, a railroad depot, 2 telegraph offices, an ex- 
press office ; 4 churches, and a good graded school ; 3 resi- 
dent ministers, 3 doctors, 1 lawyer, and 1 dentist, and an 
estimated population of 700. 

(From t!ie Dmpatch.) 

REDWOOD. 

Hail, haink't of peace, with 3'our villas so iivvcet! 

Where the blue waters mingle ami lave at your feet, 

An cinMem of freedom an<l union complete! 

ProuJ freemen pay tribute more heartfelt to thee, 

Than to ''beauiiful \'enice, the pride of the sea." 

Here nature's best charms to the vision unroll. 

An 1 her diamonds and pearls give new worth to the soul 

As it bathes in the sunlight and heaven's pure air, 

And e.vults in relief from the world's busy care: 

Where neetar <li.''tills from the hemlock and pine, 

Health flows from the vintage of nature's pure wine; 

More enchanting the forests than orange-tree groves — 

A fitting abode for th^ goii and their loves. 

Ye beautiful lakes with your isles that adorn, 

That first greet the eye in the smile of the morn, 

While th« weird shadows danse o'er your silvery sheen. 

As the breeze lifts the plumes from your turrets of green, 

Where the light-bounding yacht o'er the waters m.ay glide. 

Not lashed into danger by ocean's fierce tide I 

Where tlie calm stillness breaks at the dip of the oar, 

Anrl (he trill of the wave ripples soft to the shore. 

While anon the soft cadence is borne on the breeze, 

That sings from the boughs of tlie evergreen trees: 

And the owl sends refrain as the night shadows fall, 

And the garrulous loon gives response to the call, 

While the echoes return Hoo, hoo ! Loo, loo, loo! 

As homeward the fisherman guides his c.inoe. 

'Tis n picture e.\(|uisite of sunlight and shade, 

And of nature's own {minting that never can fade. 

Down, ilown through the ages thy fame shall tleseend, 

.'\nil thy lights and thy shades still in hnrmnny blond, 

And the children of care, by life's ctmUict oppressed, 

Find within thy green borders a haven of rest. 

When greenwood shall crumble and cities decline, 

The star of Ihy beauty, foir Redwood, shall shine! 

E. A. U. 



REDWOOD I XION SCHOOL. 

In 1859 a union school was formed at Redwood, but 
owing to the destruction of the records up to 1872, we are 
unable to furnish as complete a history of it as desirable. 
The building was erected in 1859. and the first officers 
were, Peter Ta.s.say, trustee; Alexander Salisbury, clerk; 
Robert Hoffman, collector. The names of those who have 
served as princip;ds are, James P. Bennett, 1865-tJ6 ; Byron 
Stotler, 1867-68; Dennis Mahanna, 1809; C. E. Town- 
send, 1870; Don. A. Watson, 1871-74; Richard Pevin, 
1875 ; P. H. Curran, 1876-77, present incumbent. 

The officers for 1877 are, Christopher Ahlis, trustee ; P. 
H. Curran, clerk ; George H. Smith, collector ; Mrs, A, J, 
Cole, librarian, 

REDWOOD fNIO.V AORICI'LTrRAL ASSOCIATION. 

This association was organized in July, 1874, with a 
capital of $5000. W. W. Butterfield was elected presi- 
dent ; M. C. Jewett, vice-president ; and J. W, Reade, 
secretary and treasurer. The object of the society is to 
stimulate exertions in the progress and development of in- 
telligent agricultural pursuits, the improvement and better- 
ment of stock, and the general advancement of agricultural 
interests. The first fair was held in October, 1874, and an 
exhibition has been held annually since. The association is 
reported in a prosperous condition. 

REDWOOD BURYING-GROUND. 

This burying-ground is located ju.st past the line of 
Alexandria, in the town of Theresa. It was first used for 
burial purposes about 1830. About twenty-five years ago 
a few of the citizens of Redwood partially organized and 
purchased the ground, fenced and laid out into lots, etc. ; 
since which there has been no organization kept up. 

The Catholics have a regular organized cemetery associa- 
tion of a later date. 

PLESSIS 

is a neat village .situated midway on the old Alexandria and 
Theresa plank-road, three miles from Redwood. It derived 
its name from a place in France. It is familiarly known 
as Flat Rock, from the prevalence of the Potsdam sand- 
stone formation in the vicinity, which presents a consider- 
able surface of naked rock. In 1817, Mr. Le Ray erected 
a grist-mill on Plcssis creek at this place, which, having 
been purchased by Jason Clark and William Shurtleff, was 
in 1830 rebuilt. 

The first store was opened by Lull and Walton in 1820; 
but the place increased very slowly, and ten years after con- 
tained but four families. Among the earliest settlers there 
were Jtison Clark, William Shurtleff, Wm. Merrill, James 
Car'ter, William Tanner, and others. 

The first log house was erected by William Merrill, in 
1818, and was afterwards by him converted into an inn. 
Here, in 1820, he was murdered by one John Powell, who 
was sentenced to fourteen yeans' im[)risoimient for the crime, 
Tlie elder Dr. Trowbridge, of Watertown, attended the 
victim, and Mr, James Carter avers that he ''did some 
pretty good trep:inning," But Mr, Merrill was beyond 



HISTORY OF JKFFKRSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



271 



medical skill. He was a peaceable man, and one of the 

con.stituent mombcrs of the Presbyterian church at Plessis. 

The first frame house was ereeteil by William Tanner, 
and was used by him as a dwelling and store, — the firet in 
the village. The old building still stands, and is owned 
by Peter Tassey, Esq., of Redwood, and occuj)ied by his 
sons. 

The first church edifice was the Union building, erected 
in 1833 by the s^evcral denominations then represented in 
the place. 

A tannery was erected near the village on Plessis creek 
in 1821, by James Carter. A sebool-house was built in 
1S2G, after the formation of the districts. 

Tiie village now contains 3 general, one grocery, and 2 
millinery stores, an undertaker's-shop, 2 wagon-shops, 2 
blacksmiths, 1 saw-mill, 2 grist-mills, 1 cooper"s-shop, 2 
shoe-shops. It has 3 churches, — one each of tiie Presby- 
terian, Methodist Episcopal, and Protestant Jlethodist 
denominations, — a public school, a resident physician, bury- 
ing-ground, 1 resident minister. It is a post village; the 
first postmaster was Jason Claik ; the present incumbent 
is Wesley Crandall. The population is estimated at 300. 
Dr. Amos M. Duiitoii was an early and prominent medical 
practitioner of this village. After practicing there many 
years he removed to Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, where he 
died April 24, 1867. 

wells' island. 
All the islands in the State, between a line drawn at 
right angles to the river from the village of Morristown, 
and a meridian drawn through the western point of Grind- 
stone island, were patented by Elisha Camp February 15, 
1823. These islands contained 15,402.9 acres, of which 
Grindstone island contained 5291,* Wells island 80GS, 
and the others a lesser area. Wells island partly belongs to 
Orleans and partly to Alexandria. According to the census 
of Wm. Rottiers, compiled in 1850, it contained 3.j4 inhab- 
itants, of which 101 Were in Alexandria and 233 in Orleans. 
It now has about 500 inhabitants, of whom many are thrifty 
Gorman citizens, whose principal business is dairy-farming 
and the manufacture of odoriferous Liniburger cheese. The 
rock formation is, like most of the One Thousand Isles, prim- 
itive, and covered with a fertile soil. The chief feature of 
Wells Lsland now is the •' International Camp-Ground," on 
that part of the island belonging to Orleans, and " West- 
minster Park Camp-Ground," on that portion in Alexan- 
dria. For further particulars of these, see general history 
of the county. 

WESTMINSTER PARK. 

This place of resort for the summer months has been 
inaugurated by the Presbyterians, on the lower end of 
Wollesley I.sland, in the St. Lawrence river, in the confines 
of the town of Alexandria. The association under whose 
auspices the park is niaint^iined is incorporated under the 
Act of the Legislature of New York pa.ssed in 1853, being 
chapter 117 of the se.-^sion laws of that year, and the acts 
amendatory thereof The articles of as.sociation were dated 

^ An actual enumeratiOD of the lots on the island, from a recent 

survey, gives it o530 iicres, — (Eu,) 



in 1875, and filed in the proper offices, of the Secretary of 
State, and county clerk of Jefferson County, wherein the 
as,sociation is styled " The Westminster Park A.ssociation 
of the Thousand Islands." The capital stock of the asso- 
ciation was originally fixed at 850,000, divided into shares 
of one hundred dollars each ; but was subsequently (1877) 
reduced to §311,000. 

The association has purchased five hundred acres on the 
island, having nearly five miles of water front in the mean- 
ders of the shore. In addition to this purchase there has 
also been made another, of Isle IMary, or Picnic Point, of 
twenty-five acres area, separated from the park by a narrow 
channel of a few feet in width, to be connected with the 
park by a bridge, but still to be reserved exclusively for 
excursion and picnic parties ; thus saving the (|uiet and 
privacy of the dwellers of the park from disturbance and 
inquisitive crowds. The purcha.se price of the five hun- 
dred acres was §14,000. The enterprise, though inaugu- 
rated under the auspices of the Presbyterians and tho.se of 
like faith, is, notwithstanding, not intended to be strictly 
denominational. It has received the hearty indorsement 
of the Presbytery of St. Lawrence, within whose bounds it 
is located, and of the Synod of Central New York. The 
capital stock has all been subscribed and paid in, from 
which the land has been paid for, and a balance of several 
thousand dollars loft, which has been, and is being, ex- 
pended ibr the improvement of the park. Over four miles 
of roads have already been made in the area, and the im- 
provements are still going forward. Lots are sold upon 
certain conditions, sanitary and otherwi.se, and the proceeds 
applied to still further improvement and adornment of the 
park. An enthusiastic visitor to the park, during the season 
of 1877 (a Chicago lady), thus discourses of the scenery 
of the ^rounds of the association : 

" It wa? my good fortune, a few days ago, to be inviteil with some 
other friends by one of the trustees to make a tour of inspection of 
the new jiark. I bad been in the midst of the enchanting Thousand 
It<Iands for several weeks. I bail basked in the beauty of the mng- 
niticent St. Lawrence; I had seen sunrise and sunset, moonlight and 
starlight, ui)on its beautiful waters. I bad«visited many of the green 
isles that gem its broad bosom, was delighted with all that I saw, and 
felt that there was not much more for me to see. What, then, was my 
delight to find that Westminster park held for me a new surprise. 
Here is to be found scenery of every variety, from the most quiet to 
the most wild and romantic. Our path, as we first entered the grounds, 
skirted along the edge of a meadow, odorous with the breath of new- 
mown hay. Then we came to sloping uplands; a turn to the left, a 
fence to be leaped, and we are in the shadow of a great forest ; an 
ascending broad path is before us, the interlacing branches of the 
trees overhead permit but a golden thread of sunlight here and there 
to fall upon the mossy sod at your feet; the vista which opens before 
us is most charming, and one of our party at once names this lovely 
forest aisle ' Cathedral Avenue,' A turn to our right, another broaii 
path, but here the growth of oak, maple, beech, and ash is more 
dense, and although the sun is still high in the heavens it is twilight 
here under the shadow of the great trees ; a holy hush seems to per- 
vade the whole atuiosphere, the very birds and insects seem atfected 
by the place, and join in a low, sweet chant of praise. 

" Another turn, and we ascend a broad, beautiful wooded hill, saiil 
to be the highest point in the park. (It is here the observatory is to 
be placed.) It probably rises from a hundred to a hundred and fifty 
feet above the level of the river. We have reached its summit; a 
lovely view of forest scenery meets our eye on every hand. Still filled 
with a spirit of deep contentment, and of high and holy aspiration 
engendered by the scene around us, we name this spot ' Mount Beu- 
lah,' We descend a long, sweeping hill on the opposite side from 



272 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



which wc came up, lured on by glimpses of sapphire waters through 
openings in the trees. At last we como out upon a sloping, sandy 
beach, and the lovely and placid waters of the * Lake of the Isles' is 
lying at our feet, and just opposite, seemingly within a stone's throw, 
is 'Lome Island,' in the Canadian channel. We retrace our steps 
by a circuitous route, our path becomes uneven, rocks jut out on 
every hand, the aromatic order of pines is wafted to us on the sum- 
mer breeze. Again do we behold glim]>ses of the blue St. Lawrence 
through the trees ; we enter a narrow gorge ; massive rocks, piled one 
upon the other, to\ver far above our heads; the chaotic- manner in 
which they arc placed, and the gaping fissures between them, which 
kind mother Xature, with all her sweet art in broider of moss and 
lichen, has not been quite able to hide, shows that at some time a 
great upheaval of nature must have taken place here. We sit down 
on a mossy rock shaded by dark pine-trees to cool, and as we rest 
ourselves, and admire our romantic surroundings, it seems as though 
we are transported to some wild Scottish glen, and we look around to 
see the fairies trooping out to meet us. After admiring the ferns, the 
exquisite mosses and lichens, we resume our tramp : j>assiug through 
much more of the same sort of wild scenery, we at last came out on a 
high, bold bluff, overlooking the river on the American shore, its side 
a solid perpendicular rock projecting almost a hundred feet above the 
water. The view is superb: above the azure sky, with soft, floating, 
silvery clouds : beneath the clear, blue water, 'gemmed by a thousand 
emerald bowers.' The point wc named ' Ilungerford Outlook.' 

"Passing on again for some distance, wc find ourselves on a high 
projecting point reaching out into the river. This wc named * Pros- 
pect Point,' as it gives a magnificent view of the river and Alexan- 
dria Bay, with the beautiful Thousand Island House just opposite, 
perched so romantically upon the rocks. 

"At last we turn our steps, most reluctantly, to our yacht, but not 
until we have determined to become the owner of a lot in this beau- 
tiful park, and wc would advise all weary denizens of cities to go and 
do likewise." 

The original board of trustees named in tlie articles of 
association were: Hon. Andrew Cornwall, of Alexandria 
Bay ; Hon. Seth G. Pope, of O^'dcnsburgh ; S. B. Van 
Duzee, of Gouverneur ; John 1). Ellis, of Antwerp ; R. C. 
Collis, of Theresa ; George Gilbert, of Carthage ; William 
S. Taylor, of Utica ; Timothy Hough, of Syracuse ; and 
Dr. J. D. Huntington, of Watertown. 

The present board of trustees and oflSccrs arc as follows : 
Rev. P. II. Fowler, D.D., of Utica, president; Hon. An- 
drew Cornwall, of Alexandria Bay, vice-president and 
treasurer ; R. C. CoUjs, of Theresa, secretary ; S. B. Van 
Duzee, of Gouverneur, Goo. Gilbert, of Cartilage, Judge 
Phelps, of Binghamton, P. H. Agun, of Syracuse, Gen. S. 
I). Hungerford, of Adams, and Dr. J. D. Huntington, of 
Watertown. The executive committee is Messrs. Fowler, 
Cornwall, Collis, Hungerford, and Huntington, under whose 
direction the improvements on the park arc being vigor- 
ously puslied, preparatory to the opening of the grounds 
and .sale of lots, wiiich is proposed to take place about the ■ 
middle of May next (1878). 

THE FIRST PUE.SBYTERIAN CIIURCU OF ALEXANDRIA 

was formed at Plcssis, August 11, 1821, by the Rev. 
Nathaniel Dutton, and consi.'<ted of the following-named 
members : Aaron Goddard, James Carnegie, Lydia Carne- 
gie, Elizabeth Carnegie, Cynthia Merrill, Polly Toung, and 
Sally Iloadley. The Lord's Supper was first administered 
to this little band August 12, 1821, by the pastor. David 
J. Weeks and Aaron Goddard were ordained elders, the 
former on July 4, 1824, the latter on September 5 of the 
Siime year. The succession of pastors and sujipllcs of the 
church, from its organization to the present, has been as 



follows: Revs. William B. Stowe, G. A. Boardman, John 
Sessions, William Chittenden, Phinoas Camp, Lswis M. 
Shepard, L. Wilcox, Ilanry Smith, C. W. Treadwell, who 
served the church faithfully and well for twelve years, 
Samuel L. Merrill, Alexander Smith, Alexander B. Wil- 
liams, M. E. Grant, and the R3v. J. A. Canfield, the pres- 
ent incumbent. 

Jason Clark was ordained an elder and appointed clerk 
of the board in 1833, and occupied those offico-s until his 
death in 1871. And we may here be allowed, with all due 
reverence, to remark that the admirable manner in which 
he kept the records of the church during the thirty-eight 
years of his clerkship entitles him, in our opinion, to the 
position of secretary to the recording angel in the celestial 
mansions above. 

In 1861 the society erected a fine church building of 
wood, with a spiral tower, at a cost of nearly 84000. The 
sacred edifice was dedicated to the service of Almighty 
God in 1862, during the pastorate of Rev. C. W. Tread- 
well. It is capable of seating about 400 persons, and is 
perhaps the finest house of worship in the town. The 
present membership is 39; present eldere, Egbert Ball, 
Benjamin Jo}', Elnathan Plato, and Lyman Corlis ; the 
latter is also clerk. 

Prior to 1832 a Sunday-school was organized, of which 
Jason Clark was the first superintendent and remained such 
until his death, a period of nearly forty years. Tiie pres- 
ent superintendent is Egbert Ball ; number of teachers, 8 ; 
scholars, 30. 

The church, during its fifty-sis years' existence, has 
experienced the usual vicissitudes and trials of the church 
militant. But it hits never succumbed, and has always 
maintained its organization despite an impoverished treas- 
ury or a numerically small membership. It is now com- 
paratively prosperous, and bids fair to so continue. 

THE HAPTIST CHURCH OF REDWOOD, 

which is now the only Bapti-st church in the town of Alex- 
andria, was formerly known as the " Second Baptist Church 
of Alexandria." There was, in other days (^from 1830 to 
about 1858), a First Baptist church located in the southwest 
part of the town, but it has long since disappeared. The 
second church was organized June 7, 1832, with eleven 
members, namely, James Chaffin, Lind Pierce, Isaac Leon- 
ard, Alvin Maxin, Daniel Leonard, Nancy Cranck, Hannah 
Spcarback, Drusilla II. Murray, Mary Ann Lake, Anna 
George, and Cynthia Leonard. They had no regular place 
of worshi]) from 1832 until 1856, when their present hou.«e 
of worship was built in the village at Redwood. They have 
had, since their organization until the present time, the 
ministry of seven reverend brethren as pastors, namely, 
Elders C. Havens, M. Wilkie, Samuel Whitney, Jesse 
Ager, L. Golden, G. N. Sears, and E. Edwards. L. Golden 
is serving this church a second time, but only temporarily. 
From the beginning they have had a hard struggle to main- 
tain their existence. Their ingatherings, as a general thing, 
have been a few at a time, and, in some instances, far be- 
tween. Their house of worship is small, the same room being 
used for church and •Sunday-school pur])()ses. It is 32 by 
44 feet, and will comfortably seat 200 persons. They have 



HENET S. WHITE. 

HiNKy S. White was born in 
the town of Antwerp, Jefferson 
County, May 16, 1812. His pa- 
rents, liko the majority of the early 
settlers of the county, were poor, 
and at an early age ha was thrown 
upon his own resources ; when six- 
teen years of age he went to Pitts- 
ford, Vt., where he resided with a 
maternal uncle until he was twenty. 
He then was engaged by a merchant 
by the name of Addison Bush as 
clerk ; he remained with Mr. Bush 
one year, and then went to Shore- 
ham, Vt., and entered the employ 
of Birchard & Wright. After a 
short time he formed a co-partner- 
ship with an uncle and cousin, 
under the firm name of J. Simons 
& Co. They carried on business 
in genera! merchandise for about 
a year, when he was employed as 
superintendent of the glass-works 
at Lake Densmore ; this position he 
hold until 1842, when he returned 
to Jefferson County, and in com- 
pany with Joseph Butterfield pur- 




H.S. White. 



cliosed the glass-works, saw-mill, 
and water power nt lluilwood. He 
erected a flouring and custom mill. 
In 1852 the co-p;irliiorship was dis- 
solved, Mr. Buttcrficld retiring; 
since that time he has been o.<(lcn- 
sively engaged in the manufacture 
of lumber and flour, and in con- 
nection has carried on a general 
store; he has also dealt extensively 
in pine lands and farms. In all 
his busine.s." enterpriic?, Mr. White 
has been successful, and is now en- 
joying a well-earned competency. 
In 1836 he married Miss Louisa C, 
daughter of Mark and Kuba Has- 
kell, of Salisbury, Vt., formerly of 
New Bedford, Mass. Mrs. White 
was born, December 10, 1810, in 
Salisbury, and is still living. Mr. 
White has been largely identiGcd 
with the interests of Redwood, baa 
helped to construct and support 
the churches and schools, was in- 
strumental in the construction of 
the Black River and Morristown 
R. K, and was its secretary uni 
treasurer, and is still a director. 




— rrrTrtiini-— ■ ■!■■! 

Rlsiolnci 01 ri.S.'yyriilL.tSQ.. n'cowooojow^ or ALiKAHO/fiA.Jiff^ffSon ucV r 




CHAUNCEY WESfCOrr 



f^RS.CHAIIUClY WESTCon^ 




ficsiDLHCi Of JOSEPH Yf.READE.,ESQ.,liiDwooDTo^NorAL[XANomt.,J[rreinoKCoHY 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, XEW YORK. 



a good parsonage located near the church, and their entire 
church property is worth about S-IOOO. They are free from 
debt, and have a membership of 77. 

The present churoli officers arc, Harry Dillon, Jason Dil- 
lon, and Samuel Pliillips, Deacons; Glendon S. Phillips, 
Church Clerk; Philip Workman, Treasurer; Henry S. 
White, Cyrus LinncU, and Sidney Webster, Trustees. 

The Sunday-school has always been a Union school, and 
was organized about the year 1835. Richard Gray and 
Hiram Stratton were the earliest officers of whom any 
record remains. The school at present has about 90 teach- 
ers and scholai-s. Cyrus Linnell is the superintendent, as- 
sisted by L. Johnson, and George Wilson is Secretary and 
Treasurer. Reports as to the prosperity of the church and 
Sunday-school are promising. 

THE CHURCH OP THE THOUSAND ISL.WDS. 

A Reformed Protestant Dutch church was organized at 
Alexandria Bay under the following circumstances. In 
the summer of 1S4G, the Rev. George W. Bethuno, D.D., 
of Brooklyn, having occasion to spend a few days at the 
place, and learning that among a scattered population of 
2000, on the i.sland and main lanil, there was no place of 
worship, and few religious opportunities, except one service 
a month by a Methodist circuit preacher, formed the plan 
of organizing a church here. He called the inhabitants 
together and preached to them on the Sabbath, and at the 
close of the service he suggested to them the establishment 
of a Sabbath-school, promising them a supply of books for 
the purpose. The suggestion was complied with, a school 
opened, 40 or 50 scholars gathered into it, and it was kept 
up about a year. In 1847, Rev. Jerome A. Davenport 
was induced by Dr. Bethune to vi.sit the place as a mission- 
ary, being partially supported by a few friends of the mis- 
sion, until, in 1850, the care was assumed by the Board of 
Domestic Mi.ssions of that denomination. In the fall of 
1847, Jlr. Davenport raised 81275 in New York, Brook- 
lyn, and adjacent places, and §275 from residents of the 
Bay. He remained three years, a considerable time abroad, 
soliciting aid, and in the fall of 1848 the erection of a 
church edifice was begun, and on the 25th of Maj', 1851, 
it was opened for worship. It is of stone, 35 by 55 feet, 
and has a truncated tower GO feet hi>rh. It hiis a seatinsr 
capacity for from 350 to 400 persons, and cost $2822, be- 
sides S170 for a bell. On the 1st of August, 1851, the 
church was regularly formed. Rev. Charles Wiley, D.D., 
being present as a committee representing the cla.ssis of 
Cayuga. It consisted of 13 members. Alva Ford and 
James Woodsworth were appointed ciders and deacons, and 
the organization w;js named " the Church of the Thousand 
Islands." The sites for both the church and parsonage 
were donated by the heirs of Depau, and in 1852 a par- 
sonage was erected at a cost of 8800. 

August 1, 1850, Rev. Anson Du Bois was called to the 
pastorate of the church, and remained until May, 1854. 
He was succeeded in July of the same year by Rev. George 
Rockwell, who, after a faithful ministry of twenty-three 
years, was obliged to resign on account of extreme deafness. 
His successor was Rev. Henry D. Vriese, Jr., the present 
incumbent, who assumed the pjistoral duties over the church 
18 



in July, 1877. The present elders are Francis Thomson 
and David Woodsworth ; Deacons, William Woodsworth 
and I.saac Evcrsun. The membership of the church is 52 ; 
teachers and scholars in the Sunday-school, GG ; Superin- 
tendent, Rev. Henry De Vriese, the paster. The present 
condition of the church is flourishing. 

ST. Peter's Protestant episcopal church 

of Redwood was formed August 12, 1850, with Daniel 
Slack, A. Matthias Harrison, wardens; Richard Gray, L. 
W. De Zeng, Charles Clark, James Wright, and Josiah 
Bucklee, vestrymen. The Rev. Wm. Allen Fisk was at 
that time missionary ; he was succeeded by the Rev. B. W. 
Witcher. The last rector was the Rev. Charles A. Wen- 
neau. A small Gothic church edifice was erected in 1851, 
after the designs of R. Upjohn, of New York. The church 
now reports 25 fiimilic-s, 26 communicants. The present 
Wardens are M. H. Smith and A. L. White; Vastrymen, 
H. S. White, A. A. Holmes, J. W. Reade, W. A. Failing, 
and C. W. Clark. 

The Sundaj--school has a membership of 60 .scholars and 
7 teachers. The present superintendent is A. L. White. 

ST. Francis' roman catholic church 

was organized at Redwood, about 1848. Frequent appli- 
cations to the pastor. Rev. M. J. Brown, and Peter Tas&iy, 
one of its earliest members, have failed to procure the neces- 
sary data for a complete historical sketch. Hence the 
omission. 

PHTSICIANS. 

Dr. Demtx)n (Denton ?) located at Plessis as early as 
1830. He studied with old Dr. Smith, of Evans' Mills. 
Dr. E. S. Carlisle, a member of the Jefferson County 
Medical Society, is the resident physician at Plessis now. 
At Alexandria Bay, Dr.s. Charles Walton, Marvin J. 
Hutchins, and A. 0. Blair have practiced ; the latter from 
1832 to 1838, when he removed elsewhere. Don A. 
Walton, M.D., is the resident physician there now. 

^Ve are under special obligations to the following gentle- 
men for assistance rendered in the preparation of the above 
history of the town of Alexandria : Chauncey Westcott, the 
Waltons, Charles Rundtett, Lyman Carlis, James Carter, 
Ebenezer Campbell, Charles Crossmon, William and John 
Spaulsbury, A. D. Newman, W. W. Buttcrfield, Es(|., Peter 
Tas.say, J. W. Reade, H. S. White, John I. Ivcrsoii, and 
othere. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



CHAUNCEY WESTCOTT 

comes of Massachusetts and Rhode Island ancestry, his 
mother having been born in the town of Cheshire, Massa- 
chusetts, September 20, 1784, and his father, Henry West- 
cott, in Rhode Island, October 15, 1778. Henry moved 
with his father's family to Oneida county, New York, and 



274 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



was married to Amy Dexter Gushing in 1803. He died 
October 24, 1855; his wife in October, 1870. Chauncey 
Westcott was born in the town of Deerfield, Oneida county. 
New York. December 10, 1804. In the month of January 
following his father moved into Jefferson County. Chauncey 
resided in the county until January, 1831, when he re- 
moved to Onondaga county, where he remained four years, 
retiring to Alexandria in 1835. In 1832 he was married 
to Miss Emeline, daughter of Isaac and Charity Everson, 
natives of Montgomery county, New York, who was bom 
in the town of Manlius, Onondaga county, September 27, 
1812. This marriage was blessed with two children, — one 
son, Willson H., born in Cicero, Onondaga countj', Novem- 
ber 20, 1833, married Miss Jane Thompson, in January, 
1844; and one daughter, Emeline F., born in Alexandria, 
Jefferson County, September 12, 1835, married Charles 
Woodworth, in February, 1 858. Both reside in the village 
of Alexandria Bay. 

Chauncey Westcott was a poor boy, and had his own way 
to make in the world. As a youth he worked by the day 
and by the mouth for the farmers in the vicinity of his 
father's house in Watertown. After that he attended a 
grist- and flouring-mill for five years ; clerked in a store five 
years ; followed boating on the Erie canal five years ; 
worked at lumbering by the day and job five winters; and 
rafted lumber from Alexandria Bay down the St. Law- 
rence to Quebec three springs ; kept hotel five years at 
Alexandria Bay. He was elected justice of the peace, and 
served one constitutional term to the entire satisfaction of 
the people. Since 1855 he has farmed principally, and ispccu- 
lated .some in furs and butter until 1872, since wliich time 
he has attended to liis farm exclusively. He is a gentle- 
man well and favorably' known for honest dealing and gen- 
eral rectitude. An illustration of his residence can be seen 
on another page. 



THOMAS BENTON MARSHALL. 

Romeo W. Marshall, the father of the subject of this 
sketch, a native of Connecticut, was born in the year 1788. 
He moved to Herkimer, this St;ite, in 1806, and after a 
few years removed to Trenton Falls, Oneida county, where 
he engaged in the mercantile trade. He settled in the 
present town of Alexandria in 1838, where he purchased 
and cleared up the farm upon which he resided till his death 
in 1874, at the age of eighty-six years. 

Thomas Benton Marshall, the youngest .son, was born in 
Trenton Falls on March 25. 1834. On April 5, 1855, he 
was married to Sarah Jane Crabb, of the town of Lo Ray. 
The children of their union were, Tompkins, born May 4, 
18(j(t, and Welby H., born June 14, 1867. 

Mr. Jlarshall purchased the old homestead (one hundred 
and ninety acres), and is engaged in the quiet occupation 
of farming. A view of his home and the portraits of him- 
self and his estimable wife are found el.sewhere in this work. 
In religious faith he is a Universalist, and in politics Re- 
publican. Liberal, kind-hearted, and generous, ho is uni- 
versally respected by his aci|Uaintances, and beloved by his 
friends and relatives. 




'^^5^P^* 



AZARTAH WALTON. 

Azariah Walton was born in Chesterfield, N. II., August 
20, 1784. His family were of English extraction. But 
little, however, is known of its history previous to the birth 
of our subject. Like most of the youth of that day, his 
opportunities for education were extremely limited, and his 
knowledge was obtained from the bitter school of experience. 
He early evinced a decided taste for lueclianics, learned the 
trade of a blacksmith, and became an expert machinist. To 
this fact is attributable his emigration to Jefferson County 
previous to the Waruf 1812. At this time Brownville was 
building, and ho was engaged to superintend the construc- 
tion of the cottun-mills at that place. He remained at 
Brownville until the year 1824, when he moved to Theres;i, 
where he was eng-.iged in merchandising until 1828, when 
he received the appointment of collector of customs for the 
port of Alexandria Bay, which office he held for nineteen 
years. 

He became engaged in general merchandising and lum- 
bering, and, being a sagacious and shrewd business man, 
was succes.sful. In 1845 he purchased, in conipanj' with 
Chesterfield Pe;irson, all the islands in the American channel 
of the St. Lawrence river from the head of Wells island 
to Morristown. Many of the smaller ones he sold at a 
nominal sum, but the major portion he was in pos.sessioii of 
at his death, which occurred June 10, 1855. Mr. Walton 
was a man possessed of most of the cardinal virtues, and 
his social ijuaiities were of a high order ; he possessed in an 
eminent degree the faculty of making every one about him 
as happy as himself, and it is still the delight of many who 
knew him intimately to relate anecdotes showing his pro- 
verbial good nature. May 29, 1810, he married .Miss Mary 
Gilson, who was born November 15, 17U1, by whom he 
had ten children, four of whom are living. All in all, Mr. 
Walton was a noble specimen of that race of pioneers who 
years ago laid the foundation for the present wealth and 
enterprise of Jefferson County. 





, A 



LoREN Stone 



fi^Rs. LoREN Stone. 





OLD HOMESTEAD or LOREN STONE, AmwiHtt Jificmson Co., N. Y. 



HISTORY OF JEFFFmSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



275 






A. TAN NEK. 



SUSAN TANNER. 



» > 130&' < o 



A N T W E E P. 



The territory embraced in the town of Antwerp lies in 
the form of a paralielognim, of which the longer lines run 
about northwest and southeast. The towns of Philadelphia 
and Wiliia join it on the southwest, and Theresa on the 
uorthwe.st, while its northeastern and southeastern bound- 
aries respectively are the counties of St. Lawrence and 
Lewis. Its surface, which cannot properly be termed hilly, 
is yet rolling and uneven, and in many parts rough, broken, 
and seamed by rocky ridges ; notwithst^uiding which blemish 
the soil is strong and productive. 

Its principal stream is Indian river, which enters from 
Wilna, and, after making a bold .sweep towards the northeast 
and passing through the principal village, flows back across 
the southwest line into Philadelphia. There is also the 
Oswegatchie river, which enters the town from the north- 
cast, and, making a short and abrupt bend, known as the 
" Ox Bow," passing the village of the same name, turns 
sharply back into St. Lawrence county, aft<!r having re- 
ceived Antwerp's tribute, a small stream flowing out from 
her three lakes, which are Sherman's, Vrooman's, and 
Moon, — the la.st named lying on the northwestern bound- 
ary, and partly in the town of Theresa. 

THE FIRST .SETTLERS. 

It is doubtful whether the honor of having made the 
first settlement in the territory now forming the town of 
Antwerp belonged to Captain William Lee or to Peter 
Vrooman, for it appears evident that both settled during 
the same year. 1803, though both were then but squatters 
on land which they afterwards purcha.sed. Lee lowited on 
the State road on lot No. G57, and Vrooman built his log 
iiouse at the great bend of the Oswegatchie, at a point near 



the lower end of the present village of Ox Bow. Both 
these settlers opened their log dwellings as public-houses 
for the accommodation of the travelers and explorers who 
had already commenced to journey through that new coun- 
try. Mention of the existence of both these establishments 
as early as the year 1804 is found in the diary of James 
Constable, who, during the summers of 1803, 1804, 1805, 
and IBOfi, made extended tours through Jefferson and the 
adjoining counties on business, as executor of the estate 
of his deceased brother William, who had been an exten- 
sive land-owner in this region. Under date of August 25, 
1804, he says : 

" Pa»8 on through No. 4 ... 10 (ten) miles to the Long Falls 
(Carthage), where wc breakfasted at a middling good tavern. . . . 
Proceed on 4 miles from the river to a log hut, then 6 miles to another, 
then 12 to a third, there being but three settlero on the (Jreat Tract 
No. 4, unless there are some on Pcnncl's Square. . . . This traet be- 
longs to, or is under the management of, Mr. Lc Ray and .Mr. G, 
Morris, and nothing has yet been done towards settling it. The 
three people now on it have a verbal promise that they shall have the 
land at a fair prieo as first settlers, but they arc very anxious in their 
inquiries after General Lewis K. Morri.s, who, it is understood, has 
undertaken i)fc selling of 100,000 acres. . . . Sleep at Lee's tavern, 
22 miles from the falls, with hard fare and poor lodgings." 

From which it is apparent that his day's journey was 
northward from Carthage, through the present towns of 
Wilna and Antwerp, — finding a cabin at the end of the 
first four miles, then another, six miles farther on, then 
nothing but wilderness for a stage of twelve miles, including 
the ])resent site of the village of Antwerp, until he reached 
Captain Lee's log tavern, which stood upon the farm now 
owned by John Wilber, north of Antwerp village. He 
proceeds : 



276 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



" Angusl 26. — Pass on five miles to the Ox Bow, a remarkable bend 
in the cast branch of Oswogatchie river, anil a fine silualiun for a 
large house. There is now a log hut,® at which we breakfasted, and 
another in sight." 

Ailor two weeks' travel east through St. Lawrence and 
Franklin, he returned over the same route, and, under date 
of September 9, says : 

" Set oir from Lee's after breakfast and stop at 8tcarns', on No. IV., 
at twelve miles' distance, then ten miles more to the tiUuk river at 
Long Falls." 

Again passing over the place where is now Antwerp 
village, and never mentioning the spot, for at that time 
there was not so much as a pole cabin upon it. 

In his tour of the next year (1805) he again traversed 
the same route, and thus recorded his journey from Car- 
thage to the Ox Bow : 

"AiiffiKil Ifi.— Proceeded through Great Tract No. IV., and stopped 
at Stearns', ten miles, where we dined, and arrived at Lee's, twenty- 
two miles from the fall.s, where we jiassed the night, and, as the house 
was completely full, an uncomfortable one it was. I see no alteration 
in this part of the country since last year; the road at least as bad, 
anil un mure aetllers. We were told General Lewis R. Morris has been 
through it, and has now gone to Vermont, intending shortly to return, 
perhaps with his family. He has quieted Lee and other squatters, 
who seemed well satisfied. He is expected to build at the Ox Bow. • 

"Aui/imi 17. — Left Lee's very early, and came through to the Ox 
Boiv, five miles of as bad road as we had yet tr.avelcd." 

In 1806, Vroomai) purchased the land on which he had 
sf|uatted three ycar.s before. Captain Lee made his pur- 
chase in 1805. After a few years' occupation he sold out 
and removed to Morristown on the St. Lawrence. His 
successor was Jlordecai F. Cook, from Pennsylvania, who 
continued to keep a public-house. This became a place of 
some note, and being centrally located in the town, the 
annual elections were several times held there, those of the 
years 1830 and 1832 being jiarticularly mentioned in the 
record as having taken place at his house. Here, too, was 
the place of " general training" in the old days of military 
enthusiasm, and the spot, near by, where the parades took 
place, is still known by old residents as the " training- 
ground." And in the times when Antwerp and the ad- 
joining towns were the theatre of bold smuggling opera- 
tions, and military guards were set over the roads leading 
towards the border, Cook's tavern wa.s a rendezvous equally 
well known to the contrabaiulists and to tiie officers who 
were set to capture them. Mr. Cook remained here until 
his death. 

Daniel Sterling, the father of James Stcrlinir, the iron 
manufacturer, came to Antwerp in 1805, and settled a mile 
north of Indian river, where Bradford Sterling now lives.f 
Mary Sterling, his wife, received the first deed conveying 
lands in the town of Antwerp. 

John Bethel, John C. Foster, Edward Foster, Hopestill 
Foster, Edward Foster, Jr., Silas Wprd, and Peter Raven 
came in 1806. In 1807 came Lyman Coiburn, Asa Hunt, 
William Randall, Allen Thompson, and Henry Adams. In 
1808, Salmon White, Clark Lewis, Amos Keith, and Thad- 
dcus Park. 

AH the above settled on the old Gouverneur road to the 



• Evidently Vrooman's. 

t Samuel G. Sterling, son of Daniel Sterling, now of rhiladelphia, 
was the first white child born in the town. 



northeast of Daniel Sterling, and, in 1809. Caleb Cheney, 
Amos Streeter, and Warren Streeter located on the same 
road. Mrs. Nott, with her family of two sons (Moses and 
Reuben) and three or four dau;.;liters, als-o came about the 
same time; and Solomon Pepper came in 1810. Zopher 
Holden settled, in 1806, on Indian river, about two miles 
southwest of Antwerp village. 

On the Long Fails (^Carthage) road Lemuel Hubbard 
settled as early as 1805, and Henry C. Baldwin, Dexter 
Gibbs, Shercbiah Gibbs, Aina.«a Sartwell, Almon Beocher, 
and William Fletcher had located there as early as 1809. 
Other early settlers in the town, and the dates of their 
purchases, were as follows: John Jenison, James Parker, 
Benajah Randall, John Robinson, 1806 ; David Cofleen, 
Zebulon Rockwell, and Samuel Griswold, 1807; Alfred 
Walker and David Gill, 1808; Richard McAllaster, Jona- 
than Marbles, Isaac L. Hitchcock, John Pease, Jesse Jack- 
son, Daniel Heald, and Timothy Ruggles, 1S09 ; Harrison 
Moseley, Jedutlian Kingsbury, 1810; John White, Anson 
Cummings, Levi Wheelock, William McAllaster, 1811; 
Elkanah Pattridge, William Harris, Asher Seymour, Ira 
Ward, Roswell Wilder, Benjamin Giodwin, Elliott Lynde, 
Ezra Church, Silas Brooks, S. Bekwith, James Briggs, 
1812; Matthew Brooks, Samuel Hendrix, Oliver Slowoll, 
James Chase, Silvius Hoard, and Sylvanus Hall had settled 
before 1810. 

Of all who came to Antwerp prior to the war of 1812 
one alone remains. This is Mr. Benjamin Cook, who came 
here from Schoharie in 1811, but it was not until the fol- 
lowing year that he purchased the land upon which he is 
now living. There was no road to the place at that time, 
though the old Cambray road lay less than a half-mile from 
him to the southeast. He married after he came, but has 
now been a widower for many years, and is living alone 
within a few rods of the spot where he first reared his pole 
cabin. He, however, has sons living in the west. He was, 
iu point of time, the third school-teacher in Antwerp. The 
lot on which he settled was No. <390, and his farm is dis- 
tant from Antwerp village some three miles on the road to 
Kcene's Station. In the month of May, 1830, 'he brought 
a number of young pines from the Eggleston swamp and 
planted them in a row along the roadside, opposite his 
house. The land on which they stood he afterwards sold 
to Otis Foster, and it is at preircnt owned by Ansel Clarke. 
The saplings lived, and are now great trees of half a cen- 
tury's growth, — objects of no little pride to the aged man 
who planted them. IMr. Cook has seen great changes iu 
the town : his old neighbors are all gone ; the mill which 
he built on his farm loiig after his arrival has for years been 
a decayed ruin ; yet he still is here, and, though eighty-six 
years of age, is yet vigorous, and his wondeiful memory is 
scarcely impaired. In the preparation of this historical 
narrative we have drawn freely from his store of cirly recol- 
lecti(jns, obtaining from him facts which no other person 
living is able to furni.sh, and which, as he truly sjiys, it was 
well to gather now, for in a very .short time at farthest they 
would have become forever inaccessible. 

ORGANIZ-VTION OF THE TOWN. 
Antwerp was erected a town on the 5lh of Ajiril, 1810. 




-■^■i^ ■'iiSkf 





(/•hJTOi 01 LS WfuCKj 



L.A.CARPlHTEf^. 



f/llfS.LA.CAFirENTER. 




HcsiOENCE or L.A.GARPENTER, Antwerp, N. Y. 




«,.:.;i*s*.Ji 



M 



t-f; 





AND RcsioENCc OF HIRAM B. KEENE, K. 








'■'^^n^S^St. 



vc Smt/ow, Jcfferson County, New York . 



( AssmL.ou 





■rtf^*^'- 



t Photon, sr i.s. V\'iLi£f*. 



tAi^c/Z. cy^^J^ ./^/^fi^'^^^.^^^^^-^-.^b^^ 




^'jwwswsayviji'- 



;'>>*■ 




ResideNCH or ELIJAH HOUGHTON, Ahjwerp. H.Y 



A e.s au. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



277 



Its territory — the same which is included in its present 
boundaries — was partitioned off from Lo Ray. Its name 
was given in honor of the Antwerp company, who owned 
large tracts of hind in this and in the neighboring town- 
ships. 

The organization went into effect on the 1st of January, 
1811, and the first annual meeting of the new town Wixs 
held on the 5th of the following March, " at the house of 
Francis McAllaster, occupied by William Fletcher, inn- 
keeper, in said Town." Daniel Sterling was chosen mod- 
erator, and the following persons were elected to the town 
ofiBces, viz. : Daniel Heald, supervisor ; Samuel Randall, 
clerk ; John Jeni.son, Zopher Iloldon, and Silas Ward, 
assessors; Francis Wc.Vllastcr, Oliver Stowell, and Elkanah 
Pattridge, commissioners of highways ; William Fletcher 
and John C. Foster, overseers of the poor ; Daniel Sterling, 
Jcduthan Kingsbury, Salmon White, Matthew Brooks, 
and Samuel Hendrix, overseers of highways ; Elkanah 
Pattridge, constable and collector. 

Among the other business transacted at that meeting the 
following is found recorded : 

** Rosoh-ed by a mnjority of the meeting, that Daniel Sterling's 
barn-yard be made use of as a iiound for the ensuing year," and " that 
Ilopestill Foster offieiate as pound-iieeper." 

*' IlfHtttn-if, That there l)o Five Dnlhirs riiiscd for the juirpose of 
destroying the antmni Woolf by a majority of said meeting, and payed 
for eaeli full-grown woolf caught and killed in said T(»wn the ensuing 
year." 

" Rentilre /, Tliat n<) Horn Cattle nor Sheep shall be admilteil to run 
upon the highways within fifty r4>ds of an inn frciin the 15th day of 
November to the first Tuesday iu March in said Town the ensuing 
year." 

And it was resolved that the next annual meeting " be 
held at the house of Daniel Sterling, now occupied by Hope- 
still Foster." 

During the past sixty-.six years the following-named 
persons have been elected to the office of .supervisor in Ant- 
werp: Daniel Heald, 1811 to 1817, inclusive; Silvius 
Hoard, 1818-19 and 1823-24; John Howe, 1820, '21, 
'22, '25, and '26 ; Joseph H. Bagg, 1827 ; Ralph Rogers, 
1828; William Skinner, 1829; Rufus H. King, 1830, 
'32, '35, '39 ; David McAllaster, 1833-34 ; Edward Fow- 
ler, 1836; Tilloy R. Pratt, 1837-38; William JIcAllaster, 
1840; James White, 1841-42; Alanson Drake, 1843; 
Alden Adams, 1844-49, inclusive; Joseph H. White, 
1850-51 ; Josiah S. Conkey, 1852 ; John H. Conklin, 
1853, and 1855-64, inclusive; Robert Ormston, 1854; 
Levi Miller, 18G5, '66, and '68; Elijah Fulton, 1867, '73, 
and '74; Hiram B. Keen, 1869, '71, and '72; John D. 
Ellis, 1870; Alonzo Cliapin, 1875-76; and George D. 
McAllaster, 1877. 

The population of the town in 1814, four years after its 
erection, was 303; in 1820, it was 1319; in 1825, 2557; 
in 1830, 2412; in 1835, 2614; in 1840, 3109; in 1845, 
3380; in 1850, 3665; in 1855, 3763; in 1860, 3318; 
in 1865, 3132 ; in 1870, 3310 ; and in 1875, 3363. 

THE VILLAGE OF ANTWERP. 

The first sotllomcnt and inijuovcmonts upon the site of 
the present village of Antwerp were made under the direc- 
tion of General Lewis R. Morris. On the 23d of December, 



180 t, he had purchased a tract of forty-nine thousand two 
hundred and eighty acres of land within the present bound- 
aries of the town, comprising more than two-thirds of its 
entire area, and including the location on which the village 
stands. It was not until the 3'ear 1808 that David Parrish 
became proprietor of a part of these lands, by purchase from 
Morris. 

In the year following his purchase (1805) General Morris 
decided on the establishment of a settlement and the erec- 
tion of mills at this point, whore the road leading to Long 
Falls I Cartilage) crossed the Indian river ; and accordingly 
he at once commenced the erection of a dam across the 
river, the work upon this being done by and under the 
supervision of Lemuel Hubbard. In ttic following spring 
(1806) the erection of a saw-mill upon this dam was com- 
menced by Silas Ward for Morris, and a small frame house 
was built and opened as an inn at the place where the 
Proctor House now stands. Its first landlord was Gershom 
Matoon. After him and during the first few years of its 
existence the house was kept by Jeduthan Kingsbury, 
William Fletcher, and Francis McAllaster. 

The settlement here was first and for many years known 
as Indian River ; and, as having reference to the commence- 
ment of its settlement, we again quote from the diary of 
James Constable an entry made during his annual tour of 
the counties, made in the year 1806 : " August 8. — Pas.sed 
from the Long Falls to the bridge at Indian River, where 
wo spent the night. The country generally remains as last 
year, except at this place, where they are building a saw- 
mill for General Lewis R. Morris, who has gone to Ver- 
mont, his family not having yet moved to this town." 

At the commencement of the year 1807, John Jenison 
was api)ointed local agent for General Morris, and he was 
continued in that position by David Parrish, after that gen- 
tleman became proprietor in 1808. The land-office, estab- 
lished under Jenison for the sale of the Parrish lands, was 
located at the southerly end of the village, nearly opposite 
the present site of the residence of George D. McAllaster, 
Esq., where it remained until its removal from the town. 
Jenison's successor in the agency was Silvius Hoard, who 
in turn was succeeded by William iMcAllaster, Esq., who 
held until the close of I'arrish's business in Antwerp. 

Dr. Samuel Randall came to Indian River in 1808, and 
was the first phy.sician not only of the village, but also of the 
town of Antwerp. In 1S09 the first post-office in the town 
was established here, and Dr. Randall received the first ap- 
pointment as postmaster. He located the office in his 
dwelling, which was nearly opposite where the stone church 
of the Congregationalists now stands. He continued to 
hold the appointment for many j'cars. 

The first grist-niill at Indian River was built in 1810, by 
Ezra Church, on the spot where the flour-mill now stands. 
The old mill was equipped with a single run of stones, which 
had been quarried from Parker's ledge. Church was a pro- 
fessional bridge-builder and millwright, and a man of great 
enterprise. It is said that he built the mill with the ex- 
pectation of purchasing it from Parrish, and with a contract 
to that effect; it is certain, however, that it never became 
his property, but that the title remained with Mr, Parrish 
until 1839. 



278 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



About 1812, Church also built a clothing-mill on the 
same dam, but on the south side of tlio river, where 
Bethel's pliininj;-mill now stairds. This he carried on until 
1828, when Thomas and Ezra Wait became proprietors. 
After a time they demolished it and built a new mill upon 
the same site, and this was used in the same business until 
185G, when its uiacliinery was taken out and removed to 
Wegatchie. During this time it had been operated by 
various proprietors, viz. : Milo Shattuck and Reuben Wil- 
uiot, from 1832 to 1834 ; by Wiimot alone from 1834 to 
1840'; by Elijah Fulton, 1840 t« 1852; and by Church 
Brothers from that time until it.s discontinuance as a cloth- 
ing-mill. 

About 1812, Isaac L. Ilitchbotk built a tannery in the 
village, on the westerly side of the road, on land now owned 
by Stephen Conklin, and nearly opposite the head of Rail- 
road street. This he sold in 1815 to Luther Conklin, who 
removed here in 1816. He afterwards demolished the old 
tannery and built another upon its site. This was destroyed 
by fire, many yeare after. The fir.^t distillery in the town* 
was built by Emmons & Bissell, not far from the Hitchcock 
tannery, about 1820. The first wagon-shop was started at 
nearly the .same time, by Henry Welch. This was on the 
south side of the river, and the old building is still standing, 
adjoining the present wagon-shop of Mr. Welch. 

The fir.st merchant in the village, and in the town of 
Antwerp, was Zcbulon II. Cooper, who, about 1810, opened 
the " yellow store," on the ground now occupied by Chaj)in's 
block. A small store was opened as early as 1812 by Dr. 
Randall (who included an assortment of drugs with his 
stock), and a third by Orrin E. Bush. 

The only buildings in the village on the north side of the 
river, in the spring of 1811, were the grist-mill built by 
Church, the ]iublic-housc where Proctor's now is, a build- 
ing which stood just above the present post-oflSce, and kept 
as a boarding-house by a Frenchman named Bordeau, the 
yellow store of Cooper, the post-offi<'e and dwelling of Dr. 
Randall, and farther north, the dwelling of Major John 
Howe. 

Ujion the opening of the War of 1812 considerable alarm 
was felt in view of the probability of an invasion, and on 
the 2d of July in that year a special meeting of the in- 
habitants of the town was held, " for the purpose of making 
fortification against an expected enemy." At this meeting 
it was — 

" IlrHntccil, That there l)o built a furt .36 by 20 in the lower story, 
ninl upper 40 by 22, for the security of the inhnbitants of said town," 
and *' that it lie set nortli vi' Imliaii lliver ,'JO rod:*, in front of Sylvius 
Hoard's house." 

The committee appointed to prosecute the work were 
John Howe, Oliver Hoard, and Silas Ward. Fifteen days 
later (July 17, 1812) another meeting was held at Francis 
McAllaster's inn, to devise a " proper method of our defense 
through a tragedy of war which is now beginning action 
between the United States and Great Britain," and it was 
then — 

" Ilcgoivcilf That there bo a t)Iock-houao built for tho defense of the 
inhabitants of said town," and " that tho building stamling north 

* A aecond was built soon after, b; Abroham Cooper, near where 
La Fave's eheese- factory now stands. 



from Indian lliver bridge, in front of S. Hoard's house, formerly 
owned by Asher Seynirmr, .'■hall be fini^^licd and ap{>r(>])riated for the 
benefit and use of said town." 

•* Ji'extt/reif, That Ihere shall be fifty cents per day payed for caeh 
day's work, ard caeh one finde himself during the sjiace of time in 
which the block-house shall be a building which is ftir the Town 
Deftnso." 

A tax was also voted to furnish arms and ammunition for 
the defenders. 

The bloek-house was completed, and stood in the road, 
nearly in front of where Foster's hotel now is ; but no 
enemy came to besiege it, and so after a time the fears of 
invasion being allayed, the " fortification" was demoli.shed. 

About 1813 a school was commenced in a small building 
which was erected on the cast side of Main street, north of 
the present site of Foster's hotel. This was not only the 
first educational institution in the village but also the first 
in the town. This was superseded about 1816 by a new 
school-house upon the hill, which building is still standing 
on the premises of Welcome Payne. 

In 1816-17 the old brick church, now owned and occu- 
pied by the Catholics, was built by Mr. Parrish at an expense 
of nearly $10,(100 ; all borne by himself, and by him made 
free to all Christian denominations. A committee, consist- 
ing of Major John Howe, Silvius Hoard, and Dr. Randall, 
were appointed by the town to take charge of it when it 
was completed. This was the second church edifice in the 
county of Jefl'erson ; it was also the first brick building 
erected in the village and town of Antwerp, the bricks 
being mamif'actured in the immediate vicinity. It was but 
a few years later that the brick school- liou.se (still in use) was 
built on the hill, within a few rods of the Parrish church. 

The second piiblie-hou.'^e was erected upon the westerly 
side of Main street, and was first kept by Reuben Nott, 
then by John P. Hind, afterwards by John C. Foster, who 
was also its last landlord. It was destroyed by fire, and 
not rebuilt. 

Foster's hotel, on the easterly side of Main street, was 
built and opened by General T. R. Pratt, now of Water- 
town. The town elections and s]iecial meetings have often 
been held at this house. John C. Foster was its proprietor 
for many years. It is now kept by T. M. Foster. The 
hotel, which stands where Matoon opened his inn seventy 
years ago, was kept for many years by Smith Copeland and 
by his son Clewley Copeland, who realized a handsome 
competence from it, and is still living, almost an octo- 
genarian, in the village. After liini the house was kept 
by several difl'crent persons, among them being John N. 
Green and Edward L. Proctor. It is at present kept by 
J. B. Proctor. The town-nicetings have been held here 
more fre(|uently than at any other place. 

INCORPORATION OF THE VILLAGE. 

Antwerp was inctirporatcd a village, by order of the 
court of sessions, under the general act, in the j-ear 1853, 
and the incorporation was ratified, by a vote of fifty-three 
to three, at a special meeting, held at Stowell & Taylor's 
hotel, on the 30tli of July in that year. The boundaries 
are recorded as cmbraeing a rectangular tract of 660 acres, 
beino; 80 chains in width from north to south, and 82 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



279 



chains and 50 links in length from cast to west; but a re- 
survey, made by Ilunry L. Scott in 1875, gives an area of 
661.15 acres. 

The first meeting for the election of officers was held 
August 27, 185.3, and resulted in the election of I'nblius 
D. Foster a-s clerk, and Jiinits S. Coiikoy, Solomon J. CJiilds, 
and Edward L. Proctor trustees ; and at a special meeting, 
held on the 4th of October following, two additional 
tru.stecs were elected to fill the board, viz., William D. Car- 
penter and George W. IJrown. Jonas S. Cunkey was 
chosen president of the board. 

In 1871, Antwerp was rc-iiieorporated, under the act of 
1870, by which it,s municipal powers and privileges were 
increased. The officers for 1877 are: Trustees, Edward L. 
Proctor (president), William N. Johnson, Do Witt Coflcy, 
George P. Coolidge ; C/crk, John C. Trolan. 

It is now a village of about 1000 inhabitants, and con- 
tains 5 churches, 1 public school-bouse, 1 seminary, the 
Antwerp post-office, a weekly newspaper, the station build- 
ings of the Rome, Watertown and Ogdensburgh railroad, 2 
hotels, the office of the Jefferson iron company, a Masonic 
lodge, 4 physicians, 3 lawyers, 5 general stores, 4 groceries, 
2 hardware and agricultural implement stores, 3 boot and 
shoe stores, 2 drug-stores, 1 jewelry, and 2 millinery-stores, 
2 furniture-stores, 1 liarness and saddlery store, 1 flour and 
feed store, 3 blacksmith-shops, 4 wagon-shops, 1 foundry 
and machinc-.sbop, 1 tannery, 1 grist-mill, 1 saw-mill, 2 
planing-mills, and 1 cheese-box factory. 

The grist-mill of Martin Augsbury was built by Isaiah 
Bailey in 1841-42, upon the site of the old mill built by 
Ezra Church in 1810. Mr. Bailey had purchased this old 
mill from Messrs. Pratt & Taylor in 1831), but received the 
title direct from Parrish. It was destroyed by fire in 1841, 
and the present one built in its place, as above mentioned. 
Its cost was S8000. Bailey & Sons sold it about 1850 to 
Stebbins & Tomlinson, siuce which it has passed through 
other hands to the present owner. 

The saw-mill of A. H. Monroe is the successor of that 
built for Morris, by Silas Ward, in 1806. The old mill was 
demolished and the jirescnt one built in 1810-17, by Ezra 
Church. Mr. Henry Welch, who is still living in the vil- 
lage, was one of the workmen employed in its erection. 
Some years afterwards it was run fur a long period by 
Asher Seymour. 

Bethel's planing-niill and Hogan Brothers' foundry stand 
on the site of the fulling- and carding-mill built by Ezra 
Church fifty-five years ago. After that business was dis- 
continued by Church Brothers, in 1856, the property was 
sold to Jo.sejih Newton and B. R. Bemis, and from them, 
through various changes, to the present proprietorship. 

The tannery of G. N. Crcsby & Co. was built about 
1834 by Josiah Drake and David McAlla.stcr, who after- 
wards sold to Lewis and James llainblin. Several changes 
of ownership have followed, among which were those of 
Fuller & iMartin, James White, Snell, and others. 

Metcalf's planing-mill stands upon a dam thrown across 
the river below Augsbury's mill. It is of comparatively 
recent date. Owned and operated by Edward Mctcalf 
Upon the same dam is the cheese-box factory of Isaac 
Westcott & Son, a recent establishment. 



The Jefferson Iron Company, Edwin B. Bulkley, presi- 
dent. Office on Main street, Antwerp village. This com- 
pany owns the iron-works at Sterlingville and at Loui-sburg; 
al.so the Sterling, White, Ward, and Dixon ore-beds. 

The Bank of Antwerp is a private banking-house, estab- 
lished in 1872 by C. M (!oolidge, Es((., now of Rochester, 
New York. It is now owned by John D. Ellis. The 
cashier is Albert Hoyt. Banking-rooms on Main street. 

The Antwerp jiost-office is located on the west side of 
Main street. A. M. King, postmaster. 

The Antwerp Gazette, a weekly newspaper, was first 
issued September 1, 1873, by J. M. Beaman, Esq., and 
continued under his proprietorship until February 1, 1875, 
when it was purchased by J. W. Van Slyke, the present 
editor and publisher. The office is on Main .street. 

In the summer of 1870, a journal called the Antwerp 
News was started in the village, by Miss M. M. Smith. 
It was discontinued about January 1, 1873. 

"Antwerp Lodije," No. 226, F. and A. At., meets on 
second and fourth Tuesdays, at the Masonic Hall, Main 
street. Number of members eighty-five. The present offi- 
cers are : J. A. Aldrich, W. M. ; Harlow Hathaway, S.W. ; 
Daniel Sprague, J. W. ; Thoma.s Ryder, S. D. ; James 
Thompson, J. D. ; Andrew Woodward, Secretary ; Eugene 
Copley, Treasurer ; Eli Mack, Tyler. The lodge was in- 
stituted in 1847. 

The " Queen <i/ Skcha Lodge," Major John Howe, 
Master, was organized in Antwerp probably before 1825, 
and went out of existence during the period of the anti- 
Masonic excitement. 

" Tiiscarora Lodge," No. 250, /. 0. O.F., was formed 
here about the year 1846, but is now defunct. 

Town-meetings are held at the Proctor House in Ant- 
werp, no town hall having ever been erected. In earlier 
days, they were for many years held alternately at Antwerp 
and at Ox Bow. 

The railway station of the R., W. and 0. railroad is on 
the northeast side of the village, the track crossing Main 
street by the old Congregationalist church, and passing 
near the Ives Seminary. The railroad (mentioned else- 
where) was first opened into the town of Antwerp on the 
4th of July, 1855, the train running as far north as the 
unfinished Ilolden bridge over Indian river. It was 
opened to Antwerp village in the fall of the same year. 
The company's agent here is Mr. E. G. Taylor. The dis- 
tance of this station from Watertown is twenty-three miles; 
from Gouverneur thirteen miles. 

IVES SEMINARY. 

This institution, located in Antwerp village, is an out- 
growth of two previously-existing educational enterprises, — 
the Antwerp Liberal Literary Institute and the Gouverneur 
Weslcyan Seminary. The last-named institution was incor- 
porated April 5, 1828, and was successfully conducted as a 
grammar-school until 1837, when it was placed under the 
patronage of the Black River conference of the Methodist 
Episcopal church, and became their conference seminary, 
with Rev. Jesse T. Peck as principal. It remained under 
the patronage of the Methodist Episcopal church until 
1869, when, as the buildings and facilities had become in- 



280 



HISTORY OF JEFFEESON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



adequate to the needs of the institution, it was transferred 
to Ant. erp. 

Of the Antwerp Liberal Literary Institute a more de- 
tjiiled account should be given, ;is it funiislifd the begin- 
nings of the educational facilities, buildings, etc., which are 
uow in use by the Ives Seminary. 

In order to provide for stud('nts not accommodated in 
the district schools of the vicinity, select schools were held 
at Antwerp for several years during nearly every fall and 
winter, usually in the lecture-ruom of the Congregational 
church. Rev. C. B. Pond, at that time the only resident 
clergyman, was among the firet, if not the first, to suggest 
that measures he taken for the erection of an academy build- 
ing. A subscription was commenced November 13, 1854, 
for the purpose of obtaining capital stock to the amount of 
at least $.5000, in shares of 825 each. The effort was suc- 
cessful, $5900 being subscribed by one hundred and fifty- 
nine ])ersons. A petition for a charter was sent to the 
legislature, but was withdrawn in order that the Seminary 
might be organized subject to the visitation of the regents. 
Pending this action efforts were made to secure a site for 
the buildings, and at once a conflict of interests arose which 
threatened to produce serious embarrassment ; but after a 
time a selection was made, — the location chosen being the 
finest in the vicinity, and not surpas.sed by that of any 
other institution in northern New I'ork. A provisional 
charter was granted February 1, 1850, naming John H. 
Conklin, Jonas S. Conkey, Charles B. Pond, William Gill, 
Publius D. Foster, Ira Beaman, A. P. Sterling, Luther H. 
Bailey, Horace AV. Seymour, A. H. IMcAllister, E. G. Tay- 
lor, Alnion Buell, Alvin Coolidge, Hiram B. Kecne, Thomas 
Taite, James White, Solomon J. Childs, and Chandler I). 
Waite as the first trustees. The time of this charter was 
afterwards extended to February 1, 18(50, and in ISGl it 
was made absolute. The erection of a building constructed 
of .stone, three stories in height, 105 feet long, and 50 feet 
wide, similar in style and arrangement to Dickinson college, 
Carlisle, PcTinsylvania, and the Mexico academy in this 
State, was commenced during the summer of 1857, but was 
not finished until Jlay 9, 18G1, at which date it was dedi- 
cated, the Hon. Levi Miller delivering an address. The 
value of buildings, gi-ounds, library, and apparatus at that 
time was $13,000. Of this .sum about $7000 had been 
raised liy subscription, and SliOOO by bonding the town, 
leaving an indebtedne.ss of $:;000. This debt was removed, 
soon after the completion of the buildings, by the legis- 
lature authorizing a loan from the State comiitrollor of 
§3000, which was subseijuently made a free gift. 

The institute was opened May 20, 1861, with J. M. 
Manning, a graduate of Browu University, in charge, and 
two assistant teachers. During the following year three 
teachers were added. The number of students in attend- 
ance was about one hundred and twenty. Under Professor 
Manning's administration, the school was successful in 
the matter of instruction, but it failed to pay expenses. 
In 18G3, a proposition was entertained to transfer the 
property to the State, for use as a normal school. The 
conimi.ssioners having the matter in charge visited Ant- 
werp, but nothing was effected. At this time I'. D. Foster, 
uow of Washington city, then secretary of the board of 



trustees, left Antwerp, and a resolution was passed stating 
that " in the opinion of the board the citizens of Antwerp 
are more indebted to him than to any other person for the 
completion of the buildings." 

In the winter of 18G5, a proposition was made to change 
the institute to a graded school. During the summer of 
18CG, Rev. J. Win.slow was engaged as principal. He had 
preached as a cit3' missionary in Watertown for several 
years, and for a ]]()rtion of the time had held the office of 
school conmiissioncr. In 1868 a proposition was made to 
lease the pro{)erty to the Protestant Episcopal society, but 
the conditions on which that society would accept it were 
not agreed to. Rev. L. Clark afterwards submitted an 
offer, on behalf of the Black River Conference, to take the 
school. The conditions upon which they would lease it 
were presented by Rev. I. S. Bingham, at another meeting 
of the stockholders, held July 25, and were accepted unani- 
mously, and during the next .session of the legislature the 
name was changed to the Black River Conference Seminary. 
In 1870 the erection of a boarding and ladies' hall, con- 
structed of stone, 72 by 43 feet, and four stories in height, 
was commenced. It was finished two years afterwards at an 
expense of about $16,000. The builditigs, as thus com- 
pleted, are not only imposing in appearance, but afford 
accummodations and facilities not surpassed by any institu- 
tion in this part of the State. In 1873 it was resolved by 
the trustees to place the institution forever beyond the pos- 
sibility of failure by raising a fund of at least $30,000. 
Hon. Willard Ives immediately headed the subscription 
with the sum of $8000. At the ensuing season of the 
Northern New York Conference, Rev. E. E. Kellogg was 
put into the field as agent to raise the money, the subscrip- 
tions to become binding when the sum of $20,000 was 
reached. For two years he continued the work of securing 
subscriptions, obtaining about $2G,000. At the conference 
in 1875, however, it was thought that the expense of an 
agent might be saved, pledges being secured from the 
preachers to raise the amount required. The result has 
been that the $30,000 is nearly secured, leaving an endow- 
ment, after all debts are paid, estimated at $13,790. The 
entire value of the property, buildings, securities, etc., 
owned by the institution at the present time reaches up- 
wards of $50,000. 

At the suggestion of Dr. E. 0. Haven, an amendment 
to the charter was obtained April 2], 1874, changing the 
name to " Ives Seminary," and granting to the board of 
trustees the power to elect their .successors. At about this 
time, also, an arrangement was effected by which the semi- 
nary was adopted as Gymnasium C, of Syracuse University, 
students graduating from it being admitted there without 
re-examination. 

Following is a list of the principals and of the officers 
of the board of trustees at Antwerp, so far as the names 
can be obtained, a portion of the records being inaccessible : 

Pill Ncii'ALS.— Rev. G. G. Dains, 1868-69 ; Rev. E. C. 
Bruce, 1869-71; Prof. S. M. Coon, 1871-72; Prof. J. 
II. Gordon, 1872-73 ; Rev. G. G. Daines, 1873-75; Rev. 
M. A. Veedcr, 1875. 

J'ltKSIDKNTS 01'' TIIK Bo.\Rl) OF TlU STERS. — JouaS 

S. Conkey, 1865 ; John P. Ellis, 1857 ; J. H. Conklin, 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



281 



1S61 ; Almon Bucl, 18G2 ; G. S. Sawens, 1867; Rev. J. 
S. Dewey, 1870; Rev. I. S. Bin.^llam, 1873; Hon. AVil- 
lard Ives, 187-1. &crcliirics. — P. D. Foster, 1S55; John 

P. Ellis, 1863; J. M. Beauiau, 1868; Rev. Wm. Watson, 
1870; Rev. S. Dewey, 1S75; Rev. C. H. Guile, 1876. 

Treasurers. — L. H. Bailey, 1855 and 1S5S; John M. 
Greeu, 1857. 

OX BOW. 

This little village is located on the left bank of the Os- 
wegatehie, at the southernmost jioiiit of the great bend in 
that river. It lies due north of Antwerp village seven and 
one-half miles, and its communication with the latter place 
is over an excellent turnpike-road. Ox Bow, at the present 
time, contains a post-office, one hotel, four stores, ouc phy- 
sician, one drug- store, one wagon-shop, three blacksmith- 
shops, one harness- and saddlery-shop, a good school-house, 
two churches, and about 300 inhabitants. 

That the first settlement on this ground was made nearly 
three-fourths of a century ago by Peter Vrooman from 
Johnstown, New York, we have already seen ; and we have 
also seen how, for several years, it was hoped and believed 
by the earliest settlers that Gen. Lewis R. JMorris, the first 
proprietor, would remove his family hither and make this 
his permanent residence. Such an idea was probably never 
entertained by him, though he did cause a small clearing 
to be made and a log house erected. He not long after 
sold a tract of forty-one lots of land — about 18,000 acres, 
including the site of this village, and extending eight miles 
towards Theresa — to Silvius Hoard and others. This be- 
came known as the " Cooper Tract," from having been 
purchased in 1817 by Abraham Cooper, then of Trenton, 
New York, who may properly be called the founder and 
father of the village of Ox Bow. He came here in the 
spring of 1818, and entered upon the business of merchan- 
dising in the " old yellow store," which he erected on the 
main street a short distance below the present hotel and 
square ; this beiug the first store in that portion of the 
town of Antwerp. The first physician of the village, Dr. 
Abner Benton, one of the prominent citizens of Ox Bow, 
also came in 1818 ; and the first white child born in the 
village, or in that portion of the town, dates his nativity to 
the same year. This was Nicholas Cooper, son of Abra- 
ham, now one of the best-known and most respected in- 
liabilants of the town of Atitwerp. 

In the following year Abraham Cooper built the stone 
store which is now the Methodist meeting-house. It was a 
solid building, with a (juadrangular (hip) roof, which 
seemed a large one for .so small a place; but his trade was 
large in the goods which lie sold and the produce which 
he purchased, and so his new store was always well filled. 

The second store in Ox Bow was opened in 18125 by 
John J. Gilbert and Rufus H. King, two of Mr. Cooper's 
clerks. This stood on the main road, directly opposite the 
yellow store where ^Ir. Cooper commenced business in 
1818. 

About 1820, a brick building twenty-five by forty feet 
w;is built by Mr. Cooper, solely at his own expense, de- 
signed as a seliool-luiuse and place of religious worship. 
The use of this building he gave to the jiublic for these pur- 



poses without remuneration for ten years ; and about 1830 
he sold it to the Presbyterian society. For many years 
this was the only place in Ox Bow or vicinity where 
religious meetings were regularly held. It has been stated 
that in the early days Pulpit Rock, a .short distance out 
from the village, was used as a place of religious meetings, 
and it is told that a sermon preached there from Matthew 
xvi. 17 : "And upon this rock I will build iiiy church, and 
the gates o/ liell shall not prevail ayainst it," was peculiarly 
impressive. This, however, was probably upon the occa- 
sion of some rural religious festival, aud it is not likely that 
meeting there for religious services was ever a common 
practice. This Pulpit Rock is situated about a half-mile 
from Ox Bow, on the Evans' Mills road. It is a high, per- 
pendicular precipice of rock, in the face of which, at con- 
siderable distance from the ground, is a niche or hole, or 
rather a section of such cavitj', which has the appearance 
of having been woru by the long-continued rolling of stones 
in a pool of water. From a fancied resemblance of this 
cavity to a pulpit, the rock obtained its name. The pub- 
lished descriptions of its height aud sublimity have gener- 
ally been greatly overdrawn. 

The public-house at Ox Bow — a part of the present 
hotel — was built by Mr. Cooper in the year 1819. Its first 
landlord was Solomon Loomls. After him came Lucas 
Gillett, J(jhn Pierce, Enos Braiuard, 183-i to 1850, and 
Charles S. Green ; the hist-named being the builder of the 
huge southern wing which fronts ou the village 8(|uare. 
Other landlords of the house have been Geo. W. Wheeler, 
John Dodge, and Ransom Howe. At this house, for a long 
j)eriod of years, the town-meetings were held alternately with 
Antwerp village ; and here for a still greater number of years 
the mail-coaches made their halts for change of horses and 
refreshment of passengers. Abraham Cooper, in addi- 
tion to his other enterprises, was for a long time proprietor 
of the stage-line from Denmark to Ogdensburgh, passing 
through this village. Vrooman's tavern (which in its best 
days was but an insignificant afliiir) was discontinued at a 
very early day, and liis lands were purchased by Abraham 
Lewis, who kept no public-house, and who afterwards sold 
and removed to Somerville, where he died. 

The post-office at Ox Bow was e.st.ablishcd in 1819, the 
first postmaster being Dr. Abner Benton. The office was 
first kept in Cooper's store ; afterwards removed to the 
store of King & Gilbert. After Dr. Benton, the appoint- 
ment as postmaster was given to Rufus II. King, who held 
it for a long term under Democratic administrations ; then 
followed Enos Brainard, Elias F. Cooper, and Martin 
Braiuard. The present postm;ister is Earl B. Green. 

Soon after his settlement at Ox Bow, Abraham Cooper 
donated to the public a lot of land, forty by seventeen rods 
in extent, lying on the south side of the main road, to re- 
main vacant forever as a village green. This gift was 
prompted by public spirit and good judgment, but the plat 
has not been properly cared for. The two churches and 
the hotel stand fronting upon this ground. 

There is no water-power on the Oswegatchie at this 
point ; a want which was much lamented by Mr. Cooper, 
who at one time had in contemplation the purcha.se of a 
site upon the river some two miles above, and the erection 



282 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



there of a dam. from which to bring the water in an artifi- 
cial head-race to the village ; an cntcrjirisc which could not 
have failed to greatly promote its prosperity ; but this 
scheme was brought to an abrupt ending by the death of 
the party with whom he was negotiating for the purchase. 
In consequence of this lack of power there are no mills 
or manufactories within the village. A short distance to 
the westward, however, upon the shore of Vrooman's lake, 
and near enough to be regarded as belonging to Ox Bow, is 
the steam saw-mill of Mr. Roselle Payne, built in 1850, 
chiefly with view to the cutting of hemlock plank for the 
plank-roads which were then in process of construction. 
It was carried on for a few years by John Frazer, until 
destroyed by fire, after which it was rebuilt by Mr. Payne, 
and is still operated by him. 

STERLINGBURGH. 

On the southern bank of Indian river, about one mile 
above Antwerp bridge, is a cluster of buildings which, 
though hardly entitled to the appellation of village, is col- 
lectively known as Sterlingburgh, from James Sterling, 
who was its proprietor for many years. It consists of an 
excellent grist-mill, a saw-mill, and a few dwellings, besides 
several large buildings, relics of past enterprise, now in 
disuse, and some in actual decaj'. 

The water-power is better here than at Antwerp village, 
and it is diflicult to understand why, in view of this and 
other natural advantages, the latter should have become 
the more important place. It was not long after the con- 
clusion of his great purchase before the attention of Mr. 
Parrish was directed to these facts, and late in the autumn 
of 1816 he commenced preparations for the damming of 
the river, and the erection of a forge at this point. Dur- 
ing the early part of the following year he completed these, 
as also a large house and a road to the works; but the enter- 
prise proved unprofitable, and by the opening of the year 
1820 it was abandoned. No vestige of this old forge has 
now been visible for many years. 

In 1824 the erection of a distillery was commenced here 
for Mr. Parrish, under the supervision of William McAl- 
laster, his agent. Other buildings were also erected to be 
used in the fattening of cattle and swine from the refuse of 
the distillery. This enterprise was intended to furnish to 
those who had purchased lands from Parrish an opportunity 
to pay for thcni in grain and cattle, thus afiording a good 
and convenient market, and, at the same time, benefiting 
the proprietor by hastening payments on the lands which 
he had sold to them. 

This establi.shmeut continued in operation for thirteen 
years (with the exception of a ])artial suspension during 
1829 and 1830), and in that time it consumed 72,1 14 
bu.shels of corn, 42,4t4 bushels of rye, 508G bushels of 
malt, 108 bushels of barley, and 4900 pounds of hops, 
from which it produced 15,700 barrels of proof whisky, 
and more than a thousand head of cattle, and a large num- 
ber of swine were fattened from its refuse. 

In 1834, Mr. Parrish erected a grist-mill near the distil- 
lery, taking the water from the dam which ho had built in 
181(j-17 for MAC of the forge. This mill still stands, and 
is in successful operation. 



In 1846 the distillery, mill, and water-power were pur- 
chased of Mr. Parrish by James Sterling, who erected a 
furnace upon the property. This he kept in operation, 
principally upon ores from the Sterling mine, until 1858, 
when its fires went out forever. The old building and stack 
may still be seen, in a most dilapidated condition, near the 
river-bank ; and the stone buildings of Mr. Parri-sh — dis- 
tillery and cattle barn, all of stone — are yet there. In one 
of these Mr. Sterling carried on a foundry before 1858. 
In later years the still-house was for a time used as a cheese- 
factory, until the erection of the new one at Antwerp vil - 
lage. 

In 1859, Sterlingburgh was sold by James Sterling to 
Alexander Copley, whose sons, Alexander and Eugene 
Copley, are its present proprietors. 

A mile above Sterlingburgh, upon Indian river, is an 
extensive forge, built in 1870, by A. P. Sterling and Edgar 
Peckham, upon the site of an old saw-mill formerly owned 
by George A. Hoard. The cost of this forge was $20,000, 
and it employed one hundred men. Messrs. Sterling & 
Peckham operated it upon ores from the Sterling mine and 
from Lake Champlain. The works had been built by them 
under a long lease from Alexander Copley, to whom the 
entire establishment was afterwards sold. It is now owned 
by A. & E. Copley, the proprietors of Sterlingburgh. 

SPRAGUE'S CORNERS 

is the name given to a cluster of buildings lying partly in 
Antwerp and partly in St. Lawrence county, at a point 
nearly half a mile southeast from the Rome, Watertown 
and Ogdensburgh railroad, at Keene's Station, which name 
is often applied to the village. 

The first settlers here were William Vebber and Moses 
and Robert Parkinson, brothers, from MiLSsachusetts, who 
came in from the southwest, guided by marked trees and 
by the lines of lots, before the existence of a road to this 
point. Israel Sprague was another of the earliest settlers 
here, and it was from him that the settlement was named. 
Both he and Vebber lie in the grave-yard on the hill at the 
westerly end of the village. Mr. Burge, the father of 
Moses Burge, was also one of the first who located here. 

The village consists of a school-house, two churches 
(mention of which is made elsewhere), three stores, two 
blacksmith-.shops, one wagon-shop, and about one hundred 
and fifty inhabitants. The post-office of Shingle Creek is 
also located here, but is in the county of St. Lawrence, as 
is also the greater j)art of the business of the place, the 
main street being also the county line, dividing the village 
between St. Lawrence and Jefferson. A public-house, the 
" Keene Station Hotel," is located a short distance from 
the village, near the railroad track. This was built about 
1859, by A. C. Ellis, now of Michigan, who also for a time 
carried on a general store in connection with it. The rail- 
road from Watertown was opened to this place in the autumn 
of 1855. Colonel H. B. Keene was the company's agent 
for eleven years, and it was for him that the station received 
its name. 

STEELE'S CORNERS 

is the designation of a neighborhood about one mile south- 
east from Sprague's. Formerly there was a hotel at this 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



283 



point * built and kept by Ebenezer Gillett, and a store by 

William Skinner, Esq., in partnership with Pierce. 

This was afterwards removed to Spragiie's Corners. The 
hotel died a natural death. There was once a church of 
the Baptist denomination at this place, mention of which 
is made in connection with the Free RaptLst chun^h of 
Sprague's Corners. At present Steele's Corners is but an 
ordinary country road-crossing. 

BENTLEY'S CORNERS 

is now but an agricultural neighborhood in the westerly 
jiart of the town. Some years ago, before the ojieniiig of 
the railroad, this was tlie location of a post-office bearing 
the same name, and it also had a tavern, by Clark Willard. 

NAUVOO 

consists of a small cluster of dwellings, with a saw-mill and 
shingle-mill and a school-house, all located on Indian 
river, in the southerly j)ortion of Antwerp, and very near 
the town line of Wilna. Neither of the three places last 
mentioned has any village pretensions. 

THE FIRST CONGRKOATIONAL CUURCH OF ANTWERP 

was organized in July, 1819, by Rev. Isaac Clinton, then 
principal of the academy at Lowville. 

The event took place in Copeland Hall, ujion the site of 
the present Proctor Flouse. The original members were 
William Randall, Percival Hawley, Edward Foster, Elijah 
Hoyt, Hosea Hough, Mi's. Hawley, Mrs. Foster, Mrs. 
Frances Eaton, and Mrs. Polly Copeland. It was agreed 
beforehand to employ either a Presbyterian or a Congrega- 
tional minister, as might be most convenient, and to allow 
him to choose the polity of the organization. 

Mr. Clinton being a Presbyterian, the church took that 
form of goverimient, and so remained for many years. In 
1838 a newly-elected deacon could not eonseientiou.sly sub- 
scribe to that portion of the ordaining ritual that requires 
" approval of the government and discipline of the Presby- 
terian Church in the United States," and it was accordingly 
omitted. In 1840, several others chosen to that office, and 
to the eldership, expressed the same scruples and re((ucsted 
that the same omission be made in their ordination. The 
minister who was to officiate learning of this fact, refused 
to perform the ceremony, and they were not ordained. The 
conflict thus begun became more intense, and continued till 
the peace and prospeiity of the church were destroyed. 
For years it was in a state of chaos, having no settled form 
for administering its internal affiiirs or enforcing discipline. 
It seems to have been iti doubt even ;is to its own identity. 
Its elders resigned and its .session disorganized Junt; 20, 
1849. At the same time it was voted that a certain appli- 
cant for admission should be received " after the Congrega- 
tional order." Some regarded these acts and usages as a 
change to Congregationalism ; others, as virtual disorganiza- 
tion ; others, still, thought the church Presbyterian without 
elders. Affairs remained in this state of confusion till June 
3, 1854. At this date a vote was passed unanimously, both 
males and females voting, " to adopt the Congregational form 

* Just over the cuuntv line in .*^t. Lawrence. 



of government." Thus was the long strife ended, and 
harmony once more restored. For years, however, it re- 
mained without rules for the election of officers or the 
transaction of business. It was this divided and belligerent 
condition of the church that did much to render so many 
years of its history inefficient and unfruitful in good. 

We have no record of the doings of the church for the 
first three years ; probably none was kept. Tradition is the 
only source of information. From this it is known that 
Mr. Clinton preached every alternate Sabbath for a year; 
Revs. Dearborn and Wellington a few months each ; and 
Rev. C. Wait from the fall of 1821 till the spring of 1823. 
Then for a third- of the time during the nest twelve months 
Rev. James Sandford, of Ox Bow, supplied the pulpit. 
From the beginning of his ministry the minutes of the 
church have been preserved. Several long intervals, how- 
ever, are passed over without entry. 

Rev. Charles G. Finney labored during July, August, 
and September, 1824, and the whole village and surrounding 
country were moved by his powerful sermons. There were 
a large number of conversions, and forty-one were added to 
the church. This was the first religious awakening of any 
moment that ever occurred in the town. 

The only persons now identified with the church that 
belonged to it at that time are Mr. Japhet Chapin and wife, 
both past eighty. They joined by letter under Mr. Finney. 
On February 21, 1825, this entry was made in the minutes: 
" The whole amount of members, infants included, is as 
follows: adults in c<imnuinion, 5G ; infants, 45; total, 101." 
From this it appears that baptized infants were regarded as 
members of the church. It would seem also that there 
were but six accessions before 5Ir. Finney came, — these 
being during Mr. Sandford's ministry. This is probably 
the reason there are no entries of an earlier date. Nothing 
was done, and, of course, there was nothing to record. 
Rev. R. R. Demming wa.s supply during 1825, and Rev. 
J. J). Pickands through 1830. In the interval of the year 
following there was preaching only a few months at a time 
by different clergymen. The additions to the membership 
during these seven years were twenty-seven. 

For a long time the church owned no house of worship, 
and was greatly embarrassed in consequence. It was ex- 
cluded from the brick church built by Jlr. Parri.sh, now 
owned by the Catholics, because it would not hire a min- 
ister to suit all classes. In 1830 it was voted at a school- 
meeting that no religious gathering should be allowed in 
the school-house. This illustrates the opposititin the church 
encountered and the difficulties it had to contend with in 
its early history. 

In the summer of 1831 the church began to build its 
first meeting-house, and completed it the following year. 
It was a plain frame structure of small dimensions. Mr. 
Japhet Chapin, a carpenter by trade, and an elder in the 
church, did most of the work, trusting in God for pay, and 
was amply compensated, even temporally, for the j'car was 
a prosperous one for him. ' Mr. L. A. Wickes, a young 
theological student, who was supplying the church that 
season, did much to help the work along, laboring with his 
own hands with great zeal. In January, 1832, Rev. A. 
L. Ciandail began his ministry, which lasted for three 



284 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



years. In autumn the new building was dedicated and 
occupied. Tlic Spirit came down in great power, and 
numbers were converted. There were constant accessions 
under Mr. Crandall, — sixtj-four in all, forty-one by profes- 
sion. Rev. Henry Jones succeeded him in January, 1835, 
remaining till July, 1836. The results were forty-five 
additions, thirty-two from other churches. He first agi- 
tatt^d the anti-slavery question in the pulpit. Rev. L. A. 
Wickes comes next. During his third and fourth years 
sistj'-two joined the church. The growth of the church 
was con.staut and rapid. His first report (February, 1837) 
showed one hundred and thirty-two in its communion ; his 
last (in February, 1841 j, two hundred and one. During 
the five years of bis labors one hundred and ten were taken 
into its fellowship. The gains were to the losses as two to 
one. He resigned July 4, 1841. Rev. II. H. Waite was 
ordained and installed pastor in March, 1842, having begun 
his labors in November preceding. In his second year, 
assisted by Rev. C. B. Pond as evangelist, he held a series 
of meetings with marked success. On May 7, 1843, fifty- 
six connected themselves with the church on confes.sion of 
faith. The next annual report (February, lS44j gives the 
membership at two liundrod and thirty-three, — the largest 
in its history previous to 1876. Seventy-four were the 
tot;il additions during this pastorate. Mr. Waite remained 
three years, leaving in the fall of 1844. The next five 
years were utterly barren. Fur more than half the time 
the society was without preaching or public service. Revs. 
John Thompson and S. Williams each preached a twelve- 
month. Rev. C. B. Pond"s ministry followed, commencing 
May 1, 1849, and continuing to May 1, 1857. Tlii.s, like 
the preceding, was a period of conflict and transition from 
Presbyterianism to Congregationalism, and was character- 
ized by death and desolation in spiritual things. During 
four years of the time there are no entries made in the 
minutes ; only fifteen names are recorded as additions to the 
church. Mr. Pond, however, labored faithfully for the 
prosperity of the society and the town. He was one of 
the leading movers in the building of the Antwerp Acad- 
emy. Through him, also, in 1852, the church was induced 
to erect its second house of worship, — the one now known 
as the " old Congregational church." It cost about six 
thousand dollars, and was considered an elegant structure ^ 
for the day and place. The pul]iit was next filled by Rev. 
Jlr. Musher for a few months. Rev. R. T. Cunant from 
August 1, 1858, to August 1, 1860, and Rev. H. H. 
Waite a second time, from September 1, 186(1, to Seploni- 
ber 1, 1864. There were five acces.siuns to ihe church 
under Mr. Conant's charge, an<l twenty-four under Mr. 
Waite's. Rev. Je.sse H. Jones began hi.s labors June 1, 
1865. This was the beginning of new life and prosperity 
in the church. A thousand dollars were expended in re- 
pairing the church edifice, a parsonage was purcha.sed at a 
cost of thirteen hundn'd dollars, a manual of church order 
and polity was adopted, and for the first time was the Con- 
gregational organization completed and set in motion. 

A new covenant was drawn up. Those whose names 
appeared on the roll were visited, and as many as possible 
of the old members were induced to sign it, " with a view to 
reviving the church, completing its organization, carrying 



on its discipline, and maintaining it as a healthy branch of 
the Christian vine." Thus a new body was reconstructed 
out of the elenienta of the old, and fresh life and vigor im- 
parted to it. In spit« of some divisions and alienations 
that sprang up in the latter part of Mr. Jones' ministry, 
his administration was characterized not only by great 
energy and ability, but by more than ordinary success. He 
resigned May 2, 1869, having received into communion 
sixteen from other churches and thirty-seven converts. 
Rev. J. A. Canfield began his labors the next Sabbath. 
His ministry was also a very successful one, and the church 
was greatly prospered. Twelve were brought into her 
membership by letter and fifly-one by profession ; a total of 
sixty-three, amons them some of the best, elements in the 
church. Towards the close of his pastorate the stone 
edifice now occupied by the church was begun. It was 
largely due to his influence that it was undertaken and 
carried through to completion. It is one of the finest 
church buildings in this section of the State, the structure 
itself costing $20,000, and the lot on which it stands with 
the parsonage and sheds $6000 more. The church was 
never before in so good a condition financially or more 
united and harmonious than at the time of Mr. Canfield's 
resignation, May 31, 1874. The present incumbent, Rev. 
J. H. Crum, took charge of the church on the 1st of No- 
vember following. Since that time one hundred and fifty- 
two have been added to its numbers. Eiuhtv-si.x joined at 
the communion held February 13, 1876, the fruit mostly 
of a revival during that winter under his preaching. The 
present membership of the church (September 1, 1877) 
is two hundred and sixty-one. Its Sabbath-school numbers 
two hundred and thirty-five. It is free of debt. Its an- 
nual expenses are about $2000. Its benevolent contri- 
butions the past year, $335.38. Its history covers a period 
of fifty-eight years. It has had twenty-two different minis- 
ters and nearly seven hundred members in the aggregate. 

ST. Paul's church (episcopal). 

Rev. Robert Horwood held the first Episcopal service in 
Antwerp, and administered the first baptism, to Annis 
Ii^lizaboth, daughter of Alexander P. and Elizabeth S. Ster- 
ling, at Sterlingburgh, September 6, 1855. In August, 
1858, Rev. J. Winslow commenced his labors in Carthage, 
Champion, and Sterllngville. In 1866 he organized a 
parish in Gouverneur, and held missionary services in Ant- 
werp, where he presented a class for confirmation by Right 
Rev. Bishop Coxe, the first bishop to visit Antwerp. Mr. 
Winslow was succeeded by Rev. Frederick Hyde, then a 
young deacon. He remained six months. Rev. Wm. A. 
Ely, deacon, succeeded him, and organized the parish under 
the name of St. Paul's chureli. The first wardens were 
Oliver Child, of Philadelphia, New York, senior, and Alex- 
ander P. Sterling, of Aiitwer]i, junior. He was succeeded 
by the Rev. Gabriel Jolinsluii. Services were first held in 
the chapel of the Antwerp Seminary, then in Foster Hotel 
hall, next in an upper room in S. G. Wiggins' block, used 
as a school-room, and then in Mrs. Wm. Gills' house, 
where they were continued until the church was built. In 
1871, Rev. H. V. Gardiner took cluuge of the parish and 
built the churcii, the lot having been donated by Mrs. Gill. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



285 



The corner-stone was laid on the 7th of September, 1871, 
by Rev. Dr. Babcock, of Watortown, as.sisfod by the rector. 
Mrs. Laton Bentlcy succeeded in raising 82000, subscribed in 
Antwerp, on the condition that the church at large should 
raise §1000 when the church was couiplclcd. It co.st §1500 
above the estimates ; but gathering fresh zeal and faith 
from obstacles, more money was obtained than was needed, 
and Clayton received S250 of the surplus. After paying 
the debt, the church was consecrated October 8, 1872, by 
the Right Rev. F. D. Huntington, a.ssisted by the rector. 
Rev. II. V. Gardiner, and Revs. Brewer, Ililliard, Johnston, 
and Miller. AfttT the celebration of the holy connnutiicm 
six persons were confirmed, one, a Presbyterian clergyman, 
who came a hundred miles to receive the holy rites, and 
who afterwards took orders in the church. The sermon on 
this occasion was delivered by Rev. L. R. Brewer, of 
Trinity church, Watertown, New York. 

The Rev. H. V. Gardiner was succeeded by Rev. Geo. 
Jones, of the Bermudas, who for three months labored with 
zeal and noticeable effect. His health failing, he was 
obliged to cease labor. In October, 1873, Mr. Jones was 
succeeded by Rev. F. Ililliard, rector of St. James' church, 
Theresa. He held semi-monthly services in the parish 
until his resignation of St. James', in January, 1874. He 
was succeeded, February 18, by Rev. Hugh Bailey, the 
present rector, who has ever been zealous and efficient in 
his efforts for the welfare of the church. Fifty confirma- 
tions have taken place since his assumption of the charge. 

THE CATHOLIC CHURCH. 

The commencement of Catholic worship in Antwerp 
dates to March, 1849, at which time that denomination 
purchased from Mr. Parrish the brick church which he 
had built in 1816 for the use of the town. The building, 
which had cost nearly §10,000, was sold to them for $G()0, 
and has been used by them as their place of worship until 
the present time. The church is in charge of the priest 
who resides and officiates at Redwood. 

BAPTIST CHURCH — ANTWERP VILLAGE. 

The first Baptist organization in the village of Antwerp 
was made about the year 1824, under Elder Wilkie, of Le 
Ray. The Rev. Mr. Bcrrell was another of their earliest 
preachers. Among the first members were Daniel Coolidge, 
Jerome Woodbury. Eli Whitford and wife. Walter Colton, 
Obadiuh Chamberlain, and Richard Huntley. Their meet- 
ings were held in the old frame school-house upon the hill, 
on the east side of the village. None of their records for 
the first twelve j'ears can now be found. 

A reorganization was effected February 23, 1836, with 
Obadiah Chamberlain, David Manning, and Joseph Palmer 
;is trustees. The first pastor after this fijrmaticin appeal's 
to have been Elder Philander Persons, — a most efficient 
preacher, a peace-maker, and a man greatly beloved and 
respected. 

Their place of worship was in the " Old Jubilee" build- 
ing, erected by Dr. Randall for a dwelling-house, but pur- 
chased and fitted up as a mceting-hou.sc by this society, 
wlien they were refused further admittance to the school- 
house. It stood on a spot now covered by the track of the 



railroad, near the residence of J. Chapin, Esq. On Feb- 
ruary 1, 1842, the society voted to sell this old building, 
and to build a new house of worship. A lot was accord- 
ingly purchased of Mr. Parrish on the hill near the 
brick hou.se, and upon this ground their new meeting-house 
was completed in 1843. Three years later (^.February 3, 
1846) it was voted to dispose of the old meeting-house and 
lot to Japheth Ch.npin for 8100, and it was accordingly so 
disposed of, and was swept away by tlie railroad contractors 
.some eight years later. 

The pastors who followed ^Ir. Persons were Rev. Wil- 
liam Tillinghast, November, 1842, to November, 1845; 
Rev. Lucius Nichols, February, 1846, — ordained here in 
August, 1846, but remained only a .short time ; Elder D. 
D. Reed, 1847 to 1850 ; Elder Hiram Main, August, 1850, 
to August, 1851, during which time accusations were made 
against him, and suspension followed ; Elder A. H. W. 
Cook came in 1851 ; Daniel Dye, January 1, 1852 ; Elder 
H. Ward, 1854 ; Lorenzo Rice, 1856 ; Rev. G. N. Har- 
mon, ordained here July 31, 1858, remained till April, 
1859; Rev. Charles Bailey, May 1, 1861, who preached 
once in two weeks for a period of four .months ; and their 
last pastor, Rev. J. E. Maynard, who was ordained at their 
church in Antwerp village. May 12, 1862. 

It appears from the record that their last meeting for 
divine worship was held on May 7, 1865, and the last 
church meeting January 28, 1866. For a long time their 
church upon the hill remained in disu.se. It is now occu- 
pied as a place of meeting by the Methodist Protestant 
society of Antwerp. 

METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH — ANTWERP VILLAGE. 

Methodism in Antwerp village dates back no farther than 
July, 1803, at which time, at the urgent request of a few 
friends, the Rev. D. Symonds, then pastor at Sprague's 
Corners, established an appointment for worship here on 
Sabbath evenings once in two weeks, and a small class was 
organized, with William Barrett as leader. For a time 
services were held in the Wiggins block, and when more 
commodious quarters became neces-sary, the Baptist church 
was secured, and used until February, 1872, at which time 
the .society's new church was dedicated and occupied. This 
edifice was of brick, seventy-five by forty-five feet, with 
basement, and had been erected mainly through the earnest 
energy of their pastor, Rev. E. E. Kellogg. Its cost, in- 
cluding ground, was about §20,000. 

This building was totally destroyed by fire in the early 
morning of January 5, 1877; but even before the a.shes 
were cold a sub.scrijition was circulated, and so satisfactory 
was the result, that the trustees' debt of about 82000 over 
the amount of insurance was disch.irgcd, and the work of 
rebuilding was commenced in April following. Now (Sep- 
tember, 1877), the edifice is approaching completion, and 
will be dedicated in October. It is of brick, forty-five by 
eighty-two feet, of fine and substantial architecture. Its 
location is on the high ground adjoining the Ives seminary 
at the west side of the village ; an attractive and com- 
manding position. 

The succession of pastors has been as follows : Rev. A. 
G. Markbam, 1869 to 1870; Rev. E. E. Kellogg, 1870 to 



286 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



1873 ; Rev. Wm. Watson, 1873 to 1875 ; Rev. S. Dewey, 
1875 to 1876; and Rev. C. H. Guile, 1876 to the present 
time. 

The membership of the church is about one hundred and 

fifty. 

METHODIST PROTESTANT CHURCH. 

In September, 1868, three Methodist Protestant chisses 
were organized in Antwerp, viz. : one at the Hoard neigh- 
borhood, with forty-two members ; one at Hall's corners, 
with twenty-two members; and a third at Rockwell Creek, 
with thirty-eight members ; all these being under charge 
of Rev. D. T. White. The preachers in charge who suc- 
ceeded Mr. White were Rev. Plato, 1869 to 1872 ; Rev. 
Thomas Ellsworth, 1872 to 1875; and Rev. Robert K. 
Andrews, 1875 to the present time. 

The classes at Hall's and Hoard's worshiped in their 
neighboring school-houses until January, 1876, since which 
time they have held fortnightly meetings iu the Baptist 
church building in Antwerp village. The class at Rockwell 
Creek have continued to hold meetings once in two weeks 
at their school-house. A part of the members of this class 
have been detached, and joined to the Fowler charge. The 
remainder, together with those who meet in Antwerp vil- 
lage, being sixty-six members in the aggregate, constitute 
the Antwerp charge under Mr. Andrews. 

THE M. E. CHURCH — SPRAGUE's CORNERS. 

Methodist worship was held in the neighborhood of 
Sprague's fully fifty years ago, the meetings being usually 
held in the school-house about half a mile south of the 
village, or in that at Pike's corners, — both log structures, — 
and the older people of the vicinity recollect Reverends 
May, Crary, Gibbs, and others, as among the early preachers 
who officiated. 

The organization of the church was effected January 12, 
1837, under Rev. Reuben Reynolds, pastor; the trustees 
being Isaac Spraguo, John Howe, Elijah Steele, Jr., Abel 
Goodenough, William Brown, Martin Michel, and Samuel 
Kingsley. 

In the same year they purchased of Moses Burge a 
building site on the Jefferson County side of the main 
street of the village, and upon it erected a house of wor- 
ship, at a cost of about SKWO; John Howe being the 
architect and builder. After thirty-six years of service, 
in 1873 this old building was demolished, and a new one — 
their present cluirch edifice — erected on the same site by 
C. C. Miller, as architect, at a cost of about S5000. This 
was during the ministry of Rev. Henry Hoselgrave, now 
of Philadelphia. After his pastorate came that of Rev. 
Smith, who remained until 1876, and was then suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Mr. Nichols, the present pastor. 

FREE-WILL HAPTIST CHURCH — SPRAQUE'S CORNERS. 

This organization was formed by a union of the Antwerp 
and Fowler Baptist society with the Wesleyan Methodists 
of Sprague's Corners, effected about the year 1870. Their 
house of worship is the same which was built and occupied 
by the Wesleyans before the unior). The present pastor is 
Rev. Loomis. The membership is increasing rapidly, 



an accession of twenty members having been received dur- 
ing the winter of 1876-77. 

The Wesleyan society, which was merged in the Free- 
Will Baptist, was formed September 1, 1845, with Emor 
Bell, Allen Woodward, and Abel Goodenough, trustees, it 
being the result of a secession from the M. E. church at 
Sprague's Corners, caused by dis;u:reoment on the (juestion 
of slavery. Allen Woodward donated a building site on 
the Antwerp road, towards the south side of the village, and 
upon it a .small meeting-house was erected at a co.st of S1500. 
This is the present church edifice of the Free-Will Baptists, 
as above mentioned. The Wesleyan pastor, at the time of 
uniting with the Baptists, w^as Elder Collins. 

The other member of the union — the Antwerp and 
Fowler Baptist church — dated its existence from Septem- 
ber 11, 1838, when the church was organized, with Amos 
Sheldon, I. H. Bosworth, Alexander Wright, Leonard Pike, 
Ansel Clark, and Moses Burge, as trustees. Among their 
earliest preachers were Elders Stevens and Nichols. Their 
church building was erected at Steele's Corners, near the 
county line of St. Lawrence. For a considerable time prior 
to their union with the Wesleyans the society had lan- 
guished, and they had been without a pastor. 

Methodist worship is held fortnightly in the school-house 
at Nauvoo. 

THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH — OX BOW. 

On the 15th day of May, 1820, the Ox Bow Presbyterian 
society of Antwerp and Ro.ssie, a body corporate, was formed, 
with Abraham Cooper, Reuben Streeter, James Ormiston, 
Abraham Lewis, James Douglas, Abner Benton, Orren 
Matthews, and Percival Hawley, as trustees. During the 
same summer a church organization was formed with forty 
members, principally people from the south of Scotland, who 
had then recently settled in this and in the neighboring 
town of Rossie. Their first pastor was Rev. James Sand- 
ford, from Massachusetts, who continued with them fur ten 
years, and was succeeded by Rev. Mr. McGregdr, after 
whom came Reverends Stowell and Nicol. Following 
these came other pastors, under whose ministrations there 
grew up a dis.satisfaction which resulted in a dissolution of 
the church's allegiance to the Assembly, and a change of 
name to that of " The Associate Reformed Church of Ant- 
werp and Rossie." This took place in May, 1S37, when a 
reorganization was made, with Andrew Culbcrtson, James 
Dickson, Robert Darling, John Barrow. William Fleming, 
and William TurnbuU, trustees. Their first minister after 
the change was Rev. Mr. White, who remained more than 
a year, and was followed by Rev. Alexander Proudfit, who 
labored but a short time, and was succeeded by Rev. James 
Williamson, who ministered to them as stated supply for a 
period of more than ten years. Their first settled jiastor, 
after the change in 1837, was Rev. J. S. Cowper, a native 
of Scotland, who came to them on the first Sabbath in 
January, 1852. 

Since that time (the precise date cannot be given) they 
have resumed their original relations to the General Assem- 
bly, ijs a regular Presbyterian churcli. The present pastor 
is Rev. Alexander Adair, who has now served them for 
about ten years. 



HISTOKY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



287 



During the first eighteen years of its existence this con- 
grosation worshiped in the brick school building erected 
by Abraham Cooper; but in the year 1838, during the 
ministry of Rev. Mr. Wliite, they erected the stone edifice 
which they still occupy, fronting on the village green. 
Some changes and iniprovemenls have since been made in 
it, as the addition of twenty-five feet to its length and an 
incroa.se in the height of its spire, giving it greater sym- 
metry. Its first cost was $2500. Auxiliarj' to the church 
is a large and flourishing Sabbath-school, under the super- 
intcndency of Dr. Wood. 

THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH — OX BOW. 

A Methodist church organization existed at Ox Bow 
village more than iorty-four years ago, the society there 
having been formed May 14, 1833, with Ira D. Shepard, 
William II. Collar, Samuel Bonfy, Ebenezer Reardslcy, and 
Abraliam Lewis, tru.stees. Among their earliest jireachers 
were Revs. Gibbs, Crary, and Reuben Reynolds. Their 
meetings were held in the school-house or in private dwell- 
ings, and they had no church edifice until the winter of 
1872-73, when they first met in the basement of their 
present church, — the stone store of Abraham Cooper, which 
they had purchased and remodeled, at a cost of about eight 
thousand dollars. It fronts on the village green, and is a 
neat and appropriate meeting-house. This was erected 

during the pastorate of Rev. Clarke. Succeeding 

him in charge of the church was Rev. Mr. Crofoot, who 
was followed by Rev. James Smith, of Wegatchie, the 
present pastor. 

Connected with the church is a flourishing Sabbath- 
school, under the superintendency of Mr. Joseph Graves. 

INTERMENT GROUNDS. 

The first graves in Antwerp were made in the old burial- 
ground in the northeastern part of the village, upon the 
slope of the hill, near its top, and adjoining the school- 
house and Baptist churcli lots. No one can now tell with 
certainty whose was the first interment here, but among the 
earliest were those of Richard McAUaster and his wife, 
Susan, whose deaths occurred within less than three weeks 
of each other, his on tiie 11th of February, and hers on the 
23(1 of January, 1813. The land — one acre — was donated 
for burial purposes by David Parrish. From the time of 
its commencement until 1800 (when the new cemetery was 
opened) this was the only burial-ground of the vicinity, and 
here are garnered the grim reaper's harvests for half a cen- 
tury. It is now sadly neglected and overgrown, but there 
are those among the best citizens of Antwerp who have 
resolved that it shall not long continue in this dilapidated 
condition. 

THE FOSTER BURIAL-GROUND. 

This inclosure, situated near the house of Andrew Kin- 
ney, is very nearly as old as that at Antwerp village. It 
was known to the oldest settlers as grave-yard number two. 
It was donated by Edward Foster, Sr., not later than 1810, 
and within it lie four generations of the Foster family, of 
which he was the head. It has become very populous, but 
is constantly receiving additions to the number of its occu- 
pants. 



THE BEAMAN BURYINO-OROUND, 

located a short two miles from Antwerp village, on the 
Sterlingvillc road, near the residence of J. M. Beaman, 
Esq., was donated many years ago by Ira Beaman, whose 
remains are buried there, as are also many members of the 
Beaman and Aldrich families. 

GRAVE-YARD AT SPBAGUe's CORNERS. 

This spot, one acre in extent, was given to the public by 
David Parrish, and Colonel II. B. Keene recollects when 
about fifty-five years ago, in his boyhood, he worked with 
older persons at a " bee," which was held to clear away the 
stumps and undergrowth in preparation for interments. 
He also recollects the occasion of the first burial, but cannot 
recall the name of the person. Soon after, Mr. Israel 
Sprague was interred there, and also Leonard Pike and 
Mr. William Vebber, one of the first comers to Sprague's 
Corners. It is upon the hill just south of the settlement. 

There is also a grave-yard on the " Fuller road," between 
Sprague's Corners and Antwerp village. 

THE BEMIS BURIAL-GROUND, 

in the northwest part of the town, three miles from Ox 
Bow village, was a part of the farm of Ebenezer Bemis, 
and by him given for purposes of interment more than half 
a century ago, but proving to be a wet and unsuitable place, 
was but little used. 

THE VROOMAN HILL BURIAL-GROUND 

is located in the west part of the town, and was taken from 
the farm of Peter Vrooman, and was first used as a ceme- 
tery after the Bemis ground had been found to be unfit for 
the purpose. The interments have now become numerous. 

THE OLD CEMETERY AT OX BOW, 

containing sixty-eight cne-hundredths of an acre, and lo- 
cated in the village, adjoining the Presbyterian church, was 
donated to the public by Abraham Cooper, in 1822, at 
which time his father, John Cooper, was buried there; this 
being the first interment in the ground. The inclosure has 
become closely cruwdc^d, and since the laying out of the new 
cemetery very few burials liave been made in the old one. 

THE NEW CEMETERY AT 0.\ BOW, 

known as the Presbyterian cemetery, although its use is not 
confined to that denomination, was laid out in 1874, upon 
thirteen acres of ground purchased of Ira Hinsdale, for 
$1300. There ha\e been as yet but few interments. The 
site is a good one ; that part lying nearest to the village — 
a bold, hemlock-crowned knoll, rising abruptly above the 
little stream — being particularly noticeable for its romantic 
beauty. 

THE HILLSIDE CEMETERY. 

Tills is the name given by the Antwerp Rural Cemetery 
As.sociation to the beautiful grounds laid out and decorated 
under its auspices at Antwerp village. The association 
was incorporated and organized in 1859, with John H. 
Conklin, president; Elijah Fulton, vice-president; J. S. 
Conkey, secretary ; G. S. Saweus, treasurer. In the same 



288 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



year they purchased seven and one-half acres of ground 
from Clewley CopelanJ, at seventy-five dollars per acre, and 
proceeded to the laying out of lots. These lots have been 
sold at an average price of ten cents per square foot, and 
although not more than half the area has yet been graded 
and laid out, and though not all the lots which have been 
platted are sold, yet enough has been alre;idy realized to 
clear the association from debt, and to create a reserve fund 
of over twelve hundred dollars ; a condition of affairs evi- 
dently resulting from good financial management. The 
cemetery grounds lie upon the southeastern slope of the 
hill adjoining the old burying-grouud, and the main en- 
trance to them is on Yau Buren street, at the eastern side 
of the village. They contain a large number of handsome 
monuments and of burial plats, which are beautifully lo- 
cated and tastefully laid out. There are very few villages 
of the size of Antwerp which possess a cemetery so attract- 
ive as this. The present (1877) oflScers of the association 
are Josis Miller, president; Almon Buel, treasurer; Al- 
bert Hoyt, secretary. 

THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 

The first school in the town of Antwerp was taught in a 
small frame building, erected for the purpose, not far from 
the spot where now stands the new Congregational church 
in Antwerp village. The teacher who fii-st presided in this 
primitive temple of learning was Lodowick Miner, who 
c:ime from the Royal Grant in Herkimer. His successor 
was Jacob ^liller, and the third teacher who was employed 
there was Benjamin Cook, from whom we have gathered 
these facts, though he is unable to recall the precise dates. 
The second building erected for school purposes was a small 
log house, which stood on a knoll near the spring, a few 
rods north of the present residence of John Wilber. Of 
this school Mr. Cook was himself the first teacher, and 
Miner also taught there soon after. These were, of course, 
not free schools, but were supported by subscriptions, per 
capita, of pupils. The second school-house in Antwerp 
villase was a frame structure, which was built on the hill 
near the old brick church, and is still standing there. 

The first division of the town into school districts was 
made March 12, 1814, and is recorded ;is follows : 

" We, the school commissioners of the town of Antwerp, do divide 
the town into the following school districts, viz. : District No. 1 com- 
prehcntls alt the inhabitants southwesterly of the northeasterly line 
of Zopher Holden, Esq's, land. District No. 2 includes all the in- 
habitants northeasterly of said Zojiher llulden's land. 

"John Howe, 
"Joii.v C. Foster, 
" Oi.ivKU Stowel, 
"School Commissioners." 

On the 17th of the same month they divided district 
No. 2 as follows : 

" Be);inning at the Turn Pike Rode on the Line of Lots bctivccn Zo- 
phcr Holden and the Pool's Lands, and running as near the centre as 
jiossiblo between the two Cambray Uoads. Those inhabitants on the 
south of said Line to be No. 2, and those on the north of said line 
No. 3." 

December 15. 181S, di.strict No. 1 was divided, forming 
No. 4; the former embracing lots 683 to 686, and 714 to 
717; and No. 4 embracing lots 680 to 682, 711 to 713, 



and 740 to 742. District No. 5 was laid off December 21, 
1818: 

"Beginning by including the whole of Aliraham Cooper, Esqr's. 
tract of land, and lot No. oSl, and all that part of lots Nos. 626-27- 
28 not included in district No. 3." 

On September 18, 1821, these districts were subdivided, 
forming additional districts numbered six to twelve inclu- 
sive. 

In 1819 or 1820, Abraham Cooper built at Ox Bow a 
good brick building, the u.se of which he gave to the public 
for school purposes; and not long after the citizens of Ant- 
werp village erected, on the hill near Mr. Parrish's church, 
a brick school-house which was fine and commodious for 
that time, but which (being still in use) has become sadly 
inadequate to the requirements of the preseut day. 

Since 1821, the districts have been subdivided from time 
to time until their number has reached twenty-five, which 
is also the number of schools in Antwerp at the present 
time. Of the school buildings — with the exception of the 
fine stone edifice at Ox Bow village— it can hardly be said 
with truth that any among them are creditable to the town. 
The teachers employed are chiefly females, the schools being 
wholly under their charge during the summer terms, and in 
many of the districts during the winter also. The school 
in district No. 1 (Antwerp village) employs two teachers. 
The s.ilaries paid to females vary iu amount from one dollar 
and seventy-five cents to three dollars per week (with board) 
in the outlying districts, while as high as eight dollars per 
week, without board, is paid iu the villages. The sidaries 
of male teachers range from twenty-six dollars to sixty-five 
dollars per month. The highest remuneration is received 
by teachers in Antwe'rp and Ox Bow villages. 

The total number of pupils for whom public school 
money is drawn by the town of Antwerp is 107G ; the av- 
erage aggregate daily attendance of pupils at the schools in 
the town last year was SGSj-^^iy. In the apportionment 
of school funds for the year ending September 30, 1S77, 
the town received — 

For teachers' wages, according to number of children $696.88 

" " " average attendance 673.06 

District quotas lUiS.40 

Library money 35.43 

Total amount received by town $2173.77 

ORE-BEDS. 

Iron ore, of the kind known as red hematite, has been 
found at many points in the town, and beds have been 
worked here for more than forty ye.irs ; the most extensive 
and successful of these operations having been prosecuted 
at the Sterling mine, some three miles north by east from 
Antwerp village. The presence of ore at this point was 
discovered in the year 1836, — it being upon a spot of hard 
ground in a swamp which formed a part of the farm of 
Hopestill Foster, in the sale of which the mineral rights 
had been reserved to the proprietor, David Parrish. He, 
however, — in view of the fact that, during the preceding 
twenty years, attempts at the mining of ore in the town 
h.id frequently been made, and had uniformly failed of pe- 
cuniary success, — thought very lightly of this now discov- 
ery, and readily consented to sell his interest in it for 8200 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



2S'J 



to James Sterling, from whom the mine took the name by 
wliifh it has since been icnown. It was opened in the fall 
of ISIiG, and during the succeeding winter two thousand 
tons were taken out and carried to the Sterliiigvillo furnace, 
which Mr. Sterling had commenced to build in 1836, and 
which has since that liino been mainly supplied by the rich 
ores from the Sterling mine. 

A few years since, upon the occasion of a visit to the 
mine, made by Professor 11. S. Osborn, of Miami Uni- 
versity, he predicted that before reaching a depth of one 
hundred and fifty feet from the surface the vein would pro- 
duce magnetic ore. This prediction of the professor has 
been fully verified, and now, at a depth of about one hun- 
dred and forty feet, the miners are working an apparently 
inexhaustible bed of magnetic ore. 

These buds have proved to be of immense value. Since 
the ownership of James Sterling, they have px^sed through 
various hands, and are now the property of the Jefterson 
Iron Company. 

The " White ore-bed" — so called from its location on 
the farm of (i. E. Whito, a short distance south from the 
Sterling mine — wa-s opened by Mr. Parrish in 1848 ; but 
the ore proved of inferior quality, being impregnated with 
sulphur, and the bed was not profitable. 

The " Ward" bed was opened on the farm of Nathan W. 
AVard in 1852, and produced considerable quantities of ore, 
which were taken to Wegatchie for reduction. 

The " Dixon mine" was opened on the form of Charles 
White, under lea.se from Parrish, by A. P. Sterling, of Ant- 
werp, and Edgar Peckliam, of Rome, at the time of their 
erection of the forge on Indian river, above Sterlingburgh, 
in 1870. The mineral rights in this, and also in the Ward 
farm, were soon after sold to George Paddock & Co., of 
Watertown, under whose proprietorship a railway was built, 
about one and a quarter miles in length, from the track of 
the Rome, Watertown and Ogden.sburgh railroad to the 
Dixon mine. In 1876 the interests of Paddock & Co. were 
sold by the sheriflf to A. F. Barker, and have now become 
the property of the Jefferson Iron Company, who purpose 
extending their railway to the Sterling mine. 

The Keene ore-beds, situated near Keeue's Station of the 
Rome, Watertown and Ogdensburgh railroad, and but a few 
rods from the county line, were opeiieil about 1838, — the 
discovery of the presence of ore at that place having been 
made by Colonel Hiram B. Keene while plowing for winter 
wheat. Colonel Keene sold the right to mine upon his 
farm to Caleb Essington, of Stcrliiigville, and Jlr. Munson, 
of Utica. The vein was traced to an adjoining farm, of 
which Mr. Parrish had reserved the mineral right, and here 
a mine was opened by Mr. Fuller, of Fullerville, St. Law- 
rence county. These ore-beds are now owned by the Rossie 
Iron-Mining Company, and are connected by railway track 
with the main line to Watertown. 

A few years ago all the reserved mineral riglits in Ant- 
werp, which were still owned by the Parrish estate, were 
sold to Ario Pardee, of Hazleton, Penn.sylvania, and under 
his direction an ore- bed was opened near the farm of An- 
drew Kinney, a short distance north of the Sterling mine; 
but this enterprise did not prove successful, and it is no 
longer worked. 
1!) 



STONE QUARRIES. 

The business of quarrying stone was commenced nearly 
three-quarters of a century ago, — the first opening being 
made in 1805 or 1806 by David Cofl'een and James Parker. 
This was located on the State road, between Lee's tavern 
and the Ox Bow, and was known as the " Parker ledge." 
From it were taken the stones used in the old Church mill 
at Antwerp village. The manufacture of mill-.stones was a 
specialty at this ledge, but the production was not great, 
amounting to but about §10,000 in over twenty yeare' 
work from the time of opening. Quarries have since been 
opened at various places in the town, — among those at 
present in operation being those of Render Brothers, two 
miles north of Antwerp, and one on the farm of Jasper Rob- 
inson, one mile farther south. There are also several others 
less extensive. The Antwerp stone — known as the Pot.sdam 
sandstone — is an excellent building material. It may be 
seen in many structures in the vieiriily; notably the Semi- 
nary buildings and the Congregational church at Antwerp. 

AGRICULTITRK. 

Although in some portions of the town the face of the coun- 
try pre-sents a rough and somewhat forbidding aspect to tlie 
eye of the uninitiated stranger, Antwerp takes a high agricul- 
tural rank among the towns of Jcfterson County. The soil is 
strong, not liable to become parched in seasons of drought, 
and excellently adapted to grazing purposes, producing 
abundantly of the nutritious grasses, even among the ribs 
of the ledges. In the days of the early settlements great 
concern was felt on account of the prevalence of the Canada 
thistle; and, so long ago as 1825, the following strong in- 
ducement w;is offered to any who might devise practical 
means for its destruction : 

" Anil it is further ordained and di'el.-xrcd, hy the authority afore- 
said, that if any jterson or persons, not exceeding four in number, 
being inhabitants of the saiil town of Antwerp, shall devise, discover, 
or perceive any certain anil sure plan, method or device fur effectually 
destroying and eradicating the Canada thistle from the land, such per- 
sons shall eivch be entitled to receive from tho said town the sum of 
ten dollars." 

Strong as was the incentive of the ten dollars bounty, the 
" method or device" was never discovered. To-day the 
farmers hardly consider the thistle as a nuisance, and by 
some it is regarded as excellent food for aittle, when prop- 
erly treated. 

Chief attention is given to stock and to the manufacture 
of cheese and butter, the product of six thousand milch 
cows being devoted to that ])urpose in Antwerp at the 
present time. Butter is made wholly by hand process ; 
cheese is also still made by band to some extent, but the 
greater part is produced by the factories. Of these there 
are now in operation in Antwerp, as follows: 

Bent & Uurris chec.ae-factori/, in the vilhige of Antwerp, 
manufactures the milk of seven hundred cows ; has some- 
times had twelve hundred cows. Tlie llalCs Corners 
cheese-faclory, also carried on by Bent & Harris, four hun- 
dred cows. The Cook's Creek clicesc-fuctory. by A. S. La 
Fave, located on the Ox Bow road, three miles north of 
Antwerp village, takes the product of six hundred cows. 
The Dixon factor;/, by Robert Dixon, on the Carthage 



21)0 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUiNTY, NEW YORK. 



road, two miles south of Antwerp village, manufactures 
Limburger oiicese. Number of cows not known. 

PATRONS OF HUSBANDRY. 

"Indian River Grange, No. 19," located in Antwerp, 
was chartered by the National Grange, and organized No- 
vember 4, 1873. Master, Samuel Hopper; Overseer, 
James Gill ; Secretary, Clark Weston ; Treasurer, William 
Render; Lecturer, S. G. AViggins; Steward, J. D. Wait ; 
Chaplain, J. H. Aldrich ; Gate-keeper, Eugene Miller. 
The number of charter members was twenty-three. The 
present mcnibeiship is one hundred. The oflScers for 1877 
are S. G. Wiggins, Wortliy Master ; J. S. Woodward, Over- 
seer; F. A. Stalbert, Lecturer ; DuaneSnell, Steward; James 
H. Aldrich, Chaplain; Cyrus Mason, Treasurer; Mrs. A. 
L. Fuller, Secretary; A. L. Fuller, Gate-keeper; Miss L. 
Miller, Ceres; Mrs. Hiram Powell, Pomona; Mrs. B. F. 
Kitts, Flora; Miss Nellie Dixon, Stewardess; Mre. S. G. 
Wiggins, Organist. Executive Committee, L. A. Bacon, 
A. J. Woodward, A. B. Hopper, Cyrus Mason, William 
Adderley, James H. Aldrich. Purchasing Agent, Charles 
Race. Grange meets at hall on Main street, Antwerp 
village. 

THE ANTWERP UNION AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY, 

a Stock company, incorporated under the general law, was 
organized in 1870, and held its first fair in September, 
1871. The fair-ground.s of the society are upon a fine ele- 
vated location, a half mile south of Antwerp village, on the 
Carthage road. They embrace a tract of twenty-two acres, 
— a part of the Harry Baldwin farm, — purchased from D. 
W. Baldwin in the spring of 1871, and were graded and 
inclosed during the following summer. The buildings 
comprise agricultural, floral, and mechanics' halls, and the 
u.sual stalls for hoi'ses and cattle. Running water, in plen- 
tiful supply, has been introduced by means of pipes. There 
is also a luilf-milc race-track for trials of speed. 

The following gentlemen are at present officers of the 
society: Colonel IF. B. Keene, president; W. N. John.son, 
secretary; L. H. Bailey, treasurer; George P. Coolidge, 
superintendent. 

PUYSICIANS. 

The first physician to locate in Antwerp was Dr. Samuel 
Randall, who came there about 1812. He was admitted 
to member.ship in the Jefferson County medical society in 
1817, and died November 21, 1831, at the ago of forty- 
seven years. 

Dr. llaljih Rogers came hereabout 1820, and removed 
to Watertown, where lie died. Dr. Hiram (Alva?) Mur- 
dock (aiuie about 1822, and removed to Gouverncur, St. 
Lawrence county. Dr. Caleb Preston came about 1825, 
and afk'r a time removed to Galway, New York. Dr. 
Samuel J. Gaines came about 1828, and removed to Sacket's 
Harbor. Dr. Wm. H. Wiser came about the same time as 
Dr. (Jaincs, and riMuovcd to New Hartford, New York. 

Dr. Chambers came IVoni Canada about 1833, but alUM- 
a short stay returned there again. All of the above, cx- 
c('pt the last named, were members of the medical .society 
of the county. 

Dr. Walter Dewey came to the place in 1834-35, and had 



an extensive practice, which continued till his death, De- 
cember 4, 1845, at the ago of thirty-four years. He was 
also a member of the medical society, being admitted in 
1838. 

Dr. J. S. Conkey located here in 1842, and practiced 
extensively for several years, and removed to Canton, St. 
Lawrence county. Dr. R. R. Sherman located in 1848. 
Dr. Ira H. Abell located in the town in 1853, and still 
continues in practice. lie is a very popular and highly- 
e.steemed physician, and well .skilled in his profession. 

Dr. E. G. Derby commenced the practice of his profes- 
sion about 1847, in Antwerp. He practiced subsefpiently 
at Pamelia Four Corners, in 1848, in Brownville, 1852, in 
company with Dr. Grafton one year, and at Evans' Mills, 
ten years. He then entered the United States army as 
surgeon, and remained so engaged two years, and then re- 
turned to Antwerp, where he has since practiced and re- 
sided He is a most excellent nurse, and of a genial and 
happy nature, that makes him a favorite with all who know 
him. 

Dr. Wm. Robinson commenced his practice in the town 
in 1852, and subsei|uenlly removed to Cedar Falls, Iowa. 
Dr. Julin Muyr came to Antwerp about 1870, had a limited 
practice, and removed to Carthage, where he still resides. 
Dr. E. G. Seymour commenced practicing here in or about 
1865, and is still a resident of the place. All of the five 
last-named physicians are members of the Jefferson County 
medical society, except Dr. Robinson, and have gained good 
reputations for skill and ability in their profession. Dr. G. 
H. Wood, a homa^opathic jihysician, came to the place in 
1877, and is a young man of fair promise in the profession 
of medicine. 

For courtesies and assistance extended to the historian in 
his collection of facts relating to the history of Antwerp, 
the thanks of the publishers are duo to the Reverends J. 
H. Crum, Hugh Bailey, C. H. Guile, and Robert K. An- 
drews ; to Messrs. Elijah Fulton, L. H. Bailey, Japhet 
Chajiin, Benjamin Cook, Henry Welsh, Edward L. Proctor, 
John C. Trolan, J. W. Van Slyke, Albert Hoyt, Stephen 
Conklin, George D. McAllastcr, A. P. Sterling, S. G. Wig- 
gins, and Nicholas J. Cooper; Colonel H. B. Kecne, and 
Professor M. A. Veeder. 



BIOdUAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



COLONEL HIRAM B. KEENE. 

Of all the pioneers and wortliy citizens of Jefferson 
County none deserves a better mention upon the pages of 
our county history than Colonel Hiram B. Kecne. He 
was born in Pompey, Onondaga county. New York, June 
17, 1810. His parents. Job and Nancy Keene, reared 
thirteen children to industry and frugality, and all of them 
except two became heads of families. 

The colonel is one of that large family, and was reared 
to know the value of time and money. His early advan- 
tages for an education were of the most limited character, 



?> 










H.J Cooper. 



- /r. r — 



l^ffs.N. J.Cooper. 




RLSIULt.-.L .;" H. J. COOPER . OX BQ\N ((lh fon>^. 





ABR" M COOPEff- ( L-S WCUirt.fHOTOGRAfHln) 



f/RS.HAfiRin COOP£.f\. 



-A-BIL^H^nyi: OOOFET?. 



waa the son of John Cooper, aaid was born at Sonthampton, 
Long Island, on the 18th day of June, 1781, where some 
of the family settled as early as 1C40. About 1795, Abra- 
ham accompanied his father's family to Utioa. He received 
but a limited common school education, having been obliged 
to leave study, and assist his father in the business of haul- 
ing goods from the boats to the stores, etc. This was 
severe labor for the young man, but being naturally of an 
industrious temperament, he succeeded finely in his new 
vocation. While thus engaged he went with his team a 
trip to the Genesee Country, as it was called in 1796. 
There was but one house (a log one) in what is now the 
city of Auburn. On his return he stopped at Salina for a 
load of salt. There was an old man there with three ket- 
tles, boiling salt, which comprised the nucleus of the now 
celebrated " Salt Point" s;ilt-work8. 

It was not long before young Abraham Cooper had made 
for himself a reputation for industry, faithfulness, and 
capability, which induced the ofiFer of a placi> in the store 
of Mr. Byron Johnson, father of A. B. Johnson, for many 
years president of the Outiurio Branch Bank, of Utica. 
Here he won for himself a name for business ability and 



personal rectitude which endured throughout his business 
career. At the age of twenty-one, by the advice of his 
patron and old employer, he commenced business for himself 
at Trenton, New York. It was on the 14th of June, 1810, 
that, with the stock of goods furnished mostly by Mr. 
Johnson on credit, he opened his store in that little ham- 
let. While thus engaged in a l.irge and successful mercan- 
tile business in Trenton, he purchased a large farm, which 
he cultivated with success. In 1818 he removed to the 
present site of Ox Bow, in the town of Antwerp, where 
he opened a store and land-office, having previously pur- 
chased a large tract of land in that vicinity.* 

Mr. Cooper was characterized by a kindly and generous 
disposition, sterling integrity, and great enterprise. Aft«r 
a long and eminently useful life, he died February 7, 1861. 
He had seven children, whom he lived to see settled in life 
and useful members of society. Their names are Abraham, 
Emeline C, Howell, George, Nioole J., John J., Elias F. ; 
of these, all survive but Howell, who died July 24, 1870. 
(^See portniits, etc.) 

* Seo history of Ox Bow, iu the higtorj proper of Antwerp. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSOX COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



29 1 



as he had attended but fifteen months of school prior to 
his being manicd, and after that nine montlis more. At 
the age of twelve, February, 1822, the colonel, in company 
witii his parents and family, emigrated to Jeffereon County, 
and settled in the town of Antwerp. He continued to work 
for his parents on the farm until he was twenty-one years 
of age, and during all this time he never had worn a pair 
of boots of any kind, and his father never paid out but 
one shilling for him to attend shows of any kind. He was 
married to Jliss Hetsj- Doud, of Rupert, Bennington county, 
Vermont, January 17, 1831. She was born September 4, 
1800. At the time of their marriage the colonel owed for 
most of his wedding-suit, and had but two dollars in money, 
one of which he gave to the minister who married them, 
and the other dollar lie divided e<|ually with his wife ; 
thus he commenced his married life with really less than 
nothing. 

Jlr. Keene possesses a vast amount of energy, which he 
has ably applied to the making of a happy home. In the 
.spring of 18)^2, Colonel Keene purchased fifty acres of land 
at si.K dollars an acre, for which he ran in debt. At the 
end of two years this was paid for, and then he purchased 
twenty-five acres more at fourteen dollars per acre ; this in- 
cludes his present home. After two years this was also 
paid for. During this time he discovered an iron ore-bed, 
known now as Kceiic Ore-Bed. He w;is plowing for 
winter wheat, and the point of his plow .struck the ore. He 
sold his interest in said bed for nine hundred and tiifenty 
dollars, but only received sis hundred dollars. 

Colonel Keene has kept on adding from time to time to 
his once small farm, till to-day he is the owner of JiJ'/een 
hundred acres of land, and he has made all this by farm- 
ing, without speculation. He has built nearly all the build- 
ings on his large farm. He has paid from six to fifty 
dollars an acre for his land. He has generally beeu en- 
gaged in the dairy business, and, since 1865, he has kept 
about one hundred cows; and for the last three years he 
has had about one hundred and fifty cows, which have netted 
him about twenty dollars a head. 

During all this time he has enjoyed the confidence of his 
townsmen, and has held various offices of trust and honor. 
He has been an assessor for twenty-four years, road com- 
missioner for some time, justice of the j)eace for eight years, 
supervisor for three years, and for five years he was con- 
nected with the Old Watertown and Potsdam railroad, first 
as an agent for two years, then a director for three years. 
Not only did Colonel Keene give his time in the interest of 
this road, but gave in money eight thousand five hundred 
and sixty-four dollars, besides fourteen acres of land as 
right of way. lie also built what is known as Keene 
Station. 

Colonel Keene acted in the capacity of captain in the 
Eighty-fourth Regiment of State militia, and was then 
chosen colonel of the same, which position he held for 
several years. He has enjoyed the confidence ipf his towns- 
men to an unu.sual degree, being referred to in matters of 
dispute between neighbors, and was always able to bring 
them to a satisfactory agreement. 

For the last five years, save one, he has been president 
of the Antwerp Union Agricultural Society, which position 



he still holds. The colonel has always been a very liberal 
man in the support of schools and churches. In politics he 
was at first a Whig, but when the Republican pai1y was 
organized he joined it. 

Ill the history of Colonel Keene one can readily see 
what can be accomplished by industry and frug-.dity, com- 
bined with good calculation. Would that Jcfterson County 
had many more sucii. men. 

A large double-page view of his place, and portraits of 
himself and wife, may be seen elsewhere in this work. 



CALEB G. HALL. 

The subject of this sketch is the son of Havens and Amy 
Hall, and w;u5 born at Kxetor, Rhode Island, September lit, 
1S1;{. In 1820 he removed, in company with his parents, 
to Antwerp, Jefferson County, New York. He remained 
with his parent.s till he was twenty-five years of age. On 
the 20th of November, 1838, he married Miss Catherine 
Jane Lewis, of Antwerp. She was born February 1 1 , 181 !•, 
at Petersburg, Rensselaer couuty. New York, and settled in 
Antwerp with her parents when but nine months of age. 
As a result of said marriage, six children have been born, 
five of whom still live. Soon after marriage Mr. Hall and 
wife located iu Newlet, on a farm now owned by George 
Hicks, lived there for twenty-six years, and in 18t).") settled 
on their present farm, known as the " Lewis farm." In 
politics Mr. Hall is a Republican. He Ls one of tlic pro- 
gressive fiirmers of his town. 



E. A. CARPENTER, 

son of Thom.is and Ann C, was born in Antwerp, Jeffer- 
son County, New York, June 25, 1828. His father was a 
native of Florida, Montgomery county, New York, and was 
born Septendjer 30, 17!h), and followed farming for a living. 
He married Miss Ann Wright, of I)e Wainc-shurg, Mont- 
gomery county, November 13, 1819. Twelve children were 
born to them, six of whom still live. In March, 1820, he 
emigrated to Antwerp, and settled on the farm now owned 
by his son, E. A. Mr. Carpenter and wife were members 
of the Protestant Methodist church. He died October 31, 
18V3. His widow still lives on the old farm with her 
son E. A. 

Mr. E. A. .Carpenter remained at home until lie was 
twenty-eight years of age, when he purchased the farm 
now owned by Charles Render, and built all the buildings 
on the same. He remained there some fourteen ye;irs, sold 
out, and then bought the " old home," on which he built 
all the fine buildings, and they are among the best farm- 
buildings in the town. He married Miss Polly Ingalls, of 
Le Ray, March 9, 1852. She was born September 13, 1830. 
Four children born. Mr. and ^Irs. Carpenter are membei-s 
of the Methodist Epi-scopal church at Antwerp, and he is 
one of the most liberal supporters of the same. In politics 
a Republican. 



292 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 




MU. 



A. BACON. 



MRS. L. A. HACON. 



L. A. RACON. 



Araonj^ the esteemed citizon.s \vl)o,se natnes grape the 
pa<;es of tliis liistory may be mentioned tlie .subject of this 
sketch. Hi.s father wa.s a native of Massachusetts, and was 
born in April, 1783. Was a carpenter and joiner, and 
as.sisted iu building the first farm building ever built in 
Watertown. He married Miss Lucy Morton, about 1805, 
by whom he had ten children. She was born in Massa- 
chusetts, in 1787. While a young man Mr. Racon emi- 
grated to Lowville, Lewis county. About 1821 he settled 
in Antwerp, on the farm now owned by Smith Fuller. 
After coming to Antwerp Mr. B. did not follow his trade, 
but farmed it. In 1827 he settled on the farm now owned 
by his .son, Leonard A. He died in 185!), and his wife in 
August, 1860. They were members of the Baptist church. 
In {H)lities he was a Democrat until the organization of the 
Rejiublican j)arty. 

IjeoDard A. Bacon was born in Antwerp, Jefferson 
County, New York, April K?, 182(1. His advantages for 



an education were limited, but by reading and reflection he 
has a good business education. He is particularly fond of 
mathematics. 

At the age of twenty-one he commenced business for 
hiuLself by making charcoal. Soon his brother died, and 
his parents wished him to come home, which he did. 
When ho commenced farming he had but twenty-five 
acres and one cow ; to-day he owns si.\ hundred acres, 
and is milking sixty-six cows, and has milked even more. 
He is the owner of two farm-houses and six barns. He 
married Miss Alvira Fuller, ol' Antwerp, Novend)er 28, 
1854. She w:»s born October 4, 1830. Mr. Racon was 
a Democrat until the re-election of President Lincoln, since 
which time he has been a Republic:in. Mr. Racon enjoys 
the confidence of his feliowtownsmen, and has been elected 
to the office of assessor for five consecutive years, and is 
holding the same to-day. Whatever Mr. B. has is due to 
industry and economy. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY. NEW YORK. 



293 



ASHER AND NANCY LEWIS. 

Among the pioneer families of this county the Lewis 
family may be mentioned. In November, 1819, Mr. 
Lewis and wife and a little daughter, nine months old, 
emigrated from Petersburg to Antwerp. They located on 
what i.s known as the " Lewis farm." 

Their first cabin was twelve by fourteen feet, without 
fire-place. At one end of the cabin was a st(jnc wall, against 
which the fire was built, the end of the cabin being left 
open to let the smoke escape, and every time it rained or 
snowed it would put out the fire, and the family was obliged 
to go to the neighbors for fire, as there were no matches in 
tho.sc days. In the following spring a small room was 
added to aflbrd sleeping-apartments for jobbers. In this 
rude structure eight persons lived and enjoyed life. After 
two years, Mr. Lewis built a log house, eighteen by twenty- 
five. This was mucu more convenient. Here Mr. Lewis 
and wife reared seven ciiildren to industry and frugality. 
They had to yard their slock ever}' night, a.s wolves and 
panthers were very thick, and would often come very near 
the house. 

Mrs. Lewis made all the clothes for her family out of 
flax and wool. It was difficult in tho.se days to get money 
to pay even the taxes, and more than once land had to be 
sold to pay them ; but time brought changes to this happy 
home. Next was a frame building, and ere they had en- 
joyed its comforts many j'cars Mr. Lewis was called to his 
long home, June 28, 1859, leaving the care of the family 
to his wife. He was about sixty years of age when he 
died. After a few more years the youngest in the family, 
a daughter, was called. She was the mother of four .sons, 
two of whom still live. Of the remaining six children in 
the Lewis family, all are settled in life ; two are in Illinois, 
one in Delaware, and two in the State of New York, and 
the daughter, now Mrs. Hall, is living on the old farm. 

One of the .sons was a soldier in the War of the Rebellion 
for three years, was a prisoner for eleven months in Cahawba, 
Alabama. During the war the Lewis farm passed into the 
hands of C. G. Hall, and during the years of 1869 and 70 
he built his present fine residence, a view of which, together 
with the portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis, may be seen in 
another part of this work. 



HIRAM T. NUTTING. 

The subject of our sketch was born at Hartford, Con- 
necticut, in 181G. His father was a native of the same 
place, and was born in 17S2, and emigrated to the town of 
Antwerp in 1820, in company with his wife and two chil- 
dren, Hiram T. and Mary. He died in 1827, and his wife 
in 1837. 

Hiram T. was reared a farmer, which occupation he still 
follows. He commenced life very poor, but by industry 
and frugality he has acriuired a competency. He married 
Mary Ann Gates, daughter of E. Gates, in 18 43. She 
died in 18(52, leaving a family of six children. Mr. Nutting 
married for his second wife the sister (Sarah) of his first. 



in 1864. She died in May, 1872. In 1848 Mr. Nutting 
bought the farm he now lives upon, a view of which, to- 
gether with portraits of himself and wives, may be seen 
elsewhere in this work. Mr. Nutting is one of the sub- 
stantial and worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal 
church at Antwerp. 



ELIJAH HOUGHTON. 

The subject of this .sketch was born in Harvard, Wooster 
county, Mas-sjichusetts, June 12, 18((0, and in company 
witli his parents emigrated to the town of Lc Ray in 1810. 
His father died two yeai-s later, and Elijah went to live 
with one of the older members of the family, remained two 
years, and then served as an apprentice at the tanner and 
currier trade till he wa.sof age. In 1823 he purchased his 
first piece of land in Antwerp, but did not .settle perma- 
nently ni)on it till 1826. On the 26th of October, 1826, 
he married Miss Harriet Dopking, of Oneida county, New 
York. She was born April 16, 1805, and is the mother 
of ten children, — five sons and five daughters. Five sons 
and three daughters still live, each of whom is settled well 
in life. Mr. Houghton has a farm of two hundred acres, 
which he cleared himself In 1830 Mr. Houghton lost his 
house and all its contents by fire, but kind neighbors aided 
him in provisions, etc., and soon he had another home. 
He has been a life-long Democrat. He is now old in years 
and rich with experience, and is an esteemed citizen of the 
town. One characteristic of his life would be well to fol- 
low, and that is, he never contracted a debt which he was 
not able to meet when due. 



LAWRENCE WESTON. 

The subject of this sketch was born at Mason, Hillsbor- 
ough county. New Hampshire, November 19, 1795. Early 
in life he was an apprentice in the tannery business, and 
continued to follow the same till he was twentj'-eight. He 
married Miss Jane Humphrey, of Herkimer county. New 
York, July 21, 1822. She was born in Herkimer county 
December 4, 1798. Seven children were born to them, — 
six .sons and a daughter. One son — George — w;is drowned 
in New Orleans January 3, 18G7, and one son — John — was 
a soldier in the Rebellion, and lost his life. In 1817 Mr. 
Weston emigrated to Le Ray township, Jefferson County, 
New York, then to Rutland, and in March, 1824, he set- 
tled in Antwerp on the farm now owned by liis son Clark, 
who is the generous donor of this sketch and view of place 
and portraits of parents. Mr. Weston was a Democrat in 
jiolitics, and held the office of assessor for a period of fifteen 
years, and then was succeeded by his son Clark, who held it 
for .sixteen years. He died March 15. 1858. He was a good 
husband and father and an esteemed citizen. Mrs. Weston 
is still hale and hearty, and lives on the " old home." 
Clark was born July 26, 1831. 



brow:n'ville. 



The town of Brownvillc derives its name from its 
founder and firet settler, Jacob Brown, who afterwards 
liooaine major-Ljeneral in the United States army. 

Tiie town was formed from Lcyden, April 1, 1802, and 
originally embraced all that portion north of Black river 
from a line runnini; from the northwest corner of Cham- 
pion, north forty-live degrees east to the southwesterly 
bounds of tlic county of St. Lawrence. 

Prior to 1788 these lands were in pos.sessiou of the 
Oneida Indians of the Iroquois Confederacy. In Septem- 
ber of that year the Oiteidas, by treaty, conveyed, for a 
consideration, the greater part of their lands to the State. 
Thi.'i treaty was confirmed by the United States in 1784. 

The office of land-commissioner was created by the State 
in 178G, a7id authority given the commissioners to dispose 
of any unapjiropriated lands. 

In 1791 Alexander Macomb bargained for a large tract 
of land embracing this section, and in 1792 employed Wm. 
Constable to sell lands in Europe. On the 12th of April, 
1793, Constable effected a sale of 210,000 acres of this 
land to I'eter Chassanis, of Paris ; and Chassanis appointed 
Ilodolphe Tillier, of New York, to manage and sell this 
property. 

Macomb's tract No. 4 was surveyed in 1796 by C. C. 
Brodhead, assisted by Jonas Smith, Timothy Wheeler, 
Joshua Northnip, Elias Marvin, John Young, Isaac Le 
Fcvre, Elijah Blake, Samuel Tupper, Eliakim Hammond, 
and Abraham B. Smede, each with a few men as assistants, 
and the whole having a general camp or rendezvous at Pil- 
lar I'oint, at a place called Peck's cove, near where the 
Cha.ssanis line crosses the bay. 

When Chassanis first arranged for this tract of land, it 
was proposed to divide it into lots of fifty acres each, 
giving title and possession of one lot to each purchaser, and 
reserving for each purchaser another lot of fifty acres, of 
which he was not to come in possession until a future 
j)eriod. Provision was also made for two cities, one of 
which was to be lociitcd between Brownville and Dexter; 
six hundred acres to be set aside for this city, to be called 
the "city of Ba.sle." 

The early history of the settlement of Brownville is 
closely interwoven with that of Jacob Brown, who, while 
teaching school in New York, formed the acquaintance of 
Tillier, and became interested in the Black river country. 

Samuel Brown, the father of Jacob Brown, resided in 
Bucks county, Pennsylvania, on the banks of the Dela- 
ware. He was a man of wealth, and Jacob, with an older 
brother, was being educated at an academy in Trenton, 
when his father lost his jiroperty by an unfortunate specu- 
lation, and Jacob w.is obliged to leave school, and become 
294 



the teacher of his younger brothers and sisters. He was 
now a lad of sixteen. He afterwards taught a large school 
at Crosswicks, New Jersey, qualifying himself in the mean 
time for land-surveying, and as land-surveyor he spent a 
year in the Miami country, Ohio, thus early developing 
those sterling qualities of energy and self-reliance that fitted 
him for pioneer life, as well as the ^u'duous duties of his 
brilliant military career. 

The Brown family were now casting about to retrieve 
their fortunes, and Jacob, as well as his fiither, had strong 
]iroclivities towards a home in Ohio, and, with that in view, 
had entered into some negotiations for a tract of land, now 
the site of the city of Cincinnati. These plans were not ma- 
tured, and Jacob returned to New York in 1798, and took 
charge of a Quaker school, and while thus engaged, formed 
the acquaintance of Tillier, the agent of Chassanis, and the 
project of coming into the Black river country was dis- 
cussed. Tillier accompanied him on a vi.sit to his father's 
house, and a written agreement was entered into by which 
Tillier agreed to defray all the expenses of a pro.specting 
trip, whether he purchased or not. 

In February, 1 799, having closed his school in New York, 
he proceeded to the French settlement at the High Falls, 
finding his way from Utica by marked trees ; here he 
remained to complete his plans, making several journeys to 
Utica, and bringing from thence such supplies as would be 
needed in his projected trip. 

In March he launched his boat upon the swollen waters 
of Black river, and floated down to Long Falls (Carthage), 
and from thence, in company with two men by the name of 
Chambers and Samuel Ward, and a few hired men, he took 
the route of the " French road," so called, which Tillier 
had caused to be opened at the expense of the French com- 
pany, from the High Falls on Black river to Great Bend; 
thence nearly direct to Clayton or French creek. Travel- 
ing this road until ho .supposed they had gone far enough, 
he struck oft' towards tlie river, which he reached at the 
Basin, one and a half miles below the present village of 
Brownville. Here he lieard the sound of a waterfall, and 
followed the river up till he came to a point where a creek,* 
swollen by the spring freshet, jjourcd its torrent of waters 
into Black river. This creek did not then run in its 
present channel, but at a point near the present railroad 
bridge it made an angle, and found a channel along the 
space between the present residences of Byron Cole and 
George Hunter, and thence down through " Scrabble IIol- 



* This creek he aftcrwardi named " Philomel creek," Trom bcur- 

in;; the song uf a bird rt'sniiUIinji the niglilingnle, or Diilutnctn, 
among the trees that skirted its biiuks. 



L'^*i*.. 





ASH£R L£w;s ~^';.-: 




Mifsf^ANCY fA. Lewis 



■"'(£■,;, 



-■■' y,'-V' 






I^R3. jAAf^Y AUN j/urTlHS^ 




MR3 tlAFAH /uniN^. 



{ Ptf07<IS By- L.S. VifLL£P_' 




:,i''>"-T > at»^<i.-.,--'--^>>'>'i:^ - .'-c-^S:. ^- -- 

FARM AND RESIDENCE OF HiRAM T. NUTTINO, ANTWE.^r, N. Y. 



HISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



295 



low" into tlie river. A straight channel was aflerward.s cut 
through the rocks to the river, as at the present da}'. 

It was the intention of Jacob Brown to establish him- 
self at the head of navigation, and believing this creek 
would afford water suflieieiit for mills and all manufacturing 
purposes, and the river below need but little improvement 
to make it navigable for boats, he determined to locate 
here, and thus began the settlement of IJrownville. 

He immediately set about clearing the land, and the Jirst 
house north of IJlack river was built of logs, on the edge of 
the bank, where the hay-scales now st;ind. 

In the mean time he sent on for his father's family, who 
arrived on May 27, 17!tO, having found tlieir way by the 
tedious navigation of the Mohawk, Oneida lake, and Lake 
Ontario, pitching their tent at niglit on the shore, and re- 
suming their way by day. Wlien the family arrived the 
log house had neither roof nor floor, door or window. It 
Wiis built of pine logs, felled mi the spot ; a sail-cloth was 
taken from the boat and stretched acro.ss the u])jier timbers 
for a roof, and the openings for doors and windows were 
closed as well as po.ssible by (piilts and blankets. In this 
rude domicile, twenty feet sijuare, were gathered the twenty 
persons, male and female, old and young, who composed 
tills little colony. 

At this time there were not more than three families 
within forty-five miles, and nothing like a settlement for 
twenty-four miles, — all north of Black river being a dense 
wilderness. One may imagine the feelings of Jacob's 
motlier, when she said, on taking a survey of her new home, 
'■ Well, Jacob, thee hiis got us all here, but thee lias not 
a board to make us a coffin, nor a spade to dig us a grave." 
Tradition s;iys the mother of Jacob Brown was not known 
to smile for six months after she came to this wilderness. 
About that time Jacob returned from New Y^ork with 
goods, and among other articles brought a spade. His 
mother said, " Jacob, what will thee do with a spade, 
among these roots and stumps ?" " Oh ! some of us may 
die ' (alluding to the remark his mother had made on her 
first introduction into pioneer life), •' and we shall want a 
spade ;" at which reply, it is said, she smiled. 

The Brown family at this time consisted of Samuel 
Brown and his wife, Christopher, Jacob. John (afterwards 
Judge Brown), Jo.seph, Mary (Mrs. Newland, of Fishkill), 
Benjamin, Samuel (Major Brown, of Brownville), Hannah 
(Jlrs. B. Skinner), William (who was drowned in Lake 
Erie, while acting as aid to his brother, JIajor General 
Brown, during the War of 1812), Abi (Mrs. Evans), and 
Joseph, General Brown, of Tecumseh, Michigan. With 
them had come George Brown, a relative, with his two 
sons, Henry, a lad of fourteen, and Thomas, then eight. 

Of course there was no lumber for building purposes, but 
their necessities made them fertile in invention, and, as a 
substitute for planks for floors, they used long strips of bark, 
laid down closely, and taken up each day, ctirricd into the 
open air, cleansed, and then rclaid. 

TUE FIRST TABLE. 

Shortly after their arrival a piece of pine plank was dis- 
covered floating down the river, which they managed to 
secure. This was a prize, and from it was manufactured 



the first table, around which they daily gathered to break 
bread and thank the '■ Giver of every good." This table is ' 
now in the possession of Mrs. Mary How, of Brownville. 

After a time some rough-hewed planks were put up as 
shelves, lieing fastened to the log wall by wooden pins ; 
here the dishes were s;ifely placed, and the hearts of mother 
and daughters rejoiced over the convenient arrangement. 

How this large family could find sufficient room in this 
log hut, twenty feet square, is a problem difficult to solve; 
but here they lived and tlirived, keeping " open house" 
for all the hungry and benighted land-jobbers, surveyors, 
hunters, or fishermen who chance<l to come that way ; and 
they were not " few and far between," for it is s;iid so great 
was the draft made on their eatables that more than once a 
barrel of flour was consumed in three days. Not much 
variety of food liad these early settlers. Their nuuit was 
mostly pork and what game the woods afforded, with fish 
from the river. Mainly, the cliangcs were rung on "bread 
and peas and pork, and pork and peas and bread." Pro- 
visions at that time were chiefly brought from Kingston by 
means of a boat owned by the colony. 

During this first winttir this little colony w:us entirely 
shut in from the outside world. General Washington died 
Doccmbcr 14, 1791). In the following April, Jacob Brown, 
hungry for news, sent a man on foot to Whitesboro', the 
nearest post-office. The uie.s.senger returned, briiiging the 
papers dre.s.sed in mourning for the death of the " Father of 
his Country." 

The same season the body of a two-story log house, 
twenty-five by thirty, was put up on the site of the brick 
block now owned by Colonel Lord. This was not ready for 
occupation till the spring of 1801, when it was used as a 
store by Jacob Brown and his father, who kept a small 
stock of goods for the accommodation of the settlers. 

In 17'J9 a great number came into this section to look 
for lands, many of whom selected farms on Perch river and 
between it and the Brownville settlement. They com- 
menced clearing land, and arranged for the removal of 
their families in the spring. Among these was John W. 
Collins, who took up about six hundred acres of land, in- 
cluding the since-known " Dr. Green place," the " Mclvin 
Muffatt farm," and the " Kilborn farm." Upon the Dr. 
Green place he afterwards put up the first framed- house, — a 
large two-story building, which stood many years. Richard- 
son Avery, Nathan Parrish, Horace Mathers, and others 
came about this time. Thejse early settlers on Perch river 
pledged themselves to clear a certain amount of land and 
build a house. 

In the summer of 1800 a large number had settled about 
there, and the clearings extended from the banks of the 
river nearly half a mile. 

About this time Jacob Brown brought to his new homo 
a bride. Her maiden name wa.s Pamelia Williams, daughter 
of Captain Judge Williams, of Williamstown, and sister of 
Judge Nathan Williams, of Utica,— a lady who proved her- 
self in every way worthy of her distinguished hu.sband, and 
who still survives him, in the possession of phy.sic;d and 
mental powers to a remarkable degree. Until within a few 
years she has resided in the old family mansion, built by 
her husband, and for many years the home of her soii-iu- 



296 



HISTORY OF J?]FFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



law, the late Colonel Edmund Kirby. She now lives with 
her granddaughter (Mrs. William Everett), at Rye, New 
York. 

Accompanying the Brown family to this new country 
was the George Brown already mentioned, the father of 
Henrj', and Thomas, and George Brown, Esqs. He took 
uji the land known since as the Henry Brown farm, just 
outside the village. 

Hon. Lysander Brown, of Watertown, relates this inci- 
dent connected with the pioneer life of his grandmother, 
Mr.s. (Jeorge Brown : " The Indians were quite common 
at the time of the first settlement, and though avowedly 
peaceful, were disposed to be quite saucy. One day one 
came to the residence of George Brown, who was absent, 
and demanded ' something to eat' of his wife. The latter 
began to get it, but was not spry enough to suit the warrior, 
who suddenly flung his tomahawk across the room, sinking 
it deep in the jamb of the door. ' Ugh !' he exclaimed, 
' that is the way we serve white men ; Indian want to eat 
quick !' It may be believed Mrs. Brown lost no time in 
complying." 

About this time came Thomas Y. How, from Trenton, 
New Jersey. He was a graduate of Princeton, and brought 
with him his patrimony of ten thousand dollars. He 
loaned large sums to the Browns to aid in carrying on their 
enterprises. Mr. How's thorough culture as a student, and 
his finished, courtly manners, made him an agreeable com- 
panion, and a valuable acquisition to the colony, but as a 
business man he was not successful. He took up one hun- 
dred acres of land on Perch river flats, — now known as the 
Adam ^V. Walrath farm. This land Jacob Brown engaged 
to clear for him ; and employed for this purpose one John 
Brown (the father of Aaron and George Brown), known 
as " Honest Julin Brown," and, after the clearing of this 
land, as "How-job' John Brown. Jacob IJrown, in writing 
to his brother, John (a bookseller in New York), July 9, 
1802, says, "We this year i)ay a debt of 82000 to my 
good friend How; for clearing and putting in crop of his 
one hundred acres will amount to that sum. The work is 
now in a very forward state." 

In the fall of 1800 a saw-mill was built at the mouth of 
Philomel creek, the millwrights being Noah Duriin and 
Ebenezer Hills. 

During this year Charles Welch, the father of Nathan 
Welch (the well-known insurance agent), and Otis Britten 
came from Remsen. They took a job of chopping out a 
road from a point on the river, at Brownville, to the ferry 
at Ciiaumont, a distance of ten miles. It was warm 
weather, in November, when they began their job, but 
before it was completed a heavy fall of snow came ; their 
shoes were worn out, they could get no new supply, and 
were obliged to roll the big logs out of the road-track in 
order to finish up their job, and then travel to Herkimer 
county, a distatice of more tlian eighty miles, in tlicir bare 
feet. Before leaving, however, ihey a.ssisted Samuel Brit- 
ton (an uncle of Otis), who had just come in from Herki- 
mer county, to put up the body of a log house on the farm 
now known as tli(! (-rouch farm. By sonic mishap Otis 
had his leg broken, and as soon as his uncle could be spared, 
he took Otis on his ox-sled to Floyd, l.'hailes preceding the 



team with his axe to clear the road. The snow was two 
feet deep, and the journey a hard one for his bare feet. 
The following fall Charles, having married Eunice, daughter 
of Moses Cole, of Newport, returned in company with 
Calvin (afterwards General) Britton and his own twin- 
brother, Nathan, bringing their goods on a hand-sled from 
Carthage, — the men and women following on foot. Arriving 
at Brownville, Charles commenced housekeeping in the 
little log cabin built by the Browns and used for a .smoke- 
I'.ouse. They had been in possession of it about a week, 
when William Dillon, with his wife and two children, 
arrived, and shared with them for a time their close quar- 
ters. Charles and Nathan took up the farm afterwards 
owned by Daniel Fox, in the Parish neighborhood, and 
here was born to Charles and Eunice a son, 

THE FIRST CHILD 

born in the n('W town north of Black river. He was 
named Charles, and is now living in the town of Orleans. 

Charles Welch afterwards bought and cleared up a por- 
tion of the George I. Knight farm, on I'rospect Hill. He soon 
sold this, and bought and cleared one hundred acres, now 
known as the Knapp farm, where he lived for twenty years. 
Mrs. Welch was a sister to Captain William Cole, Mrs. 
Jonathan Webb, Mrs. Stephen Gould, Jlrs. Calvin Britton, 
and Mrs. Otis Britton, all prominent pioneers. 

In the fall of 1801 a grist-mill was built for Mr. Brown, 
by Ethni Evans, the founder of Evans' Mills. The erection 
of the saw- and grist-mill had a powerful influence on the 
settlement and growth of Brownville. It was not an un- 
common thing for a settler to come to mill bringing a bag 
of grain on his shoulder. On one occasion Moses Bacon, 
living at Watertown, came to this mill with a bag of corn, 
brought in this way, and having to wait his turn at the 
mill, he was so late in getting home that he could not see 
the marked trees that indicated the jiatii between Brown- 
ville and Watertown, and laid out in the woods all night, 
making his bed of hemlock boughs, with his bag of meal 
for a pillow. 

ROADS AND BRIDGES 
were an important element in the settlement of a new 
country. The legislature of this State had been led to pass 
an act for the opening of two roads into these new town- 
ships, March 2(), 1803, one from Rome to Brownville via 
Redfield and Adams, the other from Utica, via Boonville 
and the Black river valley. Jacob Brown was one of the 
commi.ssioners a]ipointed to locate these roads. Upon these 
State roads $l!0,000 were expended. 

The French company's road, projected by Tillier, was 
never completed ; the road was cleared and the stumps re- 
moved, but there were no briilges, and con.se(|uently it was 
of little use to the early settler. When it was reiiresented 
to Tillier that bridges were indispensable to the road, he 
replied, " Why, I have reserved fifty dollars lor that very 
purpose !" 

The attention of the settlement was now directed to 
bridging the river, and for this purpose $1000 was raised 
by subsi-ription from the people and land-owners, and 
Deacon Oliver Bartholomew was employed for this sum 
to build the bridge. It was compleletl in the .suniiiier of 



IIISTOllY OF JEFFEllSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



297 



1802. It cro.ssed the river near the present mills, nearly 
where the main street, if continued, would strike the river. 
This bridge was carried off by the great flood in the spring of 
180C, and w;»s rebuilt by the deacon and his sons in 18l)7, 
on the site of the present bridj^e. For thirty-two years 
money was raised for bridges amounting to S'JOoO. In 
1846, money was raised to build a bridge over Perch river, 
near its mouth; and in 1835, '48, '49, and '50, one at 
Dexter village. 

In 1802 there were six frame and four log houses in the 
village of Brownville. 

The ac(iuisition to the colony of a man of the temper 
and spirit of Deacon Oliver Bartholomew was valuable. 
He was amiable and benignant in manner, yet firm where 
principle wa.s concerned, and wa.s accustomed to do the 
office work of an itinerant mini.ster for the new settlement. 
By invitation he would occasionally hold a religious service 
on the Sabbath, at the luni.se of Jacob Brown. These were 
the first religious meetings in the colony. 

Prominent among the settlers at this early period was 
William Webb, the father of Jonathan, William, Silas, and 
Lewis. He lived and died on the Edward Spicer farm, 
which was first taken up by Leonard Wilson. John Cole 
also took up the farm where he lived and died, and where 
his son, John, Jr., lived and died, and where his grand.son, 
Byron, afterwards lived. John Cole used to say he had 
" paid for his farm three times, on account of defective 
titles." 

John Baxter took up land on both sides of Perch river, 
to the amount of about six hundred acres. Isaac Moffatt, 
Melvin Moffatt, Abner and Leonard Wilson, Frederick 
and IMclianlson Avery, Stephen Stanley, and others, came 
about this time. In September, 1805, the village of Brown- 
ville contained twenty-five liouses, and was growing rapidly. 

THE riKST I'UULIC-IIOUSE 

in Brownville was built by Jeremiah Phelps, in 1805, on the 
site of the present stone hotel. The latter was built, about 
1820, by Henry Caswell and a Mr. Emerson. They soon 
after sold it to a company made up of Wm. Lord, H. Law- 
rence, W. S. Ely, E. Kirby, I. Shields, and John E. Brown. 

In 1805, John ]{rown (afterwards Judge Brown) bought 
the lands on the south side of the river, and built the mills 
there; and in ISOtJ the first dam was thrown across the 
river at that place. 

About 1805, Samuel Starr took up the I'arni known as 
the Starr farm. He built a log distillery down by the 
brook near his house, where was made the first whisky in 
the town. 

Captain Wm. Knox, Ilobert Smith, Samuel Peck, Eli- 
phalet Peck (father of the present sheriff), and Nathaniel 
Peck helped to clear the Starr farm. Nathaniel Peek 
married a daughter of Mr. Starr, and was in company 
with Starr in the manufacture of whisky ; he afterwards 
removed the distillery to the farm known as the Nathaniel 
Peck farm. About this time the construction of the Erie 
canal was much talked of. So incredulous was Mr. Starr 
as to the accomplishment of such a great work that he said, 
" When the Erie canal is built I will fill it with whisky." 

Jacob KilLoin, lather of Alticd, tcok ujj and cleared the 



farm now owned and occupied by John Prior. The old 
log house built by him in 1807 is still st;inding, in striking 
contrast with the modern and commodious dwelling by its 
side. Moses Cole settled in another part of the town, and 
cleared the John Cowan farm. Joseph Rhodes took up 
the Silas Spicer farm ; a little later James Pride took up 
the farm now owned by Cyrus Allen. His father-in-law, 
Mr. Thomas, lived and died on the farm, which Mr. Pride 
afterwards sold to Wm. Vandebogart. 

At a little later period Henry Ward brought a stock of 
goods from Otsego county, which, for a time, was kept in the 
house built by Collins, on the Dr. Greene place; the goods 
were afterwards removed to MoflTattsville (Perch lliver). 
Ward was succeeded in the mercantile business by Jacob 
C. and Alpheus Greene, and fullowod by Isaac Moffatt. 
Since that time Hugh Smith, with Henry Spicer and other 
partners, hits kejjt a stock of dry-goods, groceries, etc., for 
the accommodation of the neighborhood. 

Alexander .^Intlatt, or " Conkey," as he was called, settled 
about this time in the vicinity of Limerick, where his sous, 
A(|uilla, Jonathan, Hosea, Alexander, and Hinman, lived 
many years ; Orlando went west. Mr. Smith, the father 
of Hugh, Ely, and Elias, also located here, and Samuel 
Shelley, who owned afterwards a mill at Limerick, built by 
Nelson. Isaac Day also came about this time. 

Among the early settlers in the noighboihood of Pillar 
Point were Horatio Sprague, Eleazar Ball, Peter and Solo- 
mon Ingalls, Mr. Sherwin, Eliphalet Peck, Isaac Luther, 
Mr. Burlingamc, Daniel Ackerman, Jcre. Carpenter, Jesse 
Stone, Geo. Hounds, James Douglas, Henry Adams, Sam- 
uel Heed, Mr. Fulsom, Luther Reed, and Henry Ward. 
Samuel Knap bought and cleared up one hundred and fifty 
acres of land on the road to Jjimcrick, a part of which is 
now owned by John Freeman. On one oee.ision, after the 
farm was well cleared up, Mr. Knap had under cultivation 
a field of forty acres of wheat, which was nearly matured. 
Judge John Brown, who held a mortgage on the farm, 
passing that way, called on Mr. Knap, and congratulated 
him on his prospect of a large yield of wheat. In the 
course of conversation the judge offered to discharge the 
mortgage on the farm if Mr. Knap would give him that 
crop. "No," Mr. Knap replied; "I shall do better than 
that ; I would not thank God Almighty for a big crop of 
wheat there !" It Wijs not many days before the field was 
struck with rust, and the crop was an entire failure ; not 
even the straw was fit for use. This produced a deep im- 
pression on Mr. Knap, and he soon after made public ac- 
knowledgment of his dependence on that Divine power 
which he had before defied. During the greater part of 
his after-life he was identified with the Methodist church 
of Brownville. and became one of its most efficient mem- 
bers and liberal supporters. He was for many years the 
owner of the large and valuable farm now the property and 
residence of his .son, J. C Knap, wIki in all good things 
follows in the footsteps of his father. 

Jere. l'hcli>s, David Lytlle, and Solon Stone located at 
Dexter, and later Mr. Willis and Jere. Winegar, and still 
later Kendall Hursley, Joshua Eaton, Jesse Babcoek, Syl- 
vanus Pool, John T. Wood, James A. Bell, Solomon Moyer, 
John P. Shelley, and others. 



298 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Previous to 1805 the county of Oneida embraced all this 
section, but for convenience of access to county courts, 
buildings, records, etc., it was thought advisable to divide 
the county, and an act was passed March 2S, 1S05, erect- 
ing Lewis and Jefferson counties from Oneida. A strenu- 
ous effort was now made on the part of Mr. Brown and 
others north of the river for the location of the puldic 
buildings at Brownville ; but other influences prevailed, 
and Watertown was selected as the eounty-seat. 

In 1807 there were in Brownville one hundred and 
eighty-one legal voters, with property qualifications. In 
1807 and 1818 bounties of five dollars were offered on 
wolves; in 1821, eight dollars; 180G, '8, '9, '11, '12, '20, 
ten dollars; 1804, '13, '19, fifteen dollars; 1815, 'IC, 
twenty dollars ; 1814, '17, twenty-five dollars. Fox boun- 
ties of one dollar in 1815, '20, '21 ; and of two dollars and 
fifty cents in 1817, '19; and of fifty cents in 1833, were 
offered. In 1800 a bounty of ten dollars, and in 1807 of 
five dollars, was offered for panthers. 

February 10, 1807, "The Brownville Library" was 
formed under the general act, with John Brown, John 
Baxter, Henry Cowley, Isaac Pearse, John Simonds, Ste- 
phen Stanley, and Thos. Y. Howe, tru.stees. This, and a 
subsequent a.ssociation, have long since been dissolved. 

In 1810 the legislature passed an act to improve the 
navigation of the mouth of the river up to Brownville by 
canals and locks. It was thought by making the river navi- 
gable to Brownville that it would be made a port of entry 
for the commerce of the lakes, and a shipping port for the 
produce of the country ; but with so good a harbor and 
port as was afforded by the bay at Sacket's Harbor, the 
project failed. 

Conmiunication for supi)lii's at this time was mainly with 
Kingston ; potash, a large product from clearing the land 
of its timber, being exchanged for flour, pork, and ntlier 
goods. There were two warehouses built for the accommo- 
dation of this trade just below Brownville, small sail-boats 
being used for this transportation. Just previous to the war 
of 1812 Congress laid an embargo on trade between Eng- 
land and the United States. Potash, which in the new 
settlements was one of the chief products, advanced to 
three hundred and three hundred and twenty dollars a ton 
in Montreal, from whence it was .shipped to England. 
This excited the cupidity of traders, and an "embargo 
road" was opened from tlie Black river, near Brownville, 
to near French creek, which, for a time, became a great 
thoroughfare for smugglers. 

From a record made in the clerk's oflice June 5, 1810, 
it ajijiears a company was formed called the 

ni.ACK RIVKR NAVKi.VTION COJIP.^NY, 

with the following persons subscribers, aiicl the number of 
.•shares (at SIO) taken by each: Samuel Hrown, Jr., 20 ; 
Jacob Hrown, 35; Micah Sterling, 10 ; Benjamin Skinner, 
111; .lolin Brown, 20; Wni. M. Lord, 20; Judah Wil- 
liani.s, 10; Samuel Starr, 20 ; Jo.seph Sterling, 10; Wm. 
Hunter, 10 ; Uiehard M. Esselstyn, 10 ; James Shields, 5 ; 
(icrshom Tnttic, 5 ; Thomas S. Converse, 5 ; Amasa Trow- 
bridge, 10. The commissioners were Ethel Bronson, John 
I'lrown, Wm. M. Lord, and Thos. S. Converse. March 8, 



1811, the company received an amendment of their charter, 
by which the president and directors were to appoint a col- 
lector, who should receive from every boat of five tons or 
over twenty-five cents per ton, small boats fifty cents per 
ton, for going and returning, provided the receipts should 
not exceed fourteen per cent, of the capital invested. The 
comjiany was to finish its work in three years. The time 
was afterwards extended, and in 1815 wooden locks were 
built, of capacity sufficient to allow the passage of Durham 
boats; and by an advertisement in the Sacket's Harbor 
Gazette oi May 1, 1817, the highest toll for passing the 
locks was fixed at fifty cents. 

About the year 1828 these wooden locks having decayed, 
they were replaced by stone locks, and in the summer of 
1827 the steamer Brownville was built by a company, 
among whom were Turner and Dodd, Wm. S. Ely, Wm. 
Lord, Hoel Lawrence, and Edmund Kirby, of this place, 
with others in Oswego and Ogdensburgh. This boat had 
a keel of 80 feet; beam 20 feet; depth of hold GJ feet; 
100 tons burden ; and engines of 35 to 40 horee- power. 
She was burned to the water's edge on her first trip to Og- 
densburgh, but her crew was saved. The hull was towed 
to Brownville, rebuilt by Captain E. B. Dodd, and soon 
after sold at Sacket's Harbor, and her name changed to 
Wm. Avery. Dexter, three and one-half miles below 
Brownville, is now the head of navigation. 

POST-ROUTES. 

April 10, 1810, a post-route was established from Utica, 
by Wliitestown, Rome, Camden, Adams, and Sacket's 
Harbor, to Brownville ; and another from Ilarrisburg, by 
Champion, Watertown, and Brownville, to Fort Putnam. 
April 30, 1816, from Brownville to Cape Vincent. June 
15, 1832, from Watertown, by Brownville and La Farge- 
ville, to Cornelia, at the mouth of the French creek, thence 
by Depauville to Brownville. April 12, 181(5, an act was 
passed, allowing Blr. Lo Ray to extend the Cape Vincent 
tiiriipike-Toad to Brownville village. By an act of April 
21, 1831. this road was surrendered to the public. 

In 1817 a military road was projected, to unite the two 
prominent stations of Plattsburg and Sacket's Harbor, 
which was commenced, but only a portion completed. The 
western extremity from Sacket's Harbor pa.s.ses through 
Brownville to Pamelia Four Corners. After being opened 
by the Government it ))assed into the hands of the town, 
and has thus been maintained. 

THE \V.\R OF 1812 

caused much excitement in these frontier towns. Jacob 
Brown, who had been made colonel of the lOSth Keginient 
of New York State militia, received the commission of 
brigadier-general, and hail personal direction of military 
operations on the frontier during most of the first season. 
Large bodies of militia a.ssembled here for service, a hos- 
pital was established, and troops stationed in the village and 
vicinity at dift'erent times during the war. At Perch River 
a fort or bluek-house was put up by voluntary labor on the 
site of the residence of the late S. F. Spicer. It was de- 
signed as a |)laec of .safety for the women and children, the 
sick and infirm. It was never used for this purpo.se, but 




Residence or JOHN C. KNAPP, BRowNviucJcrrERsoN Co.N.Y. 



IIISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



299 



served as a storehouse for grain. Anotlicr block-houi5e was 
built 01) the site of the present Bapti.st churcii, but, instead 
of being used as designed, was afterwards used for religious 
meetings. 

The old inhabitants relate many incidents connected with 
the War of 1812, to which they or their ancestors were 
parties, among them the following : The British had some 
of our men prisoners of war at Prescott, Canada, and were 
taking tliem by boat to Kingston, under a boat's crew and 
guard of about an equal number with themselves. A plan 
was formed among our men to overpower the guard and 
take the boat to Capo Vincent instead of Kingston. The 
watchword "whisky" was to be given, when each of our 
men was to attack and make sure of his man. The plan 
was successful ; the crew and guard were overpowered, and 
made prisoners in their turn, and brought to Cape Vincent, 
and from thence to Brownville. 

At this time mon were intolerant of those who were sus- 
pected of being in .sympathy with the other side. There 
is a story told of a resident of the little hamlet of Perch 
River, who was thouglit b\- his neighbors to lack patriot- 
ism. He lived just beyond the first bridge cros.sing Perch 
river. There was another bridge two miles farther up, near 
which lived Mr. Sloffatt, an ardent patriot. At Brownville 
village the British sympatliinerhad liirmed the acquaintance 
of one Lieutenant Showers, a British prisoner of war on 
parole. It was agreed between the two parties that Shiiwers, 
under cover of night, should go to the house of this friend, 
where he would find help to escape to Canada. Accord- 
ingly, he started, but, mistaking tlie road, went on to the 
second bridge. All w;xs quiet within, but he succeeded in 
rousing Mr. Moffatt, and in the darkness not recognizing 
him, said, " Well, I've got here at last !" Mr. Moffatt 
W!\s a man of quick perceptions, and suspected who he was. 
He directed him to go back to the first bridge, where he 
would find the right house. As soon as he had gone, Mr. 
Moffatt hastily dressed, roused his neighbors, Wait Frank- 
lin and Benjamin Prior, and. by a nearer way, reached the 
bridge and secreted themselves under it to await his arrival. 
They were scarcely hid before his quick steps were heard, 
and he was (|«ietly followed to the designated house. A 
candle was soon lighted, and through the window they saw 
food given him, and heard the two in earnest discourse. 
Plans were matured for his escape, — names of parties were 
given on whom he should call for aid, —the listeners hearing 
all the details. In the mean time, one of their number 
hurriedly ran and aroused a neighbor, and sent him to 
Brownville for the guard. Before morning both men were 
under arrest. The tory waa tried for treason ; but, for some 
reason, severe punishment was not inflicted. He returned 
after a time to his old neighborhood, where he lived for 
many years a respected citizen, having learned more wisdom 
by experience, and having become imbued with more 
patriotic sentiments. 

FIRST TOWN-MEETING. 

The first town-meeting of Brownville was held at the 
house of Samuel and Jacob Brown, and adjourned to the 
Brownville Hotel March 1, ISOo. at which (he following 
town-otEccrs were elected: Jacob Brown, supervisor; Isaac 



Collins, clerk ; John W. Collins, Richard Smith, and Peter 
Pratt, assessors ; J. W. Collins, Ozias Preston, Samuel 
Starr, commissioners of highways ; 0. Preston, Richardson 
Avery, Henry A. Delemater, Samuel Brown, Benjamin 
Brown, William Rogers, Abijah Putnam, fence-viewers; 
S. Brown, S. Starr, overseers of the poor; S. Brown, San- 
ford Langworthy, Caleb J. Bates, Sylvanus Fish, H. A. 
Delemater, Frederick Sprague, George Waffle, Ethni Evans, 
path-ma-sters ; J. W. Collins, H. A. Delemater, and S.Brown, 
pound-masters. 

Supervi.sore : 1803, Jacob Brown; 1804, '05, John W. 
Collins; 1809, '10, John Brown; 1811, '12, Josiah Far- 
rar; 1813, John Brown; ISl-t, Joseph Clark; 1815, 
John Brown; ISIIC, '17, Walter Cole; 1818, George 
Brown, Jr,; 1819, '20, Hoel Lawrence; 1821-28, Wal- 
ter Cole; 1829-33, George Brown (Perch River) ; 1831, 
'35, Aaron Shew; 1836, '37, Walter Cole; 1838, Mahlon 
P. Jackson; 1830, '40, Alanson Skinner; 1841, William 
Lord; 1842, '43, A. Skiimer; 1844, '45, Charles B. 
Avery ; 1846, A. Skinner ; 1847, Charles B. Avery ; 1848, 
Arba Strong; 1849, Cyrus Allen ; 1850, Thomas L. Knap; 
C. Allen, special meeting; 1851, Cyrus Allen; 1852, 
Samuel Middleton (2d); 1853, C. K. Loom is ; 1854, '55, 
Beriah Allen; 1856, '57, James A. Bell; 1858, Je.s,se 
Ayres; 1859-Gl, Henry Spicer; 1SG2-64, Henry Dor- 
chester; 1865-68, Ezra S. Tallman ; 1869, Henry Spicer; 
1870, Alvin A. Gibbs ; 1875, Walter Zimmerman; 1876, 
0. M. Wood; 1877, Henry Binningcr. 

In 1818 the town raised two thousand dollars towards 
building a bridge at Pamelia village, and another at Brown- 
ville village. 

At the annual toww-nieeting, which was held at Perch 
River, in 1820, after electing a portion of the officers, the 
meeting adjourned to the house of Edward Arnold, on 
Penet Square, till the next day. This measure created 
much excitement, and those living in the southern and 
eastern portions of the town rallied with all their forces, 
attended promptly at the earliest moment of the adjourned 
meeting, organized, and immediately voted another ad- 
journment, to the house of Elias Bennett, Brownville vil- 
lage, on the afternoon of the same day, where the vote for 
town-clerk was reconsidered, and the remaining offieere 
elected. 

Being thus robbed of their town-meeting, the settlers on 
Penet Square and in distant localities demanded a separate 
organization, which was readily granted ; and all parties, 
having met at an informal meeting, or convention, at the 
village, agreed upon a petition to the legislature, which was 
acted upon before another town-meeting. Accordingly, the 
town of Orleans, which embraces Penet Square, was set oflF 
from this town April 3, 1821. 

At the town meeting in 1821 the clerk read three 
notices for the division of the town, which were not voted. 
The first was to annex a part of Brownville to Pamelia ; the 
second, a part of Brownville to Le Ray ; .iiid a third, to erect 
four new towns from Brownville and Lo Ray. In 1822 a 
motion to annex Pamelia to Brownville was defeated. 

THE FIRST MURDER TKI.VL. 
"On the lijth of A)iril, 1S2S, the public was aroused by 



300 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



the report of a murder, committed near the Perch River 
settlement of this town, by Henry Evans upon Joshua 
Rogers and Henry ])iamond, in an affair growing out of an 
attempt to forcibly eject Evans without legal formality from 
premises leased by a brother of Rogers. The parties had 
been drinking, and were quarrelsome. Evans had shut 
himself u\) in his house, which was forcibly entered, with 
threats and abusive language, upon which he seized an axe 
and mortally wounded two, and badly a third, who recov- 
ered. He was immediately arrasted, and at the June term 
of the court of Oyer and Terminer in 1828 was tried, the 
court consisting of Nathan Williams, circuit judge ; Egbert 
Ten Eyek, first judge; Joseph Hawkins, judge; Robert 
Lansing, district attorney; H. H. Sherwood, clerk ; H. H. 
CofFeen, sheriff. The district attorney was assisted by Mr. 
Clarke, and the prisoner defended by IMessrs. Sterling, 
Bronsou, and Rathboue. The vicious temper and aban- 
doned character of the prisoner, who, whether drunk or 
sober, had been the terror of his neighborhood, outweighed 
the extenuating circumstances, and the jury, after a half- 
hour's deliberation, returned a verdict of guilty, and he was 
sentenced to be hung August 22. The sentence was ex- 
ecuted at the appointed time, in the presence of an immense 
crowd from this and adjoining counties. The gallows was 
on the north bank of the river, nearly opposite the court- 
house." Objections were raised against the body being 
buried in the Brownville cemetery, and his friends, after 
repeated attempts at his burial, were obliged to take his 
remains three or four miles back from the village, and bury 
the corpse by night. 

Before the division of the town of Brownville it in- 
cluded the present towns of Lyme, Cape Vincent, Orleans, 
Clayton, Pamelia, and a part of Alexandria, Le Ray, and 
Theresa. 

The present limits of the town include thirty-three thou- 
.sand nine hundred and ninety-four acres of land almost 
wholly under cultivation. It is a valuable town for agri- 
cultural purposes. The land is rich, strong, and productive, 
and well adapted to general farming. There is very little 
waste land in the town. Timber has been left to meet the 
reijuirenients of the farm, giving to every farm its wood 
lot. The timber is principally beech, maple, hickory, bass- 
wood, ash, and elm. There are sections where pine and 
hemlock were found, as well as cedar. These latter varieties 
served a most valuable purpose for the early settlers for 
building and fencing. 

Limestone is abundant for building and fencing j)ur- 
poses. It crops out in many places, particularly along the 
banks of Black river, presenting an interesting and singular 
appearance, it,s worn surface and deep fissures indicating the 
action of water at an early period. 

The town is divided up into about 350 farms, averaging 
less than 100 acres each, but ranging from 50 to 200 or 
more acres. The productions are hay, wheat, oats, barley, 
corn, and rye, and j)otatoes more than suffieient fur home 
consumption ; oats, barley, and hay so much in excess as to 
be a source of revenue. Hops are raised to a limited ex- 
tent, but the principal articles of export are butter and 
chee.se, almo.st every farm of one hundred acres keejiing 
from ten to iiftcen cows. Most of the milk is taken to 



cheese-factories, which are conveniently located over the 
town to meet this demand. 

Farms are well fenced with boards, rails, or stone wall, 
and divided into lots of ten to fifteen or more acres. The 
farm buildings are good, plain, and substantial, many of 
them of modern styles, with the surrounding grounds well 
laid out. The older barns are gradually giving place to a 
better class, both as to style and convenience. The farming 
population as a class are intelligent and enterprising. The 
inhabitants of the town are a reading and very generally a 
church-going people. There are ten church edifices in the 
town, so situated as to be convenient of access to the inhab- 
itants. There are twenty school districts in the town, each 
having a commodious school-house. 

By a vote of the town, under the " local option law," the 
sale of intoxicating liquors as a beverage has not been per- 
mitted for the last throe years. 

There are five post-offices in the town, viz. : at Brown- 
ville village. Dexter, Perch River, Limerick, and Pillar 
Point, — that at Brownville being a " niuney-order " office. 

Railroad facilities are afforded by the Rome, Watertown 
and Ogdensburgh railroad, which passes through about 
eight miles of the town, with stations and substantial build- 
ings at Brownville village and Limerick. 

The assessed valuation of the real estate of the town in 
1876 was $1,656,000. The personal property was assessed 
at that date at ?I76,430. The census of 1814 credited 
one slave to Brownville. This was probably Sylvia Robin- 
son, the slave of Thomas Bowlsby, brought by him from 
New Jersey. " Old Sylvy," as she was called, said " she 
didn't know how old she was ; guessed she was about a 
hundred years old;" and her bent form and trembling 
limbs indicated an advanced age. Her face was a familiar 
one upon the street in days gone by, but her remains now 
rest in the village cemetery. 

In 1840 the list of Revolutionary pensioners for Brown- 
ville was, John Baxter, aged 88 ; Walter Wil.son, 85 ; Selah 
Burton, 79 ; David Ilimiston, 93 ; John P. Beecher, 78. 

In 1849 the Dexter, Brownville and Pamelia plank- 
road, five miles and twelve chains long, was commenced, 
and completed October 5, 1850, but was long since aban- 
doned. In its place, between Brownville and Watertown, 
a very substantial macadamized road has been under the 
management of Alanson Skinner for many years. Since 
his death (the lease having expired) the road has been 
given up to the towns of Watertown and Brownville. 

In 1852 the Cape Vincent branch of the Rome, Water- 
town and Ogdensburgh railroad, connecting at Water- 
town, was completed, passing directly through the village 
of Brownville. 

THE VILLAGE OF BROWNVILLE 

was incorporated Ajiril 5, 1828. 

The following officers were chosen at the first election, 
viz. : Thomjis Looiuis, Jr., Hoel Lawrence, George Brown, 
Peleg Burchard, Tracy S. Knap, trustees ; Wm. S. Ely, 
Asa Whitney, Wm. Lord, asses.sors ; John A. Cathcart, 
treasurer ; James Shields, collector ; Levi Torrey, constable. 

The following pcr.sons have been presidents of the board 
of trustees lor the yeare indicated : 



HISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



:50i 



1829, 


Wm. S. Ely. 


1847 


John E. Brown. 


1830, 


Derrick Gibbons. 


1S4.S 


Kdmund Kirby. 


1831, 


llocl Lawrence. 


1849, 


Thos. L. Knap. 


1832, 


Kdmund Kirby. 


1850 


C K. Loomis. 


1833, 


"VVm. Lord. 


1851, 


J. B. Kirby. 


1834, 


George Urown. 


1852, 


James J. Hunt. 


1835, 


Arba Strong. 


1853, 


Jesse Ayres. 


1836, 


A. Skinner. 


1854, 


James Skinner. 


1837, 


J. lleinniinway. 


1855- 


5B, N. B. Lord. 


1838, 


Joel Blood. 


1857, 


Jesse Ayres. 


1839, 


James Shielils. 


1858- 


01, Wm. n. Brown. 


1840, 


Thomas Loomis. 


1S62, 


Chas. C. Steele. 


1841, 


Wm. Lord. 


1SG3, 


Aaron Brown. 


1842, 


Chas. K. Loomis. 


l.S(;4- 


60, George C. Plumb 


1S43 




1SG7, 

isr.s. 


Franklin Keenan. 
Chas. C. Steele. 


1844, 


John Bradley. 


1845, 


Arba Strung. 


ISO'.l, 


Alfred Kilborn. 


lS4fi, 


M. C. LiMimis. 


1S70- 


-7", Alvin A. Gibbs. 



Tlie board of trustees fur 1S77 are Cliarles C. Codiuon, 
Robert Younger, Jeremiah Giltenan, Jobn W. Wilder, and 
Alvin A. Gibbs, — the latter tlic president of the board. 

THE TOWN OFFICERS 

for 1877 are: Henry Binniger, supervisor; Wm. H. 
Winn, town clerk; Charles Allen, justice of the peace; 
Robert A. Mullin, Henry Reeves, John Fit/.gerald, asses- 
sors ; Amos Otis, commissioner of highways ; Chas. C. 
Steele, Cyrus Potter, for district No. 1 ; Walter Vandebo- 
gart, Edmund B. Calkins, for district No. 2 ; Walter Lee, 
Edwin R. Adams, for district No. 3 ; Cyrenius Woodworth, 
John n. Stokes, for district No. 4 ; Adolphus P. Swartz, 
collector ; Chester Seber, Charles W. Smith, Sydney R. 
Brimmer, Bruce Mahew, constables ; Farnahan Cory, 
game-constable; Edwin R. White, Henry Spicer, town 
auditors ; Sterling W. Avery, Morgan Williams, Horace 
Skinner, excise commissioners. 

MANUFACTORIES. 

February 9, 1814, a company was organized for manu- 
facturing purposes, with a nominal capital of $100,000. 
The first trustees were John Paddock, John Brown, 
Thomas Loomis, Jr., Thomas J. Whitesides, and Hoel 
Lawrence, who were to serve for one year. A factory- 
building of stone was erected, and the manufacture of 
cotton goods commenced the next year. The business 
proving unprofitable, it was conducted but a few montlis, 
and was not resumed for several years. The property 
was bought by Charles Smith, Elizur Fairman, and John 
A. Cathcart, in 1820. and an act procured April 6, 1831, 
incorporating the Brownviile Cotton Factory, with a capi- 
tal of $100,000, in shares of fifty dollars. The business 
was managed with indiflFerent success and numerous stop- 
pages until 1842, when, under the ownership of Charles 
Smith, Wm. H. Averill, and F. W. Andrews, the mill 
was greatly enlarged and 3200 spindles and 80 looms put 
in operation, giving employment to from 80 to 100 hands, 
with a capacity of 18,000 yards of sheeting a week. It re- 
mained under this ownership until 185G, since which time 
it has been owned and managed successively by Messrs. 
Carlcton & Andrews, L. S. Pratt & Son, Fitzsinimons & 
Co., Munifoid & Co., and others. It is not at present in 
operation. 

A company, styled the Jefferson Lead Company, with a 



capital of $15,000, was formed June 30, 1838, with Thomas 
L. Knap manager. The business of manufacturing white 
lead and lithic paints was conducted witli varied success for 
about twelve years, when it was abandoned. 

A woolen-factory, owned by Br.idley and Brown, was 
destroj'ed by fire January, 184G ; also a machine-shop, flax- 
mill, and other property, none of which were rebuilt. 

A furnace, foundry, and machine-shop was established in 
1820 by Wm. liord and Henry Caswell. The present large 
stone furnace building, owned by Colonel Lord, was erected 
by Wm. Lord and Alanson Skinner in 1830. The business 
was conducted for seven years by Lord & Skinner, then 
by Wm. Lord & Son (the partner being Gilderoy Lord, 
now of Watertown) for sixteen years, and still later, the 
firm of N. B. Lord & Brothers (the brothers being Wm., 
Jr., and Nathan) conducted the business. The furnace 
lias not been in operation for several years. 

A large and commodious building was erected, with suit- 
able contiguous buildings for conducting an extensive foun- 
dry, furnace, and stove manufacturing business, by Alanson 
Skinner in 1837, and the present machine-shop in 1840. 
The business has, with little interruption, been conducted 
successively by A. Skinner & Son and H. Skinner & 
Brotliers, and at present by Wm. T. Skinner and Horace 
Rice, under the firm-name of Skinner & Rice. 

A flouring-mill was built about this time by Thomas L. 
Knap, which has since been owned ami operated by Charles 
H. Bartlett, Bartlett & Patrick, Bartlett & Smith, P. T. 
Welch, and is at present owned by Charles C. Steele, and 
operated by Q. C. Steele and Ed. Giles under a copartner- 
ship. 

Seth G. Hunter carries on a business for the manufac- 
ture of furniture and cabinet-ware in the stone building, 
originally a woolen-mill, on the Brownviile side of the river. 

The " Brownviile Carriage- Works" were established by 
Henry Lord in 1828, in the stone shop built for a woolen- 
factory, afterwards the " White Lead Works," and at pres- 
ent occupied by S. G. Hunter as a cabinet-shop. Some 
years ago 3Ir. Lord built the block opposite the Stone hotel, 
which was sold to Mr. Hunt and occupied as a shoe-store 
by himself, and harness-shop by George Stebbin. Mr. 
Lord afterwards re-bought it, and remodeled it by adding 
thereto the present building, used for a store-room and for 
the display of finished work, on the site of the old stone 
law-office of N. Rathbun, G. M. Bucklin, and W. W. 
Wagar, successively. Mr. Lord's business was principally 
the manufacture of lumber-wagons and heavy work. His 
name on a wagon was a guarantee that it was of good ma- 
terial and well made. The man who owned a wiigon made 
by Henry Lord, and a harness made by George Stebbins, 
considered himself well equipped. The business is at pres- 
ent conducted by John W. Wilder, more attention being 
paid to fine light carriages and cutters. 

G. Codmon & Son conduct a general manufacturing 
business in the line of furniture, cabinet-ware, coffins, and 
job-work in wood. Acro.ss the river, near the site of the 
mills originally built by John Brown, a flouring-mill is 
owned and operated by Byron Cole, Myron H. Peck, aiul 
J. H. Thompson. They do both custom and merchatit 
milling, aggregating about $100,000 per annum. They 



302 



HISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



keep three teams employed tlic greater part of the time in 
drawii)g grain from the cars to the mill, and delivering flour 
and feed to the cars for shipment and to neighboring towns. 

Adjoining this is a stone building, oriiiinally constructed 
for a woolen-mill, where, in 1835, and for twenty-five years 
thereafter. Joel G. Stacy, Enoch Drake, H. C. Alexander, 
W. K. Willis, Jr., and others, have manufactured satinet, 
fuller's cloth, and flannels, and done a general wool-carding 
and cloth-pre.ssing business. It is now run on wool-carding 
by H. C. Alexander. 

A shingle-niill was built by Warren & Hunter, and sup- 
plied by material shipped from Canada, but the cost of 
transportation was too great to succe.ssfully compete with 
mills nearer the timber, and the business was alianduned. 

A saw-mill, built many years af;o, has given place to 
more modern machinery ; it stands just below the shingle- 
mill, and is now doing a custom business under the manage- 
ment of Lewis Maynard. 

THE MERCHANTS 

doing business in thi.s village arc Alvin A. Gibbs, dry-goods, 
groceries, etc. ; Albert E. Lord, dry-goods and drugs ; My- 
ron H. Peek, groceries and provisions ; Robert Younger & 
Son, groceries and provisions. 

Plii/sici<iiis : William P. Massoy, M.D. ; Ezra B. Pratt, 
M.D. ; William W. Goodwin, M D. 

TIIK BROWNVILLE FEMALE SEMINARY 

■was established in 1840. It was chartered by the regents 
November 28, 1849, and opened May 1, 1850, as a board- 
ing- and day-.school, under charge of Miss Mary F. Bloom- 
field, who was succeeded by Miss H. M. Foster, followed 
by Rev. G. B. Eastman. The building occupied for this 
purpo.se w;»s the large brick mansion on one of the main 
streets, built by Major Samuel Brown, in IBIG. The 
school was not a financial success. It was closed after a 
short career, and the building sold to and since occupied by 
Alfred Kilborn. 

In 18G1-G2 a building forty by fifty feet was erected by 
subscription in Brownvillo, at a cost of nearly S2000, the 
lower story of which wa.s to be u.sed for the purpo.ses of a 
liigh school, and the upper for a town-hall. In 1875 this 
Imildinf; wa.** puichased by the school district of the village 
of Browtiville fur school purposes, and, so far as consistent, 
for the purposes of a hall. 

MAJOR-OENERAL ItROWN. 

The village of Brownville as well as the town was greatly 
indebted to General Brown for his active interest in every- 
thing pertaining to its welfare. During the whole of his 
residence here of twenty-two years he was indefatigable in 
his efl"orts to aid, and liberal in his patronaj;e, where the 
good of the village was concerned. His official duties never 
made him forgetful of its interests, and it was with deep 
regret he found that in the discharge of military duties his 
residence must be removed to Washington in 1821. Here 
lie continued to reside for seven years, latterly much broken 
in health from di.seasc contracted at Fort Erie. He died 
at Washington, February 24, 1828, aged fifty-two. 



In 1812-14, Hon. Moss Kent, representative in Congress 
of General Brown's district, wrote to one of his constituents : 

" Another resolution has this day been introduced, offering the 
tbanlcs of Congress to Gcneriils lirown, Scott, and Gaines for tlieir 
brilliant victories on the Xiagiira frontier over a superior British force. 
The resolution is postponcil for a few da^'s. (Icueral lirown is here 
the subject of tlie most extravagant praise, ami I believe if Congress 
was to authorize the appoiutuient of a lieutcnaut-generul he would 
be the man." 

Among other acknowledgment,s for his distinguished ser- 
vices, he received a gold medal from the President, and the 
thanks of Congress. The legislature of the State of New 
York presented him a sword with resolutions expressive 
of approbation, and the freedom of the city of New York 
was presented to him in a gold bos. 

His remains were laid in the Congressional cemetery at 
Wa.shingtou, and Congress erected over his grave a monu- 
ment commemorative of his .services. The device was a 
broken column ; upon the east side of the base was this 
inscription : 

" Sacred 

to the memory of Major-General Brown. 

By birtli, Ity education, by principle, 

devoted to peace. 

In deference to his country, 

a warrior. 

To her service lie dedicated his life. 

Wounds received in her cause aljridgcd his days." 

COLONEL EDMUND KIRBY. 

Among the prominent citizens of Brownville at an early 
date was Edmund Kirby, afterwards Colonel Kirby. 

*' He was a son of Ephraim Kirl>3', an otlicer of the llevolution, 
and afterwards judge of the sujireme court of Connecticut. Colonel 
Kirby was born at Litchfield, Connecticut, .\])ril IS, 179t; entered 
tfie army as lieutenant in LSI 2; serveil during the war on the north- 
ern frontier; joined General Brown as aid in 1S2U; from IS21 to '23 
discharged the duties of adjutant-general at Washington,- in lS2-t 
was ajipointcd p.aymaster of the army, and returned to Brownville, 
where he married Eliza, a daughter of General Brown. From 1832 
to '40 ho was engaged in the Florida wars with the Indians; was 
chief of the pay department during the Mexican war; volunteer aid 
to General Taylor at the storming of Monterey ; aid to General Scott 
at Vera Cruz, Cerro 'Gordo, Contrcras, Churubusco, Chapultepec, 
and the Mexican capital, and always distinguished for courage ami 
bravery." 

In 1848 he returned to his home in Brownville; was 
enthusiastically received by the citizens, a large cavalcade 
going out to meet and welcome him on his approach to the 
village. The .seeds of disea.se were implanted in his .system 
by the hardships of war in a tropicid climate, which had so 
impaired his health that he sought relief from the medici- 
nal waters of Avon Springs, where he died, August 20, 
1849, aged fifty-five. His remains were brought to 
Brownville, and laid in the village cemetery with fitting 
military honors. A jilain shaft of Qtiincy granite marks 
his rcstiiigplace, and bears silent testimony to his heroic 
deeds. By his side in the village cemetery lie the remains 
of his fiallant .«on, "Brigadier-General E. Kirby. who was 
wounded at Cliancellorsville, May 3, and died !May 28, 
1803, at the age of twenty-three, a worthy son of an 
honored sire.'' 

(IKdlKlK BROWN, ESQ., 

who was for so many years identified with thy interests of 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



303 



Brownville, was a son of George Brown, one of the colonists, 
and f'ollowoJ liis father to tlii.s county in 1802. 

" Ho was ek'ctcfl justice of the town soon afttT its orgiiiiixation, 
wliiclfcollicc he hehl for nearly tiflv jeiirs, with little interruption, 
hein;^ elcetcJ whenever noininuted, wliatever the strenf^th of the po- 
litical party to which he belongeti. He was also postmaster for 
twenty-eight years; was a inemher of assembly in ISli); introdinied 
and secured the passa;^e of (he hill organizinf; the town itf Pamelia, 
and giving it its name after the wife of (Jeneral IJrown." 

It is said Colonel Kirby never went out to town-uiceting, 
but when this friend's name was on the ticket ho wouUl 
always go four miles to vote for George Brown. 

The following anecdote is related by hi.s nephew, Hon. 
Lysander Brown, of AVatcrtown : 

** George Brown was one of the jutlges of tlie old court of common 
pleas of this county for many years, as long ago as when the late 
Jason Fairbanks got together his famous heavy jury. The court 
was coinposo<l of slender, light men, ami Mr. Fairbanks' toast on the 
occasion of a dinner given by him was, ' Hero is to a. lean court and 
a fat jury.' But they are all gone, — sheritT, court, nnd jury, — ripe 
sheaves gathcreii to the harvest." 

George Brown died July 8, 1870, at the age of eighty- 
eight, at the residence of his daughter, Mrs. James G. 
Brown, of New Haven, Connecticut. 

COLONEL WILLIAM LORD, 

a man long identified with the interests of Brownville, 
came here from \'erinont, just before the breaking out of 
the war. He was induced to come to act as book-keeper 
for his uncli>, Wm. M. Lord, who kept the Biownvillc 
hotel. His uncle having leased the hotel, William taught 
a winter school at Blanchard's Corners, spending his time 
out of school in getting out the timber for forty wooden 
plows, which the next spring he finished up for market. 
In the fall he concluded to return to Vermont. He packed 
his clothes, bought a horse and saddle, and was intending 
to start the next morning, in company with Isaac Farwell, 
Chesterfield Parsons, and a Mr. Stow. While taking sup- 
per together at Abijah FarweU's, Warren Skinner, acting 
as sergeant in Captain Wm. Cole's company, came in, and 
warned eacli of them to report with axe and gun the next 
morning for service in cutting and felling trees across the 
road between Brownville and Cape Vincent, to prevent the 
enemy approaching by way of the cape, fearing an insuffi- 
cient guard there would enable the enemy to gain access to 
Sacket's Harbor by this route. 

FarwcU, Parsons, and Stow concluded it safest to go on 
to Vermont as designed. Mr. Lord said, " If my coun- 
try wants my services, I have nothing to withhold." He 
joined the company, turned his horse into tlie street, and 
did not see him again for months. He was engaged in the 
service twenty-eight days, and did not see Vermont in six 
years. 

This incident probably turned the current of his life to- 
wards Brownville. He establislied the well-known foundry 
of Lord & Skinner, and afterwards Lord & Sons. He 
was also one of the most efficient men in securing and pro- 
moting the interests of the Watertown and Rome railroad, 
as well as for many years one of its directors. Two of his 
sons (Col. N. B. Lord and N. N. Lordj wer^ in the coun- 
try's service during th^ civil war; the former was efficient 



in organizing two regiments — the 35th Inflintry and the 
20th Cavalry — for the service. 

Col. Lord is now, at the age of eighty-six, in the enjoy- 
ment of all his faculties, living ipiictly with two of his 
children in the family mansion at Brownville. 

ALANSON SKINNER 

came to Brownville in 1814, remained here but a .short 
time, then went back to New IIam]ishire. where all of 
his children were born. He returned to Brownville, and 
entered into partnership with Wm. Lord, and afterwards 
(1S36-37) built a foundry, and the pre.sent machine-shop 
in 184G, where for many years he conducted a large and 
successful business in the manufacture of stoves and general 
hardware. He was State Senator in 1850, '51. He was 
one of the directors of the National Union Bank, and for 
some years previous to his death was president of the .same. 
He died at his residence in Brownville, June 7, 187C, aged 
eighty-two. 

QEN. THOMAS LOO.MIS 

came to this country at an early day ; from Otsego county 
originally. He was engaged in a tannery and shoe-shop, 
and conducted a large business ; he also had a distillery, 
and later manufactured saleratus. He was a man of mark 
in the community where he lived, and in the county as well. 
He was of large, portly figure, a fine face, and an eagle 
eye, which, with his white hair, made him conspicuous 
wherever he was. One of his sons, Charles K., was for 
many years a resident of 15rownville. His business career 
as a merchant; lumber dealer, and United States marshal, 
made him well known throughout the country. During 
the last years of his life he was general freight agent for 
the Buffalo division of the N. Y. C. railroad, and while 
engaged in the duties of his position, on his way to a rail- 
road convention, was the victim of a railroad disa.ster at 
Carr's Rock. Another son, M. C, w;is engaged in business 
with his father for many years, and then removed to Og- 
densburgh, where he still resides. General Loomis was an 
invalid for many years, a great but patient suflFcrer, and 
died at his residence in Brownville, April 24, 1869, aged 
eighty years. 

From the earliest settlement of Brownville, there have 
been found there a greater number of men of culture and 
weight of character than usually falls to the lot of a vil- 
lage of its size. Prominent among this class of men was 

THOMAS S. KNAP, 

Those who knew Mr. Knap remember him as a man of 
remarkable social power. His fine ])hysical development, 
noble bearing, and dignified manner, with his cultured mind 
and rare " common sense," made him an acquisition in the 
social circle, and a recognized power in the connuunity. 

In 1829, Mr. Knap came from his home in New Berlin, 
New York, to take charge of the business of his brother, 
Tracy S. Knap, whose infirm health obliged him to relin- 
quish business for a time. Mr. Knap gave his attention to 
the manufacture of linseed oil, and for this purpose engaged 
the farmers in the vicinity to cultivate large crops of flax. 
To utilize and prepare the flax, " a long stretch of wooden 
troughs, about fifteen feet wide, ten feet high, and thirty 



304 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



rods long (as remombered by the narrator), were arranged 
in what is called ' Philomel creek woods ;' these troughs 
were filled with the stalks of flax, divested of its seed, and 
water from the creek was made to flow into this trough, for 
the purpose of rotting the glutinous part of the plant and 
setting the fibre free, thus fitting it for the purposes of a 
neighboring rope-walk." The flax-seed was converted 
into linseed oil by being crushed under heavy burr-.stones, 
and the remaining oil-eake converted into feed for horses 
and cows. 

In addition to the manufacture of linseed oil, and by far 
the more important business in which he was engaged, was 
the manufacture of white lead and lithic paints. This oc- 
cupied a period of about twelve years, from 1838 to 1850. 
In 1851, Mr. Knap lefb Brownville for Pittsburgh, Penn- 
sylvania, to become associated with his brother, Charles 
Knap, of the Fort I'itt Iron Works. His family were 
prepared to follow him, when the community was startled 
by tlie news of his death from cholera. 

JOHN A. CATnC.\RT, 

who for many years was a prominent merchant and citizen 
of Brownville, came to this place in 1828, at the solicita- 
tion of his friend and relative, Elizur Fairman, one of the 
owners of the Brownville cotton factory. Mr. Cathcart 
was tlien living in Rochester, New York, engaged in mer- 
cantile business. Mr. Fairman wrote his friend urging him 
to come to Brownville and invest in the "cotton factory," 
representing that prospects for making a fortune here were 
flattering. Cathcart soon succeeded in disposing of his 
business, and a real estate interest in Rochester, which,- if 
retained a few years, would have made him a fortune. He 
came to Brownville, invested -510,000 in the " cotton fac- 
tory," and u.sed to say " his only return was oi\e hah of 
sheeting !" He afterwards commenced the sale of dry goods, 
groceries, etc., at this place, which he continued successfully 
for twenty-five years, though many of the latter years of 
his life an invalid. He died in 1852, leaving his business 
to his son, W. A. Cathcart, now of Bay City, Michigan. 

In many respects the village of Brownville presents su- 
perior advantages for manufacturing establishments, as it 
has direct communication by railroad with the markets, real 
estate is cheap, and the surrounding country aftords in 
abundance the means for supporting a large population. 

Early in thehistoryofthiscounty, the village, with its iriills 
and .stores and sho])s, w;ts the centre of a large trade from the 
surrounding country. Its business pro.'^pects attracted here 
men of brains and energy, men well calculated to succeed 
in business enterprises : Gen. Jacob Brown, Judge John 
Brown. Major Samuel Brown, (!en. Loomis, Asa Whitney, 
William S. Ely, Hoel Lawrence, William M. Lord, Daniel 
Lyman, Col. William Lord, Col. E. Kirby, Elizur Fairman, 
Major Reed, John A. Cathcart, Tracy S. anil Thomas L. 
Knap, John E. Brown, Joel Blood, Henry Lord ; and later 
Joel G. Stacey, William II. Skinner, James Shields, Col. 
Bradley, Arba Strong, Dr. Bates, C. K. Loomis, Dr. Ayres, 
F. W. Andreas. James Hunt, E. S. Sterling, G, Tillingliast 
and his son, James Tillingliast, who is at present general 
agent of the N. Y. C. railroad, and others, — men of more 
than average ability. 



The struggle for the county buildings, at the time of the 
organization of the county, resulting in favor of Water- 
town, gave it special advantages. At an early day, trade 
and travel were diverted from Brownville to Watertown 
from points south of Brownville, by the difliculty of cross- 
ing the " big swamp'" and climbing the ugly hills, to reach 
Brownville from that direction. These and other causes 
have resulted in disappointing those who had large expec- 
tations for Brownville. 

The population in 1877 is about four hundred and fifty. 

DEXTER, 

formerly Fish Island, one of the villages in the town of 
Brownville, was so named in compliment to S. Newton 
Dexter, of Whitesboro', who was formerly interested in the 
business of the place. 

It is situated at the head of Black River bay, and has a 
fine water-power, a convenient harbor, and is about one 
and a half miles from the station of the R., W. & 0. rail- 
road at Limerick. The lands in this vicinity were early pur- 
chased by John and Jacob Brown, who, in 1811, commenced 
a dam. This was swept ofl^, and another one built soon 
.after. A saw-mill was put in operation in 1813, a grist- 
mill was built by John E. Brown in 1826, and in 1837 
the place contained about a dozen houses. 

About this time more attention was being paid to the 
manufacture of lumber for market, from logs floated down 
the river. James Wood and his sons, Gillman, Charles, 
and Ira, became interested in the lumber business here. 
Mr. Wood was originally from New Hampshire, and about 
1830 began the erection of a dam and woolen-factory one 
and a half miles above Brownville, on Black river, which 
was nearly completed when it was .swept off by the spring 
freshet of 1833, proving a total loss. Besides Mr. Wood 
and his sons, the names of Keyes & Hungerford, Thurnian, 
Gunn & Co., John Bradley, Kirbv & Looiuis, Joseph Hunt- 
ington, Potter & Hammond, E. Leonard, and Henry Bin- 
ninger are familiarly connected with the lumber business 
of Dexter. 

In 1837 a joint stock company was formed for the 
purpose of laying out a village on a tract of 249 acres 
south, and 800 acres north, of the river. The original 
members of the company were Edmund Kirby, S. W. 
Dexter, John AVilliams, John Bradley, and J. Brown. 

A post-office was esUiblLshed in 1830, with Jo.shua Eaton 
as the first postmaster. A company was also formed the 
same year, to be called the " Jefferson Woolen Company," 
with a capital of $100,000, for the purpose of erecting 
and putting in operation a woolen-factory. It originally 
consisted of S. N. Dexter, John Williams, Edmund Kirby, 
John Bradley, Rodney Burt, and O. V. Brainard. The 
present extensive woolen-factory was accordingly built in 
18.37, which, including machinery and appendages, cost 
$14(1,000. The original company failed, with liabilities 
exceeding their a-ssets by $33,000. The property has since 
been owned and operated by a company known as the 
" Jefter.son Manufacturing Conijiany," and sulLseipiently by 
T. H. Magee & Co., F. J. Hall & Co., and is at present 
undei"stood to be owned by the estate of T. H. ^Llgee. It 
is not now in operation. 



HlSTORr OF JEFFEKSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



305 



The factory has manufactured at difForent periods in its 
history broadcloths, flannels, family blankets, and soldiers' 
blankets. During the late war, under the efficient manage- 
ment of F. J. Hall, Esq., it was run to great profit in the 
manufacture of blankets. The main building is of stone, 
50 by 170 feet, and four stories high, beside attic and 
basement. 

A difficulty has been experienced in bringing heavy craft 
into the port of Dexter, on account of a troublesome sand- 
bar at the mouth of Black lliver bay. An extensive 
government appropriation w;ls expended in 183(5-37 in the 
construction of piers, and other appropriations have since 
been expended towards removing the difficulty, but with 
only partial relief 

There are a few citizens now living in Dexter who liave 
been residents there and identified with its interests during 
its entire period of growth. Among them may be named 
Jcs.sc Babcock, John T. Wood, Solomon Moycr, John P. 
Shelley, and F. W. Winn. Probably no one man has been 
more efficient in promoting the interests of Dexter than 
James A. Bell, who came to Dexter in lS3(i. He first 
took a small stock of goods into a room fitted up for the 
purpose, in a building then used for a warehouse, and now 
u.<ed by the factory company for a store-house; connected 
with this was the prineijial dock of the place, and a very 
flourishing warehouse business was done by way of storing 
produce and butler and cheese for shipment, and receiving 
goods and merchandise from the regular lines of vessels 
then plying between Dexter and Oswego and other lake 
ports. Mr. Bell became associated with Major Edmund 
Kirby in this business, and from the building of the fac- 
tory, the construction of the Government works at the 
mouth of the river, the extensive lumber business of the 
mills, and a good surrounding countr)', an opportunity was 
afforded for establishing a large trade and selling a great 
many goods; so that the aecomniodations proving too limited 
for the business, a large brick store was built, on the site 
of the present store of 0. M. & (jt. W. Wood, where for 
many years a very prosperous business was conducted. 

The position occupied by Mr. Bell, with reference to 
Dexter, was suniined up by an acquaintance, who said of 
him : " ' As Paris is France,' so James A. Bell is Dexter." 
Mr. Bell represented his town as its supervisor, his district 
as State senator, and has also served as auditor of the 
canal department. 

Dexter shared with Sacket's Harbor in the warehousing 
trade, more or less, until the completion of the Rome, 
Watertown and Cape Vincent railroad, when its business 
in that line was discontinued. 

A large business is now done by Henry Binninger, and 
Binninger & Strainge, in the manufacture of sash, blinds, 
and doors, and shingles, and a general jobbing and contract 
business for the construction of buildings. The business 
was established by Mr. Binninger in 1863. 

A similar branch of business is carried on by E. Leonard, 
as successor to Joseph Huntington. 

There are also two grist-mills at Dexter, a plaster-mill, a 

sbingle-mili. and the usual shops fi ir the accommodation of 

five hundred inhabitants. There are four dry-goods stores, 

one drug-store, two hotels, and churches of the Presby- 

20 



torian, Epi.scopal, Mefhodi.st, and Universalist orders, each 
having a commodious church edifice. The physicians arc 
Doctors Charles Douglas and Arthur Benedict. 

The village of Dexter was incorporated May 8, 1855, 
under general law, and amended by special act April 15, 
1857, and January 28, 1865. 

TRUSTEES. 

1855. Sylvester Reeil, Franklin .1. Hull, .John T. Wood, Williiim V. 

Morgan, .Tames A. Bell. 
18.ifi. Jamca A. Bell, William V. Morgan, Samuel Moycr, Dclos Mc- 

Wayne, Joseph D. Beals. 

1.557. F. W. Winn, M. N. I'otter, J. T. Wood, long term: .J. A. Bell, 

Ij. W. Gunn, O. H. Kimball, short term. 

1.558. E. Leonard, E. S. Clark, J. A. McWayne. 

18.i9. J. Babcock, F. W. Winn, I,. W. Ounn. and .1. P. Shelley, to 611 

vacancy. 
ISRO. F. J. Hall, J. P. Shelley, M. II. Peek. 
1861. Edgar Leonard, S. Moyer, 0. M. Wood. 
1S62. C. n. Rounds, M. E. Casler, .James Frost. 
1863. E. H. Parker, .T. P. Shelley, J. A. McWayne, and G. H. Rounds, 

to fill vacancy. 
1861. G. II. Rounds, M. E. Casler, James Frost. 
lS6.i. J. T. Wood, F. W. Winn, Jesse Babeock. 
1S6C. J. H. Stokes, Edward Lindor, II, Binninger, 
18C7. Samuel Moyer, James II. Rosebooni, J, D, McWayne. 

1868. John II. Stokes, II. Binninger, E. II. Parker. 

1869. Charles B. Bowers, Edwin S. Clark, James W. Plumb. 

1870. Thomas J. Strainge, Farlin Bali, Samuel Moyer. 

1871. J. H. Rosoboom, Belos McWayne, 0. M. Wood. 

1872. II. Binninger, E. II. Parker, Andrew S, Baker. 
187,'!. M. II. Peck, M. E. Casler, E, S. Clark. 

1874. Robert Thorn [json, Andrew S. Baker, Levi Xutting. 

1875. Henry Binninger, George W. Wood, Samuel Francis. 

1876. Samuel Moycr, Charles Foster, George Babcock. 

1877. Josei)h Underwood, John P. Shelley, 0. C. Emerson. 

LIMERICK. 

On Perch river, where the R., W. & 0. railroad eros.ses 
the stream, one and a half miles from Dexter, and on the 
direct road from Brownville to Capo Vincent, is a small 
village, consisting of a store, tavern, depot, and about a 
dozen dwellings. Mills were built here at an early day. 
The dam w;is found to flow the flats above and render 
them sickly, when it was removed, and afterwards built be- 
low. This place has been selected for holding town-meet- 
ings for the last half-century. 

The stream known as Perch river, as it passes through 
the town of Brownville, and all along from Perch lake to 
Limerick, is a dull, sluggish stream. The lay of the land 
along its course is flat, and in many places marshy. At the 
time of the spring freshets it largely overflows its banks, 
and wide stretches of country are inundated, A dam at 
Limerick increased the trouble, and an act was passed 
March 30. 1827, authorizing John Baxter, Abner Smith, 
and Isaac MoflFatt to remove obstructions for the purpose 
of improving the current of the river. In March, 1828, 
the circuit court declared the dam a nuisance, and directed 
it to be removed. 

The summer of 1828 was a sickly one. I'ever and ague, 
and a more severe form of malarial fever, prevailed to such 
an extent that there were hardly well ones enough to take 
care of the sick. On May 26, 1841, an act was passed in 
pursuance of the same object, and to provide for reclaim- 
ing drowned lands, by which parties benefited along the 



306 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YOIIK. 



river were to be taxed for defraying expenses incurred. 
Nicholas Lawyer, John Cole, Jr., Paul Anthony, Daniel 
Allen, and Jonathan Webb were appointed conirai^sioner.s 
for carrying the act into effect. Several thousand acres 
were taxed, at first at fourteen and afterwards twenty cents 
an acre. 

PEKCH lUVER POST-OFFICE 

was at an early day called JIofFattville. It is a hamlet of 
a dozen houses, a Union church, a store, and a few sliops. 
It is pleasantly situated in the midst of a highly-cultivated 
agricultural district, and is peopled by .111 intelligent class of 
persons. 

The names associated wiih Perch River arc, — Uncle 
Isaac Moffatt, Deacon Vandrbogart, Silas F. Spicer (who 
knew all about the undergiound railroad, and every other 
benevolent work, and who in face, form, and character so 
strikingly resnnbled our martyred President, Lincoln), 
Daniel Allen, Silas and Lewis Webb. Hon. Hugh Smith 
and Hon. Henry Sjiicer, Icjng partners in business and not 
divided in sentiment, have each in his time been called to 
represent his district in the legi.shiture. 

Porch River has long been recognized as one of the best 
sections for farming purposes of any part of the town. 

Old I'ncle r.^aac 3Ioffatt, as he was called, one of its first 
settlers, had a vein of fun. His family physician. Dr. 
Bates, of pleasant mem<iry, left his saddle-bags at his house 
on the occasion of a professional visit tliere, and Mr. Moffatt 
took charge of them overnight. On sending for them the 
next morning the doctor found his roguish patron friend 
had removed several vials and in their places deposited 
specimens of tlie finny tribe, carefully labeled " Bullo 
Trouti," etc., etc. 

PILLAR POINT 

owes its name to the peculiar appearance presented by cer- 
tain rocks along the shore, as they are left standing but 
partly .supported, owing to the action of the water of the lake. 
It includes a large and valuable farming district between 
Chauniont and Black l\iv(T bays. There are ext«n.sive 
fisheries along the shore. A small village oj)posite Sacket's 
Harbor is the place of a post-ofiBec, a Methodist church, 
and a few dwellings and shops. This point hius been some- 
what important for its ship-building. The postmaster at 
Pillar Point is Samuel Roat. 

TUK FIRST I'KESBYTERIAN CUURCII fIF ISUOWN VILI.E. 

A Presbyterian church was organized March 18, 1818, 
consisting of eight members. Elam Clark and William 
Vandebogart were chosen ciders. It was admitti'd to pres- 
bytery February 10, 1819, and Noah M. Wells was installed 
piLStor September 14, 1820. He is now living at the age of 
ninety-three in Erie, Michigan. 

The large stone edifice in the village of Brownville, now 
the property of t!ie Episcopal .society, was immediately 
built as a Union church, the Presbyterians owning a large 
interest in it, and occupying it for several years, but a nni- 
jority of tlie stock was owned by Episcopalians, and a so- 
ciety of that order was legally formed October 13, 1826, 
under the name of St. Paul's church. To this .society the 
Presbyterians sold their interest, and in 1832 built a church 



edifice of wood, on the site of the present church. This 
building was burned in 1842, and the present church edi- 
fice was built in 1844. In 1852 a building for Sunday- 
school purposes and lecture-room was put up on the same 
lot and adjoining. 

The ministers have been, Noah M. Wells, 1818-25; 
James R. Boyd, 1827-30; E. H. Snowden, 1834-39; 
Dexter Clary, 1839-42; Calvin Yale, 1842-14; O. P. 
Conklin, 1844-48; S. M. Wood, 1848-51; Sylvester 
Holmes, 1851-54 ; John Campbell, 1854-55 ; I. Burchard, 
1855-57 ; R. <i. Keycs, 1857-Gl ; George D. Horton, 
1862-64; Eoos Wood, 1805-72; H. M. Dodd, 1873-77. 

The Presbyterian churches of Brownville and Dexter 
have usually been supjilied by the same pastor, preaching 
on Sabbath morning at Dexter, and afternoon at Brown- 
ville, since the orgatjization of the Dexter church. 

The present session con>ists of Rev. H. M. Dodd, mod- 
erator ; Wm. P. Massey, George C. Plumb, Anson Potter, 
James H. Griswold, Ezra B. Pratt, Jlyron H. Peck, elders; 
Geiirge C. Plumb, W. P. Massey, James Parker, trustees. 
There are sixty-eight members. 

B.M'TIST CHURCH — PERCH RIVER. 

The first church organization in the town of Brownville, 
of which tliere is any record, is that of the Baptist church, 
Pi.rL-h Hiver, September 7, 1806. An ecclesiastical coun- 
cil was held at the house of John N. Collins, October 10, 
where this church was fellowshijiped by delegates from 
Champion, Rutland, and Adams. It at first numbered ten 
members, viz. : Richardson Avery, Truman Kilborn, Arad 
Farr, Oliver Bartholomew, Persia Towns, I.saac Cornwall, 
Jr., David Little, Peter Towns, Joseph Rhodes, Rhoda 
Rhodes. The members who sat in the council from Cham- 
pion church were Elder Timothy Pool, Deacon Arnold 
Lewis, and David Pool ; from the Rutland church, Benja- 
min Peck and Chandler Mattby ; from the Adams church, 
Timothy Heath and 3Iatthew Wilkie. 

The first minister presiding over this church was Elder 
Timothy Pool, in 1806. His successors wi^re Elders Wilkie, 
Joshua Morgan, Sardis Little, Ford, Guileau, D. D. Reed, 
Sawyer, John L. Moore, Miller, Lorenzo Rice, Abncr Webb, 
De Golier, D. Peck, Ira Cooley, Sy<lncy L. Dyer, Calvin 
Filio. Held a protracted meeting in 1825-2(), when 
between sixty and seventy were added to the church. 

A society was legally organized April 25, 1825, at which 
Melvin Moffatt, Walter Cole, tieorge Brown, Nathaniel 
Peck, and William Webb were chosen trustees. It was re- 
organized February 11, 1833. In 1827 they erected their 
present stone church, at a cost of $2800. 

The record of the church is as follows: Ordained, 1, — 
Sardis Little, in 1816. Sent by this church as missiona- 
ries, 3, — Abner Webb, to Burmah, India; John L. Moore, 
to Ohio; Sydney Dyer, to Mississippi. Died, 1, — Elder 
Ira A. Cooley. 

ll.M'TIST CHURCH — PILLAR POINT. 

This church and society was formed September 22, 1838, 
with L. Howard, G. C. Parsons, Hiram A. Reed, Solomon 
liigalls, Klislia Harris, ancl Samuel R. Campbell, trustees. 
In 18i!9 they reported liO members. No recent report. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUxVTY", NEW YORK. 



307 



ST. Paul's cnuacii (episcopal) 

Wii.s formed legally October 13, 182G. Thomass Y. How and 
Thomas Loomis were chosen wardens, and Asa Whitney, 
Tracy S. Knap, Sylvester Rei-d, S. Rruwii, William S. Ely, 
Pclej; Burchard, Edmund Kirby, and llucl Lawrence, ves- 
trymen. The first rector of the church was William Linn 
Keese. His successors have; been : Revs. Ezi'kicl G. Gear, 
February 13, 1831 ; A. C. Tr^adway ; Ferdinand Rogers, 
August, 1837; William H. Hill, November, 184G; Geo. 
B. Eastman, October, 1851-55; Andrew Oliver, 1855-58; 
Moses E. Willson, 185S-(U; J. Winslow, 18G4-()5; Thos. 
P. Tyler, 1865-tJ7; R. H Barnes, 1807; J. Winslow, 
1868-70; Thomas G. Ockford, 1870-72; D. Ellis Willcs, 
1872-74; F. P. Winnie, 1874-77, and is the present in- 
cumbent. The wardens are A. A. Gibbs and William 
Lord. Communicants, 31. 

THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF DEXTER 

was organized July 2, 1839, by Reverends Marcus Smith, 
Isaac Brayton, and Dexter Clary, and received by presby- 
tery. Eighteen original members. 

The succession of ministers has been : Reverends Dex- 
ter Clary, O. P. Conklin, Sylvester Holmes, Whit- 
ney, John Campbell, George D. Horton, Enos Wood, and 
Henry M. Dodd. 

The Presbyterian churches of Dexter and Brownville 
have usually been su]iplied, the same pastor prcacliing on 
Sabbath morning at De.\ter and afternoon at Brownville. 

Elders: 1839, Josiah Hinman, Jolni Bell, Joseph D. 
Bealls, Ahira Mnrrill ; 1841, Joshua Eaton; 184G, James 
A. Bell; 1852, Abner Wiclier ; 1854, Anson Potter ; 1SG5, 
William Gibbs; 1874, Myron H. Peck; 1875, Melza E. 
Castlcr. Deacons: 1839, Joseph Huntington, William 
A. Wood; 1852, William Adams; 1874. William Bell. 

A society was formed, September 24, 1842, with Joshua 
Eaton, Joseph Huntington, David H. Freeman, Harvey 
Crocker, and Levi Smith, trustees. A brick church was 
built in 1S43-4G. A parsonage was presented to the 
society by James A. Bell in 1877. Church membership, 
77. 

ALL saints' episcopal CHURCH — DEXTER, 

was organized .July 14, 1839, with John Bradley and 
Gillman Wood as wardens; and Edmund Kirby, Jesse 
Babcock, Ora Haskell, Solon Stone, James A. Bell, An- 
drew Wood, Israel J. Griffin, and Robert Anderson, vestry- 
men. 

They have a commodious church edifice, and are usually 
supplied by the same clergyman as the church at Brown- 
ville. The wardens are Samuel Franeis and .John Francis. 

METHODIST CUUUCH — BROWNVILLE. 

This society was formed August 3, 1829. with Joshua 
Hcminway, Henry W. Chapman, Samuel Knap, Isaac Mee- 
cham, William Lord, and Daniel Ca.se, trustees. 

The following names ajipear as pastors: 1829-31, A. 
Ball; 1831, Benjamin Phillips; 1832, Elijah Smith; 
1833, E. B. Fuller; 1834, L. K. Reddington ; 1835, B. 
Phillips; 183G, H. Shepherd; 1S37, T. L. Hunt; 1838, 
George C. Woodrufi"; 1839, M. D. Gillet ; 1840, James 



Irvine; 1843, Philo T. Bennet; 1844, Reuben Reynolds; 
1845, Reuben Reynolds; 184G, 0. C. Latlirop ; 1847, T. 

F. Fenton; 1848, G. W. Barney; 1849, L. L. Adkins; 
1850, R. Redhead; 1851-52, L B. Brown; 1853, Wm. 
Tripp; 1854, C. Phelps; 1856-57, G. W. Elwood ; 1858, 
L. Clark; 1859, G. M. Pearce; 18G0, L. B. Ford; 18G1- 
62, M. Lyon; 18G3-64, C. H. Guile; 1865, M. Lyon; 
1866-G7, J. Turnce; 1868, '69, '70, S. M. Warren ; 1871, 
'72, '73, M. M. Rice; 1874-75, S. N. Danforth ; 187G-77, 
S. Dewey, the present incumbent. 

Present trustees: J. C. Knap, H. J. Harris, George 
Tliom|ison, Ervin Walrath, H. Groat. Stewards: J. C. 
Knap, H. Groat, A. (j. Taylor, George Thomp.son, N. H. 
Potter. Cla.ss-leaders : II. I. Harris, R. M. Spinney, A. 

G. Taylor. Membership, 131. 

The society own a commodious house of worship valued 
at $3000, and free of debt. They also have a pareonage, a 
two-story brick dwelling, valued at $1000. 

THE FIRST IiNIVERSALIST SOCIETV OF DEXTER 

was formed September 5, 1841, with the following per- 
sons as trustees : Thos. Broadbent, John Maynard, David 
Baker, Elcazer Parker, Solon Stone, and F. W. Winn. 
Their church edifice was built in 1842, and dedicated in 
December of that year. Dedication sermon by Rev. Pitt 
Morse. 

Tlu'ir pastors have boon H. L. Haywood, Chas. A. Skin- 
ner, G. S. Abbott, Wm. McNeil, Lyman Perry, Asa Sax, 
J. H. Stewart, Harvey Hersey, and E. B. Cooper, who 
died after a residence of only nine days. 

The church property is valued at $25f)0. Present trus- 
tees : Thos. Broadbent, Samuel Moyer, Joseph Perry, E. 
S. Clark, Geo. W. Wood, and Geo. Moyer. The original 
membership was 25 ; the present membership is 79 com- 
municants. 

METHODIST CHURCH — DEXTER. 

The JMethodist society at Dexter, in 1875, built a church 
edifice at a cost of S2500. This society has a separate 
church organization, but forms a jiart of the Brownville 
M. E. church, and is supplied by the same pastor. 

The trustees are C. C. Emerson, A. T. Knox, A. H. 
Seeber, and Farlin Ball ; Stewards, Paul Amon, Henry 
Denny, Chester Daniels, John Foster; Clii-ss-leader, A. 
H. Seeber. 

METHODIST CHURCH — PILLAR POINT. 

There is a Methodi.st church at Pillar Point with a 
membership of 181, a church property valuc<l at §2000, 
and a par.sonage valued at SlOOO. The present jiastor is 
M. T. Hill. Trustees : Amos Otis, Henry McAfee, Chas. 
D. Emer.son, Wheeler Lowe; Class-leaders: I. R. Adams, 
Ira Barber, John W. Akcrman, Wm. W. Harris; Stewards : 
Wm. Clemant, William W. Ackerman, Amos Otis, Nelson 
Dingman, Cyrenus Woodworth, Wm. Fisk, Henry Acker- 
man, Hubert Douglas. 

UNION CHURCH PERCH RIVER. 

In 1851 a Union church was built at Perch River, at a 
cost of $1500, with Silas F. Spicer, Archibald Sternberg, 



308 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



John Cole, Lewis M. Webb, and Charles B. Avery, as 
trustees. 

This church is occupied principally by the Methodist 
and Evangelical Lutheran denominations, and is usually 
supplied by a non-resident minister having another charge 
or preaching station. 

FIRST UNIVERS.\LIST — BROWNVILLE TILL.\GE. 

This society was formed December IG, 1851. The 
church building was completed in 1854, and dedicated 
January IG, 1856. by Rev. Luther Rice. It has been 
unoccupied the greater part of the time since its com- 
pletion. Services have occasionally been held, and the 
following persons have officiated : Revs. Luther Rice, C. 
A. Skinner, Asa Sage, A. A. Thayer, E. W. Reynolds, J. 
H. Stewart, and H. Hersey. The trustees are A. E. Lord, 
Alfred Kilborn, Horace Skinner, and Lewis Maynard. 

MASONIC LODGE. 

Brownville Lodge of F. and A. M., No. 378, was in- 
stalled March 31, 1819, by Isaac Lee, acting G. M. ; A. 
Trowbridge, D. G. M. Its Masters have been Sylvester 
Reed, Peleg Burchard, Joseph McKenzie, Heel Lawrence, 
Warren Skinner, S. Reed. 

From 1827 till 1839 the meetings were discontinued, 



when the charter was renewed as No. 53. The lodge was 
reorganized April 2 of the same year, with Alanson Skin- 
ner, Master ; Richard Buekuiinster, S. W. ; Arba Strong, 
J. W. ; Joel Blood, Treasurer ; John K. Adams, Sec- 
retary ; Henry W. Chapman, S. D. ; ApoUus Huntington, 
J. D. ; Derrick Gibbous, Gideon Tillinghurst, Stewards ; 
Hugh Wiley, Tyler. 

Masters: 1839, A. Skinner; 1840, R. Buckminstcr ; 
1841, '42, Arba Strong; 1843, John N. Cole; 1844, A. 
Skinner; 1845, '46, '47, '48, A. Skinner; 1849, R. Buck- 
minster; 1850, Chas. K. Loomis; 1851, Horace Skinner; 
1852, M. C. Loomis; 1853, D. C. Priest; 1854, H. Skin- 
ner; 1855, '5G, '57, '58, '59, A. Skinner; 1860, John T. 
i Wood; 1861, Henry Barber; 1862, Henry Barber ; 1863, 
'64, Walter Zimmerman; 1865, '66, Wm. T. Skinner; 
1867, Walter Zimmerman ; 1868, '69, '70, W. T. Skin- 
ner; 1871, Walter Zimmerman; 1872, Rufus Zimmer- 
man; 1873, Rufus Zimmerman; 1874, Henry Barber; 
1875, Edson C. Steele; 1876, John B. Atwater. 

The officers for 1877 are John B. Atwater, Master; 
John W. Wilder, S. W. ; Franklin Seeber, J. W. ; Amos 
R. Wilcox, Treasurer ; Horace Skinner, Secretary ; Ed- 
mund H. Carpenter, S. D. ; James Dier, J. D. ; Chauncey 
W. Phippen, S. M. C. ; James G. Gunn, J. M. C. ; New- 
man H. Pottw, Chaplain; Henry Barbour, Marshal; Chas. 
L. Witt, Tyler. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



309 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 




HON. HENRY SPICER. 



The subject of this sketch was born Out. 20, 1820, at 
Browuville, Jefferson County, N. Y. He was the son of 
Sihis F. and Charlotte Spicer. In 1821 his fiither moved 
witli his family to Perch River, where he was engaged during 
the remainder of his life in the business of farming and the 
manufacture of boots and shoes. The elder Spicer was a 
man of sound judgment and strict integrity, and for many 
years held the office of justice of the peace. During the 
famous Morgan excitement he was known as an " anti- 
Mason," and took decided ground in the controversy wliich 
then raged throughout the States. Subse(|uently, and until 
1840, he acted with the Whig part}', but in that year be- 
came identified murally and politically with the abolition 
movement, which was tlien beginning to develop, and under 
that banner he steadily fought until the year 1804, when 
Lincoln's emancipation proclamation obviated the necessity 
of further warfare. He w;is the instigator of the first abo- 
lition organization in the town of Browuville. Both him- 
self and wife were deeply interested in the temperance 
cause, and prominent members of the Methodist Episcopal 
church, and their house was always a home for the regular 
and itinerant preachers of that denomination. 

The family consisted of fourteen diildrgn, — five boys and 
nine girls, — of whom the subject of this sketch was the fourth. 
They were all afforded a good common-school education, and 
of the nine girls eight were teachers. Henry, from the 
age of fourteen to twenty-one, worked in summer by the 
montli on a farm and attended district school in the winter. 
At the age of twenty-one he commenced business for him- 
self, teaching district school in winter, and working at his 
trade — that of a carpenter and joiner — in summer, until 
the fall of 1840, when he formed a copartiiersliip with his 
brother in-law, the Hon. Hugh Smith, member of Assembly 
in 1874. They engaged in the business of merchandising, 



farming, and the manufacture of potash, and also dealt ex- 
tensively in cattle. The copartnership continued for eighteen 
years, Mr. Spicer retiring in the fall of 1804. Since that 
time he has been engaged in farming, the breeding of horses, 
and various other enterprises, in all of which he has been 
eminently successful, and is widely known as a prudent, 
reliable, and sagacious business man. Mr. Spicer is now 
and was one of the original directors of the Black River 
Insurance Company, the name of which was subsequently 
changed to the Northern Insurance Company. 

September, 1848, he married Mi.ss Delia E., daughter of 
Capt. Bjriah and Diana Allen, of Browuville. Capt. Allen 
was connected with the State militia, and served the town 
for several years as supervisor. A gentlcmau of irreproach- 
able character, and highly respected by all who knew him. 
Mr. Spicer had two brothers in the Union army during the 
Rebellion, viz., Edward and George; the latter being killed 
at the battle of Antietam. Politically, Mr. Spicer was a 
thorough Whig until the formation of the Re])ublican party 
in 1854. since which time he has been a consistent Repub- 
lican and an active member of that party. He ha.s repre- 
sented the town of Browuville as its supervisor four terms, 
viz., 1858, 1859, ISGi), and 1809. He was elected presi- 
dential elector in 1872, and cast his vote for U. S. Grant. 
In 1870 he was elected to the Assembly, on the Republican 
ticket, by a majority of 307 over his opponent, who was 
elected the previous term from the .same district by a ma- 
joritj' of 380. Mr. Spicer is a thorough temperance man, 
and believes that the cause can best be aided by proper 
legislation, and to that end rendered valuable service while 
a member of the legislature. Personally he is a modest, 
unobtrusive man, courteous and affable, and po.ssessin.ir in 
an eminent degree those qualities and virtues which win 
the respect of all who know him. 



310 



IIISTUllY OF JEFFEKSUN COUNTY, NEW YORK. 




i^S^ 




ALANSON SlvlNNfUl. 



MRS. ALANSON SKINNER. 



HON. ALANSON SKINNER. 



It lias been very ajitly said tlmt " a truthful ropvesen- 
tation of a worthy life is a iepicy to liumanit}." Acting 
upon this assertion, we present an outline of the business, 
social, and official eharacter of Alanson Skinner, a pioneer 
of Brownville, who was prominently identified with all its 
interests. He was born at Westmoreland, Now Hampshire, 
May 21, 17'Jl, and was the son of Timothy Skinner, and 
the tliird of a family of nine children, — eij;ht sons and one 
daugiiter. In 1814 he came to Brownville from his native 
State, and after 1830 never changed the liome of liis adop- 
tion, where, in all that related to the growth, success, and 
prosperity of the village, he took an active part. He grew 
up witii it through all its changes, ever remaining one of 
its most res|iected and worthy citizens. He took an active 
jiart in military matters soon af^er he came, and served 
under Gen. Jacob Brown in the troubles that then existed 
between the United Slates and (ireat Britain. Soon after 
he settled in Brownville he became actively interested in 
manufacturing, and for many years owned and conducted 
an extensive foundry and stove-works, carrying on a large 
business, which he always managed with carefulness and 
success. This industry was an important one in those 
days, and the firm of Skinner <fc Davis will long be remem- 
bered in this part of the State. He eonlimied tlie business 
alone for many years, wiien his sons, William T., James, 
and Horace, succeeded him, the former still remaining in 
tlie Ijusincss. Mr. Skinner was supervisor of the town 
during the years 18li!)-l() and 184(1; and for nine years, 
between 1832 and 184!t, was one of the village trustees, 
being chosen president of the village in 183G. In 1S.")() he 
repre.setited this district in the State senate, and it can be 
truthfully said of him that in whatever position he was 
placed he was always actuated by a faithful desire to do his 
duty to his constituents and to maintain a rejjutation for 
personal honor. He wa.s a careful and systematic business 
man, and his extensive investments were almost invariably 
attendeil with success. He was industrious and economical, 
and no man ever bore a name more worthy for honor and 
integrity. For several years he was tlu' honored and re- 



spected president of the National Union Bank of Watertown, 
in which he had long been a large stockholder. Socially, he 
was one of the most genial and cordial of men. He was 
hospitable in his home, in his conver-^ational powers attract- 
ive and entertaining. He was for many years an earnest 
and consistent member of the Masonic fraternity, being a 
member of the Watertown Chapter and Comraandery and of 
Brownville Lodge. As showing the esteem in which he 
was held by his fellow-JIasons, we append the following 
extract from the " Slemorial Tribute" placed u]ion the re- 
cords of the Watertown Commandery, No. 11, Knights 
Templar : 

" The members of the Commandery unite in cordial 
recognition of the sterling virtues of the late Sir Knight 
Alanson Skinner. ... As a Sii' Knight he exemplified 
the great Templar characteristics of charily and hospitality. 
. . . His unswerving integrity as a man deserved the 
assured success that attended his efforts." . . . 

His town has had few equals and no superiors in in- 
tegrity and capability as representatives in the county 
board of supervisors. While a member of the State 
senate he was distinguished for his firm adherence to 
principle. 

On the 21)th of September, 1819, Mr. Skinner was 
united in marriage with Mi.ss Mary Woodward. This 
union was ble.<sed with four children, namely, Horace, born 
September 27, 1820, now resides in Brownville; .Mary, 
born Novembc^r 22, 1822, tiow the wife of the Rev. Luther 
Rice, of Watertown ; James, born November ISI, 1824, and 
lives in Aurora, Illinois ; William T., born December 11, 
1S2G, and now repiresents the bu.siness established by his 
father. 

On the 7th of June, 1876, Mr. Skinner died, full of 
ycai-s and honors. At his death he was. eighty-two years 
of age, and he retained all his faculties to the last. In his 
death the coinniunity lost a respected and worthy citizen ; 
his wife, a devoted hu.'<baTid ; his children, an affectionate 
father; and his ac(iuaintances, a true Christian companion 
and friend. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



311 





JAMES lJOU(iLASS. 



MllS. JAMES DOr(iI,A.SS. 



JAMES DOUGLASS 



wa.s the second of a family of nine children, and son of 
John Doiijrhiss, who came here with his father, Alexander 
Douglass, a Scotchman and lineal descendant of the Doug- 
lass family. He landed in America during the Revolution, 
on the very daj-, in fact, wlien the tea was thrown overboard 
in Boston harbor. He died at Albany, at an advanced 
age. John had just attained his majority when he arrived 
here, and served through the Revolutionary war, and finally 
sett'ed at Palatine, Montgomery county. New York, where 
he married Miss Martha Taylor. He died in Canada. The 
subject of our sketch wm born at Palatine, December 13, 
171)1. He first married Miss Hannah Edwards, of Mont- 
gomery county, in July, 1815, by whom he had one son, 
William, who died May 15, 1875. His wife had seven 
brothers in the War of 1812 at one time. She died on the 
3d of May, 1817. After his first wife's death he married 
Miss Susanna Pcttit, daughter of Hermon and Martha 
Pettit, who settled in Watertown in the year 1801. Mrs. 
Douglass was born the same year, being the first birth in 
the town. 

Mr. Douglass was a very industrious man, having ac- 
([uired good habits from his father, with whom he lived 
until he was twenty-two years of ago. He received but a 
limited education at the then inferior di.strict schools. He 
began life as a farm laborer, and shortly after the battle of 



Sacket's Harbor he came to Jefferson County, with the view 
of locating a farm. He worked a short time, and then 
returned to Montgomery county. In the year 1819 he 
came to Brownville, accompanied by his family. He 
worked a farm for two years, and then purchased the farm 
upon which he remained during the rest of his life. 

The following is the record of the issue of his second 
marriage: James Chester, born March 29, 1821 ; he is 
now a prominent farmer of Brownville; married Miss 
Lucilda Cady, of Ellisburg. John P., burn Aug. 10, 
1825, a prominent merchant and speculator, and a large 
land owner in Jefferson County ; resides in New York city. 
Nerval E., born Aug. 8, 1830, an extensive farmer in the 
town of Lyme. 

By hard work and exposure to all sorts of weather Mr. 
Douglass contracted severe rheumatism, and was a cripple 
for the last thirty years of his life. He bore his infirmity 
with Christian resignation. He w;is a thrifty farmer and 
a close calculator, and very successful in all his operations. 
He was an earnest Christian, and a worthy member of the 
Methodist Episcopal church, to which also his second wife 
belonged. He died May 10, 1870, in the eighty-fourth 
year of his age, respected by all, and very generally la- 
mented as a man of sterling integrity and unswerving 
probity. 



312 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 




yv/Mz:-^. 




MRS. IIAZAEL S. WHITE. 



HAZAEL S. WHITE. 



Amid tin; lluotii of the licatlier and tlie tassels of the 
broom tlio ancestors of the .subject of the present sketch 
(Hazaul S. White) were born. He himself was a native 
of Vermont, where he was born July 2(), 1804, and with 
his parents, Solomon and Hannah ( Simon) White, when but 
a child, came to Antwerp, Jefferson County, New York, 
where, about two miles from tlic villafje, the elder White 
purchased a small farm, being a man of very limited means. 

On this farm .Airs. White, the mother, died, after wliich 
event tlie father removed from bis farm and resided with 
a son in the town of Redwood, where he lived to an ad- 
vanced a-rc. lAninf^ the war with (Jreat Britain in 1812- 
15, Mr. Wiiite atid bis family, in common with many of their 
neighbors, endured untold hardships and privations conse- 
quent upon the unsettled condition of the country. Owing 
to the limited circunistanees of bis father, the younger 
White in his boyhood had but .slight opportunities to ac- 
quire an education from books, and was forced to secure his 
knowledge in tiio bitter school of experience. When about 
twenty-four years of age lie engaged in business for bim.self 
at Cape ^'ineent, in the line of a butcher; but the business 
proving unremunerative, he soon relinquislied it and re- 
moved to IJrownville, .settling on Pillar I'oint. Here he 
remained about one year, when be removed to Hounsfield 
and engaged with Amos Catlin, in whose enijiluy he re- 
mained four yi^ars. He tlieii returned to the I'oint and 
purchased a small farm, and commenced jobbing. Dexter 
village was at this time just building, and he contracted for 
the job of quarrying the stone for the wooKn factory, 
which was erected under the superintendency of Major 
Kirby. In this contract as in others Mr. Wliite em- 
ployed a large number of n)en. At the dose of the work 
he took a contract for gradin;: on the Sacket's Harbor \- 
Kllisburg railroad. Soon after he purchased a farm in 
RrowMville, and began a successful course of agricultural 
operations. At the end of two years ho exchanged bis 



farm for one now owned by bis son, E. T. White, who pur- 
chased the .same of his father two years afterwards, a view 
of which can be seen in another part of this work. Mr. 
White being now about fifty years of age, and feeling that 
he had secured a competency, retired from active business. 
One principle actuated Mr. White during his whole business 
career, and that was fidelity to his engagements. He was 
prompt and punctual in the discharge of every obligation 
which he contracted, and pushed his business with all the 
vigor of his physical strength, and managed it judiciously 
and economically. In 1847 he experienced that mysterious 
change in his feelings that takes the thcjugbts away from 
earthly things and leads them to the heavenly. He joined 
the iMethodist Kpiscojial church and became a devout and 
consistent member thereof, carrying into his new life the 
same earnest purpose and fidelity that characterized his 
business engagements. He died on January 17, 1873, of 
heart-disease, at his residence on Pillar Point. 

On the ItJth of September, 182!), he married Mary, 
daughter of John and Jlary Root. They were of English 
parentage and birth, and settled at Pillar Point previous to 
the year 1812. being the third family to locate there. They 
purchased the farm now owni d by John Lee. Mr. and 
Mrs. White were married at Cape Vincent. Seven chil- 
dren canut t<i gladden the home of this pair with their 
music and mirth, two of whom died in infancy. The others 
were, Elbridge, born in 18;>0, and at ]ire.sent a prominent 
farmer in l^rownville; Edwin, born September 10, 1831 ; 
William Eli, born April 14, 18:5(> ; Edward Everett, born 
October 27, 1845, and now deceased ; and Miranda Louese, 
born Ajiril 21, 18411, also deceased. Mrs. White, an esti- 
mable lady, resides near the old homestead made sacred to 
her by many years of joy and sorrow, and is looking for- 
ward with joyful hope to the time when she will again 
meet those of her loved ones who have pas.sed through the 
shadowy portals before her, and into the glorious lite beyond. 




Ml 




,f€siD£,.CEor A\i OS OTIS ,JR, BRov^NViLuihuAR FoiNTlJcrrcff-'ion Co,N 



^ 




'Li.cc of ^^LTER ZIMMLHMAH,a!io,vuviLLL,N.Y. 



HISTORY OF JEFFKRSON COINTV, NEW YORK. 



313 




ALVI.V A. GIBBS. 



The Gibbs family are of English extraction, the original 
ancestor having come from England about the close of the 
Revolutionary War and settled near ^Vo^cester, Mass. Alvin 
Gibbs. father of the .subject of this sketch, lived in Green- 
edge, Hampshire county, M;iss. At an early day lie emi- 
grated to New York, settling in Otsego county ; from here 
he moved to the town of Ilaniniond, St. Lawrence county, 
where Alvin A. was born, Sept. IG, 1822. Remaining 
here but a short time, he removed to the township of 
Watertown, where he bought a farm, upon which our sub- 
ject spent his boyhood days. He received a good educa- 
tion, graduating at the Jefferson County Institute. When 
fourteen years of age he learned the trade of a cloth-dresser. 
At twenty he left his father's home and started in life for 
himself, and came to Brownville, where he followed his 
trade until he was twenty-four years of age. Having a 
decided t;iste for merchandising, he engaged himself as 
clerk to a dry-goods merchant in Brownville bj' the name 
of Oliver Stevens. After completing his business educa- 
tion he went to Janesville, Wisconsin, where he engaged 
in the clothing trade. Disposing of his stock and trade, he 



went to Manstown, where he agtiin entered the dry-goods 
business. 

In 1858 he returned to Brownville, and in company 
with A. S. Lord carried on a general trade for some time. 
Dissolving his connection with Mr. Lord, he has continued 
the business until the present. 

Mr. Gibbs luis been called to sevenil positions of trust, 
and has taken a proper interest in political mattei-s. A sin- 
cere Republican and an inveterate foe to human slavery, no 
man was more patriotic or more freely contributed material 
aid and moral support to the republic in its late struggle 
for life. Mr. Gibbs has been supervisor of the town of 
Brownville for three terms, and no better evidence is 
needed of his sterling worth and high social qualities than 
the fact that after his 6rst election no candidate was nomi- 
nated against him. He has been president of the village 
for seven years, which position he now holds, as also that 
of postmaster, having been the incumbent of the latter the 
past seventeen yeare. He is a zealous and prominent mem- 
ber of the Episcopal church, and the records of eternity 
shall tell the fruits of his labor. 



CAPE VINCENT. 



Lyme, including the territory of Cape Vincent, was 
erected from Brownville in 1818. Cape Vincent was cut 
off from tlie town of Lyme on April 10, 1849. Its name 
was derived from its principal village, which, in turn, had 
been named from Vincent, son of Le Ray De Chaumont. 
The old land-office of Mr. Le Ray is still standing on 
Broadway, nearly opposite the residence of ^Ls. Peugnet. 

The first town-meeting was held at the hotel of Jacob 
Beringer, and the following officers wore elected: Fred- 
erick A. Folger, supervisor ; John W. Little, town clerk ; 
W. H. Webb, superintendent of schools ; Jacob Beringer, 
Augustus Awberton, and Barne}' W. Payne, justices of 
the peace; E. Clement, collootur ; John IL Lawton and 
A. A. Gray, assessors; Buel Fuller, commissioner of high- 
ways ; Francis A. Cross, overseer of the poor. This town- 
meeting was held on May 15, 18-19. The supervisors since 
that date have been Robert C. Bartlett, 1850-51 ; Charles 
Smith, 1852; Otis P. Starkey, 1853-54; Calvin Fletcher, 
1855-56; William Estes, 1857 ; Charles Smith, 1858-61 ; 
William D. Fuller, 1862-63; William Van Nostrand, 1864; 
Geo. F. Bartlett, 1865; John H. Roseboom, 1866; Geo. 
F. Bartlett, 1867-68 ; Henry A. House, 1869 ; Hugh Mc- 
Candie, 1870-71; Henry A. House, 1872. The present 
(1877) supervisor is Lloyd O. Woodruff, and the present 
town clerk Ward E. Ingalls, who have served since 1873. 
John Arm.strong, Horace F. Stoel, and Lorenzo Kelsey are 
assessors. William Estes, George Bartlett, Pjdwin Gray, 
and Mason B. Ladd are justices of the peace. 

The members of Assembly when Cape Vincent was a 
part of Lyme were: John B. Es.selstyn, 1822-25; Jere. 
Carrier (Alexandria), 1829 ; Otis P. Starkey, 1836. From 
the town of Cape Vincent have been, Charles Smith, 1853; 
Truman Fish, 1859; Albert 1). Shaw, 1867. Mr. Shaw 
is now United States consul at Toronto. Sheriff, Francis 
A. Cross, 1861-64. 

GRENADIER ISL.\NI). 

Fox, Carlton, and Grenadier islands belong to the town- 
ship. Owing to the uncertainty of the boundary-line be- 
tween the I'liited States and Canada, up to 1819 the islands 
of Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence were not patented, 
although they were included in the great Macomb contract. 
An intorfsting negotiation concerning the purchase of Gren- 
adier island, and some others, is found in a letter written 
fmni London, under date of June 4, 1792, by Patrick 
Colcjuiioun to William Constable, who controlled the inter- 
est in the Macomb ])urchase at that time. It would seem, 
however, that no bargain was consummated. This was five 
years before any permanent settlement was made in Jeffer- 
son County. In 1803, Samuel English and llezekiah Bar- 
314 



ret petitioned the legislature of New York for the grant of 
Grenadier island, which they evidently supposed belonged 
to the State, and which they propcsed to settle within 
twelve months after such grant was made; but no good 
title could be given until the national boundary-line had 
been agreed upon. This was done in 1819 ; the islands 
were patented soon after, and by a survey made in 1823 
Grenadier was put down as containing 1290 acres. John 
Mitchel was probably the first .settler. There is good rea- 
son to suppose that Basin Harbor was frequently visited 
by French explorers, more than a hundred years before the 
settlement of the county, in their journeys westward. La 
Salle and Count Frontenac were probably here more than 
one hundred and seventy-five years ago. During the ex- 
citements of the war of 1812 Richard M. Esselstyn sent 
his family around to Sacket's Harbor, and on the way the 
party stopped overnight at Grenadier island. This water- 
route was a common one from Cape Vincent to the Harbor 
and Watertown in those early days. But the most notice- 
able event connected with Grenadier island was the disas- 
trous expedition of General Wilkinson, who went out from 
Sacket's Harbor with several thousand men, late in the fall 
of 1813, for the ultimate purpose of capturing Montreal. 
It was too late in the season for an undertaking of that 
character. It was nearly dark of October 26 when the 
army pushed out upon the lake in scores upon scores of 
open boats, — scows, bateaux, sail-boats, and Durham boats, 
with their flags flying in the breeze and their military bands 
thrilling the air with music and enthusiasm. The surface 
of the water before the fleet was like a mirror, and all along 
the western horizon were still seen the beautiful colors of 
the setting sun. Both the heavy and light artillery were 
afloat, and all had orders to rendezvous at Grenadier island. 
Everything went prosperously until a little after midnight, 
when a stiff breeze arose, which increased in two hours to 
a gale. The October weather was true to itself; and the 
result was the comjilete wreck of the fleet and an immense 
loss of ammunition and supplies. It was four days before 
all the army that survived reached Basin Harbor. Some 
of the boats had been driven to Wolf island ; some to 
Chaumont bay ; others stood ofl' for Kingston after working 
out into the lake ; and the morning of the 27th revealed the 
shores of the islands and the mainland " strown with broken 
and sunken boat,s." On the way to Cape Vincent from 
Grenadier, Gen. Wilkinson encountered similar difficulties. 
He had a small fight with the Hritish near Clayton. Below 
Ogdensliurgh there was another valueless battle. And 
then what was left of the flotilla went into winter quarters 
on the banks of Salmon river. This was about the middle 
of November, and Montreal Wiis not frightened. The blun- 




v®T% 





DAVID CSHULER. 



MRS. DAVID CSHULER. 




Residence or DAVID CSHULER, Cape Vincent, J ErrERSON Co.,N.Y. 







IVIf^S. EDWIN &F^AY. 



















; ?.x 




5rOA/r ISLAND, GALLOU ISLAND. 



FOX, ISLAHO. 



f(LsiaEHC£ OF EDWIN GRAY, 




IM of ffESIOENCL 



EDWIN CF^AY 




ViNCENT.JcmifsoN Co.. N.Y, 



G/f£WAD/£/? ISLAKD 





Shepafd Wakren. 



Mrs. Sh£pakd WAifREN. 



kfirSr^ 




JS^ 



.^. y'y.ai*^jf}^ 



mmmmmm 

Residence or SHEPARD WARREN, Cafe ViHaNT,JefF[RSONCo.,H.Y. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



315 



ders were partially due to the weather, partially to military i 
generals, and nuieh more to whisky. General ^Yilkinson 
was court-martialed and removed from command. 

CARLTON ISLAND. 

Fox island is small and of no historical importance. Carl- 
ton is a little smaller than Grenadier, and one of the most 
beautiful of all the " thousand islands" in the St. Lawrence. 
According to some old land-titles, this territory was reserved 
by the State of New York in the cession to Alexander 
Macomb. 

In October. 1781), Mathew \Vatsoii and William Guil- 
land purchased the military county warrant which had 
been issued to one William Richardson, a Revolutionary 
scrueaiit, and lutated the riijht on this island. If however, 
Carlton island had become a part of Canadian territory, it 
was conditioned that another portion of land would be 
granted elsewhere. Watson soon after bought out the 
interest of Guilland. Only one of his children lived to in- 
herit the property, or, rather, only Margaret Watson came 
into final pos.session of it, which she disposed of to Charles 
Smyth. Before this sale she had married Jacob Ten 
Broeck. The matter of this sale and title was brought to 
the notice of the State legislature in 1821, when it was 
found that the title to the land covered by the military 
bounty was not good. The British held the island when 
Richardson sold his right, and continued to hold it till it 
was surrendered, at the commencement of the War of 1812. 
By special legislation the title was made a legal one, and on 
March 2, 1821, an act was passed directing a patent to be 
issued for the amount of land designated as the original 
military bounty. This was 500 acres on the west end of 
the island. In 1823, F. II. Ha.sler, who had charge of the 
coast-survey for many years, made a survey of Carlton 
island, and reported an area of 1274 acres. Chas. Smyth 
purchased the remainder in 1821, and thus became pro- 
prietor of the whole territory. At the time of Mr. Hasler's 
survey there were about thirty acres of old and highly-im- 
proved land, which was known as the King's Garden. 
This garden was on the south shore, and about halfway 
down. 

The original settlers were squatters. When Avery 
Smith and Abijah Lewis were here engaged in the lumber- 
ing business, which they commenced in 1822, the residents 
had become permanent, and trade was full of life. There 
was a post-uffico and a school, James Estes had a tavern, 
four dwelling-hou.ses were standing around the old chim- 
neys, Professor Shumway was teacher and justice of the 
peace, David Briggs had a shoe-shop, Abijah Lewis, James 
AVood, and Mr. Shaw kept stores, and sometimes ten or fif- 
teen lumber-vessels would be anchored in the bays. At 
this time the population numbered one hundred and filty 
or two hundred persons. The island is now divided into 
farms, and seven or eight families are living thereon. It 
is about three miles iKuthciust of Cape Vincent village, and 
was the first settled territory of Jefferson County. 

THE OLD FOHTIFICATIO.V. 

No spot in northern New York has excited more his- 
torical curiosity ihaii the head of Carlton island, on which 



are now seen the conspicuous ruins of an old fort. The 
ruins are extensive, and are found on a rocky promontory, 
the southwestern face of which is fifty or sixty precipitous 
feet above the water. Eight of the ma.ssive stone chim- 
neys are standing. Deep excavations in the rock, probably 
used for magazines or secret storage, are very noticeable. 
Tlie old circular well that was blasted through the rock, ten 
feet in diameter, and it may be sixty feet deep, always 
attracts attention. The fort was built on the arc of a circle, 
and the ditch around it is sis feet deep and about twenty- 
two feet wide. " The covered way is twenty-four feet wide, 
the scalp anil counterscarp vertical, the outer parapet four 
feet high, and the glacis is formed of material taki^n fnmi 
the diieli. The rampart within the ditch was of earth, and 
is very much dilapidated, — in places is entirely obliterated. 
. . . Bastions were so ]ilaeed as to command the various 
approaches very effectually." 

Pieces of wrecked vessels arc distinguished, on a still 
day, at the bottom of the river. There is a sunken dock 
on the west side, and .some little distance in the rear are the 
broken and almost obliterated graves of the soldiers' ceme- 
tery. 

When Charles Smyth obtained possession of the island 
many of the burial-places were still marked by carved oaken 
pieces of wood, but when Dr. Hough published his " History 
of Jefferson County," 1854, he found only one grave that 
was indicated by a head-stone ; on it was the following in- 
scription : "J. Farrar, D. 23 Fy, 1792." This has since 
been destroyed. Many curious military buttons, axe-heads, 
balls, belt-buckles, coins, and the like, have been picked up 
and preserved as relics. The oldest coin ever found was 
dated 109G. In July, IG'.Hi, Count Frontenae, when on 
his way to tight the Jroijiiois, encamped a .short time on this 
territory. Carlton island was then called Isle aux Cheo- 
miilx ; another French or Indian name, according to an old 
map in Yale College library, was Ciilttltiiiiomige. 

Who built the fort is a question that has not yet been fully 
answered. After much research, the conclusion has been 
reached that a fort w;is commenced by the French, and .sub- 
sequently enlarged and made formidable by the English. 
Could the military records of the French and Indian War of 
] 7")G-C(I, and the military records of the English during the 
Revolutionary War, be examined, the mysterious origin of 
old Fort Carlton might be solved. It could hardly have 
been a point of much military importance previous to the 
French and Indian War, for a French officer (Pouchot), 
who kept a diary of all that he saw and did along the 
shores of Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence, docs not 
mention any military defenses on the site of the old ruins. 
If a fort was commenced by the French, it was commenced 
very soon afl«r the visits of this military officer. It appears 
from some old Paris papers, still preserved in the docu- 
mentary history of New York, that the governor of Canada, 
in 1758, had a plan in mind to build a fort at the head of 
this river, which had been left unprotected by the destruc- 
tion of Fort Frontenae. Fort Frontenae was destroyed by 
Colonel Bradstreet in August, 1758, and in November of 
the same year ihe governor had this plan of a new work on 
paper. The fort was to have magazines and barracks ; cer- 
tain shipwrights, whose names were given, were to be sent 



310 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



up the river from Quebec ; supplies for those engaged in 
the work were to be obtained at Ogdensburgh ; and the ne- 
cessity for some fortification at the outlet of Lake Ontario 
was so uri^ently pressed that there is good reason to believe 
the first fort was commenced not far from 1759. This is a 
fair deduction, unless Frontenau stood on Carlton island, 
which is scarcely probable. If commenced by the French, 
• it could not have been later than 1763, because the Do- 
minion of Canada passed over to Great Britain on May 10, 
17C3, by the treaty of Paris. Fort Carlton wa.^ certainly 
occupied a hundred years ago. A Canadian author makes 
this statement : 

" It (Carlton island) was a military and naval station during the 
American rebellion, at which governnient vessels were built for navi- 
gating the lake, and possessed fortifications. Its name is derived 
from tjuy Carlton, Esq."* 

The building of ships indicates a post of much im- 
portance; and the origin of the old chimneys, the deep 
moat out through the solid rock on the land side, the huge 
well, and other elaborate ruins now visible, will very likely 
be traced to the military records of the English, as indicated 
by the foregoing facts. In 1790, Fort Carlton was defended 
by a small British guard and sis pieces of cannon. In 1812, 
as soon as the news reached Cape Vincent that a second 
war had been declared against Great Britain by the Amer- 
ican Congress, Abnor Hubbard, an old Revolutionary soldier, 
living at Millen's Bay, authorized himself and several of his 
neighbors to capture the post. They crcssed over the river 
in the night, and demanded its surrender. Two women 
and three invalid men surrendered. The following day 
the fort was destroyed and the prisoners taken to Sacket's 
Harbor. 

In a letter received frotu Fiaiieis Parkman, the his- 
toriiin, regarding the (juestion whether Fort Froutenac was 
or was not situated on the Carlton island promontory, he 
says : 

"There are several French maps, both manuscript and printed, in 
which Fort Frontenac is laid down, and several plans of it nt differ- 
ent periods, from that of De Nouville, in 1685, to that made during 
the war of 175j. Many of these maps arc in my possession. I have 
also the title-deeds of neighboring lands, and of the place itself, in 
La Salle's time."|" 

"The impression that the fort on Carllon isLand dates back loO 
years is certainly erroneous. There could not have been a fortitiea- 
tion here of any consequence before the old French war. Even then 
I know of no mention of this or neighboring i.slands as occupied for 
military purposes, except in one instance, when a guard of twelve 
men is reported to have been stationed here. They were sent from 
Fort Frontenac. The remarkable works of which the remains are 
DOW 80 conspicuous must have been of a later dale and of British 
origin, probably early in the Revolutionary War." 

TIBBITTS POINT. 

Tibbitts point, at the head of the St. Lawrence, took its 
name from Captain John Tibbilt, of Troy, who received a 
patent for 600 acres of land, and which wtis surveyed in 
1799. The first light-house and dwelling were built in 

* lie subsequently became Lord Dorchester. 

t Fort Frontenac was built in IfiT.'i. Nut long after it was given to 
La Salle by the king of France as a reward for his explorations and 
valor, together with a specified amount of land, abmit twelve miles 
lung on the shore ami one and a half miles deep, besides the adjacent 
islands. 



1827. The second tower, which is now standing, was 
erected in 1854, and stuccoed on the outside in 1870. 
Supplies are furnished annually. The visibility of the 
light, by means of tlie Fresnel lens, is fifteen nautical 
miles, although the flame, in very clear weather, may be 
seen full thirty miles. The lamp burns about nine months 
in the year ; and the number of vessels that have have 
passed that point during the past five years has averaged a 
little less than thirteen hundred for each season of naviga- 
tion. It may be said, also, that the three acres of land at- 
tached to the house and tower belong to the United States, 
as well as the light-house, although the State of New York 
has reserved the rights of criminal and civil jurisdiction 
therein. A, J, Cratseuberg is the present keeper, 

THE SETTLEMENT OP TUE TOWN PROPEll. 

The man who built the first log house in Cape Vincent 
on the mainland was Abijah Putnam ; and it stood about 
two miles below the railroad depot. This was in 1801, Some 
traces of the old site of the village which he founded and 
named Port Putnam are still visible. In 1804, Mr. Put- 
nam sold his property to John Macombs and Peter Stern- 
berg, from central New Y'^ork, who made improvements 
immediately, and drew the plan for a prosperous town. One 
of the original maps of Port Putnam, now in the posses- 
sion of Mr. William Esseltyn, indicates that it was to be in 
the form of a parallelogram, with a public square of five or 
six acres, and public buildings standing on the upper side 
of it, facing the water. As a matter of curiosity, the names 
of the streets may be given. Parallel with the river were 
Water .street. First, Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, 
and Seventh streets. Pleasant street was also laid down 
on two sides of the square. Intersecting these at right 
angles were Green, Montgomery, Herkimer, Washington, 
Jefferson, Clinton, and Hancock. 

The chief business of that day is maile known by what 
Messrs. Macombs and Sternberg said of the advantages of 
Port Putnam over other towns in this new region. To 
vary the language of the map a little they stated : 

** That since it is the outlet of Lake Ontario it forms a natural place 
of deposit for the lake trade. Lumber of all kinds is rafted from this 
village on a large scale to Montreal and Quebec, and it takes only 
from nine to thirteen days to make a trip. Besides, the Great Black 
river State road from Johnstown, Montgomery county, receiving in 
its course the roails from Little Falls, Herkimer, Utica, and Rome, 
runs through the middle of this village, and connects with Kingstown 
and Upper Canada by ferry," 

This site was subsequently abandoned through the in- 
fluence of Mr, Lc Ray, who caused a piece of ground to be 
surveyed, in 1811, on Gravelly Point, whore stood five or 
six houses, and named it Cape Vincent, after one of his 
,sons. Milieu's Bay was then known as Hubbard's Bay, 
Clayton was called French Creek ; Depauville, Cat Fish 
Falls ; Dexter, Fish Island ; and Carthage, Long Falls. 
The original survey of Cape Vincent, however, was not fol- 
lowed when it was incorporated. 

THE 0K1GIN.\L SETTLERS. 

The settlers at Port Putnam and down the river from 
that ]Miint, previous to the war of 1812, are believed to 
have been the persons already named, — Putnam, Macombs, 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



317 



and Sternberg ; Jonathan Cnmniinirs, Daniel Spinninar, 
Pjlnatlian Judd, Norman Wadwordi, Joliti H. Esselstyn, 
who came in 1803, and was prominent in the town for 
many years ; Eddy Cole ; Caleb Lobdell, Avery .Smith, and 
atiother family of the same name ; Mr. Pliclps, William 
Hollenbeck, Charles Gillett, Orison and Zimri Butterfield, 
Daniel Nieol, Abner Hubbard, — who never tried to tell as 
good a story as Barret Hubbard, — Samuel Brittain, and a 
Mr. Dodd. As late as 1815 only seven houses could be 
found on the site of Cape Vincent village, and for many 
years the forest was left unbroken from a point just below 
the corner of William street to Port Putnam. The settlers 
generally came in by the State road, and only a single cabin 
was built on the route between Chauraont and the St. Law- 
rence river for at least fifteen years. Sometimes, when the 
road was bad, it would take thirteen or fourteen hours to 
make the journey. Often it was impa.ssable. This log 
cabin was occupied by Jlr. Soper and his family, and was a 
very Interpreter's house to the pilgrims coming into the 
new country. In 1815 a most beautiful grove of eighteen 
or twenty elm-trees was growing on the beach at the foot of 
Point street, just beyond the euphonious " Toad Hole." 
All that beach has since been washed away. On the lot 
now owned by Mr. John Grapotte, and also on the lot of 
Mrs. Pool, were two famous deer-licks. The crack of many 
a hunter's rifle was heard in the vicinity of the.se licks 
sixty-five years ago. In connection with the names of the 
first settlers, the names of those on the site of Cape Vin- 
cent village should bo given. They were : Holieb Phelps, 
Richard M. Esselstyn, John Mathews, Uncle Nash, Eber 
Kelsey, Dr. Ainsworth, of Vermont, Nathan Lake, and 
one Proven, whose other name cannot be recalled. These 
were here in 1812. 

Elnathan Judd came to the town in 1809, and settled on 
the farm where his son Pliiletus, a man above si.xty years 
of age, is still living. Richard M. Esselstyn came to Chau- 
mont, as a surveyor, in 1801. The next year he returned 
to Clavcroek, his birthplace, and in 1806 came back to 
the county and settled with his brother, John B., on a farm 
below Port Putnam. He was county clerk during the war 
of 1812. He died of yellow fever at Utiea, October 2, 
1822, greatly lamented. Dr. Ainsworth was the first 
physician who settled in this part of the county. Eber 
Kelsey came from Leyden in 1809, and, with the aid of 
about twenty men, cleared a tract of fifty acres of land on 
the site of the present village; built a house, barn, tavern, 
and wharf, and became him,self a permanent resident. John 
B. Esselstyn was one of the very first pioneer settlers who 
spent his ilays and strength for the good of the town, and 
died upon the soil. Ho settled on Cape Vincent territory 
in 1803. Six years later he formed a partnership with his 
brother, Richard M., who built a store and commenced 
trade. He lived to a good old age, and his memory will 
long be cherished. In other parts of the town, about 1820, 
and before this date, might have been found ^lichael Van 
Schaick, John Vincent, Willard Amsworth, Joseph Cross, 
Dr. Sacket, Dr. Brewster, Benjamin Estes, Captain Caton, 
and Captain Merritt. Captain Meriitt sailed the schooner 
" Appollonia" from this port; and on her last voyage she 
was struck by lightning about thirty miles off Mexico bay. 



She sunk so quickly that the crew had barely time to get 
out the small boat and escape. 

The first large schooner built at Cape Vincent was the 
" MerchaTit," the iron-work being done by Samuel and John 
Forsyth. This schooner made a trip to the head of Lake 
Ontario and back in three days, with a cargo. Besides the 
names already given were Ira Iladley, James Borland, Ab- 
ner Rogers, James Buckley, Oliver Pool, Jacob Bedford, 
Philip and Abner Gage, Fuller, Green, Hassler, Converse, 
Pigsley, Holman, Marshall, Van Ilusen, Hoff, — but time 
would fail in an attempt to mention the host of enterpris- 
ing men who made Cape Vincent the field of their achieve- 
ments. Many of these persons mentioned were farmers ; 
and it is the fanning class of the community, whose names 
are .seldom seen or heard, from which the world gets its 
living. Stop raising wheat and making butter, and what 
would become of the professions or histories? 

THE FRENCH SETTLEMENT. 

This portion of the town, now occupied chiefly by French 
and German resident.s, was originally settled by Americans, 
of whom the names of Jacob Van Nostrand, Aaron Whit- 
comb, Samuel F. Mills, Phineas and Asahel Powers, and 
Thomas Shaw are mentioned. Thomas Shaw came from 
New Jersey, and on his way was oflered a plat of ground 
within the present upper limits of New York city, for $100 
per acre. He thought he could do better in Jefferson 
County, and did not purchase. He always kept his stock 
till it died, never .selling or killing an animal for forty years. 

Through the influence of Mr. Le Ray a colony came 
from France, and gave the name to the settlement. After 
the French a company of (Jermans appeared and made 
themselves neighbors. The American families gradually 
sold out their farms to the Frenchmen or Germans, although 
the greater part of the immigrants took up new land and 
hewed out their own fortunes. The colonies were both 
Roman Catholic in faith, and for many years the preaching 
and religious services were conducted in both languages ; 
the Worship was in the same building. Several of the old 
people are still unable to speak or understand much of the 
English tongue. 

DISTINGUISHED FRENCH FAMILIES. 

About 1818 a number of educated French people came 
to Cape Vincent, having been involved in the reverses of 
Napoleon the First, in consequence of which they found it 
necessary to flee from their native land. They had no 
connection with the French colony. 

Among those who.se names are now remembered by the 
old inhabitants were Peter Francis Real and his son-in-law, 
General Rolland, Camille Arnaund, Jermaus, and Pigeon. 
Peter Real was a count, and the chief of police under Na- 
poleon. Pigeon was a secretary of Count Real while here, 
and an cntliusiastic student in astronomy. Some of the 
finest instruments of that age of science were brought to 
Cape Vincent from France, and the boy who was privileged 
to visit the upper room in Count Real's house where these 
instruments, as well as others, were kept, gazed in perfect 
wonder at the display. The count lived about two years 
in a hired house, and then built at the head of Gouvello 



318 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



street what was currently known as the " cup and saucer" 
dwelling, because it resembled those two articles of sewing- 
societj' comfort. It should not be inferred, however, that 
it was made for sewing-society purposes. On the other 
hand, there is every reiJSon to believe that a plan was laid 
by the.sc French residents to spirit Napoleon away from St. 
Helena and bring him to Capo Vincent, with the cup and 
saucer house for a home. But Napoleon died in 1821, 
and for this reason, or some other good one, the town just 
escaped a world-wide notoriety. The astronomical instru- 
ments were taken back to France when these exiles returned, 
after the death of the great chief Mr. Louis Peugnet was 
also an officer in Napoleon's army. Pigeon never wore 
anything on his head while in Cape Vincent, summer or 
winter, because he had made a vow to that effect, to last so 
long as Napoleon was held a prisoner on his lonely island. 
And yet a story is told of him, that, while once watching 
the boys as they were merrily skating on the river, he be- 
came very desirous of learning the art. But the falls and 
the bumps! To avoid any unnecessary collision after the 
skates were strapped on, he tied a cushion over his head 
and a pillow just below the middle of his body behind, and 
went out among the buys for his first skating. How he 
succeeded tradition does not inform us. 

WARRKN SETTLEMENT. 

Warren Settlement was a wilderness in 1825, when 
Shepherd Warren and his brothers James and Asa began a 
clearing. Very soon they were joined by Edwin Tuttle, 
and the place was often known as the Tuttle and Warner 
neighborhood. William Johnson was also one of the 
first .settlers. Johnson took the place of one Wheeler. 
When Joel Torrey moved into the settlement, in 1831, 
there were only four families, and no laid-out road, except 
one used by the lumbermen. At this date nearly all the 
white-oak had been cut, and between 1832 and 1834 Joel 
Torrey, James and Christopher Irving took out the pine. 
The Irvings were thus early settlers. Of the original 
pioneers only Rodolphus Cook, Ira Stewart, and Shepherd 
Warren are left in the present school district of that neigh- 
borhood. John Howard came in 1832 ; after him, John 
F. Terry, Charles Linnell, Simeon Adams, Samuel Linnell, 
Thomas Tarboll, Harry Kilbourn, and Uufu> Linnell. 

On the 18th of June, 1843, was formed the Union 
Burial-Ground Society. The trustees were Levi Torry, 
Daniel Cromwell, Erastus Warren, Samuel Linnell, Jr., J. 
A. Williams, and Abram Whitconib. Levi Torry was made 
president, and Dr. Dyer E. Pierce is now in that office. 

The first school-hou.se was built in 1833, of hewn pine 
logs, and stood on the west corner of the road, o|iposite the 
present building. The first teacher was Phebe Lightle. 

TUE SETTLEMENT OK ST. LAWRENCE. 

The St. Lawrence region was occupied still later than 
1825, when Stephen Johnson came from Depauville and 
opened the fii^st store. Forly-five years ago there were not 
half a dozen cabins where the village of St. Lawrence now 
stands. A Miss Lawrence, of New York, owned a large 
tract of territory in this neighborhood, and when the post- 
office was established, in 1848, Lawrenceville was sent on 



to Washington as an appropriate name. It was given in 
remembrance of this lady. But it was found that another 
office in the State bore the same title, and the Post-Office 
Department therefore changed Lawrenceville to St. Law- 
rence, which the inhabitants allowed to remain. The vil- 
lage was called St. Oars' Corners at first, then Rogers' 
Corners, because James Rogers built the first tavern, after- 
wards Gotham Corners, and, finally, Crane's Corners, till 
the establishment of the mail-route. The following persons 
were among the early settlers: Lewis St. Oars, M. (lardi- 
nier, Hiram Biitton, John Potter, John Minard, Jacob St. 
Oars, Silas Mosier, Eli Wethey, Horatio Humphrey, Ham- 
ilton C. Wallace, Samuel Dillen, Jerome Wethey, Daniel 
Corse, Charles Cummins, Dyer Pierce, Curtis, Wheeler, 
Campbell, and Carpenter. 

TIIK FIRST GRISTMILL. 

A flour- and grain-mill was of prime consequence to the 
settlers, and one of the first things looked after. John B. 
Esselstyn once carried a bushel of corn on his back to 
Chaumont, had it ground, and brought the meal home in 
the same manner. This was not an uncommon feat when 
the road would not permit a trip with a horse. The first 
mill in Cape Vincent was built on Kent's Creek. Nego- 
tiations were begun for a site as early as 1803. In a letter 
written to Mr. R. M. Esselstyn by Mr. Le Ray, he was 
oflfcred a " mill-seat and twenty-five acres" of land at four 
dollars per acre, unless during the year of erecting the mill 
a town should spring up around it, when, added Le Ray, I 
should feel '■ at liberty to break the pre.sent bargain." A 
mill was not built so early as this year or the next. The 
Esselstyn brothers and Henry Ainsworth were the only 
merchants here for many of the first years. Goods brought 
from New York in a month, so late as 1820, made a quick 
passage. Sometimes Mr. Esselstyn would go in a lumber- 
wagon to Hudson, his wife accompanying him, and bring 
home such mereliandisc as had been tran.sported for him to 
that point on a sloop from the metropolis. During one of 
these overland trips he carried a heavy bag of specie under 
some straw on the bottom of his wagon. Wlienever he 
stopped for the night he would carelessly throw his harness 
over the straw and bag, — either to disarm suspicion or else 
to teach our generation that the former times were better 
than these. On another occasion he wmte home of his 
splendid ride on the ''Clermont," of Rolieit Fulton (140 
feet keel and IG] feet beam), the first steam-])acket that 
ever made a successful trip in the universe. This boat, 
wrote Mr. Esselstyn, with entlm.siasm, ran at the nuuveldus 
speed of four miles an hour directly against the wind. 
And it wax marvelous in contrast with those triiis by the 
Hudson liver sloops, when pa.ssengers spent a whole day 
walking along the shore and picking berries to while away 
the time till the wind w;is favorable. 

THE SECOND WAR WITH ENGLAND. 

War w;is declared on the 18th of June, 1812. On the 
20th of the same month General Jacob Brown wrote Gov- 
ernor Tompkins that in his opinion a "strong detachment 
should at once be sent on to Cape Vincent," in order to 
keep Kingston, which was well fortified, and a point from 



HISTORY OF JEFFKHSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



319 



which military expeditions would be sent out by the 
British, " in as much alarm as possible.'' In less than 
tliree weeks after the declaration of the war a detachment 
of troops from this county, and a cotisiderable force under 
Colonel Bellinger, were on the ground. John B. Essel- 
styn, wlio afterwards became colonel, was in command of 
the militia. 

Drafted militia, some from the Mohawk valley, were 
stationed at Cape Vincent, and also a body of riflemen be- 
longing to the comjjany of Captain Benjamin Forsyth. 
Besides thc-^e, it will be seen, from a statement made on 
another page, that a detachment of light artillery and dra- 
goons were among the defenders of this frontier. During 
the winter of 1812-13 a line of sentinels was established 
along this shore and on the ice, fourteen miles in length. 
At this time one Corporal Dean went over to Wolfe island, 
fell in love with a yiuing lady by the name of Button, and, 
like a brave .soldier, laid siege to her heart and captured it. 
Button bay was called after her father. On a still night, 
not long after the .surrender of the fair prisoner, a soldier 
of this line of sentinels called out in loud tones, " Button, 
button, who has got the button 'r"" His comrade next be- 
yond evidently knew, for ho rejilied in the same loud voice, 
" Corporal Dean." And then for the whole sentry stretch 
of ten miles, four above Cape Vincent and six below, the 
Words were Ciiught up by the soldiers, till the air fairly rang 
with reverberations of buttons, Deans, and corporals. 

The soldiers' barracks stood, one building on the corner 
of James street and Broadway, and the other at the foot of 
James street. A building, now used for a school-house, on 
Murray street, was occupied as a hospital. The barracks, 
a store belonging to Henry Aiusworth, another store of J. 
B. and R. M. Esselstyn, two or three small vessels that had 
been built here, the house of Major Esselstyn, which stood 
below Port Putnam, several barns, and considerable lumber, 
were burned by the enemy at diflFercnt times during the war. 
The house and barns of Dr. Avery Ainsworlh, in Pleasant 
Valley, were akso fired and destroyed by the Indians. Gen. 
Wilkinson's army, as well as the troops encamped here, 
burned a large quantity of staves belonging to the Essel- 
styns, to cook their messes and keep themselves warm. 
For this loss of property Congress seems to have granted 
only partial remuneration. In a letter dated January 21, 
1821, Mr. 11. M. Esselstyn complained to Congress, through 
the Hon. W. D. Ford, that the lo.sscs should be met, inas- 
much as they could not have been averted by him at the 
time. He added : " I think 1 have proved to a demonstra- 
tion (^and if I have not I can ) in the case of John B. and 
R. M. Esselstyn, for losses sustained in the burning of our 
warehouse and the property we had in it," that the destruc- 
tion w;is caused by the enemy while the jilacc Wiis " in the 
military occupancy of the government." The unsettled 
claim amounted to SG30.25. 

Other persons also made application of a similar character. 
During the summer of 1813, Mr. Eber Kel.sey went to Al- 
bany to look after payment for " services done and supplies 
furnished" our soldiers. Governor Tompkins was not at 
the capital when this visit was made, and Sir. Kelsey left 
a paper for him, setting forth his claims. Among the 
items specified is one '" for the use of the schooner ' Neptune' 



thirty-one days" in the transportation of troops and muni- 
tions of war. He stated in this paper that General Brown 

allowed him only two dollars per day for the services of the 
schooner, and he thought it ought to be increased to three 
dollars. In closing he reminded the governor that the 
schooner was the one in which " your Excellency sailed 
from Sacket's Harbor to Oswego, last fall," — the fall of 181 2. 
There is another item for " furnishing hay and other neces- 
saries to a detachment of light artillery," as appeared from 
a certificate of Captain Siger and Lieut. Johnson, and or- 
dered ])aid by Col. Jlacomb. According to Captain Jlead's 
certilieate there is also a claim •' for damage done by a de- 
tachment of light dragoons," to the amount of" S71.00, as 
apjirised by John B. Esselstyn, Esq., Elnathan Judd, Esq., 
and Mr. John Nash." 

The plundering and burning of the warehouses referred 
to was done on the sly by British gnn-boats ; and these war- 
boat.s were frequently seer) pa.ssing up and down the river 
in front of the village. Marauding parties, however, some- 
times came to grief, as the following incident illu.strates: 
Just at daylight, one morning, a gun-boat came up the'river 
and stopped at the foot of James street, when the crew and 
soldiers leaped ashore and hurried into the nearest garden, 
where they began to plunder the small fruit and vegetables. 
But the boat had been seen through the gray light of the 
coming day, by a body of Forsyth's riflemen, as it passed 
Port Putnam. Suspecting that the British might land, 
the sharpshooters followed along the shore, through the 
woods, and reached the garden but a few moments later. 
They immediately attacked them, and a skirmish ensued 
which resulted in the cajiture of all the party except three 
or four. Several were wounded and three were killed, as 
the matter is now remembered by one who was living here 
at that time. The {)risoners were sent to Greenbush, on 
the Hudson river, and the dead buried at the corner of 
Broadway and Murray streets. It may be remarked that 
only two American soldiers were killed at Cape Vincent, or 
near it, during the progress of this war of 1812. One was a 
man by the name of Draper, who went over to Wolf island 
with a number of volunteers from among the soldiers, to rout 
a party of Indians who were there watching for opportu- 
nities of theft and scalping. The raid was poorly managed, 
and Draper was left on the field, having been shot by the 
enemy when carelessly exposing himself Some of the vol- 
unteers received trifling wounds. The other soldier was 
accidentally shot by a comrade, who pointed and snapped a 
gun at him, supposing it to be unloaded. The dead man 
was buried some distance back in the forest, and until a re- 
cent period these words might have been seen, cut in the 
bark of a beech-tree, to designate the spot near which he 
lay : " A. Cutler shot by J. Weaver." The burial-ground 
of the woods, where all the American soldiers who died of 
disease were likewise buried, was in the rear of the M. E. 
church, and perhaps half-way to William street. 

The '■ Royal George," a British war-ship of 24 guns, once 
stopped at Cape Vincent, but withdrew without making any 
demonstration. On the 23d of August, 1813, Major Es- 
selstyn was taken prisoner on the State road, near Chaumont, 
while escorting several relatives and friends to a place of 
.safety. He was removed to Canada, held about two weeks, 



320 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



and then exchanged for a British ofiScer of equal rank. 
The British fleet which attacked Saoket's Harbor on the 
29th of May, 1813, was fitted out at Kingston, and on its 
way to the harbor captured a boat, loaded with flour, from 
Cape Vincent. It will thus be seen that this town was a 
point of much interest during the period which we arc con- 
sidering, althougli no battles or other great events occurred 
to draw the attention of the country at large to it. 

This portion of the history should not be concluded 
without recording a most thrilling tragedy which happened 
in a private dwelling that stoou near the corner of Broad- 
way and Esselstyn streets. It appears that a British sol- 
dier had left his Majesty's service and taken his sword in 
behalf of the United States. His name was Moore. Some 
time during the month of Jlay, 1813, a troop of British 
soldiers, having learned that Jloore was at Cape Vincent, 
in command of a small body of American soldiers, sur- 
rounded the house where he was stopping, and demanded 
that he should go back to Canada with them. They waited 
a little time on the outside and ordered him out of the 
house. He refused to come. Then several British sol- 
diers went into the room where he had placed himself, but 
Moore drew his sword and would not be taken. Stepping 
into a corner, he asked for only a fair fight, — his sword- 
blade against their bayonets. His comrades had fled up- 
stairs ; and, single-handed, he actually kept every one of 
them at bay till the order was given to shoot him down. 
It was a cowardly act, and he lived long enough to call 
those up-stairs, as well as his assailants, cowards. The 
bullet, which passed through his body and bedded itself in 
the ceiling, was found a few years ago when the house was 
taken down. 

THE " patriot" excitement. 

This topic is treated elsewhere, and it need only be said 
that no person at the present hour attempts to justify the 
patriot movement of 1838. 

After the United States, as well as the State authorities, 
had pronounced strongly against any action on American 
soil in aid of the Canadians, whoever sympathized with the 
cause ought not to have used the protection of the stars 
and stripes to secretly assist it. The sympathizers should 
have gone into the Dominion, and not have stolen arms 
and held secret meetings here. Many who read these 
words will remember the hunter-lodges, the mysterious lan- 
guage of signs among members of the lodges, the discus- 
sions that were in the night air about attacking Kingston, 
the robbery of the Watertown arsenal, the burning of the 
" Sir Robert Peel" near Wells i.sland, the memorable trip 
of the " United States" across the lake and down this river, 
when the patriots gathered at Windmill Point and the 
delusion came to a quick and disjistrous end. 

the great rebellion. 
During the civil war the State of New York placed 
426,(100 men in the army and navy. Cape Vincent eon- 
tribut<d of this number her full <|uotas. The quota under 
the call of October 17, 1863, was 44 ; under that of Feb- 
ruary 1, 1864, it was 70; March 14, 28; July 18, 56; 
December 11), 40. The guns which battered Fort Simter 
in 1861 were scarcely cold before the loyal citizens of this 



town began to urge the necessity of saving the nation from 
the disgrace which that act was designed to bring upon it. 
On the 6th of August, 1862, a permanent war committee 
was appointed at a meeting of the citizens, which continued 
till 1865. In February of this year (1865) the commit- 
tee reported that $235.85 still remained in its hands unex- 
pended of the money raised to pay bounties. They were 
authorized and directed to use the balance at their discre- 
tion in providing for the families of the volunteers. A 
special town-meeting was held on the 12th of January, 
1864, when it was voted — 263 against 52 — to tax the 
town suflSeiently to pay a bounty of $300 to each person 
who should thereafter volunteer into the service of the 
United States and be credited to Cape Vincent. Previous 
to the appointment of this war committee the volunteers 
received little or no bounty, although small sums were 
given them by individuals as they left home, and they went 
under the stimulation of a patriotism that no man could 
lay to the charge of greenbacks. Nor must we forget the 
meeting of the ladies on Thursday evening, the 21st of 
August, 1862, when arrangements were made for a Union 
festival, which was held a week later, in the freight depot, 
with great success. Several hundred dollare were there 
raised for the purpose of establishing a soldiers' relief fund, 
and this sum was increased from time to time by the ladies 
as the families of soldiers here needed help, or requests 
were made to them for hospital supplies at the front. At 
the preliminary meeting the committee of the village was 
made to include two ladies from each school district of the 
town, whose names are given in the report of the proceed- 
ings. It seems that certain cows and sheep had been 
donated to the ladies for the benefit of the relief fund, and 
on the occasion of the festival they were sold. If we had 
the names of the farmers who gave the stock they would 
be put in this place. 

During the years of the war, large meetings were held 
in difi"erent parts of the town, — four-horse teams sometimes 
starting out of the village of Cape Vincent with banners 
and music, gathering audiences at Milieu's Bay, St. Law- 
rence, or around the steps of the church in French Settle- 
ment, — at which the citizens would endeavor to inspire one 
another with the vital riisponsibilities of the hour. The 
meetings of this village were usually held in Hemlock hall. 
A large crowd once convened in the passenger depot. A 
celebration was held on the Fourth of July, 1863, for Union 
funds; and the energy displayed here through those anxious 
years of blood and suftering, those years when sons went 
from some of our homes never to return, those years when 
it was ;us much a glory and a martyrdom to sincerely fight for 
the liberty of the nation as ever characterized the land of 
the brave, those years which made centennial freedom pos- 
sible, from the grand old river to the great Gulf — the war 
energy exerted in Cape Vincent then must go on record as 
a constituent element of the county and the State, which 
made the town a loyal and patriotic one. 

FIRES AND DISASTERS. 

Cape Vincent has sufl^'ered from fires of which the fol- 
lowing have been recalled: a store, hotel, and barns, built 
many years ago by Mr. Jo-seph Cross, on the corner of Gou- 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



321 



vello and James street ; a saw- and grist-mill, at the foot of 
Gouvello street, belon<;iiig to Tli«)jiliilus Peiignet; the 
foundry of Mr. John Forsyth, in 18C1 ; the railroad wood- 
house and a large quantity of wood ; the elevator on the 
20th of Sqitcinber, 18(!:5; tlic steamer " Watertowii," Sep- 
tember 9, 18G5, when one life was lost; six or seven build- 
ings cornering on Broadway and Market street and running 
cast and north, in the forenoon of February 7, 18G0; the 
shingle-mill at the foot of Rroadway, November the 22d, 
of the same year; a most distressing accident, fifteen or 
eighteen yeare ago, at Kent's Creek, when a block-house 
was completely dostmj'od by fire, and a pnor family by the 
name of Grimshaw were burned with it be^'ond recognition ; 
and more sad thaa even this and all otiicr disasters com- 
bined, contrasted with which the loss of property bears no 
comparison, the burning of the "' Wi.sconsin" oft the shore of 
Grenadier island during the night of May 21, 1807. L;ist 
year (1875) large stacks of grain belonging to Mr. Albert 
Rice, of St. Lawrence, amounting to §11!, 0(10, were totally 
consumed by fire, which was caused by the friction of some 
portion of the machine engaged in thra.shing the grain at 
the time. When the elevator was burned 3G,000 bu.shels 
of grain wore in the bins, only half of which were insured. 
A dwelling-house was saved from the flames a few years 
ago by inces-sant snow-balling. An upper-cabin steamer 
named the " Ocean Wave" was burned near the Ducks in 
1853, and twenty-three lives were lust. 

THE BUllNING OF THE " WISCONSIN." 

But this community never had intenser feelings or more 
sympathetic hearts than was manifested when the propeller 
" Wisconsin" was burned and twenty-four persons went 
suddenly into the presence of God. The last body taken 
from the water was that of Andrew F. Morrison, the engi- 
neer, six weeks after the di.s;ister. The " Wisconsin" was a 
steamer belonging to the Northern Tran.sportation Com- 
pany, and was on her third trip, bound for Chicago. About 
one hundred persons, including the crew and the five pas- 
sengei-s which got on at Cape Vincent, made up the com- 
pany. She left the wliarf not far from half after ten in 
the evening. The night was dark, a drizzling rain was 
falling, nearly all the passengers were in their berths ; a 
half-hour later and many were asleep, when — "Fire! the 
boat is on fire!" rang through the cabins with tliat shrillness 
and horror such as only terror could give the cry. Men 
and women hurried out of their rooms, half dressed or in 
their night-clothes, to find the flames bursting through the 
hurricane-deck and crowding up around the smoke-stack 
like the tongues of fiery snakes, and filling the hatchway 
near the engine, as if mad that they had so little freedom. 
No description of that terrible night can be adequately given. 
Captain Townsend immediately gave orders to head the 
" Wisconsin" for Grenadier island and clear away the yawls. 
Only the big yawl seems to have been of much service, and 
when that was brought abreast of the rail, panic-stricken 
men and women rushed into it, without a consideration as 
to the load it would bear. Seeing the confusion, the captain 
ordered the jawl lowered to the water, and in that position 
it remained till the steamer was beached. Thus fastened 
to the side of the propeller and ijuitc out of sight from the 
21 



deck, they rushed on together, side by side, into the inky 
darkness, leaving behind them a lurid stream of flames and 
cinders, and the victims uttering more than one beseeching 
cry to God for the shore. But the shore w;is death ; for ju.st 
as the steamer struck the beach, .some person in the forward 
part of the j-awl cut the rope which held her fast, the stern 
rope still being secured, when she instantly turned bottom 
upwards, and eighteen or twenty persons were thrown into 
the water. Some might even then have been saved, as they 
were only fifty or sixty feet from land, but the wheel was 
running at full speed, so that every person was drawn under 
by the swell and peri.shed. Jumping over the bow of the 
propeller, the steward, C. 11. Dodge, — all honor to his 
name, — swam ashore with a rope, the end of which he fast- 
ened securely, and then went back and remained in the 
water to assist the remaining pa.sseiigers to reach the island 
and save their lives. jMore than one, in his efforts to shove 
himself along over the rope, dropped off" and Wiis picked 
up by Mr. Dodge. It is believed that no one was lost who 
remained on the '• Wisconsin" and used this rope as a 
means of rescue. On the nest morning, very early, the 
steamer " Watertown," hearing of the burning wreck, went 
up to the scene of death, and soon after returned to the 
village with fourteen bodies. They were placed side by 
side in the freight-house, a coroner's incjuest was held in 
the hotel of the passenger depot, and nearly all the bodies 
were buried in the old cemetery on Market street. The 
loss of Mr. Robert Chisholm's wife and four children, and 
the utter wreck of his fortune and hopes, can never be 
forgotten by this generation. Ten other bodies were found 
from time to time as they washed ashore. Nor must it be 
forgotten to record the special efforts of the Transportation 
Company in bearing the expenses which the accident occa- 
sioned, and especially the kindness of the blanders and 
residents of this village, in furnishing food, clothing, and 
monc}', so far as it wa-s required for the immediate necessi- 
ties of the survivors. All those who were saved returned 
to this village on the following day. 

TUE FERRY LINES. 

The first ferry was established by Abijah Putnam, the 
founder of Fort Putnam, and it extended from that village 
across the big bay to Wolf island. About 1801) the .second 
ferry was started, from Gravelly Point to Hinckley's Point 
of the same island. Eber Kelsey ferried from this side for 
many years, and Samuel Hinckley from the other. For ten 
yeai-s Peter Sternberg controlled a ferry from Carlton island 
to Wolf island. Row-boats and scows were used until 1847, 
when a small steamer, called the " Farmer," made trips fnmi 
and to Kingston, being governed by the demands of freight 
and passengers as to the frequency of her trips. The year 
after the railroad was completed to Cape Vincent the Wolf 
Island Canal was cut by a stock company, in which the rail- 
road and the city of Kingston were intcre-sted, as well as 
private individuals. The " Lady of the Lake" was used as 
a ferry-boat l)y the Cape Vincent and Rome railroad during 
1852, while the '• John Counter" was being built especially 
for the route. The "John Counter" was owned and 
managcHi by the aforesaid stock company and designed to 
run through the canal, but was found too large. She was 



322 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



used, however, during the fall of 1853 and the spring of 
1854, making trips around the head of the island, until 
sold to parties in Montreal. The " Star" took her place 
during the remainder of the season. tJcorgc W. Creigh- 
ton was captain of both the " John Counter" and the " Star." 
In 1855 the steamer " Sir Charles Napier," formerly owned 
by the American lake and steamboat company, was pur- 
chased by Captain Creighton, and commanded by him until 
the .spring of 1858, when Kinghorn and Hinckley organ- 
ized a company, putting the '• I'ierrepont" on the line, and 
following her, at a later date, with the " Watertown." In 
1873, Messrs. Folger Bros, and Nickle purchased these 
steamers. Captain Hinckley still retaining his interest. The 
fine steamers "Maud" and ''Geneva' are now making 
regular trips between Cape Vincent and Kingston. The 
ma.ster of the " Maud" is Captain Theodore Hinckley, and 
of the "Geneva," Captain Coleman Hinckley, Jr. 

The firet ferry-boat from Clapton was a little steamer 
called the " Wren," which commenced daily trips in 18G8, 
and ran two seasons. The " Midge" took her place in 
1870, making the s:une trip as the " Wren," and also going 
from Clayton to Gananoque each afternoon. The "Wren" 
was run by S. D. Johnston, and the "Midge" by John 
Johnston. In 1873 the " J. H, Kelly" took the route from 
Alexandria Bay to Cape Vincent, making two round trips 
per day. She was succeeded in 1875 by the " T. S. Fax- 
ton," which is now an excursion boat, the " Island Belle" 
having taken her jilace the present (1877) season. She is 
a very fast steamer. 

THE CUSTOM-HOUSE. 

The custom-house district of Cape Vincent was organ- 
ized on the 18th of April, 1818. Previous to this date 
Cape Vincent was only a port of entry in charge of a 
deputy, with Sacket's Harbor as the headr|uarters. It is 
now the point where the chief officer is stationed, and com- 
prises the entire eoa.st of JefForson County, Sacket's Harbor 
having been consolidated with the Cape Vincent district 
March 3, 1863. During the period of the non-intercourse 
laws and the embargo, smuggling was a very animated 
business, without much injury to the consciences of the 
people, since they firmly believed that those regulations 
were wrong as well as unnecessary. For many years it was 
an un.settled question whether Carlton island belonged to 
the United States or the Dominion. A quantity of goods 
w:us seized on that territory during the administration of Pre- 
sident Monroe, and more than one cabinet meeting was held 
at Washington to determine what disposition should be made 
of the seizures. In June, 1812, Elijah Fields, Jr., a deputy 
collector stationed at Cape Vincent, seized two schooners 
and. their cargoes — the "Niagara" and the "Ontario" — 
— under the belief that they were engaged in smusglin^. 
After an examination of the case the " Ontario" was released 
for want of sufficient evidence, but the " Niagara" and her 
load were' sold. The fir.st collector was John B. Esselstyn, 
who served the government more than four years before any 
salary was established, and this was started at S250 per 
annum. The exports were comparatively of no conse(iuence, 
before the building of the railroad ; and no record of ex- 
l>orts is made in the ((uarterly report which was drawn up 



just before the running of the regular trains. The next 
report had the item of exports set down at S20,000. There 
are forty-five vessels owned in the district of Cape Vincent, 
of which thirty-one are sail vessels and fourteen steam. 
The tonnage of the former is 4538 and of the latter 598. 
The number of vessels entered and cleared is about a thou- 
sand a year. The exports of American manuf.icturcs 
through the district of Cape Vincent for the last ten years 
have been about §550,000 annually, of which §250,000 
are exports in bond. The imports for the .same time 
have been about $500,000 annually. The imports in 
the fur trade were SI 12,000, and of fresh fish from 
Canada were 700,000 pounds for the year 1875. The col- 
lections for duties on imports, since 18G0, have averaged 
§100,000 annually. The ports of the Cape Vincent dis- 
trict, subordinate to Cape Vincent, are Alexandria Bay, 
Clayton, Milieu's Bay, Three-Milc Bay, Chaumont, Dexter, 
Sacket's Harbor, Henderson, and Sandy Creek. The col- 
lectors of the district have been : John B. Esselstyn, 1818- 
29; Jere. Carrier, 1829-11 ; JudahT. Ainsworth, 1841-43; 
Peleg Burchard, 1843-49 ; G. S. Sackctt, 1849-53 ; Alfred 
Fox, 1853-57; Theophilus Peugnet, 1857-61 ; John W. 
Ingalls, 18G1-G5 ; William Huntington, acting collector for 
a few months ; John B. Carj)enter, 1866-67 ; David Owen, 
1867-71. The present oflScers are Sidney Cooper, collector, 
1871 ; Charles Gardner, special collector; Charles Burnham, 
deputy ; William Grant, N. W. Warren, and N. R. Starkey, 
inspectors. Peleg Burchard was county cli'rk I'or twelve 
years before his appointment as collector. He died at Cape 
Vincent, February 2, 1851, of bronchial disease, aged sixty- 
one years. 

THE BUSINESS OP CAPE VINCENT 

has been largely of a commercial character. Lumbering 
was an important feature in 1809, and during 1810 two 
hundred thousand staves were imjiorted from Genesee and 
Niagara counties. Square timber was also an important 
article of trade, and arJcs were built for the Montreal mar- 
ket. The Esselstyns and Murray were prominent in the 
lumber trade until it was broken up by the war of 1812. 
From 1820 to 1825 it was revived at Carlton island, and 
rafts were numerous. In this connection may be added a 
list of the vessels built in the town, so far as they could be 
obtained. The list is believed to be correct. The first one 
was completed in 1819. The names of the first masters 
are given in italics : 

Schooners: Henry, Juhii Davis; V. Le Raj-, do.; La- 
fayette, Masliii ; Ainsworth, J. Belisle ; Hannah, Peter 
IngiiUs ; 0. P. Starkey, do.; L. Golcr, Lncaa ; Victor, 
RSphij ; Free Trade, Sluillitck ; Chief Justice Marshall, 
Julie; brig. Merchant, T. Phmtl ; schooners, Henry 
Crevoliu, Be? isle. ; John E. Hunt, P. Jiigolls ; Napoleon, 
Crouch; Merchant,./. Harris; Amelia, Sliattiiclc; Ros- 
coe, do. ; Potomac, do. ; brig, Iowa ; sloop, Elizabeth Golcr, 
Cammiiujs; brig, Patrick Henry, W. E. Intjalls ; schooner, 
Montezuma, Smith; Troy; Allanwick ; Globe, Gnlcr ; 
propeller, St. Nicholas, Littz; schooners, Chas. Smith, W. 
E. Ingalls; Algomah, lie id ; Silas Wright, Fidler ; Port 
Henry, J. Jarvis; T. II. Camp, steamer (1876), Waller 
Iforloii. 




mV£RSiD£ HOTEL, F.H. DODGE, Fropriitor . 

PLIASANT RESOKT roH PART I LS , HUHTI NG Off HSHING ON THE S'LAWfffVCE RIVEH. 
BOATS. OARSMEN , HSHINO TACKLC ALWAYS ON HAND ALSO A ORIVINO PAflK ■//ITHr HILL TRACK ON THE C-ffOUNO 

"UlLLENS Day"t0WN OrCAfE VINCENT, J CrrCRSON CO.,N.Y. 




RES, or ALrRED J. HUMPHREY. CUn VINCENT.JEFFERSOU CO.S Y 




Fiis. or F.M.R0GE.FS,CAPLViNC£N7,jLnfHijN Co ;V ) 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



323 



Tlic lumber and timber now brought to this port are 
chiefly from points on tiic bay of Quinto and iho Hideau 
canal. The railroad business has not fallen below SSO.OOO 
per year for the last ten years, and has run over a hundred 
thousand in some instances. Until the present " hard 
times," an iron-ore train ran into Cape Vincent every day. 
Canadian goods are shipped from this point, by rail, direct 
for Europe. The railroad agents have been C. W. Rogers, 
J. S. Nieols, F. W. Deraing, Sidney Biekford, C. C. Case, 
K. N. Moore, Sclh Diekin.son, and J. W. Brown. Richard 
Wall has been in the freight-house since the completion of 
the railroad. The present agent is William M. Johnson, 
who entered upon his duties October 24, 1872. Alvin 
Hall has been ticket agent since 1868. On this branch of 
the road Casey Eldred has been engineer since 1857, and 
Christy DeLaney since 18GS. Thomas Cooper has been 
conductor for fourteen years; and the three last-named 
men have been connected with the road in some capacity 
from the beginning of it. John MeCanley is al.so con- 
ductor, which position he has hold six or eight years. The 
passenger trains the present summer season (1876) leave 
Cape Vincent depot at 9:50 A.M., 4:00 and 5:45 p.m., and 
arrive at I):23 a.m., 3:00. 5:00, and 0:15 I'.M. A palace- 
car runs through to Niagara Falls without change. 

The telegraph business, for the last ten years, has aver- 
aged from three to four thousand dollars per year. The 
express business has averaged §25,011(1 for ten years past ; 
and last year it reached §35,000. The propellers of the 
Northern Transit Company, running from Ogdensburgh to 
Chicago, have secured a business of §19,000 or more, each 
year, for the same length of time. At the present time, 
more than 800,000 pounds of fresh fish are annually 
shipped from Cape Vincent to different parts of the State. 
About two hundred men and about seventy-five boats are 
employed in collecting and .shipping the fi.sh. 

The elevator of E. K. Burnham, which was built in 
1804, after the burning of the railroad elevator, is doing 
a good business. It has a capacity of two hundred thou- 
sand bushels. In carrying on this grain trade, two fine 
schooners — the "L.S. Ilamnioml" and the " Polly Rogers" 
— are employed. The former is commanded by Richard 
Saundere, and the latter by Joseph Saunders. The mer- 
cantile business has been, and is now, more than ordinary; 
there was an extensive stove and iron foundry for many 
years; there have been and are now lumber yards, flour-, 
shingle-, and plaiiing-mills ; while some of the best farms 
in Jeflerson County have been made by draining the low- 
lands. 

A BANKING BlJ.siNESS Was Carried on for many years by 
Otis P. Starkey, who was succeeded by L. S. Hammond. 
The town has been without a bank since the panic of 1873. 

A TOWN Agkiccltulial Society was formed in the 
spring of 1850, which flourished for several years. Its 
rules allowed persons living in Clayton, Lyme, and Wolf 
island to compete for premiums. 

The first telegraph line to Cape Vincent was built in 
lS5(i, and the money was chiefly raised in this town by 
subscription. It wa.s snon after abandoned. Mr. Jo.seph 
Owen built anothor line in 1SG4, assisted very materially 
by A. F. Smitli. Tliis'WMS snid to the I'rovineial Telegraph 



Company in July, 1865, and became a part of their line to 
Oswego and Canada. The Montreal company bought out 
the Provincial company in March, 18G7, which has con- 
tinued unchanged till the present year. C. C. Brown is 
the present manager, and has been in the o£Bce since 1872. 
The Dominion Telegraph Coinjiaiiy opeiu'd an office in 
this village October 9, 1872. Sidney Block, operator. 

NEWSI'APKIIS. 

The Cape Vincent Gazelle was started by Paul A. Ijcach, 
and the first number was dated May 8, 1858. It was suc- 
ceeded by the Fmiilier Pulriot, Jlay 10, 1862. with P. H. 
Keenan editor and proprietor. Mr. Keenan entered the 
army in 1862, when the name of Robert Mitchel appeared 
as editor, and P. II. Keenan as proprietor. In the fall of 
1862, Mitchel ab.sented himself to buy a new stock of 
paper, and has not 3'et returned. The Cape Vincent Euyle 
appeared on the ISth of April, 1872, established by Ames 
and Hart. Hart soon after .sold out to his partner, who 
continued its publication till the spring of 1877, when Mr. 
Ames disposed of the paper to Charles Wood, who is the 
present editor and proprietor. 

THE CAPE VINCENT AND ROME RAILROAD. 

The history of the turnpikes and railroad interests of the 
county is fully given in special chapters, but a brief state- 
ment here seems to be in place respecting this town. The 
first thoroughfare was the State road, which was completed 
from Biownville to Port Putnam in 1803. The turnpike 
was made several years later; and in 1832 a Black River 
company was organized, with legal authority to build either 
a canal railroad from Rome to Cape Vincent, Saeket's Har- 
bor, or Ogdensburgh. But this company did not exist very 
long. In 1836 another act of the legislature granted the 
right of constructing the Rome and Cape Vincent railroad, 
which likewise failed after a few months of struggle. Nine 
years later the matter was again agitated, with more capital 
within reach, more meetings in Kingston, Cape Vincent, 
and Watcrtown, and in 1848 work was commenced at 
Rome, and the last rail laid to the shore of the St. Law- 
rence in the spring of 1852. The first train appeared in 
April of that year amid great rejoicing and hearty cheers. 
Regular trains began to run in the following Jlay. The 
Rome, Watertown and Ogden.sburgh company, which also 
controls the Lake Ontario Shore road to Niagara river, now 
owning and successfully managitig the route, have 3000 feet 
of wharfage on the front of the village. The freight-house 
is 600 feet long, and the passenger depot, including the 
hotel, is 200 by 50 feet. No cars arc run on the Sabbath, 
and no accidents of any moment have ever occurred. The 
financial embarrassment of the times does not affect the 
successful management of the entire line, although it may 
have an effect upon the pockets of the stockholders. 

Twenty-two years ago five propellers connected the Cape 
Vincent and Rome railroad with the Michigan Central at 
Detroit, by mciins of which immense quantities of freight 
were transported to and from this port. The magnificent 
Ontario steamers " Bay State" and " New York" touched 
here every day in their trij) between Ogdensburgh and Lew- 
istown ; and the firry line to Kingston brought the town 



324 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



into direct communication with another steamboat route, 
wliich extended to all the principal landings on the Cana- 
dian side of the lake. 

TEMPERANCE ORGANIZATIONS. 

Public meetings in behalf of temperance were held long 
before there was a formal organization. In 1849 or 1850 
the Sons of Temperance established two divisions, — one at 
St. Lawrence, called the Pine Grove, No. 280, and another 
at Cape Vincent, called the Meridian Star, No. 546. The 
first had a list of nineteen charter members ; the Meridian 
Star also had a good starting. 

The Independent Order of Good Templars was instituted 
on August 24, 1866. The regular meetings have been sus- 
pended, but the charter still remains in the hands of the 
society. It is nearly ten years since any public liquor-shop 
has been kept at St. Lawrenee. 

On March 26, 1877, the " Temperance Reform Club" 
was organized, and its success is said to have made it the 
banner club of Jefferson County. The organization has 
been greatly a.ssisted by the " Ladies' Temperance Aid So- 
ciety," which was formed in the April following. Like any 
border town, Cape Vincent is liable to catch some of the 
drill-wood of the community, but it has never wanted 
stanch temperance elements of life. 

SCHOOLS. 

Schools have been in existence from the settlement of 
the town. Before 1820, F. R. Hasler, a man of education 
and a friend to learning, with children to educate, projected 
a normal .school, but failed to see it established. At the 
present time there are sixteen school districts in the town- 
ship, one of which is on Grenadier island, and another on 
Carlton island. The school in Cape Vincent village is 
graded, and comprises three departments. Select schools 
have been carried on by private individuals. Literary so- 
cieties have given zest to debates and reading. As libraries 
have an educational influence, the Union library, organized 
on August 24, 1824, should not be forgotten. It was of 
much value for many years, but finally discontinued. The 
first tnistees were Gideon S. Sacket, John B. Esselstvn 
Daniel Smith, Stock well Osgood, Philip George, Zcbulou 
Converse, and Roswell T. Lee. 

RELIGIOUS SERVICES. 

The first religious services were conducted by Mr. Richard 
M. Ks.selstyn in his own house. The meetings were held 
eacli Sabbath, nlan the Episcopal service and a sermon 
were read by him, followed by an extempore prayer from 
Deacon Kindall, who was a Baptist. Previous to 1820 
missionaries came into the settlement, and the names of a 
Mr. Avery and a Mr. Flint are still remembered. There is 
still preserved the original draft of a paper stating that the 
first Sabbath-school was started on July 30, 1820 with 
J. B. Esselstyn and Buel Fuller as manan-ers R. M. 
Esselstyn superintendent, and Mr. Ellis teacher. There 
is also the draft of the first constitution that formed 
the " Auxiliary Female Missionary Society of Cape Vin- 
cent." This organization was before that of any church, 
and not far from the date of starting the first town Bible 



Society. The names of the members, signed hv their own 
hand, as the old paper indicates, from which the following 
list was made, were as follows: Charity Esselstyn, Jane 
Forsyth, Hannah Ainsworth, Sally T. Rogers, Delia Essels- 
tyn, Cynthia Rogers, Clarissa Essel.styn, Lydia W. Brewster, 
Hannah P. Esselstyn, 5Irs. Corchran, Rebecca Johnson, 
Abigail Smith, Lucy Kelsey, Tryphena Buckley, Sally 
Fuller, Jemima Merreitt, Lydia Lake, Lucinda Chapman, 
Jane Pator, Lois Hubbard, Mary Hubbard, Laura C. 
Kelsey, Sarah S. Kelsey, Emily Hibbard, Phcbe Greeu. 

THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 

The Presbyterian church began its formal existence on 
March 2, 1823, at the house of Oliver Lynch. Rev. Nuah 
M. Wells, of Brownville, moderated the meeting, and prob- 
ably drew up the confession of faith and the covenant which 
were then adopted. The following eight persons consti- 
tuted the original membership : Oliver Lynch, Abraham 
Morrow, Matilda Lynch, Jane Forsyth, Mary Forsyth, 
Cynthia Rogers, Hezekiah II. Smith, and Amarillis Mills. 
At this meeting Jedediah Mills was received on profession, 
and Oliver Lynch and Abraham Morrow were chosen elders 
and deacons. On the 25th of the next June the church 
was received into the presbytery of St. Lawrence; the 
same day Charles G. Finney, who became the eminent 
revivalist, was taken under its care as a candidate for the 
gospel ministry. In 1824 a large meeting of this eccle- 
siastical body was held in our village. The first services 
were begun in a school-house that stood near the old ceme- 
tery ; afterwards in a hatter's shop on Broadway ; then in 
the ball-room of the Rathbun house ; next in a wheol- 
wright-shop ; and later still, in the upper room of a store 
at the foot of James street, that was burned many years 
ago. On the 13th of February, 1832, the " First Presby- 
terian Society" was organized, with Simon Howard, Henry 
Ainsworth, Michael Myers, R. T. Lee, and James Buckley 
as trustees. The church building was commenced the same 
year, §400 and the lot having been given by Mr. Le Ray 
towards the project. It was occupied the next year by the 
use of temporary seats, and continued in an unfinished 
state till about 1840, when the inside was completed. 

Rev. Jedediah Burchard was the first minister, who came 
in 1824, and during the two years of his ministry increased 
the membership to more than fifty persons. There were 
large accessions in 1850. In 1852, the 3-ear when the bell 
was purcha-sed, the church numbered 135 members. 

The wheehvright-shop, where the canj' services were 
held, was without much underpinning, and stood two or 
three feet above the ground. One Sabbath, while Mr. 
Burchard was preaching very earnestly on the willingness 
of doing whatever God calls upon us to do, he was greatly 
annoyed by half a dozen pigs that grunted and rooted 
around beneath the shop floor. Neither did it ple;ise the 
congregation. Suddenly grace and patience gave way, 
when Mr. Burchard stopped short in his discourse and 
called out, " Rudolph Shepherd, drive out those hogs." 

The ])astors of the Presbyterian church have been as 
follows: Jedediah Burchard, 1824-25 ; services for several 
years after depended upon uncertain finances ; David Smith 
and Lucius Foote were here before 1830 ; Revs. Chittenden, 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



325 



Robins, and Leonard preached before 1839; T. C. Hill, 
1840; H. H. Morgan, 1842; Hugh Carlisle, 1845; F. J. 
Jackson, 1849; A. Crocker, Jr., 1854; George Richie, 
185G; Samuel L. MerrcU, 1857. Rev. S. L. Merrell re- 
signed his charge of the Presbyterian church in June, ISGl , 
and entered the 35th Infantry iis chaplain. He served his 
full term of enli-stment. II. H. Hill, ISlJii; J. B. Preston, 
1865; K. H. Pratt, January, 1871. The present pastor, 
M. E. Grant, commenced his labors in 1877. The present 
elders arc R. T. Lee, Austin Rogers, Jame-s Howard, and 
Edgar Vincent ; the first two are also deacons. The trustees 
are Willard Ainswnrth, W. 0. Horton, William Grant, 
James Howard, and Edgar Vincent. The Sabbath-school 
is in a flourishing condition. 

THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH. 

As already indicated, the fii-st religious services were 
Episcopalian, and conducted by Richard Essclstyn. These 
services were continued with more or less frequency, some- 
times at Cape Vincent, and sometimes at Milieu's Bay, till 
St. John's parish was organized, January 25, 1841, while 
Rev. John Noble was rector. John B. Esselstyn and Ncl- 
.son B. Williams were then chosen wardens ; and Nelson 
Potter, Otis P. Starkoy, Robert Bartlctt, Calvin Pool, Ju- 
dah T. Ainsworth, Robert Moore, Rice Parish, and Wm. 
Esselstyn, vestrymen. The lot upon which the church 
building stands w;is the gift of Mr. Starkey, and contained 
an acre of land. The first interment in the parish ceme- 
tery was the body of Jonathan Howland, who died the 
same year of the organization, at the age of sixty years. 
The building was erected in 1841, and consecrated on the 
second day of June, 1842, with the approbation of Bishop 
De Lancey. A neat parsonage was built not long after the 
church edifice. At the present time, and this has been 
the case for several years past, the rector of St. John's 
parish holds preaching services, every other Sabbath after- 
noon, at Millen's Bay. There is a good building at the 
Bay, which was completed in 1872 by the union efforts of 
the Episcopalians and the Methodists of that place. The 
Methodist class there is connected with the charge of St. 
Lawrence, and has a regular service on alternate Sabbaths. 

The clergymen of St. John's parish have been N. Wat- 
kins, 1841 ; Samuel H. Norton, 184G ; Richard S. Adams, 
1850; John Abercrombie, 1852; Edward Moyscs, 1855; 
Edward Kennedy, 1857; A. M. Lewis, ISGO; W. H. 
Lord, 18G4; N. F. Whiting, D.D., 18G5; J. B. Linn, 
18G9. The present rector is Rev. G. G. Perrine; W. M. 
Johnson and E. C. Kclsey, wardens; -Judah T. Ainsworth, 
E. K. Buriiham, C. C. Brown, G. A. Ainsworth, L. 0. 
Woodruff, John Armstrong, J. A. Scobel, and G. R. Star- 
key, vestrymen. 

THE CURISTI.W CHURCH. 

The first society of this order was formed by Elder 
Jason McKee, who was then living near Stone Mills, in 
the town of Orleans. It was in the fall of 1833. Shep- 
herd Warren and wife, Edwin Tuttle and wife, Joel Turrey 
and wife, Simeon Adams and wife, William Torrey, F. 0. 
Torrey, and Addison Howard constituted the first members. 
Shepherd Warren and Joel Torrey were the first deacons, 



and Simeon Adams the first clerk, which position he gave 
up in 1839, and was succeeded by F. 0. Torrey. Up to 

1840 the names on if,s record-book had numbered one hun- 
dred and forty-one persons. Its pxstors have been xs fol- 
lows, giving the year when they commenced their labor»: 
Elder Ja.s<m McKce, 1833; G. S. Warren, 1835; Lyman 
Smith, 1843, who served two years, and was cliosen a sec- 
ond time in 1850; between 1850 and 1860 Joseph Star- 
key, Jason McKcc, and Elder Green were employed ; Geo. 
R. Torrey was the la-st pastor. 

In 1850 the church numbered fifty members, but no 
services have been held for many months, nor is there rea- 
son to suppo.se they will be revived. The society never 
had a church building, and the [ilaces of meeting have 
been at Warren Settlement, Burnt Rock, French Settle- 
ment, Fox Creek, North Shore, St. Lawrence, Livingstone 
school-house, and Grindstone island, where the present 
organization exists. This denomination was the pioneer 
church in all the above-named places, except North Shore. 
Elder G. 11. Torrey started the first permanent Sabbath- 
school in Warren Settlement, in the summer of 1850. One 
was organized in that neighborhood in 1833, but after six 
or eight weeks it failed. Mr. Torrey 's school continued 
until 1803, and was conducted by himself, e;ieh year in- 
creasing in interest, with the exception of one, and given 
up in 1804, during the time of the civil war. The school 
was strictly a union cfi'ort, and during the Rebellion scarcely 
any other religious meeting was held in the Warren Settle- 
ment. 

THE METHODIST EPISCOPAI, CHURCHES. 

Although the Methodist church was organized several 
years after those already named, yet it was rtiis denomina- 
tion which maintained the firet stated preaching. A class 
was formed not far from 1820, and the first conference ap- 
pointment was that of Seth Green, in 1827. From 1827 
to the present time preaching has been given directly in 
accordance with the plans of the conference, or else under 
the mauagemeut of the presiding elders. During the early 
history of the field, which embraced the northern territory 
of Jefferson County, the (juartcrly meetings were very 
largely attended by people who lived many miles away from 
the place of gathering. The church in the village of Cape 
Vincent was legally organized on October 14, 1851, under 
the ministry of Rev. William Jones, and with a member- 
ship of fifty-five persons, twelve of whom were probationers. 
The names of the original trustees were William King, 
George Akerline, William Esselstyn, Philetus Judd, Asa 
S. Jones, John Hollenbeck, and John Nims. It is stated 
that the property of the society, twenty-five years ago, con- 
sisted of a good cooking-stove, with its necessary pipe and 
furniture. Sabbath services were held in the stone school- 
building on Point street, until the erection of the church 
in 1855. In 1854 a Methodist Sunday-school was organ- 
ized with thirty scholars, and this was after the school es- 
tablished on the North Shore. The parsonage belonging 
to this society was completed two years ago, a portion of 
the present house having been purchased for that purpose 
previous to 1874. Until 1S7G the church received aid 
from the missionary society, but it is now self-supporting. 

The Methodist preachers at Cape Vincent have been 



326 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Revs. Sodon, Erekanbrack, Goodrich, Whit4?, Dvton, and 
Williams, who were here before 1S27, as occasional supplies. 
Seth Young, 1827; Elisha Dewey, 1828; H. Shepherd 
and F. H. Stanton, 1830; R. Everdale, 1SH3; F. H. 
Stanton, 1834 ; 11. Shepherd and J. Irvine, 1835 ; Enoch 
Barnes and A. E. Munson, 1836 ; Orra Squires, 1837-38; 
William Tripp, 1839-40 ; Benjamin Phillips, 1841-42 ; S. 
Slater, 1843; L. Dikins and G. W. Plank, 1845; J. R. 
Lewis and T. B. Brown, 1&46 ; T. B. Brown, 1849 ; Wm. 
Jones, 1851; J. B. Van Petten. 1853; A. J. Church, 
1854; 0. Holmes, 1S55; G. M. Pierce, 1856; J. F. 
Davan, 1858— church dedicated, 1859 ; A. T. Copeland, 
1860; E. E. Kello;_'g, 1861 ; A. N. Damon, 1863; J. B. 
McCullough, 1866; G. P. Kenny, 1868; C. E. Dorr, 1870; 
A. M. Fradenburgh, 1871 ; O. P. Pitcher,* 1874. The 
present pastor is N. M. Caton ; class-leader, William Essel- 
stvn ; trustees, W. W. Shelley, Norman Ross, J. B. Essel- 
styn, E. D. HUts, Philip Marks, William Lanfear, and 
William Wbeelock. 

METOODIST EPISCOPAL CHUKCH OF ST. LAWREXCE. 

The first Methodist clxss was formed with Morris Corn- 
well and wife, Christopher Treadwell and wife, and Mrs. 
Jeremiah Newville, as the orisinal members. This class 
was organized later than 1840 and continued till August 
17, 1868, when the " Second Methodist Episcopal church 
of the town of Cape Vincent" was begun, and the following 
trustees elected : Samuel Dillen, Edward R. Farr, Alonzo 
Walrath, for three years ; Albert E. Rice and Alanson 
Abby, for two years ; and Samuel Swartwout and Russel 
Wright for one year. The house of worship was erected 
in the summer of 1869, and dedicated the following De- 
cember. Previous to the organization of the church, St. 
Lawrence was only a preaching station. The largest revival, 
probably, ever known in the vicinity blessed the congrega- 
tion during the winter of 1874 and 1875, and very large 
accessions were made to the membership. The preachers 
have been D. W. Aylesworth, 1868-70 ; C. Manson, 1871 ; 
S. F. Kenyon, 1872; William Merrifield, 1873-74. The 
present pastor is W. P. Hall, who began his labors in 1875. 

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHCKCUKS. 

It is a matter of r^ret that records concemiDg these 
churches are not at hand for the purpose of a historical 
narrative. The church building at Cape Vincent wius dedi- 
cated in June, 1858, with Bishop McCloskey officiating. 
The church building at French Settlement was given by 
Mr. Le Ray to the society, which now contemplates a re- 
moval to Rosiere. The present structtire ha.s been pro- 
nounced unsafe for use, and a new hou.se of worship will 
doubtless be constructed within the coming year. 

MORMONS. 

Two noteworthy visits were made to this town by Mormon 
elders, in 1833 and about 1848. They assumed to work 
miracles, — heal the sick by miraculous power ; and Patton 

* Mr. Pitcher wu engaged daring the Rebellion as a missionary 
among the soldiers, onder the saspiecs of the Christian Cummission 
of the Young Men's Christian A^sociatiuo, of Washington, D. C. 



and Parish, who were the first visitors, claimed the ability 
"to interpret any language that man could speak." Crosby 
and Brown, who followed these, fifteen years later, attempted 
all manner of wonderful works except to raise the dead. 
The raising of a dead man they prudently never attempted. 
Sometimes they would baptize, and always by immersion, 
in the night. To give a weird character to the performance, 
one of the young converts was baptized in a large well. 
Meetings were held at St. Lawrence and Wilson Settlement, 
and during 18.33 in Cape Vincent. In some instances 
whole families went over to Mormonism, and all grew merry 
as a marriage-bell, — for the more marriage the belter, — till 
challenges were issued for a public debate with any one who 
believed they had no right to as many wives as Abraham, 
or as much divine power as Paul. It happened in 1833 
that Rev. William Moore, but a short time in this country 
from Ireland, was supplying the pulpit of the Presbyterian 
church. He belonged to the Methodist denomination. At 
one of their Mormon meetings Patton boldly advocated his 
supernatural gift of tongues, and challenged any person in 
the house to dispute the claim or the doctrines of the 
Mormon religion. Mr. Moore quietly arose in his seat 
and accepted the challenge. The time of the debate was 
at once arranged, and when the evening came the house 
was crowded at an early hour. Mr. Jloore had agreed to 
speak first, and b^an with these words from the Bible : " 
full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, 
thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to per- 
vert the right ways of the Lord ?" (Acts xiii. 10.) He spoke 
about an hour, showed the difference between the miracles 
of the Scriptures and those of these Mormon advocates, 
and closed by calling attention to Patton's claim, publicly 
and audaciously made, that he could interpret any language 
under the sun. Then turning to Patton he repeated the 
Apostles' Creed in genuine Irish, and told him to interpret 
the same. But not a word could he get from him or the 
other 5Iormon. They were sick. The congregation and 
Mr. Moore waited towards half an hour, but not one word 
was heard in reply. Persons in the congregation arose and 
addressed them, and a listener said that the Jlormon 
preacher finally told Mr. Patton that he dare not under- 
take to speak those Irish words, for if he did it would 
crack his jaws. They left town soon after. 

Crosby and Brown, at St. Lawrence, about 1848, came 
to an end equally uncomfortable. This was done by a 
sermon from a Baptist minister, still living in this county. 
They invited Elder Blount to preach on the promise of 
Christ to give miraculous power to his followers, and to 
show why it might not be fulfilled in their case. He finally 
accepted the invitation. At the appointed time all the 
neighborhood were present. 

Brown and Crosby had very earnestly declared that they 
had cured a sick child by prayer and the laying on of hands ; 
but Elder Blount inquired how it hapjiened that the boy 
finally died, if he was healed bj- them ? These two sorcerers 
had also stated, and their followers confirmed their state- 
ment, that they frequently removed distressing headaches 
by divine influences; but the elder asked why it was, then, 
that they secretly gave a rousing emetic? Perhaps they 
intended to throw the headache out of the mouth. The 



HISTORY (31' JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



327 



Apostle James speaks of anointing the sick with oil and 
praying over them. The Mormons declared tliat they had 
done that very thing in the case of rheumatic individuals 
with instantaneous effect; but the Ha](ti.st minister, who 
had slyly been instructed in the details of the anointing, 
l)roved to the audience that they nearly skinned the back 
of one poor fellow by rubbing it with turpentine and then 
applying a hot shovel. This kind of debating soon cheeked 
the religious wickedness and nonsense, and the next spring 
Crosby and Brown, with a few adherentii, went back to 
Nauvoo. 

CEMETERIES. 

Tlie first cemetery was on the form of John B. Esselstyn 
(the Ha.sler farm), of which there is now no trace. The 
graves have been plowed over. In 1820 there were not 
twenty-five graves iu the village cemetery. It is now 
nearly full, which is also true of the burial-grounds at 
Warren Settlement On the 13th of September, 1875, a 
stock company was formed under the title of the Riverside 
Cemetery Association, with the following stockholders: F. 
A. Cros.s, Gilbert Robbins, John Robbins, Willard Ains- 
worth, Philip Marks, Levi Anthony, I. T. Cross, George 
and William Grant, Norman Ross, Cliailcs P. Morrison, 
John Buckley, William Anthony, and William Esselstyn. 

William Esselstyn, Francis A. Cross, Willard Ainsworth, 
Norman Ross, Gilbert Robbins, and Levi Anthony were 
chosen trustees. The grounds are about half a mile below 
the limits of the corporation, and are beautiful for situation. 

VILL.\OES AND UAMLETS. 

Cape Vincent is beautifully situated on the shore of the 
St. Lawrence river, about two miles below Lake Ontario. 

Tiie streets arc at right angles with each other, those 
of the north and south running down to the water's edge. 

The line of hills in the rear of the village commands 
a fine view of the river and the lake, with the shores of 
Wolf Lsland, twenty miles in length, on the Canadian side. 

Three miles to the northeast are dimly seen the weird 
chimneys of the old fort on Carlton island. The sunsets 
are gorgeous beyond description, and well does it deserve 
the name of being one of the pleasantest summer resorts 
on the St. Lawrence river. The Rathbun House is fitted 
up expressly fur summer visitors, being closed in the winter. 
There is no bar at this house. The St. Lawrence Hotel 
has likewise been full ; both are under the same manage- 
ment. In this connection should be mentioned two large 
camping as.sociations that annually spend the summer on 
their spacious grounds at the he:id of Carlton Island ; both 
are orgiinized, and the ladies as well as the gentlemen do 
some good fishing. In 1852, and for three or four years 
after the completion of the railroad, there was every pros- 
pect of a wonderful growth and business for Cape Vincent, 
but those grciit expectations were not fully realized. The vil- 
lage was incorporated on the 14th of April, 1853, with a 
population of 1218. 

Jere. Carrier, Judah T. Ainsworth, James L. Folger, 
Tlieophilus Peugnct, and L. H, Ainsworth were the first 
trustees. The presidents of the village since that date 
have been as follows: Jere. Carrier, 1854 ; John H. Rose- 
boom. 1855; Otis P. Starkey, 185G ; Zebulon Converse, 



1857; Calvin Fletcher, 1858; Alfred Fox, 185y ; Gideon 
S. Sackett, 18G0; Charles Smith, 18GI-63 ; A. F. Smith, 
18G5; John H. Roseboom, 18GG; Sidney Ainsworth, 
18G7; John B. Grapolte, 18GS; Charles Smith, 18G9 ; 
Levi Anthony, 1870; G. W. Warren, 1871-72; John II. 
Roseboom, 1873; W. M. Johnson, 1874; John B. Gra- 
potte, 1875-76. The officers of the village at the present 
time are E. K. Burnham, president ; John F. Brunot, 
Philip Marks, and J. Albert Scobell, trustees. Since 18G0 
M. E. Lee has served the village as clerk and attorney. 
The postmasters have been, R. M. E.sselstyn, till his death 
in 1822 ; Henry Ainsworth, for a period not known ; John 
Duvillard, 1841-45 ; Otis P. Starkey, 1845-49 ; Augustus 
Ainsworth, 1849-53; Jacob Beringer, 1853-61; Zebulon 
Convei-se, 18G1-65. John Moore is the present postmaster, 
and began his duties in 18G5. The lawyers of the village 
are M. E. Lee and Ezra D. Hilts. The physicians are 
Martin Braun, Thomas Masson, O. S. Smith, H. N. Bush- 
nell, and Philip Cole. 

St. Lawrence Is a village of considerable local business, a 
little back from the railroad. The station is Rosiere. It 
has a temperance hotel, church, shops, and is in a good 
farming region. The postmasters of this village have 
been. Dyer E, Pierce, 1848-56 ; G. W. Fairman, 1857 ; N. 
P. Tuttle; D. E. Pierce, re-appointed, 1859-65 ; W. Jolin- 
son, 1865; Truman Rice, September 1, 18G5-G7 ; W. U. 
Gaige, 1867 ; Samuel Dillen, 1868 ; A. P. Ladd, August 
12, 1868-72 ; G. A. Swartwout, 1872-74. The present 
postmaster is H. W. Reed, who was appointed in January, 
1874. The physicians at St. Lawrence are G. Mason 
McCombs, who is a graduate of Bellevue Hospital medical 
college. New York city, D. E. Pierce, and M. B. Ladd. 

Rosiere is the name which was given to the first station 
on the railroad out from Cape Vincent. It is now but a 
hamlet, with a handful of buildings and a store. The par- 
sonage of the Roman Catholic priest is here, and the ques- 
tion of building the new church at this place is being very 
seriously agitated. It is likely to grow. 

Millen's Bay is pleasantly situated on the river, about 
six miles below Cape Vincent, and was named after one of 
the early settlers. It is also attracting attention as a sum- 
mer resort. There b a Union church building, a hotel, 
shops, and a few dwellings. The post-office was discon- 
tinued a few years ago, — a transaction which has not been 
any source of gratification to the people in this vicinity. 

THE MASONIC LODGE, 

No. 344, F. and A. M., was instituted July 10, 1822, by 
Isaac Lee, installing officer. A petition was made to the 
Gi'and Lodge of the State of New York in December, 
1S21. and was signed by sixteen residents, among whose 
names was that of Count Real. The Masters of the lodge 
until 1831 were as follows: J. B. Essebtyn, elected 1822; 
Z. Converse, 1823 ; Philip P. Gaige, 1825 ; D. W. Slocum, 
1826 ; G. S. Sackett, 1827 ; Zebulon Converse, 1828 ; C. 
Wright, 1830. The last meeting of this lodge was held 
May 26, 1831. Lodge No. 293 was formed July 28, 1853, 
with ten charter members. The Masters have been : Zeb- 
ulon Converse, elected 1853; A. J. Smith, 1859; Z. Con- 
verse, 1862; D. B. Owen, 1864; S. Bickford, 1866; H. 



328 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEAV YORK. 



A. House, 1868; G. R. Starkey, 1873; L. 0. Woodruff, 
1875. The present lodge lias an active memben-hip of 
about sixty-eight persons. The present officers are : L. 0. 
AVoodruff, W. M. ; J. A. Scubell, S. W. ; L. R. Dezen- 
gremel, J. W. ; P. Judd, Treas. ; W. J. Grant, Sec. ; R. 
S. Scobell, S. D. ; W. T. Ebbs, J. D. ; Thomas Mason, 
S. M. C. ; Albert Lcnnon, J. M. C. ; A. H. Miilen, Tyler. 
The officers are aunuiilly chosen, and some of the Masters, 
as seen above, hare been continued in office several succes- 
sive years. 

THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 

This sketch cannot be closed in a better way than by 
adding the account of the Centennial festivities of the town- 
ship, wiitten at the time. The writer said : 

*'At Cape Vincent, July 4, 187fi, the Centennial anniversary of 
American iDtlependence was celebratej with appropriate ceremonies 
in a manner and to an extent befitting the occasion. Promptly at 
twelve o'clock midnight of the 3d, the village was alive with wide- 
awake citizens, young and old. who, from that time until broad day- 
light, kept np an ince^isant noise. Steam-whistles shrieked, all kinds 
of horns blew, chnrch-bells, dinner-bells, tea-bells, and sleigh-bells 
chimed in their mixed melodies. Tin pans and tin pails, brass 
kettles and brass gongs assisted in the music of their appropriate 
parrs. Altogether, it was such an ushering in of the 'glorious 
Fourth* as, the Revolutionary Adams wrote to his wife, immediately 
after the signing of the Declaration, would be appropriate. At sun- 
rise ibe brass gun, transported from the barracks at Sacket's Harbor 
especially for the occasion, belched forth her thirteen notes, — a salute 
in honor of the original thirteen States. Early in the day, upon all 
kinds of land and water conveyances, and on foot from the immediate 
country, came flockiug in men and women, boys and girls, the oldest 
and the voungcst alike full of enthusiasm to 'celebrate* the first, and 
in all human probabilities to them the last, Centennial. Long before 
ton o*clock A.M., the hour advertised for starting the procession, the 
trains and steamboats having arrived and poured out their crowded 
loads to swell the already gathered multitudes, the streets and public 
places of Cape Vincent were literally thronged. At ten o'clock, as 
advertised, and in the order named in the bills, the procession formed, 
by the direction of G. W. Warren, marshal of the day, and under his 
lead, aided by assistants Davis, De Salia, and Bishop, proceeded to 
the railroad depot, the main portion marching down and filling the 
traveled thoroughfare of Broadway, the two other portions each ac- 
companying marching down and filling the broad pavement on the 
sides of the street. The depot, with capacity to scat three thousand 
people, was filled to overflowing long before the procession could get 
in. The exercises at the depot were opened by a few very apjiropri- 
ate and well-timed introductory remarks made by the president of 
the day. Brevet Major-Gencral D. B. Sacket. The Rev. G. G. Pcr- 
rine, pastor of the Episcopal church at Cape Vincent, then led in 
prayer. The prayer concluded, the Centennial chuir, under the 
leadership of Charles I. Gardner, assisted by F. C. Braun at the organ 
and the voices of Mrs. Gardner, Perrine, Eichlebergher, the Misses 
Buckley, Howard, Moore, and Hinckley, Messrs. Howard, Van 
Schaick, Carey, and Hilts, favored the vast audience with a distinct, 
intelligent, and sensible rendering of the national son<^. 

"The Declaration of Independence was then read by R. W. Hig- 
gins, Esq., of Cbaumont, in a very able and eloquent manner, and to 
the entire satisfaction of the most critical listener in that large audi- 
ence of deeply-interested hearers. At the close the reader was warmly 
applauded. This was followed by the Cape Vincent brass band play- 
ing the national airs. 

"An able and eloquent oration was then delivered by M. E. Lee, 
Esq., of Cape Vincent. The expression of thought was suited to the 
Centennial celebration, and the orator dwelt largely upon the achieve- 
ments of our forefathers in the great work of the Revolution, and 
during the formative period of the American Republic, giving them 
also full credit for the results as enjoyed by us at the end of the cen- 
tury. They had planted the seed, nourished and fertilized it in its 
incipient growth; their descendants had cultivated the crop, and 
were cigoying the rich products of their sowing and early husbandry. 



The immensity of the yield after only a century of advancement was 
pointed out by the orator. The bright prospects of the golden har- 
vest before us, if we continue wise husbandmen, were briefly adverted 
to. The orator closed by saying. ' M'^hile we have all this glory yet 
to ifi« we will never forget, fellow-citizens, that our forefathers have 
left us so much to huldj' 

'■At the close of the oration the Centennial choir sang the national 
anthem ' America.' At the request of the president of the day. and in 
accordance with the programme, all the assemblage that could sing 
joined with the choir. Immediately upon the close of the singing, the 
foregoing Centennial history of the town was read by the hittorian ap- 
pointed for the occasion, Kcv. E. H. Pratt, pastor of the First Pres- 
byterian church at Cape Vincent. Though the exercises up to this 
point of time had been lengthy, and somewhat wearisome, as evi- 
denced by the tendency to uneasiness on the part of some in the 
crowd, the related incidents of the history, so deeply interesting to a 
large part of the audience, soon put the assemblage at case and in 
good humor, eager to listen to the * well-lold tales' which the histo- 
rian had so aptly compiled into a Centennial history of their own 
town. The memories of the aged were quickened to *ye olden times,' 
and the ears of the younger were anxiously opened to hear of what 
the fathers had done. From the * symptoms* when the historian con- 
cluded to stop in his delivery, it was apparent the audience would 
have gladly heard the whole. 

" After the history, music ; a generous vote of thanks to the reader, 
orator, and historian: and then, to close, benediction by Rev. 0. P. 
Pitcher, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal church at Cape Vincent. 
The gun boomed out Federal and National salutes. The procession 
reformed and marched to public square for dinner. 

" The afternoon was spent in a yacht regatta and athletic sports, 
with yachts from the Dominion as well as northern Kew York. At 
sundown was fired a national salute. 

"The day of celebrating the Centennial Anniversary of American 
Independence was closed at a late hour in the night by the finale of 
a grand display of fire-works." 

The population of Cape Vincent in 1850, the next year 
after its formation, was three thousand and forty-four, 

E. H. PRATT, A.M. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



JOEL AND LEVI TORREY. 

These brothers were born ia the town of Chesterfield, 
New Hampshire. Joel was bom in 1785 and Levi in the 
year 1789. 

They both came into this country at the same time, and 
settled in the town of Lorraine, in w^hat was called the Done 
neighborhood, before the War of 1812. During this war 
Levi received a commission and had command of a com- 
pany of men, and was at different points on the St. Law- 
rence river, from Cape Vincent to Oirdensburgh, in which 
he served his country with honor. We thinlw at or near 
the close of the war he received the commission of colonel ; 
and we presume there are persons yet living in this county 
who served under him. Some time afler the war closed, 
in the early part of his life, he taught school in diflFerent 
parts of this county ; and as a teacher he was very success- 
ful. He finally settled in the village of Brownville. Was 
a brick-maker by trade, and made the brick for his house, 
which stands yet on the upper side of the village, the walls, 
to appearance, as unbroken as ever. While living here he 
had born to him, by his fii-st wife, five daughters, all of 
whom survive him. He filled many places of honored trust, 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



329 



and his integrity in doing business was never questioned. 
He was employed by John La Farge to survey Penet's 
Square, which was a tract of hind ten miles square, the 
greater portion of which lies in the town of Orleans. In 
this business he was very successful, and his name is in our 
County Clerk's office perhaps more times than any other 
man that ever lived here ; and we believe he was the first 
surveyor in this county that ran his line by back-sights, 
thus overcoming local attraction. He was very particular 
and precise, as every one knows that ever carried chain fur 
him ; strictly honest in this as in all his business, he aimed 
at justice to all parties, and owing to this he was called 
upon to settle a great many disputed lines. 

We think it was in the year 18:52 he lost his most accom- 
plished wife by cholera, which blow fell heavily upon him. 
It was a sickly time, and he took his children and went to 
visit his brother, Joel, who had a j-ear before moved into 
the woods, in the then town of Lyme. His health being 
recruited, he returned to Brownville. Afterwards he married 
the second time, and the same year moved into the Warren 
Settlement, where his sixth daughter was born. Here he 
owned fifty acres of good land, which, with his surveying, 
furnit;hed a good living until the year 1S57, when he, with 
his two sons-in-law and his entire family, except one, moved 
into Adams county, Wisconsin, where he was chosen as 
county surveyor. He resided there until three years ago, 
when he went with his second widowed daughter, Mrs. Elvira 
Hill, to Jlinnosota, to visit some of his children ; and here, 
at their solicitation, he remained and closed his long and 
eventful life, October 18, 187.5, at the residence of his son- 
in-law, Hon. L. Cook, after an illness of twelve days, at the 
advanced age of 86, leaving his second wife and all his 
children to mourn his loss. 

In his politics he was an old-line Whiir, inclined to the ' 
Silver-Grays, opposed for some time to any movement ' 
against slavery. But when the first Republican platform 
was made he stepped sf|uare upon it, and labored with all 
his influence to see its noble principles carried out and 
maintained. In the early years of this county he was one 
of the most useful and reliable men ; he was elected con- 
stable six years in succession. Such was the confidence 
the people had in his ability and honesty that he was 
intrusted with the finances of many of his neighbors and 
acquaiutances. He possessed a very social nature ; he would 
take and give a good joke with as much pleasure as any 
person we ever knew, and his square, hearty laugh must 
be well remembered by all who had the pleasure of his 
acquaintance. 

His religions belief was in the universal salvation of all 
mankind ; that all wicked persons would be justly punished 
for their sins, and in the end be restored to the favor of 
God. He lived constantly in this faith. He was one of 
the most tender-hearted of men in all his relations in life. 

JOEL TORRET, 

as before stated, was bom in the State of New Hampshire, 
county of Cheshire, town of Chesterfield, August 31, 178.5 ; 
was married to Eddy Howard, January 17, 1811; moved 
into JeflFerson County, town of Lorraine, in 1811, where, 
November 13, 1811, their first child, John Spafibrd Torrey, 



was born ; afterwards they had five sons and five daughters 
born to thera. He lived at Lorraine at the lime of the 
battle at Sacket's Harbor, and wa-s held as a minute-man, 
and when the alarm was given through this vicinity, he, 
with his neighbors, started for the scene of action, went to 
the arsenal, procured a giin, and went to the battle-field, 
and took his place in the ranks of our army that had com- 
menced firing on the advancing foe. In this fight he en- 
gaged with all liis niight, and became so absorbed that he 
continued until he saw the enemy retreating and our men 
being drawn ofi° the field ; about this time a ball passed 
through his hat, brushing the hair on the top of his head. 
He tarried a little on the field of blood to .see the wounded, 
and the sight was such as to cause him to say he would 
never use the deadly weapon against his fellow-men. It 
was during this war that he made brick in this city where 
the Winslow Block now stands. From here he moved to 
Sacket's Harbor ; started a boarding-house that would ac- 
commodate 300 persons; this was in 1815, just before 
peace was declared. Failing in this, he went to work for 
Abraham Jewitt, in Jewittsville, making brick summers 
and coopering winters. His mechanical genius was first- 
class. At this time all pails, tubs, and buckets were made 
by hand, and he invented a jointing-machine that was a 
perfect success, and aided greatly in the making of pails, 
buckets, and wash-tubs; but he was poor, and before he 
could get it patented the pail-factory was started. Could he 
have had means when he first invented it he could have 
become wealthy. In 1826 he moved to Watertown, and 
for four seasons carried on a brick-yard for Edward Massey, 
where the railroad junction buildings are now. He turned 
off from two to three hundred thousand bricks in a season. 
There must be in the old buildings in this city a great many 
thousand bricks that passed through his hands. He pos- 
sessed an iron constitution, and we think there are but 
few men that performed more hard labor in this county 
than he did. AV'ith all the hard labor and discouragements 
he never lay down in the furrow; full of hope for the 
better time coming, his courage was equal to his physical 
strength. 

In the fall of 1830 he went into the northern part of 
town of Lyme, now Cape Vincent, and took a contract of 
fifty acres of land, all woods, at 83 per acre ; built a log 
house, and the 1st day of March, 1831, moved from Water- 
town into what was then called the Tuttle and Warren settle- 
ment, they having settled there six years before. He took 
with him all of his famil}- except his second son, Levi, who 
stayed in Watertown and attended school. Here he lived 
eight or nine years, cleared up the fifty acres, and took a 
contract of 220 acres adjoining him ; and then sold an un- 
divided half of the whole to Allen Cole, and at the close 
of a lawsuit with Cole he came in possession of 109 acres 
of said f;um. 

It was while living in this neighborhood that he and his 
wife were most useful to the world around them. There 
was a great deal of sickness, and many a day and night 
they left their large family to go and help their neighbor 
that was sick. He was strictly honest in his deal, and he 
never would take the advantage of his neighbors' necess- 
ities. One very dry season he cut some twenty tons of 



330 



HISTORY OP JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



beaver-meadow hay ; the next spriiiir he could get 820 per 
ton, but lie sold it to his neighbors for 810. It was a rule 
with him to do to others as he wished them do to him ; his 
religious creed was the Bible. 

la politics he was an old-line Whig, but he was among 
the first to vote the anti-slavery ticket. He was always in 
the front rank in every moral reform. He used all the 
influence he had against whatever he thought wrong, in 
church or state; for this cause he had some bitter enemies, 



but his friends were true and warm-hearted. He aimed to 
satisfy his own conscience, whether he pleased others or not. 
In 1846 he sold his farm of 59 acres to his son, G. R. 
Torrey, and moved to Illinois, in 1847, remaining there 
three years ; a few years afterwards he moved to Geneva, 
Wisconsin, where his wife died in her 73d year. He then 
moved to Minne.sota, where he spent the la.st year of a long 
and eventful life. He died about a year ago, in his 8i)th 
year, at the residence of his .son, F. 0. Tuirey. 





KI-I^I1.\ P. DdlKJE. 



MRS. ELl.SIl.V 1". DODGE. 



ELISHA P. DODGE 



was born on Hiaik ishiinl, in the State of Rhode Island, 
May 10, ISIIO. When he wits three years old his father 
moved with his family, and settled in Exeter, and remained 
there until 1817, when they removed to Jefferson County, 
and settled on Carlton island. At this time Elislia com- 
mencfd life for himself, and, in company with his brother, 
embarked in the lumber trade. This partnership continued 
four yeai-s, when he accepted the position of foreman for A. 
Lewis, an extensive lumberman. This situation he held 
four years, and subsequently he engaged to other parties in 
the same business until 1832, when he turned his attention 
to farming. 

On the 17th of September, 1833, he married Olive Twin- 
cliff, and .settled on the farm now owned by Gilbert Rob- 
bins. The result of this union luis been seven children, 
namely, Eliza R., wife of Henry Fox ; Edwin T., died in 
18T(i: Mary A., wife of Henry Clark, died in I8G7 ; 
Elislia L. ; Adelaide, wife of Nicholas Schell ; Flora, wife 



I of Isaac Cross; Imogcno, wife of Fay<'tte Millen. They 
I moved on to the farm where the widow now resides in 
1832, where he lived until his death, which occurred Feb- 
ruary 14, 1864. He commenced life a poor lad, but by 
industry and perseverance he succeeded in surrounding 
himself with all the necessary comforts of life, besides 
having a very fine farm of 210 acres. In politics he was a 
Republicati, but never .sought or accepted office, being of a 
iX'tiring disposition. He was a close observer of men and 
things, and his opinions and judgment were always respected. 
He was a true, good man, charitable, hospitable, and benevo- 
lent, and when he died be left behind him an unlarni.shed 
reputation. 

We find Mrs. Dodge still hale and hearty, though 
having )ia,ssed the allotted threescore years and ten. She 
is a kind-hearted, generous lady, one whom it is an honor 
to know, and one who is entitled to a prominent place among 
the pioneer ladies of Jefterson County. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



331 



DAVID C. SHULER 

is the son of John and Ilamiali Shulor, and John the son 
of Lawrence Shuler, who was a native of Gernianj', who, on 
landing in New Yoric, was sold to pay his passage. David C. 
was born in Muntgonu'ry county. New York, January 27, 
ISOO. He workud on his father's farm until he became of 
age, when he married Peniila, dau<rhtor of John and Eliza- 
beth Butler, of the same county. They commenced life 
on a rented form, and continued working farms on shares 
until 1836, when they decided to move to a newer county, 
where they could purchase and cultivate their own land. 
They arrived in Jeflcr.^on County, March 27, 1836, and 
located on the farm whore Mr. S. now resides. The family 
then consisted of five children. He purch;i.sed fifty acres 
of land, — timbered, with the exception of about fifteen 
acres, — on which was a small house, aptly designated a 
" shanty." He has added to the farm by subsequent pur- 
chases until he now possesses 150 acres, under a state of 
good cultivation. They had a family of nine children, of 
whom six survive, who are ail settled in life, namely : 

Ann, wife of John Becker; Caroline, wife of William 
Becker; Jeremiah, now living on the old homestead, and 
is one of the most successful farmers in the town ; Han- 
nah, wife of George H. Klock ; Sarah, wife of Theron 
Klock ; John, now engaged in farming in Texas. One of 



the deceased daughters, Lydia, lived to be twenty-two 
years of age, and her demise was lamented by a large 
circle of friends and acquaintances. Mrs. Shuler died on 
the 2'Jth of August, 1840; and her death cast a gloom 
over the family, for she was a dutiful wife and a kind 
and affectionate mother. 

Mrs. Shuler united in marriage with his present wife, 
Mrs. Elizabeth Lnadawick, March 2, 1843. She is a lady 
of excellent household abilities, and lias been a good mother 
to the children. He is a man who has alteiidcd strictly to 
his business, — that of farming. Has had little to do with 
politics, and less with outside speculations. He has ex- 
perienced the usual hardships of pioneer life, and being 
now in his seventy-seventh year, and having an excellent 
memory, he can tell those experiences and incidents of his 
life in a very interesting manner. He crossed the St. 
Lawrence to Kingston in 1836 to buy seed, and he avers 
that there was only about enough water in the river to 
form the ice for a sleigh to run on. He never saw the 
water so low since. lie can also remember when he sold 
No. 1 winter wheat in Watertowii for sixty cents a bushel, 
payable in merchandise, money in those days being diffi- 
cult to procure. He is a man of excellent judgment, un- 
usual intclligonce, and indisjiutable integrity, — in fine, a 
man who is an ornament to his town and a blessing to 
humanity. 



-n ywjQr' c t^ 



CHAMPIOlSr. 



Tills town, embracing township No. 4 of the eleven 
towns, was formed from Mexico, by an act of March 14, 
1800, including all that part of the present town of Den- 
mark north of Deer river. It received its name from Gen- 
eral Henry Champion, of Colchester, Connecticut, who was 
one of the early proprietors of this town, and also verj' ex- 
tensively interested in lands in Ohio and in the western 
part of this State. 

The supervisors elected since the organizati<in of the 
town have been as follows: 1800-14, Noadiah Hubbard; 
1815, Wilkes Richardson; 1816-17, Stowell Warner; 
1818-20, N. Hubbard; 1821, Eseck Lewis; 1822-26, N. 
Hubbard; 1827, Samuel Dean. At a special town-meet- 
ing in October, Eseck Lewis was chosen to fill a vacancy ; 
1828-29, Henry D. Cadnell ; 1830-33, Otis Loomis ; 
1834-38, Richard Hulbut; 1839-40, David Smith; 
1841^3, John Pool, Jr. ; 1844, E. Lewis; 1845, James 
C. Lynde; 1846, David Siuith ; 1847, John Pool, Jr.; 
1848, William Vanhoscn ; 1849, D. Smith; 1850, Wm. 
Vanhosen; 1851-53, Benajah A.Lewis; 1854-55, A. S. 
Babcock; 1856-58, Nelson Rulison ; 1859, Joel A. Hub- 
bard; 1860, William J. Bentley ; 1861-63, Daniel Potter; 
1864-67, Wesley Barr; 1868, John F. Peck; 1869-70, 



Frederick H. McNitt ; 1871, Albert W. Iladsall ; 1872- 
74, Minor C. Merrill. At a special town-meeting in March, 
1874, James Sterling was chosen to fill a vacancy ; 1875- 
77, James Sterling. 

The town officers elected at the first iiiwn-mceting, April 
1, 1800, were Noadiah Hubbard, supervisor ; Eli Church, 
clerk ; Timothy Pool, David Coft'eeii, and William Had.sall, 
assessors ; Ephraim Chamberlain, constable and collector ; 
John Ward and Reuben Rockwood, overseers of the poor; 
Solomon Ward, Amaziah Parker, and Elilm Jcmes, com- 
missioners of highwa3-s ; David Coffeen, AVilli;nu Crowell, 
Timothy Pool, and Moses Goodrich, overseers of highwa3's ; 
Levi Barnes, fence-viewer ; Bcla Hubbard, pound-master. 

The following is a record of the first school-meeting in 
town, .as it occurs on the records in the town clerk's office : 

"ChriiU|iion. Oct. 2.1, 1800. — At a regular mceling of the inhabit- 
ants of the town aforesaid it is resolved, that there shall be a house 
erected near a spring, on the road running from Noadiah Hubbard's 
to Daniel CofTeen's, in said town; and likewise resolved, that said 
hoU!<e shall be built with logs, sixteen feet one way, and twenty feet 
the other way. Also, resolved by said meeting, that Daniel Coffeen 
and Noadiah Hubbaid shall act as trustees of said school. 

"Attest, Eli Cm bcb, Tuirii Clerk." 

Champion was surveyed by Moses and Benjamin Wright, 



332 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



in 1797. the former subJividing, and the latter surveying 
anmnd it ; the aroa. aivordiug to M. Wright, was 2G,703 
acres, and by B. Wright 25,708 acres. It was subdivided 
into lots of 500 acres each. 

This town was the first one in which actual settlements 
were begun in the county, excepting, perhaps, Ellisburg, 
which wiis explored with the view of settlement at al>out the 
same time. The following advertisement appeared in the 
Western Sentinel, June 7, 1797 : 

*'Land for sals. Iviog on Black river, in the county of Herki- 
mer, anil State of Xew York. Forty lots of lan>l laid out into farms, 
containing frvtm 100 to 240 acres eaoh. On lumau's Patent, so called, 
in this township, there is about forty actual settlers, and a good grist- 
mill within one mile and ^illegible ... ) on said land. This land is 
of an excellent soil, and the situation convenient and pleasing for set- 
tlers. The subscriber will remain on the land the most of the ensuing 
summer and fall. Terms of payment will be made to aoeommodate 
purchasers. .\lso township Xo. 4, lying on and adjoining Black 
river, about thirty miles from Boon's Mills: this township is of an 
excellent soil; twenty actual settlers wilt be on this township this 
summer. For terms please to apply to the subscriber, who will re- 
side on Inman's Patent, or to Capt-iin Xoadiah Hubbard, of Steuben, 
who is making a settlement on said township No. 4. 

•• Also for sale, a township of land lying on Black river, near Lake 
Ontario. These townships are all l.iid out in lots, and will be sold 
by large or small quantities, to suit purchasers, and the title indis- 
putable. .\lso ten lots of land to be leased on first tract. 

" Leui'cl Storrs. 

•• May to, 1797." 

Settlement was commenced in this town by Ncadiah 
Hubbard, in 17S7, the details of which we give in the fol- 
lowing letter, which was written to Dr. Hough in 1853 : 

"CHiiirioN. June. lSi3. 

" Dr. F. B. HorCiH, — Dear Sir : As you requested some 
months since, I now transmit to you a few of my recollec- 
tions of the early settlement of this county. ... I am past 
the age when most men write at all, being now in my eighty- 
ninth year, and past events may well be supposed to be be- 
coming dimmed by reason of age, and more like a dream 
than a reality ; yet I have been, and am, wonderfully 
blessed. both as respects health and the possession of pres- 
ent memory, — some of the choicest git^s of a kind Provi- 
dence. All. the companions of my early youth and of my 
more mature years have passed away, and I am left alone 
to tell the tale. Yet not alone as it respects friends. 
Others have risen up aiuund me to take the place, in some 
measure, of those that are gone. Of the friends of my 
early manhood's years I often feel to exclaim, ' Where are 
they ?' And echo answers, ' Where are they ?' Gone to 
that ' bourne from whence no traveler returns.' The origi- 
nal land-holders, even, of all this region of country are 
passed away, and have left no trace or name save in the 
title-deeds. I have not very many records of those early 
days ; so full of life and bustle were they that little time 
was left to record their stirring events ; yet some I have, 
and when I give you dates at all they are from memoranda 
made at the time. 

'• I first came to this town. Champion, in the year 1797, 
with Lewis Storrs, a large land-holder, when he eame on for 
the first time to view his purchase. I was then residing in 
Steuben, in what is now Oneida county, but then, or shortly 
before. Herkimer. Mr. Storrs then hired several pack-men, 
whoee business it was to carry the necessary provisions for 



the expedition on their backs. This was late in the autumn. 
We traveled on foot, by what is called the French road, to 
the High Falls on the Black river. This road had been 
cut for the accommodation of the French refugees who had 
made a settlement at High F;dls, and had there a log city. 
Many of these French belonged to the nobility of France, 
who were obliged to abandon their country during the revo- 
lution, in 1793. but who were at\erwarJs permitti-d to re- 
turn when the star of the empire rose upon the Bonapartes. 
Their settlement was made upon what was called the French 
Tract, on the north and cast sides of the Black River, and 
extending a great distance. From the High Falls we 
descended the river in a boat to the rapids, called the Lung 
Falls, now known as Carthage. Here we landed, and in 
two days explored the township, then an unbroken wilder- 
ness. Ou our way down, Silas Stow, then a young man, 
and afterwards known as Judge Stow, of Lowville, joined 
us. On the third day we re-embarked and proceeded up 
the river, and it was two days' hard rowing to get back 
again to the High Falls. As I believe I before mentioned, 
it was late in November, and the night wo were obliged to 
be out we encounteretl a severe snow-storm. To protect 
ourselves from it in some measure, we made a shanty by 
setting up some canchets and laying on poles, and covering 
them with hemlock boughs. We also scattered branches 
upon the ground upon which to lie, and, by making a 
rousing fire in front of our shelter, we contrived to be very 
comfortable. By this time our provisions were nearly ex- 
hausted, and we had before us the prospect of a hungry day. 
But in ascending the river we fortunately killed a duck 
and a partridge ; these being stripped of their feathers in the 
evening, I cooked them for our breakfiist the next morn- 
ing. I prepared them as nicely as I could with our scjiuty 
means ; salt we had none. I had a little pork left ; this I 
cut in small bits and inserted into the flesh of the fowls, 
where it served the double purpose of salt and butter for 
basting. To cook them I set up a couple of crotched sticks, 
laid another across, and from it. by strips of bark, suspended 
my fowls before the fire, where they cooked most beauti- 
fully, and were all in good time partaken of by the com- 
pany with a rare relish. Indeed, Messrs. Storrs and Stow 
declared they had never eaten so gnod. Hunger and a 
limited supply gave a keenness of relish not often expe- 
rienced. 

" In due time we arrived safe and well in Steuben, from 
whence we had started, where I passed the winter. Mr. 
Storrs offered me very liberal inducements to come on here 
and commence a settlement ; so liberal that I determined 
to accept them, though I may say in passing, and then dis- 
miss the subject forever, that he failed to fulfill his liberal 
offers. But, in consideration of those offers, I left my 
home in Steuben. June 1, 1798. and started for this place, 
accompanied by Salmon Ward and David Starr, with fifteen 
head of cattle. We traveled again upon the French road, 
as far as it availed us. This township had been surveyed 
by Benjamiu and Moses Wright the year before, and this 
year Mr. Storrs had engaged Benjamin Wright to survey 
Hounsfield, and on his way there he was to mark a road 
to this place and to precede me. I met the surveyors 
agreeably to appointment at a Mr. Hoadley's, and from there 





\ 



fUiiTo'ar LS WiueK Aurwen'.j 



4 



A. LOOMIS ■ 



fJlRS k. LOOMIS 




Resioenu of MRS.LUCISA LOOMIS. Chaupioh, .V. r. 




RuioEHCE or COL.ELIAS SAGCCh. 



I 




f rOf^MEFf f^CSIDENCC Of Elias Sa&c. 



ELIA6 SAGE 






^^■. 



' -?^!" 






mm^ 






1 ^r 



m. 




ON.jEFFEffsoN Co , N. Y. ( fie. arAcHCs 496) 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



333 



we came on to what is called Turin Four-Corners. There 
was only one log house there then. From there we went west 
about thirty or forty rods to Zaceheus Higby's. There we 
laid down our maps and consulted them, and came to the 
conclusion to take from thence a north course. This led 
us on to the top of the hill, now known as the Tug hill. 

" We were entirely ignorant of the ftice of the country, 
and of the most eligible route to pursue, and therefore 
took the one which seemed the most direct, not knowing 
the obstacles to be encountered. We had before come down 
by water, and on this route there was not even a marked 
tree. It was the duty of the surveyors to precede us, mark 
a road, and chain it. Jlr. Wright started in advance of us 
for that purpose. It was a be.iutiful, clear morning, and 
we followed on, progressing finely until the middle of the 
afternoon, when we came to a great gulf, and an abundance 
of marked trees. We went over the gulf, but could find 
no more trees marked. We then made a fire, and took out 
the stoppings from our bells, and suifered our cattle to feed 
around the fire while we set ourselves to search for marked 
trees, over the gulfs, and up and down, but could find no 
place to cross, or marks by which to determine what course 
the surveyors had taken. In this predicament we prepared 
to construct a shelter for the night, of hemlock boughs, etc. 

" The next morning the sun came up clear and bright, 
and I called a council. I told the men how much damage 
it would be to me to return, how great a loss not to pro- 
ceed, and asked them if they were willing to come on. 
David Starr replied that he would go to h — 1 if I would. 
Though no way desirous of going to the latter place, even 
in good company, I determined to come on, if such a thing 
were possible without a compa.ss or guide. We then set 
ourselves to work and felled trees, with which we made an 
inclosure, into which we drove our cattle, and then shoved 
them down the precipice one after another. They went up 
slantingly ou the other side, and much better than we got 
them down, so that finally they were all safely over, after 
much toil and trouble. I then agreed to pilot the com- 
pany down ; took off the ox-bell, and carried it in my hand, 
leading the way, and steering a north course by the sun and 
watch. We had to cross a number of gulfs and one wind- 
fall, which was the worst of all. We continued to travel 
upon the summit of the hill, where we found much fine 
table-land. The cattle would travel as fast as I could lead 
the way. One man drove them and another followed, axe 
in hand, to mark the trees and leave traces behind us, .so 
that if we could not advance we could retrace our steps. 

" We descended the hill before reaching Deer river. The 
latter we struck and crossed above the falls, not far from 
where the village of Copenhagen now stands ; and coming 
on, we succeeded in finding the town-line, which was identi- 
fied by marked trees, not far from where the toll-gate 
now is, on the Champion and Copenhagen plank-road. 
We then changed our course, following the line of the 
Black river, at Long Falls, where we arrived before night. 
We there found W.and men. They had not arrived more 
than an hour before us. When seeing us, Mr. W. ex- 
claimed, ' How in the name of God have you got here ?' 
I replied, 'You scoundrel' you ought to be burnt for 
leaving us so.' It was a most rascally piece of business, 



their leaving us as they did. But I suppose the truth was 
they thought it impo.ssible for us ever to get through with 
our cattle. But this docs not excu.se them for not having 
marked the road ; 'twas for that they were sent, and if 
others could not follow they were not answerable; but their 
duty was plain before them. 

" jNIy boat, which I had dispatched from the High Falls, 
.soon after arrived, with my provisions, yokes, chains, cook- 
ing utensils, etc., etc. The next day we left one to watch 
our efi'ects, while the others were searching for a desirable 
location. In a few days I selected the farm upon which I 
now live, principally for the reason that it was the centre of 
the township, rather than for any peculiar advantages it 
possessed over other portions of the town. Yet the soil has 
proved good, and suflRciently luxuriant with proper culti- 
vation. This was what I sought, a good agricultural 
location, rather than one pos.sessing hydraulic privileges. 
Not one tree had been cut here for the purpose of making 
a settlement, nor was there a white man settled in what is 
now the county of Jefferson when I came here. I was t/ie 
first white settler in the county. 

" I remained here through the summer and until Octo- 
ber, engaged in making a clearing. We then returned to 
Steuben, where my family was to spend the winter. During 
the summer some families had come into Lowville, and Mr. 
Storrs had caused a road to be marked from there to the 
Long Falls, and by that we returned, driving our cattle 
home again. These had become fat by running in the 
woods during the summer, and I sold them for beef I 
would mention here, though rather out of pl.ice, that I 
found a living spring of pure water a few rods from where 
the public-house in this place now stands, which had its 
influence in deciding my location. Near it I built my 

FIRST HOUSE, 

and there I kept ' bachelor's hall' two summers, being my- 
self ' chief cook.' My first habitation was a cabin, erected 
in a few hours' time with the aid of my men. It was a 
rude structure, but served our purpose. M'e set some posts, 
and then, having felled great trees, stripped them of the 
bark, and with this covered tlie roof and three sides of our 
dwelling; the front was left open, so that it may truly be 
said we kept open house. The covering was kept firmly in 
its place by withes of bark. After the completion of our 
house the next most necessary thing was an oven in which 
to bake our bread, for bread we must have, it being the 
staff of life. This was soon made with two logs for a 
foundation and a flat stone thereon ; the superstructure was 
soon reared with smaller stones, cemented tegether by a 
mortar of muck from the side of the spring, and crowned 
by a flat stone. This answered my purpose as well as one 
of more elaborate construction. For a door we split out a 
plank of b.isswood, and for a kneading-trough we again had 
recourse to the basswood, from whence we cut a log of the 
required length and dimensions, split it, and from one half 
dug out, with the axe and an instrument named a houcll, 
— which we had brought for such purposes, — in a short 
time, a trough which answered our purpose very well. I 
brought some yeast with me to make my first batch of 
bread ; after that I used leaven, kept and prepared after 



334 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



directions given me by uiy wife before leaving home. . . . 
We had cows, a plenty of milk, etc. We sometimes washed 
dishes, when we could not remember what we last ate upon 
tlieni, but oftener turned them the bottom-side up, there to 
remain until wauled again. Some even pretended to say 
that wlien our table needed scouring we sprinkled salt upon 
it and j)ut it out fur the old cow to operate upon. . . . 

'• Early in the spring, 1791), I sent on two men to make 
sugar before I came on myself They commenced making 
sugar, and one day went out hunting, leaving their sugar 
boiling. The con.scquence was the house took fire and 
burned down, with all of the little it contained. During 
the winter the Indians had stolen all the cooking utensils I 
had left, and the potatoes which I had raised and buried 
the autumn before. Thus my riches were taking to them- 
selves wings and flying away. I came on soon after. This 
spring Esquire Mix and family came on ; John and Thomas 
Ward, Epliraim Chamberlain, Samuel and David Starr, 
Jotham Mitchell, Sidmon Ward, Bela Hubbard, David 
Miller, and Boutin, a Frenchman, came to Carthage. The 
above were all young, unmarried men, save Mix. We con- 
tinued our labors through the summer of 1799, but not 
with the spirit which we should have done had not a rumor 
reached us of the failure of Mr. Storrs, and the probability 
that we should lose not only all our labor but the money 
which 1 hail advanced for my land. But I will not enter 
into ]iarticulars here ; let it suffice that I could not afford to 
lose all I had done and paid, and consequently entered into 
a compromise with him to save a moiety of what was justly 
mine, of not only what I had actually paid for, but of what 
I was to have had for leading the way in this fir.st settle- 
ment of a new country, and subjecting myself again to all 
its discomforts and inconveniences. Consequently, in view 
of making this my permanent home, I moved my family 
here in the autumn of 1799. 

" AVe had a verj- unfavorable time to come. There had 
been a snow-storm in which about six inches of snow had 
fallen. We were obliged to travel on horseback, and the 
horses' feet balled badly ; we had sloughs to go through, 
and, altogether, it was very uncomfortable traveling in that 
manner with children. We arrived at Mr. Hoadley's the 
first night, and our ox-teams and goods the next day. 
h'rum there we came to the High Falls, where I had a boat 
awaiting us which I had caused to be built for my own 
use. Here we embarked with all our goods and chattels of 
all kinds, loading the boat lo its utmost capacity, so that 
when all were in it was only about liinr inches out of water. 
We spent one night at the Lowville binding, where a family 
were living. During the evening there came a number of 
men, wet, cold, and hungry. Among them was one named 
Smith. He went to pull ofi' the boots of one of his com- 
jianions, which were very wet and clinging close. He 
pulled with all his might, — the other bracing himself against 
liim as firmly as ])ossible. All at once, and with unex- 
pected suddenness, the boot came oflT and ]ioor Smith was 
sent, with his bare feet, into a bed of live coals. There 
was both music and dancing for one while. We arrived 
at the liiing Falls about noon the second day from our em- 
barkation. The weather had by this time become W'arm 
and pleasant. Our oxen arrived soon after by laud. We 



unloaded our boat, put our wagon together, loaded it with 
some of our effects, .set off, and before night reached our 
' wilderness home.' My wife said, in view of the difiBcul- 
ties in getting here, that if she had anything as good as a 
cave to live in she would not return in one year at the 
least. She, of choice, walked from the Falls here, a dis- 
tance of four miles through the forest. We arrived on the 
17th of November, 1799. The weather continued pleasant 
until the 27th, when it commenced snowing ; the river soon 
froze over ; the snow, of which a great quantity fell, and 
continuing to fall, lasted all winter, and wo were entirely 
cut off from all intercourse with the world. I kept fifteen 
head of cattle through the winter by browsing them, and 
they wintered well. Isolated though we were, yet I never 
passed a more comfortable winter. We had a plenty of 
provisions; my wheat — I had raised a very fine crop from 
seed sown in the autumn of 1798 ; and my pork, etc., was 
fatted in Oneida county and brought here by boat. And, 
take it all together, I perhaps settled this country as easy as 
any one ever settled a new country as completely isdated as 
this was at that time, and easier than I settled in Steuben, 
eighteen miles from Utica. At that time we had to go to 
Utica or Whitesborough for provisions, au'l it always took 
one day to go out and another to return, incredible as it 
may seem. In the spring of 1800 people began to flock 
into the country by liundreds, and as my log house afforded 
the only accommodation for wayfaring men, we were obliged 
to keep them whether we would or no. Sometimes, and 
that very often, my floors were strewn with human beings 
as thick as they could lie, some so near the huge fire-place 
as not to pass unscorched ; one man, in particular, it was 
said by his companions that his head baked by too close a 
proximity to the oven. This rush continued two or three 
years, and was full of incident and interest, but at this 
distance of time I can not recall these incidents with suffi- 
cient accuracy to detail them here. 

" The town settled rapidly with an intelligent and energetic 
class of people. The society was good ; it might be called good 
anywhere. Perhaps there was never a more intelligent and 
interesting people congregated together in an obscure little 
inland town, than in this within a few years from its first settle- 
ment. I caTinot state the order of time in which they came, 
but the names of a few of them I will record, that in future 
time, when this place .shall have sunk into insignificance, as 
it too jirobably will, before the greater lights around it, it 
may be known that we were once honored by having in our 
midst .such men as Egbert Ten Eyck, afterwards first judge 
of the court, who was then a young lawyer, and married 
here to one of our beautiful maidens ; Olncy Pearce and 
wife; Hubbel and wife; Judge Moss Kent, brother of the 
late chancellor ; Henry 11. Storrs, who opened an office 
here, and afterwards became one of the most distinguished 
lawyers of the Stjitc ; Dr. Bandy, a Frenchman ; Di's. Dur- 
kec and Farley, and many others, too numerous to mention, 
as well as many ladies of grace and beauty, whom it would 
be invidious now to particularize. Common schools were soon 
established. Religious meetings were held on the Sabbath, 
after old Deacon Carter came into town ; and in a very few 
ycar.s, I think as early as 1805, the Rev. Nathaniel Dutton 
came, lie was sent out by some missionary society at the 



HISTOIIY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



335 



east to form churches in this western world, and coming to 
this place, was invited to remain, wliich he did, and con- 
tinued here until tlie close of liis valuable life, in September, 
1852, and fur the j;reater part of that time was the pastor 
of the Congregational church, which flourished under his 
ministrations, and enjoj'ed many jiuworful revivals of re- 
ligion. 

" A house was built at a very early day on the hill west 
of the village, which combined the double purpose of a 
church and school-house. It was an expensive house for the 
times and ctminumity. In a few years it was burned to the 
ground. The next school-house was also a large one, lo- 
cated across the gulf, on the road to the Great Bend. This 
was also used as a meeting-house. A part of it is still stand- 
in", and is now converted into a dwelling-house. Some 
years later it was deterniincd to erect a church, hut the de- 
tails of this and other movements T presume you will obtain 
more fully from other .sources. " Yours, etc., 

" NoAPt.iu IIdbbard." 

The difficulties attending the early settlement of this 
town and the country generally arc set forth in the follow- 
ing petition to the legislature, dated the third Tuesday of 
February, 1801: 

"Tho memorial of the subscribers, proprietors anJ inhabitnnts of 
Champion, on Blacli river, in tho county of Oneida, in suid State, 
humbly shewcth : That your memorialists', induced by the extraor- 
dinary fertility of the soil, have made an establishment in said Cham- 
pion, and extended tiie frontier settlements of the State in a northerly 
direction from Home to Lake Ontario. That in prosecuting this en- 
terprise, those of your memorialists who have emigrated from Con- 
necticut, Massaeliusctts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and tlic eastern 
parts of this State, iiave not only been sul»jected to tho inconvenience of 
excessively bad roads, but have been and are still oldiged to go around 
by the way of Home to Utica, and through Boone's setllcnients and 
Steuben, a distance of at least forty miles farther tlian it would be in 
a direct line. That frt)m the High Falls, on Black river, on a line 
tolerably direct to Johnstown, and from thence to Albany, on the 
old road, is l)ut 105 miles; but from the High Falls to Albany, by 
way of Rome, is 145 miles. Your memorialists are informed, and 
verily believe, that a good road may be made in tlie direction they 
have pointed out, by wliich all the aforesaid saving in distance would 
be realized. But the ctuintry through which it must run is cither not 
settled at all, or so thinly inhabited that neither the towns through 
which the proposed roa<l must be laid out, nor individuals, are com- 
petent to the oj)ening of said road. Your memorialists would further 
observe that the road would not only be a great accommodation to 
them, but would be of so much public utility as to claim the patron- 
age of the legislature. It would save at least forty miles of travel 
from Albany to Upper Canada, between which places the commercial 
intercourse, particularly in articles of skins and furs, is at present 
very considerable, and is daily increasing. 

" The fur tr.aders from this .'^tate, who have been bound to Kingston 
and the bay of Quinte (from whence a great proportion of the furs 
have been brought), have heretofore been obliged to go through Ver- 
mont and Lake Chamiilain, or through Rome, the Oneida lake, into 
Lake Ontario, and thence to Kingston, either of which routes (as is 
evident from tho map) is very circuitous; whereas the road which 
your memorialists propose would make the traveling for these traders 
as direct as possible. Besides, it is believed that those traders who 
are bound to Niagara would finil the account in traveling the new 
proposed route, and passing from Black river to Kingston, and taking 
passage from thence by water. It must also be the post-road between 
this State and Upper Canada. 

"This improvement in the road will rajddly increase the emigra- 
tion to this part of the country, and eonse<iueiitly the prosperity of 
this part of the Slate. Your memorialist.', therefore, pray your hon- 
ors to tike this case into your consideration, and to ap))oint commis- 
sioners to lay out a ruad from Johnstown, in the nearest direction to 



the High Falls on Black river, and to grant out of a future lottery a 
sum of money which shall bo necessary to ojien a road and make it 
passalile, or in some other way grant relief; and they, as in duty 
bound, will e\er pray, etc." 

This petition was signed by N. ITubliard. Benjamin Pike, 
Jr., Eli Church, Harrison Mo.sely, Timothy Townsond, 
Joel Mix, Samuel Foster, Abner White, Mathew Kemp, 
Bela Ilubbard, Jr., Klisha Jones, William l>avis, :iiiil Wil- 
liam Cruwcll. 

The virgin soil of this town was found to yield bounti- 
fully, and return an abundant increase to the hand of the 
cultivator; but the difficulty of realizing any means from 
the sales uf produce, from the difficulty of getting to 
market, leil to efforts like tho foregoing to obtain aid for 
opening lines of communication, and it was related by one 
who had shared in these privations that once on an even- 
ing, when a few neighbors had a.ssemblcd to exchange the 
news, the subject was being discussed, and one, more san- 
guine than the rest, hazarded the prediction that " there 
were those then living who would sec a weeJc/i/ line of mail- 
stages pass l/iniiii/h the fmon." This prophecy, like the 
dream of Oriental fable, has come and (/one, for within thirty 
years not only weekly, but a daily mail was established, and 
the tiiwn has been placed in direct communication with the 
outside world by the completion of the Carth:ige, Water- 
town and Sacket's Harbor railroad. The 

FIRST S.\W-MILL 

in town was built by William Iladsall and John A. Egglc- 
son, from Greenwich, New York, in 1802, on Mill creek, 
near the line of Rutland, where, several years afterwards, a 
grist-mill was built. 

In 1804, David Coffeen removed from Rutland to the 
west side of the river, opposite Carthage, and in 18I)G built 
a mill on this side of the river, which was the first hydraulic 
improvement at that place. Finding the supply of water in 
the channel insufficient, he constructed a wing-dam partly 
across the river, which was completed by Le Ray upon his 
commencing his iron-works at Carthage. 

One and a half miles from the present village of Cham- 
pion, towards Great Bend, is a hamlet known as the 
" Huddle," where mills and a distillery were erected several 
years before the war. 

It has been intimated that Champion bad been contem- 
plated as the probable centre of a new county. A special 
meeting was held November 13, 1804, to choose delegates 
to discuss this measure, and Egbert Ten Eyck, Olney 
Pearce, and John Durkee were chosen by ballot for this 
purpose. At the same meeting the two latter were recom- 
mended for appointment as justices of tho peace. In 1806 
one hundred dollars were raised for killing the Canada 
thistle, to be expended by a committee consisting of Abel 
Crandall, Olney Pearce, and one other.* Wolf bounties 
of five dollars were offiired in the years 1807-13 ; in 1812, 
a panther bounty of five dollars, and fox bounty of fifty 
cents ; in 1815, a fox bounty of one dollar, and a wolf and 
panther bcmnty of ten dollars ; in 1820, fifty cents for foxes, 
twenty-five cents for young foxes, the wolf and panther 

'^ Name illegible. 



336 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



bounty remaining at ten dollars. Every man was required 
to cut the Canada thistles growing in the road in front of 
his lands, under a penalty of one dollar for each thistle. 
In 1822 a bounty of fifty cents was offered for both old 
and young foxes. While referring to the subject of bounties, 
the following may not be inapplicable : 

The anecdote is related that a magistrate in this town, 
having had an altercation with a leading citizen in Lowville, 
heard that his opponent had offered a bounty of five dollars 
for his head. Feeling somewhat uneasy under this, he 
resolved to ascertain its truth, and made a journey on foot 
on purpose to demand satisfaction or a withdrawal of the 
offensive reward. Upon reaching the place, he found the 
person of whom he was in search in company with several 
others, and not wishing to make their quarrels a subject of 
publicity, he requested a private interview. This was 
promptly refused, on the ground that there was nothing 
between them that required secrecy, and he was told that 
if he had anything to say he might say it where he was. 
He then commenced by repeating the story he had heard, 
and demanded to know whether it was true. His enemy 
denied at once the charge, calling his neighbors to witness 
whether they had ever known him guilty of the folly of 
offering such a sum, but admitted that he might have bid 
twenty shilllnjs, and was very sure he had never gone 
higher. Finding that it was impossible to get this bounty 
taken off, he returned home. We are not informed of the 
result, or whether the reward was sufficient to tempt the 
cupidity of his neighbors. 

JJuring the year 1812 the town was visited by fever 
which baffled the skill of the physicians, and proved fatal 
in nearly every case. 

We have stated that the town was owned at the time of 
settlement by Henry Champion, of Colchester, and Lemuel 
Storrs, of Middletown, Connecticut. On May 12, 1813, 
an instrument was executed between them, by which the 
latter conveyed, for $18,300, his half of the sums due for 
lands in this town and Hounsfield, but this conveyance not 
being delivered during the life-time of Storrs, was subse- 
quently confirmed by his heirs. 

THE VILLAGE OF CHAMPION 

is situated near the centre of the town, upon the main road, 
at the point at which it is crossed by tlie Great Bend and 
Copenhagen (formerly plankj road. It has about one 
hundred inhabitants; two churches, — Methodist and Con- 
gregational; a stone edifice built for academic purposes, 
but now used by the Episcopalian .society as a place of 
wor.sliip; a hotel, owned by Mr. .1. A. Hubbard; a store, 
owned by Mr. M. G. Coughlan ; a blacksmith-shop, and 
a shoe-shop. 

GREAT BEND. 

This village is situated mostly upon the south side of 
Black river, at the base of the peninsula formed by the 
Great Bend, and at the point where the Cha.ssanis line 
crossed the river. Among the first settlers in this portion 
of the town were a large number of Marlins, who came 



from the east, and located upon the road leading from Great 
Bend to Carthage, since known as Martin street. Promi- 
nent among them were Enos, Mason, Timothy, Samuel, 
Harry, and Captain. James Colwell and Samuel Fulton 
located near the village about 1805. 

The first white child born in this portion of the town 
was the wife of Elisha Barr. A bridge was built as early 
as 1804, but was swept off by the spring flood of 1807, 
which was very general in this section, and of extraordinary 
height. It was, however, soon rebuilt. 

In 1840 a substantial covered bridge at this place was 
burned, and a few weeks after an act was passed authoriz- 
ing a loan of $2500 to the town of Champion, $750 to Le 
Ray, $2000 to Wilna, and $750 to Pamelia, for building 
bridges over Black river, among which were those at this 
place and Carthage. These loans were to be repaid by a 
tax, in eight equal annual installments. 

The first mill at Great Bend was built by a Mr. Tubbs, 
who also constructed a dam across the river in 1806 for 
Olney Pearce and Egbert Ten Eyck, who had purchased a 
pine lot of one hundred acres in the vicinity. Henry G. 
Gardner subsequently became interested in the improve- 
ments, and in 1807 the mill which had been destroyed in 
the flood of that year was rebuilt. In 1809 a distillery was 
put in operation, and in 1816 the premises were sold to 
Watson & Gates, who, in 1824, conveyed them to Charles 
E. Clarke. A destructive fire occurred at Great Bend, 
March 5, 1840, by which all of the business portion of the 
village was destroyed, including the grist-mill and bridge. 
The loss was estimated at $20,000. The mill was imme- 
diately rebuilt on an extensive scale. 

INCIDENTS. 

During high water in the spring of 1862 a crowd had 
collected upon the bridge, attracted by the unusual height 
of the river. While they were watching the flood wood 
and timber that were being carried over the dam an old, 
deserted mill, standing a .short distance above the bridge, 
was suddenly loosened from its foundation, and carried with 
such violence against the bridge as to sweep it from its po- 
sition. The greater number of those upon the bridge suc- 
ceeded in reaching the shore in time to avert the accident. 
A son of Mr. Fox, the miller, with Charlie Lewis, a com- 
panion, were not so fortunate. Young Lewis was carried 
down the river for several miles, but finally succeeded in 
reaching the shore. The Fox boy was not seen after the 
accident until his body was found, several weeks later, upon 
the bank of the river. 

On Thursday, January 9, 1873, it was reported that the 
body of an unknovvn man had been discovered on Deer 
Lick creek, on Martin street, about two and a half miles 
from Great Bend. It was a very stormy day, — snow very 
deep, and the weather very cold. The body of the mur- 
dered man was taken to Watertown. In one of his pockets 
was found an envelope directed to " Charles Weiduim, 
Copenhagen, N. Y., care Wni. Davenport," in the hand- 
writing of Charles Sutherland. In the envelope was found 
one hundred dulhirs in national currency. A little cxami- 
inalioM left no doubt in the minds of the officers that the 
body found was that of Weidiaui ; that he had been nuir- 





WW.M COBUf^N , 



tloN.p^Effl^lLL CoBUi^U. 



Hon. Merrill Coburn was born in New Hampshire 
in 1792. He came to Jefferson County in 1816, and the 
following year waa married to the estimable and amiable 
lady who survived him. About 1825 he was elected justice 
of the peace, and for many years after he was very gener- 
ally known as "Squire Coburn," as he held that office, and 
often others, until he declined to serve any longer. In 
1825, Mr. C. was engaged in the wool-carding and cloth- 
manufacturing business at Felt's Mills. About 1840 he 
went to Chicago, where a member of his family was living. 
Here he took a large contract from the State of Elinois to 
build a section of canal. He was eminently successful in 
this, as he was in nearly all of his business undertakings. 
After the completion of the above contract he returned to 
Felt's Mills, and embarked extensively in the lumbering 
business, and those who were burnt out in the fire of 1849 
will remember the enterprise exhibited by him in supplying 
the timber and lumber in time to rebuild. Mr. Coburn 
was one of the first directors of the Union Bank, which 
was founded in 1853 by the late Henry Keep, and be- 
came its president on the resignation of that gentleman. 
He was a prominent and valued director of the old Jeff- 
erson County Bank for sixteen years, and until he resigned 
and transferred his stock to his son, Wm. M. Coburn, who 
was unanimously elected to take hLs father's place in the 
board of directors. In 1851 he was elected to the as- 
sembly, and won the respect of all the members by his 
clear and just expressions of opinion on public affairs. 
Mr. Coburn left three children to cherish, revere, and re- 
spect his memory, for if there ever was a good father he 
was one. His eldest daughter married Charles Fallansbe, 
formerly of Watertown, but now of Chicago. His second 
daughter married Mr. Clancy, also of Chicago. These are 
in the enjoyment of financial and social prosperity. Of his 
son, Wm. M., we write more fully below. Mr. Coburn was 
eminently a frontier man, self-reliant, enterprising, and en- 
ergetic. He was a faithful and loving husband, affectionate 
and indulgent parent, but firm in exacting obedience to his 
rule; a just and accommodating neighbor and citizen, ready 



and willing at all times to do right, never oppressive, but 
ever striving to give a helping hand where worthily needed. 
After a long, busy, and useful life, in August, 1871, he 
departed this life, leaving behind him, in his character and 
works, the best assurances of a blissful hereafter. 

William M. Coburn, son of the subject of the above 
sketch, was born at Felt's Mills, January 26, 1825, and was 
brought up under the strict rule of his worthy father ; 
taught by example and precept to practice strict integrity, 
equal and exact justice to all men with whom he had deal- 
ings, untiring industry in bringing to a successful issue his 
undertakings, and great firmness in maintaining his convic- 
tions of right. As soon as he got through with his edu- 
cation he was admitted a partner with his father in the 
lumber business, with two mills, one at Felt's Mills and 
another opposite the Huntington mUls, with which was 
connected a farm, which he carried on successfully for seven 
years. About 1860 he moved to Carthage, where he prose- 
cuted the manufacture of lumber with great energy. 

William M. Coburn was eminently public spirited. He 
readily entered into any public enterprise with his means, 
time, and talent that promised to advance the interest of the 
county. He took an active part in bringing the Carthage 
and Watertown Kailroad to completion by being an active 
director in its affairs from the beginning. He was also one 
of the founders of the Empire State Life Insurance Com- 
pany, and one of its directors ; also of the Black River 
Fire Insurance Company. He was a director of the Jeff- 
erson County National Bank, and also in the National 
Union Bank, in all of which positions he commanded respect. 
The place, however, where he shone brightest was in his 
home, with his amiable and congenial wife, and his interest- 
ing and promising children. It was here that his generous 
hospitality was enjoyed, and many there be who will long 
cherish the hours spent in his happy home. His philan- 
thropy was a shining mark in his character, and the poor 
and needy will remember him with gratitude. Indeed, his 
memory will be generally revered ; his name honored 
wherever known. 



HISTORY OF JKFFKRSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



337 



dercd, and that Sutherland was the murderer. A party of 
three constables, with Chief of Police Guest, left Carthage 
to secure Sutherland, and reached Joen Dryden's, near 
Copenhagen, after midnijiht. In the mean time, Georire 
Dryden, seeing that Sutherland was strongly suspectcil, 
telegraphed his brother to get Sutherland and bring him to 
Carthage. At Copenhagen, John and Charle.s Dryden met 
him, and started from the hotel to go to Charles Dryden's 
house. He was asked about the murder, l)ut denied all 
knowledge as to Weuham, except that he left him in Car- 
thage about eight o'clock on Monday night, January 6 ; 
that he could clear up all suspicious circumstances in five 
minutes after reaching Carthage. Shortly afler this the 
officers arrived ; Sutherland was arrested, and the party 
started for Carthage. When about half a mile on their 
way the prisoner had a spasm, but denied having taken 
poison. He subsequently had five spasms, and died in the 
last, about three-quarters of an hour after leaving Dryden's. 
Arriving at Carthage, his body was taken into the Levis 
House office. District Attorney Williams, a physician, 
and others were called in, and it was pronounced a case of 
strychnine poisoning. 

Hiram Smith, living near Copenhagen, in L'swis county, 
was afterwards suspected of having been a party to the 
murder, and he was arrested at Copenhagen, October 20, 
1873. An examination was held before the recorder, and 
Smith was committed to wait the action of the grand jury. 

He was indicted in December, 1873. In February he 
was arraigned, and entered his plea of " not guilty."' Messrs. 
Levi, II. Brown and Nathan Whiting were designated by 
the court to defend him. The trial commenced before 
Judge Morgan, in May, 187-t. After a trial which lasted 
for five days he wa.s found guilty, and sentenced to be exe- 
cuted July 24, 1874. Although Smith had made certain 
confes.sions before his arrest, he claimed upon the trial 
that he had been led to do so through representations 
made by others. He protested liis innocence so strongly 
that the governor, at the request of Judge Morgan, post> 
poned the execution until October 23, 1874, and subse- 
quently, at the suggestion of Judge Morgan and District 
Attorney Williams, until December 4. Smith and his 
counsel and friends had thus six months after the trial in 
which to investigate his case. A number of affidavits 
were procured in behalf of Smith, and presented to the 
governor, who heard the ca.se finally on November 5. He 
rendered his decision November It!, in which he said a 
thorough examination of the whole ease left no doubt upon 
his mind of the guilt of Smith, and therefore he could not 
interfere to prevent his execution. He was executed in the 
jail at Watertown, December 4, 1874. 

That jiortion of the village of Grejtt Bend which lies 
within the town of Champiou consists of a hotel, kept by 
William Frodinburgh, a store ki^pt by Daniel McNeal, a 
grist-mill owned by D. B. Sterling, and a paiier-mill owned 
by the Great Bend Paper-Mill Co. 

WEST CARTHAGE VILLAGE. 

In 1834, Jo.seph C. Budd, William Bones, and Benjamin 
Bentley erected a blast-furnace in Champion, west of the 
river, opposite the village of Carthage, which was twenl}- 



six feet square at the ba.se and thirty-two feet high. It 
was run but four blasts, the first two on bog ore alone, when 
it was abandoned in 183G. About one thousand Ions of 
iron were made at this furnace with the cold bUi;st. No 
eastings were made here. The parties owning it had, in 
February, 1833, purchased of A. Champion about three 
hundred and twenty acres, opposite Carthage, which were 
surveyed into a village plat and sold to parties in New 
York, who eau.sed a new survey and a map to be made by 
Nelson J. Beach. The speculation failed, and the property 
reverted to Champion, who .sold it to V. Le Ray. This 
village company procured an act incorporating the West 
Cartilage Iron and Lead Company, with a capital of 
$200,000, in shares of $500. It was incorporated May 
15, 1837. The fii-st directors were Ebenezer Je.s.sup, Jr., 
Chauncey Burks, Woleot Ilubbell, Ebenezer Griffin, and 
Carlos Woodcock, and the company was limited in duration 
to twenty-five years. Nothing was done toward.s carrying 
this into effijct. 

West Carthage, having the advantage of exeellent water 
privileges, is one of the most extensive manufacturing vil- 
lages in the county. There are in operation at present two 
extensive pail and tub manufactories, a map-roller, a sabh 
and blind and a pump manufactory, two planiiig-mills, and 
a tannery. 

RELIGIOUS .SOCIETIES. 

The first regular religious organization in the county is 
believed to have been formed in this town in June, 1801, 
by the Rev. Mr. Bascomb, who was sent out on a mission- 
ary tour by the Ladies' Charitable Society of Connecticut, 
and on that date formed a Congregational church. The 
numbers that first compObcd it were small, and only occa- 
sional preaching was enjoyed until 1807, when the Rev. 
Nathaniel Dutton was ordained. There were present on 
this occasion the late Rev. Dr. Norton, of Clinton, New 
York, Mr. Eels, of Westmoreland, and one or two others. 

Mr. Dutton maintained for over forty years the pastoral 
relation with the church, and became in a great degree 
identified with the rcligi<ms movements, not only of the 
town but county, and was instrumental in efiectiiig numer- 
ous church organizations in this section. The following 
notice, ])ublished soon after his death, was written by the 
Rev. David Sjiear, of Rodman, who, for a period quite as 
long, has labored in the ministry at that place, and whose 
opportunities for knowing the character and worth of the 
subject of the notice were most ample : 

'• I>io(I in Chiiiniiion, New York, Scpt(!nvt>cr 0, 1S,')2, Kev. Natliiiniel 
Dutton, affctl scventy-tlircf years, the first sfltleil minister in Jeffer- 
son County. His parents live in Hartford, Vermont. The son, 
having become pious in early life, devoteil himself to the work of the 
ministry, grailuatcil at Dartmouth in IS02, studied theology under 
Dr, Lyman, of Hatfield, commenced preacliing in 1805 under the 
approval of the Hampshire Association, was sent by the Hampshire 
Missionary Society to labor in the lilack Kivcr country, and in IS07 
was installed pastor of the First Congregational church in Champion. 

" For several years tlicre was almost a continuous revival among 
his ]>cople, with constant accessions to the church. In 1S17 he wit- 
nessed a general revival, which in a few months added IfiS members 
to his church. Abundant as were his pastoral duties, he fre(|ncntly 
visited destitute regions around him, to preach the Word, ami to ad- 
minister the ordinances, and to organize churches. He also made 
himself useful by directing the studies of young men preparatory to 
their college course. But few have jierformcd more labor, or daily 



338 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



exhibited more of the fruits of righteousness. Ilis uniformly jiious 
and consistent life gave great weiglit to his pulpit and otller instruc- 
tii>n3. Jle was a seribe well instructed, rooted and grounded in the 
doctrines of the Bible, and a firm believer in the form of church 
policy he inherited from his Puritan ancestors. He resided with his 
people forty-six years ; and. although the pastoral relation was dis- 
solved several years before his decease, he ever cherished towards 
them the tendcrest sympathy and most affectionate regard, lie 
never ceased his efforts ti> win souls to Christ till couipolIcMl hy dis- 
ease. The Congregational churches of Caithnge and I'hiladclphia 
will long remember his faithful labors among them in his declining 
years. The consociation to which ho belonged have lost a friend 
and counselor and a venerated father. Jiis last sickness was short, 
but distressing, which he bore with Christian patience and submis- 
sion, lie died in the full hope of a glorious immortality. ' Precious 
in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.' " 

A convention of ministers and cliurches assembled at 
Cliamjiion September 22, 1807, voted a proclamation re- 
commending to the inliabitants of the Black River settle- 
ments the observance of the first Thursday of December 
next as a day of thanksgiving and praise. This document 
set forth ill general terms the obligations felt towards Divine 
Providence liir tlie blessings of the year, and advised relig- 
ious services to be performed in the several duirches. It 
was signed by a vote of the convention, — James iMurdock, 
moderator ; Nathaniel Dutton, scribe, — and published in 
the Black River Guzntle, at Martinsburgh, then tlie only 
paper north of Utica. The governors of the State had 
not then adopted the custom of appointing a day of thanks- 
giving, as is now the invariable cu.stom. 

THE FIRST CONGREG.\TIONAL ClIURCU OF CHAMPION 

was formed May 7, 1805, Jonathan Carter, Abel Crandel, 
Joel Mix, Noadiah Hubbard, Joseph Paddock, and John 
Canfield being the first trustees. On July 4, 1807, Cham- 
pion and Storrs conveyed to the town two acres on the 
summit of a hill that overlooks the village for the site of a 
church and a public green, and it was contemplated to 
begin the erection of a church soon after, but the war that 
followed directed attention from the object until 181G, in 
whicli year Noadiah Hubbard contracted to build a church 
edifice, to be ]iaid in the sale of pews; but he never realized 
the cost, five thousand dollars. It was dedicated December 
25, 1816. General Champion had jiromised the town a 
bell, as a compliment for having had his name given to it, 
and this was accompanied by the following letter, dated 
Hartford, September 9, ISlC, and addressed to Noadiah 
Hubbard : 

" The bell for your meeting-house was shippid from lliis place for 
Albany about ten days past. The tongue is made fastened to the 
bell. I expect before this it is in Albany. It weighs a little short 
of eight hundred pounds, and it is said by Colonel Ward to be a very 
good one. The bell they first east appeared not to he as perfect as 
they wished, and of course they broke it to pieces and cast another. 
I hojiu it will arrive safe, and be satisfactory to your society. 
•' I am, sir, your very humble servant, 

" Hk.VIIV Cll AMI'Iuv." 

The first church being In a hlrak and exposed situation, 
difficult of access, and In many respects uncomfortable, was 
taken down in 1841 and rebuilt in tlie vallev. it haviii" 
been completed and dedicated in the I'dl of that year. 

The Rev. Mr. Dutton was jiastor of the church from 
1807 until his death in Se|ilend)cr, 1S.")2. .\t one time 
the chnidi had a membcrsliip of over I'oiir Iniridied. Some 



two or more churches have been organized from this one, 
and with removals and deaths in 1870 the membership was 
only fourteen, after being without stated preaching for seven 
years. In 187{) an effort was made to revive the old church. 
The services of Rev. I. M. C. Dow were secured, who served 
the church for a few weeks, when sickness compelled him 
to leave the field. There was no more regular preaching 
until February 11, 1877, when the services of Rev. W. T. 
Osman were secured. Since then the congregation has in- 
creased in numbers, ten have been added to its membership, 
and a good Sabbath-school been formed. 

METHODIST CHURCH OF CHAMPION VILLAGE. 

The Methodists first organizcHl a legal society December 
30, 1825, with M. Andrews, Wilson Pennock. and Josiah 
Townsend trustees. A second society was formed April 
11, 1827. The sucees.sion of pastors has been as follows 
since 1850: 1850-51, Rev. W. I. Hunt; 1852-54, J. N. 
Brown; 18G4-5G, William B. Joice ; 1850-58, Lemuel 
Clarke; 1858-60, G. J. Jones; 1800-62, S. M. Crofoot ; 
1863-06, G. W. Elwood; 1806-69, M. T. Hill; 1809- 
71, 0. P. Pitcher; 1871-74, James Stouell ; 1874-76, 
Daniel Talford. Rev. C. N. Higby, the present pa-stor, took 
charge in 1876. The church has at present eighty-two 
members. The Subbath-school has an attendance of sev- 
enty-five, and is .supplied with a small library. 

THE METHODIST CHURCH AT NORTH CHAMPION 

is one of the oldest in the town. The church building was 
erected in 1826. This church is connected with the Cham- 
pion charge, and presided over by the pastor of the Cham- 
pion church. It has a flourishing Sunday-school and a 
small library. 

EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF CHAMPION VILLAGE. 

This church was organized about ten years since. The 
old academy building was given to the society at that time 
by the Freema.sons, and the upper room, fitted up for 
church purposes, has been used by the society since that 
time. Services are at present held every alternate Sunday 
by Rev. IMr. Cathell, of Carthage. When organized the 
society consisted of but fifteen members ; since that time 
the number has increased to forty-five. 

CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF WEST CARTHAGE. 

The church was organized March 31, 1835. It was 
voted to call it the " First Congregational Church of Car- 
thage." The Revs. Dutton and Monroe were the organ- 
izers, and the following persons united to form the church : 
Philo Weed, Abigail Weed, C. H. Morrison, Prudence 
Morrison, Daniel and Mary Wilcox, John and Ilepzibah 
Hewitt, Merritt Coughlin, Lucy Nimocks, and Lovica Gil- 
bert. Merritt Coughlin was elected clerk, and IMiilo Weed 
deacon. The church was organized in East Carthage, and 
for a time held its meetings in the stone school-house in 
that village. Afterwards the church moved over the river, 
and held its meetings in the old store near Mr. Woolson's, 
which is now u.^ed as a workshop. When Rev. Mr. Doanc 
])reached in the village of Carthage the church ilividcd,and 
a number of ihe members were organized into the Presby- 



HISTORY OF JKFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



3-59 



terian church now worshiping in East Carthage. On No- 
vember 16, 1852, the citizens of West Carthage convened, 
and organized themselves into a Congregational society by 
calling Deacon Daniel Jackson and Mr. John Vroouiau to 
preside, when Alfred Lathrop, James Mix, Joel Manches- 
ter, Reuben H. Potter, Truman Buck, Ezra Ciirter, and 
Theodoras Buck were chosen trustees. In the previous 
year they had built the present meeting-house. 

The following is a list of the ministers who have preached 
in the church since its organization : Revs. Northrop, IIul- 
sey, Woolcot, Waitc, Jenks, Wheelock, llockwood, I'lacc, 
and Farrar. 

B.VPTIST CIIUKCII, r.llE.VT BE.ND. 

The Baptist church in this town, in 1818, reported 
twenty-five members, and the First Bapti.st Ecclesiastical 
Society was formed October 16, 1826, with Moses C. Mer- 
rill, Elisha Jones, Thomas Campbell, Eli.sha Bentley, Moses 
Miller, Sidney Hastings, and James Thompson trustees. 
There was no house of worship erected in town by this 
order until 18-12, when the church in North Rutland de- 
cided to rebuild at the Groat Bend, and formed a society, 
with Cicero Potter, Miner C. Merrill, Tliomas P. Francis, 
Daniel Potter, and Henry G. Potter trustees, in January 
of that year. In May, 1843, a subscription was drawn up 
for this purpose, and in December the house was cimijileted 
and dedicated. The building is thirty-six by forty-eight 
feet, and cost, with fixtures, fourteen hundred dollars. The 
society is at present without a pastor. 

PHYSICIANS. 

Dr. Eli West (deceased) studied medicine in Castletonj 
Vermont ; attended lectures at the Castleton medical col- 
lege, and graduated at that institution about the year 1816. 
He removed to the village of Carthage the year following, 
and continued in practice at that place for more than fifty 
years. He was twice elected to the legislature from this 
distriet, and held the oflace of supervisor and justice of the 
peace for a great number of years. 

Dr. R. J. Darraugh, of Champion, is a member of the 
College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, Canada. 
He graduated at the Queen's University, of Kingston, 
Canada, in 1866; practiced in Toronto, Canada, until 
August, 1877, when he removed to the village of Cham- 
pion. 

Dr. Ci. D. Hewitt, of West Carthage, attended lectures 
at Burlington, Vennnnt, and at Pittsfield, Massachusetts. 
He served in the army as surgeon in the 18Gth Regiment, 
returned to the village of West Carthage in 1865, and ha.s 
since been in practice at that place. 

We are under obligations furnished by Messrs. Samuel 
Fulton, Mr. Hubbard, of Champion village, and others in 
the town. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



COLONEL ELIAS SAGE. 

The Sage family is of Norman origin, derived from 
Saga-man, the wise man or historian of the tribe. The 



first in English history is found in the battle Abby Roll. 
This roll is that made by William the Conqueror after the 
battle of Hastings, when he divided the English lands 
among his principal followers in 1066, and is, therefore, of 
great antiquity. David Sage came to Middlctown, Connec- 
ticut, from Wales about 1650-52 with his mother, who, 
after his father's death, resumed her maiden name. Eliza- 
beth Randall married Mr. John Kirby in 1652, and afU-r 
his death again resumed her maiden name, as land-convc}'- 
ances executed by her show. David Sage was born 1639, 
died 1703, had four sons, — first, David, born 1665, who 
left no family; John, born 1668; Timothy, born 1678; 
and Jonathan, born 1680. The.se last three cacii had 
families, thus making three principal branches. 

/iVs< Brunch. — 1st, John, b. 1668, d. 1750-51, had 
seven sons, as follows: 1st, John, b. 1696, who left four 
sons, — John, b. 1716, Lewis Samuel, b. 1720, Francis, 
b. 1722, and Giles, b. 1742. 2d, David, b. 1703, left four 
sons,— David, b. 1732, Solomon, b. 1737, Jedediah, b. 
1739, and Zadock, b. 1748. 3d, Benyni, k 1703, had 
three sons, — Benoni, b. 1725, Allen, b. 1728, and Daniel, 
b. 1730. 4th, Nathaniel, b. 1707, had three sons, — Samuel, 
b. 1730,"jcdediah, b. 1732, and Nathaniel, b. 1755. 5th. 
Ebenezer, b. 1709, had two sons, — Comfort, b. 1731, and 
F^benezer, b. 1734. 6th, Comfort, b. 1710, d. 1729, had 
no family. 7th, Gideon, b. 1713, had throe sons, — Gideon, 
b. 1739, Giles, b. 1742, Luther, b. 1746. 

Second Branch. — Timothy, b. 1678, d. 1725, had five 
sons, — l.st, Samuel, d. young, had no family. 2d, Timothy, 
b. 1714, had three sons; Timothy, b. 1743, Ludiah, b. 
1754, Epaphras. b. 1757. 3d, David, b. 1718, d. 1803, 
had six sons, — David, b. 1747, killed in the Revolution; 
Joseph, b. 174S, Noah. b. 1750, Enoch, b. 1752, Ebenezer, 
b. 1755, Abner, date of birth not known. 4th, Solomon, 
b. 1720, had five sons, — Samuel, b. 1746, Seth, b. 1747, 
Stephen, b. 1752, Simeon, b. 1757, and Solomon, b. 1762. 
5th, Ami IS, b. 1722, d. 1759, had five sons, — Amos, b. 
1746, William, b. 1748, Hezekiah, b. 1750, Nathan, b. 
1752, Fjlisha, b. 1755, and two daughters, Mrs. Riley and 
Mrs. Swift. 

Third Branch.- — Jonathan, b. 1680, d. 1712, left one son, 
Jonathan, b. 1711, who had four .sons, — Jonathan, b. 1739, 
Hezekiah, b. 1745, Joseph, b. 1747, and Moses, 1754; 
Joseph, son of Joseph, had two sons, Joseph and John. 
Trace found descendants numerous. There are some still 
remaining in the female line in Cromwell.* 

Samuel, b. 1730 (son Nathaniel, b. 1707), had three 
sons and three daughters, — Enos, b. 1757, Elias, b. 1759, 
Samuel, b. 1763. Elias, b. 1759 (son of Samuel, b. 1730), 
had eight sons and four daughters, — Martin, b. 1784, Ros- 
well, b. 1786, Bernard, b. 1788, Harvey, b. 1794, Elias, 
b. 1799, Nort<m, b. 1804, Wesley, b. 1806, I. William, 
D. L. F., b. 1809, Sally, b. 1782, Hannah, b. 1790, 
Elizabeth, b. 1796, Rhoda, b. 1800. Elias, b. 1799 (son 
of Elias, b. 1759), had two daughters, — Martha I., b. 
1848, and Emily G., b. 1850. 

Colonel Fjlias Sage, son of Elias and Elizabeth Sage, of 



* The dates given are taken from records of baptism, ami may vary 
slightly from true records. 



340 



HlSTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Sandfrsfield, Massachusetts, was born February 27, 1799. 
Tlie family uiuved to Lewis county, New York, in 1800. 
The advantage.s of education were in those days very lim- 
ited, and youiij; Ellas received only such schooling as could 
be procured at the district school. At the age of sixteen 
he was apprenticed to learn the trade of carpenter and 
house-builder, and finished his ajiprcnticeshi]) when he was 
twenty-one years of age. He iiuincdiately thereafter coni- 
nicnccd for himself, by taking jobs, and cuiilinucd in that 
business for almost twenty years, with very gratifying suc- 
cess. As fast as he earned any money he invested it in 
real estate, purchasing his first hind when he was but 
twenty-four years old, and continually- added thereto. 
Having a liking fur agricultural pursuits, he concluded to 
devote his entire attention to farming after he reached his 
fortieth year. Our readers can judge of his success when 
we state that at the age of twenty-one he had only his 
hands and the knowledge of his trade to commence with, 
and now we find him the most extensive land-holder in his 
town, and his home farm one of the finest in the county, 
as can be .seen by reference to the illustration in another 
part of this work. His home has been in Champion since 
1815. Being of a military turn of mind, he entered the 
militia, when young, as corporal in the Fourteenth New 
Y'ork cavalrj'. He was soon promoted to sergeant, and 
step by step until he was made colonel of the regiment, and 
remained such, with an eminent record, for three 3'ears. 

He united in marriage with Miss Hannah White, of 
Rutland, January 7, 1827. She died October 25, 1844. 
He married his present estimable wife, Emily 0. Randall, 
ill the city of Troy, January 18, 1847. Three children 
resulted from this union, two of whom survive, viz., 
Martiia J., wife of Seymour J. Woolworth, and Emily G., 
wife of Chauncey Loomis. We find Colonel Sage in his 
seventy-ninth year active and hearty, possessing a remark- 
ably retentive memory and a judgment as clear as crystal. 
He has been a member of the Congregational church at 
Champion since 1846, and one of its trustees for many 
years. In politics he first aflSliated with the Whig party, 
and on the formation of the Republican party joined in its 
ranks. He always takes a deep interest in political afliairs, 
but always declined to hold ofiice, seeking rather the 
quietude and peacefulnoss of his home and its attendant 
duties, and leaving political preferment to those who 
crave it. 



EL AM BROWN. 

The subject of this sketch was born in Bridgewatcr, Madi- 
son county, N. Y., Dec. lU, 1802. He was eldest son of 
a family of four children of James ami Anna Brown. His 
father was a native of Warren, Worcester county, Mass., 
and his ancestors were emigrants from Ireland, and settled 
in the New England States at an early day. His mother 
was a native of Bennington, Vt , and of French and Eng- 
lish descent, her maiden name being Waldo. 

His mother came to Madi.son county when oidy 18 years 
of age and in the year 1790, and wa.s, therel'ore, one of the 



pioneers of that county, being born in 1772. In the year 
1803 he removed to Champion, Jefferson County, engaged 
in farming, opened a public-house, built a grist-mill, carried 
on the pottery business, and manufactured brick. His 
name is among the earliest settlers of that town. He died 
at the advanced age of 85 years, and his wife and the 
mother of the subject of this memoir died about two years 
after, and in the year 1859. 

Elam worked with his father on the farm, and in con- 
nection with his other business, until he was 40 years of 
age, receiving only a limited opportunity for an education 
from books, but became well schooled in business pursuits. 
In the year 1843 he mariied Miss Mary O. Waldo, daughter 
of Jonathan and Maiy Waldo, of Rutland. Of this mar- 
riage were born two sons, viz., John W. and Charles E. 
Brown. Both of these children are living. The eldest 
married Miss Margaret Ormiston, of Wilna ; have one son, 
viz.. Forest Brown. Charles E. married Jliss Cornelia 
Rose, of Rutland, and lives in the city of Watertown. An 
engraving of his residence, under the portraits of his father 
and mother, will be found on another page of this work. 

Mr. Brown has been a Republican since the formation 
of the party; was originally a Whig; has enjoyed the re- 
spect of his townsmen, and accepted their suffrages in 
electing him to some of the most important offices of his 
town. Was justice of the peace for 8 years, postmaster, 
South Champion, 12 years, assessor one term. He was 
connected with the 14th cavalry regiment, N. Y. S. Militia, 
when only 18 years of age, and was regularly promoted until 
he ranked as colonel. He has been engaged in agricultural 
pursuits and stock-dealing during his whole life. He and 
his wife were of the Universalist belief. His first wife died 
Jan. 25, 1859. For his second wife he married Miss Agnes 
E. Pease, of Rome, Oneida county. But she was spared 
to enjoy his society a few years, and died May IS, 1868. 

]Mr. Brown is a plain, una.'^suuiing man, and has, unaided 
and alone, carved out for himself sufficient comjietence to 
place him beyond the apprehension of want in liis declining 
years. He is now in his 76th year, and looks down to the 
end of life's journey as only a little way. 



A. W. TWINING, 

son of William and Ovarida Twining, was born on the farm 
where he now resides, in the town of Champion, Jefferson 
County, New \''ork, September 3, 1822. His father settled 
on the old liomestead in 1818, coming in from Jlassachu- 
setts. A. W. enjoyed such educational advantages as the 
district schools offered, with the addition of a short time at 
Lowville. His youth was spent on his father's farm, and 
on reaching his majority he worked the farm in jiartner- 
shij) with his father lor a few years. He then purchased a 
farm of seventy-five acres, and has made several changes 
since. In 1858 he purchased the homestead of his father, 
U])on which he has since resided, an illustration of which 
can be seen on another page in this work. In iiolilics he 
has always been a Republican. He is a good jiraeliial 
farmer and a respectable citizen. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 





MRS. NOADIAII lIUIilJAItl). 



NOADIAII 

the pioneer settler of Jefferson County, New York, was 
born in Middlotown, Connecticut, October 11, 17<i5. He 
was the son of Noailiah Hubbard and Phel)e Fairchild, his 
wife ; of Enjrlish ancestry ; descended from George Hub- 
bard, born IGIG, will) emigrated to this countrj', and in 1040 
married Elizabeth, daughter of Richard Watts, of Hart- 
ford, Connecticut. In early colonial times the family set- 
tled in Middletown, and there arc descendants still on the 
old homestead, and the ancestral mansion of brick is still 
standing and occupied by them, and, as the present occu- 
pant says, is good for a thousand 3'cars if kr]it covered. 
The predilections of Noadiah Hubbard were for the sea, 
but after making several voyages to the West Indies he 
gave it up, in compliance with the wi.shcs of his mother, 
who had lost her first husband and eldest son when away 
on a voyage, and therefore could not endure the thought of 
another .so near to her being expo.'^cd to the same perils. 
He spent several winters very happily in Guilibrd. He 
then learned the trade of cloth-dressing, and also attended 
an cvening-scboul. His opportunities for ac(|uiring an ed- 
ucation were limited, as were those of most young men of 
that period. 

In May, 1791, he left the paternal roof to seek his for- 
tune in the west. Previous to this he had been solicited 
by General Wadsworth to accompany his nephews to the 
Genesee country and aid them in forming a settlement 
there on the large tract of land he had purcha.scd. He 
was also urged to join a p;»rty, of whom General Parsons, 
of Revolutionary memory, was one, in forming the first 
white settlement in Ohio, at what is now called Marietta. 



HUBBARD, 

Both these propositions he declined on account of tlie re- 
ported unheulthiness of tho.se localities. 

In New York State he first located at Whitcslown, and 
there burned the first brick-kiln, and made at the same 
time the first lime ever burned or u.sed there. At this 
time there was but one framed hou.se in what is now the 
city of Utica, owned and occupied by John Post. In the 
autumn of this year he bought fifty acres of land on the 
south end of Mr. Leavenworth's farm, supposed to be the 
same on which the Y'ork mills now stand. The ne.\t and 
the following winter he worked at his trade in Jjittle Falls, 
returning to his farm in summer. But having never been 
accustomed to chopping and clearing land he ionnd the 
labor too .severe, and consc(piently .sold his iniprovenients U> 
Benjamin Johnson. This he always spoke of as hLs first 
speculation. After exiiloring the country in various direc- 
tions he finally located in the town of Steuben, and not far 
from the jilace selected by the Baron Steuben for his resi- 
dence. They were neighbors for the short time the Baron 
survived, and he was once called upon when the Baron was 
seized with apoplexy, which so soon proved fatal. (1794.) 

Noadiah Hubbard paid a visit to his native place in the 
winter, and on January 30, 179-1-, he married his earl}' love, 
Eunice Ward, a beautiful maiden, and transported lier to 
his forest home. But previous to this, in 1793, he was 
offered a contract for the construction of canal locks at 
Little Falls, which he accepted ; went to Jliddletown, Con- 
necticut, hired the requisite number of men, procured oxen 
for the work, and whatever else was necessary, returned to 
Little Falls, and his company were the fiist to break ground 



342 



HISTORY OF JEFFEKSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



oil this first canal in the State of New York, if not the first 
in tlie UTiited States. Tiie canal was cut in uno summer. 
Tiie company by whom these locks wore undertaken is 
known in the history of the State as the " Great Inland 
Lock Navigation Company." The object was to open 
water communication between the Hudson river ;ind the 
great lakes by means of the Mohawk river. Wood creek, 
Oneida lake, Oswego river, etc., and these locks at Little 
Falls were necessary around the rapids at that place ; long 
since superseded by the " Grand Erie Canal." (He received 
one dollar a day for his services, and thirteen dollars a 
month for each man, having to board them out of it. He 
paid to each man nine dollars per month.) 

Mr. Hubbard spent several summers on his farm in 
Steuben, but in the autumn of 1707, Lemuel Storrs, a 
large landed proprietor, came there, and induced him to 
accompany him to what is now called the town of Cham- 
pion, on a tour of exploration to the then unbroken wilder- 
ness. (I refer you to " Hough's History of Jeft'erson 
County" for his own account of that expedition, page 121.) 

Sub.se(|uently to this first visit, as an inducement to conic 
to Champion and lead in the settlement of this new country, 
Mr. Storrs offered liini two thousand acres of land on any 
part of the township where he chose to locate, for the sum 
of twelve sliilliiigs an acre, and the agency of all his lands. 
The common market price was three dollars, and for that 
was .sold to the settlers. He accepted the offer, jiaid five 
hundred dollars down, and selected his two thousand acres 
in the centre of the township. Reserving enough for him- 
self, he sold the remainder to various individuals. He 
made improvements and cleared many acres, but, before he 
moved his family, news came that Mr. Storrs had failed, 
and this failure led to a compromise by which he relin- 
quished all the contracts for the land he had sold and 
what remained unsold, receiving a deed for one hundred 
acres only for the five hundred dollars jiaid. The town- 
ship was a valuable one, and they realized a fortune from 
it. I say they, for Gen. Henry Clianijiion, the brother-in- 
law of Mr. Storrs, had stepped in to his relief, and became 
a partner in this land speculation. 

Mr. Fluliliiird continued to act as an agent of various 
other land-holders through a considerable part of his active 
business life, and being an early settler in the county, he 
Was a.ssociatcd in every project for it.s improvement until 
incapacitated by age. An officer in the War of 1812 ; ap- 
pointed judge in 1818; many times acting as supervisor; 
at first having to go to Hutchinson county, and subse- 
((ueiitly to Roni(!, previous Ui the present division of the 
counties; was deeply interested in the finiwitidu and sus- 
tentation of the Agricultural Society, the second one in 
this State. (See " Hough's Hi.story," page 401.) 

He erected the first church edifice in the county of .Jef- 
ferson, and at his own expense, expecting to be reimbursed 
by the sale of the pews; but he never received the first 
cost of the same. He akso erected several school-houses, 
and built the jilank-road from Great Bend to Copenhan-en 
— eleven miles — when eighty-four years old, showing his 
iiidoiiiit:d)l(? energy and perseverance. His private business 
was extensive and various, as well as his public. He was 
one of a mercantile nnii almost from the first settlement 



of the town, though he never gave to that his personal 
attention, further than to go to the city occasionally to 
purchase goods. 




PIIOTU. BY LKWIS, CARTILAGE. 

HIRAM HUBBARD, 

of Champion, the eldest child of Noadiah Hubbard, was 
born in the town of Steubi'ii, Oneida county. New York, 
October 3(1, 17'J4. lie was one of three sons whom their 
parents brought jijirt of the way on horseback to Champion 
in November, 17'.l'.'. From that period to the present this 
has boon his homo. His absences have been i'ew and far 
between. When still a yiuitli he was sent to Fairfield 
academy, Herkimer county. In the year 1812 the typhoid 
fever was epidemic in Championand very I'atal; many heads 
of families were swept away, and among them his uncle 
Stephen Hubbard, a man esteemed in every relation of life. 
He was the manager of the mercantile firm of N. & S. 
Hubbard. Upon his death it became necessary for N. 
Hubbard to recall his son from school, young as ho was, and 
place him in the store to conduct the business there, as he 
had his hands full of other and outside work. This, then, 
was the end of his scholastic education. The firm con- 
ducted a large and successful business, and, as was customary 
in those early days, they ran a large distillery and potashery, 
ill eoiiiieetioii with the dry-goods store. The business was 
coiidiictod as above until 183(1, when N. i*l; H. Hubbard 
dissolved partnership and gave up the entire mercantile and 
other business connected therewith. At one time they 
owned and caused to bo o])eratcd a grist- and saw-mill on 
Deer river, in the town of Denmark, and in connection 
with tluit they also li:id a diy-goods Store. 

On the 13th of Feliruary, 1823, the subject of this 
.sketch was united in marriage with Cluiriile Matilda Sher- 
wood, eldest daughter of Dr. Jonathan Sherwood, then of 
Champion. They have had six children, of whom three 
sons and two daughters arc living. 





A M GfNDf?Oy rHOTOGf^AfHlR 



Russell Wilmot 



Mrs. RussiLL Wilmot. 



K^TTSSELIL. ■Wini.nyCOT. 



Rtjsseli, Wilmot came of good old Connecticut 
stock. His father, Asher Wilmot, came to Cham- 
pion in the year 1804, and bought the farm on 
which he lived for the remainder of iiis life. The 
farm then came into the possession of his son 
Russell, whose it M-as until the day of his death. 
It is not often in these days of change and emi- 
gration that a man lives in one place from infancy 
to three score years and ten. And when this is 
the case, it is generally indicative of some qualities 
of head and heart that are worthy of imitation. 

All that knew Russell Wilmot respected him for 



his simplicity and frankness, his sterling Integrity, 
his love of truth and right and justice, his contempt 
for all deception and meanness. His character was 
formed and grounded in the old-fashioned ways of 
honesty and straight-forward dealing. He died 
honored and regretted by his neighboi's and fellow 
townsmen, while the sad vacancy in hLs own im- 
mediate household can only be appreciated by those 
who also have been called to suft'er the loss of 
friends. 

Russell Wilmot died in Champion, aged seventy- 
two years. 




N.J. FuLLEff. 



Mf^S. N.J. FULLEF^. 



(photos By BAflTA WATEfiTowH. ) 




i,'L..IOENC£- DAIRY FARM cj N.J . FULLER, CHAMPtON, NX 



HISTORY OF JEFFP:RSOiV county, NKW YOllK. 



343 



In 1836, Mr. Hubbard retired from active business, and 
has since carried on a small farm, — enjoying the profits of 
a rented f;irm near b}'. The buildinj^.s, wliieh were nearly 
all of stone and substantially built, besides his own house 
and store, have been converted into farm-buildintra. The 
old distillery is a farm- and dairy-house, while the ashery 
makes good, warm stalling for cows. Since retiring from ac- 
tive business he has led a quiet, uneventful life in the bosom 
of his family and in the stone mansion where he first carried 
his wife a bride, fifty-four years ago. They coutinue to 
enjoy good healtli for their advanced years. 



ALPHONSO LOOM IS 

was born in the town of Champion, Jefferson County, New 
York, August 29, 180S, and was the .son of John Luomis. 
The first record of the family in America is that Jo.seph 
Loomis came from Braintree, Essex county, England, and 
settled at Windsor, Connecticut, in 1038, whore many of 
his descendants still reside. John Loomis came from Con- 
necticut, and settled in Champion during the earliest settle- 
ment of the county. Alphonso made his home with his 
father until he wa.s about thirty years of age, although he 
had previou.sly purchased for himself a farm. On the 21st 
*of March, 1838, he united in marriage with Lucina Carter, 
and immediately afterwards removed to the farm where he 
lived during the remainder of his life, and where his esti- 
mable widow now resides. He died there on the 15th of 
December, 1875, leaving a wife and two children to mourn 
his loss. They had three children, namely, Selinda C, 
wife of Egbert S. Flint; Sanford C., deceased; Mary L., 
wife of Wayne A. Humphrey. 

In politics Mr. L. Wiis an out,spoken Republican. In 
religion a sincere and devoted member of the Congrega- 



tional church at Champion, to which he united more than 
thirty years ago. He was an honest man, a kind and ac- 
commodating neighbor, an affectionate husband and indul- 
gent father, and a Christian gentleman. Lucina Carter, 
widow of the above, was born November 22, 1812. Iler 
father, Asa Carter, came from Connecticut and settled in 
Jefferson County about the year 1800. Her mother was 
a native of Massachusett.s. She lived at home until her 
marriage with Mr. Loomis. She is now in her sixty-fifth 
year, is quite active, and enjoys good health. .She has been 
a member of the Congregational church for more than half 
a century. In her domestic relations she has ever been 
a kind mother, a true and dutil'ul wife, and an admirable 
housekeeper. 



NORMAN J. FULLER, 

son of Jacob Fuller, was born in Rutland, July 20, 1830. 
His father settled in Rutland in 1804, and resided there 
until his death in August, 1859. Young Norman received 
his education at the district school of his native town, and 
assisted his father on the farm during his life. In the 
spring following his father's death he removed into Cham- 
pion, and settled on the farm where he now resides. 

In the winter of 18G7 he wa.s married to Mrs. Jerusha 
Ann King, by whom he had three children, namely, Alfred 
N., Ella S., and Emma J. 

• On the ISth of February, 1872, ho sustained the lo.ss of 
his estimable wife, who was an admirable housekeeper and 
an agreeable companion. Mr. Fuller has a farm of three 
hundred acres of land, and, together with farming, carries 
on dairying extensively. On his farm he has one hundred 
acres of fine timber. Mr. F. is a gentleman of inti'Higence, 
a good practical farmer, a sound business man, and a good 
citizen. (See illustration, etc.) 



-» »-O0C:^-«- 



CLAYTON. 



A RETROSPECTION of three-quarters of a century carries 
us back to the earliest settlement of what now constitutes 
the town of Clayton. We are informed, on reliable au- 
thority,* that the first permanent settlement was perfected 
in Clayton, in 1801 or 1802, by one Bartlett, at a place 
that still bears the name of Bartlett's Point, and situate 
about one mile from Clayton village. He had been placed 
there by Smith ct Delaniator. land agents of Chaumont, to 
keep a ferry to Gananoiiue, Canada, but, after staying a year 
or two, set fire to his house, as tradition has it, and ran 
away by its light. 

The topography of Clayton is diversified in character 

* Hough's History of Jcflcrs m County, 185 1. 



and somewhat difficult of accurate description. In places 
it is hilly, with outcroppings of stone; but the larger por- 
tion of it is level or rolling. The soil is generally a sandy 
loam, and in the localities where the land is free from stone 
is (|uite fertile and productive. All the cereals common to 
the State, and fruits and vegetables, are raised in the town, 
which is almost exclusively devoted to agriculture. The 
town is watered by French creek and Cliauuiont river. It 
is bounded on the north by the St. Lawrence, and on its 
border commcuces the head of the Thousand Isles, many 
of which are in sight at various points in the town and 
present a very picturesi]uc appearance. Among the most 
important, opposite Clayton, are Grindstone, Washington, 
Bluff, Abels, and Hemlock. Nearly the entire group of 



344 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



these islands ("with Wellcsley island off Alexandria town) 
were claimed by the .SV. Regis Indians at an early day, and 
leased by their agents to British subjects for long terms of 
years. Uf)on survey of the boundary in 1818 they were 
found to belong to the United States Government, and in 
182:-{, upon these islands being patented by the State, in 
pursuance of an agreement with Macomb, difficulties arose 
that threatened for a time to result in serious measures, and 
which have been known locally as the " War of (irindstono 
Island." A (|uantity of pine timber had been cut and 
]iri'pared for rafting, which was claimed by the patentee, 
but was refused to be given up by the ]iarties in whose pos- 
session it was. Finding it probable that any attempt to 
st-rvo legal papers u])on those alleged to be trespassers 
would be resisted, a detachment of militia from Lyme, 
under Captain S. Green, was called out. The timber had 
mostly been passed over into British waters, and, after some 
firing, the party in charge of the timber dispersed. One 
of the militia-men was accidentally killed by the discharge 
of his own gun. The question sub.se(|uently became a sub- 
ject of litig-ation, and was finally settled by arbitration. 

Another incident occurred in this town that has its par- 
allel only in the tlieft of a town-meeting, as related of 
Brownville. A saw-mill had been erected in the vicinity, 
it is said upon a verbal agreement, which subse(|uently 
became a subject of difficulty between Mr. La Farge, the 
proprietor, and the lumberman. The latter resolved that 
he would neither comply with the ternjs demanded nor 
allow others to enjoy the fruits of his labors; and early one 
morning, not long after, the timbers of a .saw-mill w('re 
seen floating in the bay, no one professing to know how 
they came there, and it is supposed to have been in some 
way comiected with .yiin'/iial DKini/isfatioiii!, more especially 
as spirits were often brought in ((uantities to the village of 
Clayton for smuggling into Canada. 

The i)roprictors of Penet's Scpiare Corners, on the Bay 
of French creek, near Clayton village, anticipating that 
this property would possess value as the site for a village, 
subdivided four of the mile .squares neari'st the corner, the 
one on the bay into sixty-four lots of ten acres each, and 
the three others into sixteen lots of forty acres each. In 
balloting for a division, each owner drew a jn-oportionate 
number of these lots, which, like the large tract, were num- 
bered from west to east, and back, eommencing.at the north- 
west and ending at the southwest corners. The expecta- 
tions of the proprietors were never realized, for uo village 
ever existed there. 

THE SETTLEME.NT OK THE TOWN. 

In 1799* there was a single log hut in the town, at 
French Creek (Clayton), probably that of some timber 
thieves, who plundered the frontier without restraint or 
limit during many years before any one appeared to show 
title. Nathan Ford, the pioneer of Ogdensbtirgh, in a let- 
ter to Samuel Ogden on this subject, dated December 27, 
1799, wrote : 

" There arc scvoriil persons now cutting timlicr upon the two upjier 
townships. I hnie no authority to say anvlliing aljout llie miittir, 



Hough's Uistory of St. Lawrence County, p. 2C2. 



but vast injury will take jtlace upon the townsliips, ami if there are 
not measure.1 taken iuiniediatcly, not Ics.s than thirty or forty tliou- 
sand staves, over anJ above the square timljer wiiieh is now getting, 
will be tnken off. Mr. Wilkins took down the names of several who 
pretended to settle ; their motive was only stealing off the timber. The 
thing is now working as I told him would be the ease, and if something 
is not done about this business great destruction will arise. An 
cxam]de ought to be made; and this cannot ho done without send- 
ing an otficer from Fort Stanwix. They have got the timber so boldly 
that they say there is no law that can be executed upon them here." 

To Gouverneur Morris he wrote, July 1(1, ISOO: 

" T was in hopes I should have heard something about tlie road 
before now. If there were a land communication to the Mohawk 
river, we should all exjiericnce less depredations. The ditbeulty of a 
communication to the southern jiart of the Stiite is well known to the 
timber thieves, and they count upon the almost impossibility of 
bringing them to justice." 

As these lands were not within Ford's jurisdiction, he 
could only ad-vise in the matter ; but in one or two instances 
in which he was directly interested he adopted a course that 
put an effectual stop to these robberies. In the ]Mirti(in of 
this town embraced in Penet's Square there was more of this 
lawless plunder, because for several years after the tract 
began to settle there was no resident agent or acknowledged 
owner. This state of things led to many abuses, and gave 
rise to incidents that will be specified in our account of 
Orleans, which then comprised the whole tract. 

As before stated, the first permanent settlement was made 
by one Bartlett in 1801 or 1802. In 1803, Smith & 
Delamater, land agents, came in, but only remained long 
enough to attend to their business. In 1816, Nathaniel 
Norton, Jr., who had previously been a merchant at Russia, 
New York, came as agent of C. H. and E. Wilkes, owners 
of twelve thousand acres on Penet's Square, and adjoining 
the present village of Dcpauville.'j" It is related of him 
that while residing in Herkimer county he became so eccen- 
tric that his friends got his means placed in the hands of 
the comptroller. On one occasion he required some money. 
He went to the comptroller and got into convcr.salion with 
him, in the course of which he was asked whether he 
knew a man down his way named Nathaniel Norton. He 
did not answer, but kept up the talking, and was invited to 
dinner. lie made quite a ])leasitig impression on the comp- 
troller, and finally told liim that he was N. Norton, Jr., and 
in(|uired whether he acted in.sane or eccentric. The official 
answered in the negative, and finally restored him control 
of his property. 

In 1817, Phineas Osborn, father of Thomas S., Schuyler, 
and Phineas A. Osbiu'n, came in from Herkimer county and 
settled about three miles northwest of Dcpauville, on what 
is known as Elm Flat. The three sons above named arc 
all residents of the town. Schuyler lives in the village of 
Dcpauville, where he has dwelt since about 1832. 

In 1818, Jeiry Carter came in and settled near Clayton 
Centre. He came with his father, who will be remembered 
as a good hunter, and the teller of marvelous stories con- 
nected with his hunting expeditions. 

In 1819, James D. Gloyd came in with his father, Amos, 
and settled on lot No. 39, within forty rods of where he (James 
D.) now resides. They came from Vermont. In 1820, Adam 
Fry came from Denmark, Lewis county, New York, and 



f His power of attorney is dated June 20, 1820. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



145 



settled on the farm now occupied by George Hawes. He 
has been a continuous resident in tlie town ever since, and 
now lives with his daugliter, Mrs. Diana Thompson. In 
1824, Gaylord Enos came from Herkimer county and 
settled on the farm now occupied i>y William 15axter. He 
jiurchased the first fifty acres of Depau, and improved the 
land, purchasing; more from time to time, and finally erected 
the fine hou.sc that now stands on the place. 

Among other old settlers might be mentioned Jerry 
Carter, Jo.scph Adams, Daniel Abbey, William Thompson, 
J. Wilson Wright, Thomas Faire, E. M. Winslow, Alfred 
Fox (for many years supervisor, justice of the peace, and 
local leader of the l\'moeratic party), Lutiu'r Rrown, A. 

Buskirk, Solomon Ingalls, Hosea Randolph, Dixon, 

Aniips Richards, James Botlicl, Davis, iSIajor Abiatlui 

Joy, James Rankin, Tiidiuas Fetteriy. The last nine 
were soldiers in tlu; war of 177(5. Repeated inipiiry has 
failed to a.'*ccrlain anytliing definite concerning any of 
these, except Tliomas Fetteriy. lie was born in Mont- 
gomery county. New York, in the year 17(>4, and entered 
the service at the age of fourteen. He acted as waiter in 
the ofiicers' mess, and had the honor, he averred, of waiting 
on General Washington on several occasions. He removed 
to the town of Clayton in 18i57, and died there in 1841. 
His brother, Peter Fetteriy, and father of Mrs. L. Staring, 
served in the war of 1812 as a regular soldier at Ogdens- 
burgh ; and a son of Mrs. Staring, Jonas, sacrificed his 
life in the service of his country in the rebellion of 1861-G5. 
The above facts constitute a commendable record. 

CIVIL ORGANIZATION. 

The town of Clayton, which embraces two-fifths of 
Penet's Square from the west side, with a small tract mirth 
and a triangular gore west of that patent, was detached 
from Orleans and Lyme and organized into a separate town 
]>y an act of (lie State legislature, approved April 27,1833. 
The first town-meeting was held at the house of Isaac L. 
Carter on the 4th of June following. The name w:is given 
in honor of Hon. John M. Clayton, United States Senator 
from Delaware. 

At the first town-meeting the following were elected : 
Hubbell Fox, supervisor ; B. F. Faxton, clerk ; Gurdon 
Caswell and Stcjihen JIartin, justices of the peace ; Jesse 
Noyes, Abram Burdick, Bariah Carpenter, Jr., assesisors ; 
Caleb Closson, James Barney, overseers of the poor ; Samuel 
P. Payne, Lloyd 15. Farrar, and Elkanah Corlin, com- 
missioners of highways ; Alfred Fox, John Cousard, Jr., 
and Joseph Mason, commissioners of common schools ; 
Josiah Farrar, David Baker, and B. F. Faxton, inspectors 
of common schools ; Erastus Warner, collector ; Erastus 
Monroe, T. Ilaskill, Sydney Spencer, and Eldridgc G. 
Tilton, constables. 

SUPERVISORS. 

Hubbdl Fox, 1833-34; Edward C. Bancroft, 1835; 
Eldridgc G. Merrick, 1836-38; Henry D. Van Camp, 
1839; E. G. Merrick, 1840-41 ; Woodbridge C. George, 
1842; Alfred Fox, 1843-44; E. G. Merrick, 1845; Al- 
fred Fox, 1840; Erastus Warner, 1847 ; James Plumb, 
1848; Alfred Fox, 184!»-52 ; Alfred Fox, lSr)3— ; Luke 
E. Frame, elected at a special town-meeting to till vacancy; 



Luke E. Frame, 1854-58; John W. Ingalls, 1859-61 ; 
Elijah McCarn,.1862-64; James Johnson, 181)5-66 ; John 
Johnston, 18()7-71 ; Richard M. Esselstyn, 1872 ; John 
JohiLSton, 1873-76; Richard M. Es.selstyn, 1877. 

The present town-officers are R. M. Esselstyn, super- 
visor; Richard Terry, clerk; Michael Cantwell, Alfred 
Fox, Richard M. Esselstyn, Eli J. Geeber, justices of the 
peace; Levi C. Otis, assessor; Thomas Walt, collector; 
G. A. Diefcndorf, Jacob Putnam, Perry Caswell, town 
auditors; Enos G. Otis, Lewis Lingenfelter, Stcjihen 
Butts, Sr., commissioners of highways ; Sullivan Smith, 
Lewis W. Eddy, Sidney McCarn, constables; Abrani W. 
Hollenback, game constable; Elijah McCarn, excise com- 
missioner; George Haas, Jr., Ama.sa E. Dodge, Francis 
Forbes, inspectors of election district No. 1 ; Hiiratio N. 
Estes, Seebcr Mc('arn, Solon H. Johnson, insjiectors of 
election district No. 2. 

The first ini]iriivcinents of a general character were made 
in and aniun<l the villages: hence we now proceed with the 
history of those in this town. 

CLAYTON VILLAGE. 

The past history of Clayton village has much of interest 
connected with it. Being situated on the St. Lawrence 
river, at the mouth of French creek, it was the scene of a 
brief conflict during the calamitous times of 1812-15. 
Late in October, 1813, a detachment of the American 
forces under General Brown, who commanded the advanced 
guard of General Wilkin.son's expedition, were ordered to 
rendezvous near the head of French creek. On the even- 
ing of the 1st of November (1813) the enemy, having 
ob.served the concentration of the American forces at 
French creek, attacked (ieneral Brown about sunset with 
two brigs, two schooners, and several boats laden with in- 
fantry. The encampment of (Jeneral Brown was a short 
distance up the creek, and he had caused a battery of three 
eighteen-pounders to be erected on Bartlett's Point, a short 
distance above, which, from its elevation, gave it a superior- 
ity over that of the enemy. This battery was under the 
command of Captain McPherson, of the light artillery, and 
was served with such effect that the a.ssailants soon dropped 
down the current beyond its reach. The next morning the 
attack was renewed, without success, and one of the brigs 
was with difficulty towed off' by the siiuadron. The loss of 
the Americans was two killed and four wounded ; that of 
the enemy, much more. 

The British brigs were armed with thirty-two-pounders, 
for several balls of that weight have been plowed up within 
a short distance of the scene of the engagement, — notably 
one now in the possession of Dr. Ellis, which was unearthed 
a few years since by George Cupperall on the Kline farm, 
which is now within the corporate limits of the village. From 
the location of these balls, the fact is self-evident that the 
British must have fired much too high to do the American 
encampment any serious injury. Immediately after the 
above engagement General Wilkinson's disastrous expedi- 
tion down the river occurred. The inglorious issue of this 
and other events on the northern frontier excited the mur- 
murs of the nation, and Generals Hampton and Wilkins<in 
were arraigned before courts-martial, the latter being re- 



3-16 



IlISTOKY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



moved from command and .succeeded by General Izard. Al- 
most half a decade ela]ised after the close of the war before the 
villajre assumed the shape of a permanent settlement. The 
place was formerly called " Cornelia,' the post-office having 
been so named in 1S23. In 1831 the name was changed 
to Clayton, which it has since retained. In the primitive 
patent of Pcnet the creek and bay is named Wefcn'iiq/ini 
Giientcre, and on an ancient map is named '' Dumas creek." 
It has very generally been known as French creek, but has 
almost lost that appellation. The first permanent settlement 
made within the present limits of the village was by Gen- 
eral William H. Angel, in 1819. He commenced the 
lumber business, and to facilitate the same opened the 

FIRST STORE 

in the place, the .same year. lie brought a few thousand 
bricks from Sacket's Harbor, and built a small structure, 
which he covered with boards. His .stock consisted of a 
miscellaneous assortment of raftsmen's provisions, among 
which whisky was a staple article, all of which articles he 
traded almost exclusively for lumber. 

In 1820, Martin Herrick and Stephen Wetherbce came 
in, and the year following Mr. Merrick brought on his 
family, which then consisted of his wife and two daughters, 
Lucy, now the wife of Dr. Amos A. Ellis, and Eliza, who 
died in 1823. Mr. Herrick is accredited with the honor 
of having erected the first log hou.se in the village, in 1821. 
It occupied the present site of the rafl-yard of Thomas 
Rees. Colonel James Smith, a custora-hou.se ofiBcer, built 
the first frame house, in 1824. It was originally 20 by 28 
feet, .-md still .stands, being occupied by Dr. Ellis and family, 
although improvements and additions have been made to it 
so that it has almost lo.'^t its primitive identity. The first 
tavern was commenced by a transient character (whose name 
is forgotten), and completed by Hiram Davis prior to 1820. 
The first school-house erected in the village was a small 
stoue building, in 1825, in which school was taught the 
same year. The first church was that erected by the Epis- 
copal Methodists in 1840. 

Among the early settlers of Clayton village might be 
mentioned John Rector, James F. Angel, R. G. Angel, 
Chauncey Pierce, IMrs. Thomas M. Reade, Aaron and Lu- 
ther Eddy, Dr. Amos Ellis, Mrs. Louisa C. Gary, Henry 
Elliott (father of William), Daniel Porter, William John- 
ston, Stephen D. Johnston, Perry Caswell, John Johnston, 
and others. 

The village was surveyed by Clark W. Candie, in 1824, 
and re-surveyed by Oliver Child in 1833. Its progress has 
been steady, and its .j)rosperity based principally upon its 
eligibility as a ship-building centre, and its peculiar facilities 
for trade with points on the lake and river. The village 
has always been a place of interest, not only with regard to 
the natural beauty of its surroundings, Ijut also frou) the 
fact of the enterpri.se and business ability of the mercantile 
portion of its inhabitants. An interesting article, prepared 
by Messrs. E. C. BancrofV, A. 0. Blair, E. G. Merrick, J. 
A. Brew.sler, and T. M. Reade, a committee appointed to 
prepare a census and collect some historical data and statis- 
tics of the village of Clayton (French creek), the result of 
\vho.sc labors was published in the Walcr/oiun Enjk, under 



date of March 20, 1835, from which we quote the follow- 
ing: 

** Less than ten years ago, the ground wht^re now stands our village 
was without a single house, and was, we arc informed by one of our 
first settlers, an almost impenetrable marsh. Now, 113 buililings {most 
of which are two stories high, well linishcd and painted) are situ- 
ated on the same ground, and occupied by 73 families, making a total 
population of 426, which gives to it, at least, the apjtearance of a 
thriving and business little village; and wc may, without detracting 
from the merits of our neighboring villages, say that not one in the 
county can show greater improvements, in the same period of time, 
than our own. Although we have dated the period of the commence- 
ment of our village ten years back, yet we should observe that, al- 
though it began to settle about that time, it did not assume any ap- 
pearance of a vill.ige until the years 1829-30, and although business 
to a very considerable amount was transacted prior to that time in 
and about the biiy of French Creek, yet we may say, and say truly, 
that our village has attained its present size within a period of five 
years; at which time we have ascertained that not more than 30 in- 
habitants resided here. This being the case, then our population, in 
that tiuie, has increased near tenfold, and that increase we believe 
(although we have not the means at hand to ascertain that fact) to 
be equal, if not greater, than the western villages in this State, in the 
same space of time, when their rapid growth was considered very 
extraordinary." 

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT. 

The first industrial operations at Clayton of any magni- 
tude were commenced shortly before the war. February 3, 
1812, a contract was executed between Le Ray and Richard 
Cummings, a Canadian, Noadiah Hubbard, of Champion, 
idlowing the latter to take from certain lots in the vicin- 
ity of French Creek as much timber for rafting as they 
might desire, by paying $35 per thousand feet for squared 
yellow-pine timber, S50 per thou.sand feet for white oak, 
and $80 per thousand feet for white- and yellow-pine 
spars. A large number of laborers and several teams were 
employed by the first party to the contract during the spring ; 
and early in the season 12,000 to 15,000 feet of pine, 1000 
feet of white oak, and 21 masts were ready for market, 
besides a large iiuantity got out and left in the woods. 
Captain Hubbard was drafted with his company of minute- 
men. The raft was, however, got as far down as Louisville, 
when it was seized and detained, and .subsequently proved 
a total lo.ss, at least to its American owner. 

The lumber business has continued among the most im- 
portant commercial and indu.strial features of Clayton from 
th.it time to the present. Those who have been jiriiicipally 
engaged in this branch of trade are Smith & Angel, 
Martin Herrick, Smith & Merrick, E. G. Merrick & Co., 
Merrick, Fowler & Esselstyn, and Thomas Rees. The 
following statistics show the amount of business transacted 
by Mr. Rees for the season of 1877 : Oak and pine timber 
handled at Clayton and Port Metcalf by Thomas Itces, 
1,GOO,000 cubic feet, which if reduced to board measure 
is almost 19,200,000 feet. In addition to the above. Mr. 
Rees handled 234,000 standard pipe staves, and 200,000 
West India puneheon staves. The above employed the 
cargoes of one hundred and fifteen vessels, averaging about 
five hundred tons to a cargo. Mr. Rees employs directly, 
at Clayton and Port Metcalf, during the season, from fifty 
to one hundred and fifty men. 

THE SIlll'-Bl ILDINO INTEREST. 

Ship-building began at Clayton in 1832 by Smith & 



p^tafc^ls^tTSS^V 




CHRIST CHURCH, CLAYTON, NY 




RtsioLNcc or CAPTAIN S.G.JOHNSTON.CLAYTON.fiY. 



IlISTOUV OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



347 



Merrick, and has since been continued, sometimes giving 
enijilo^'njcnt to as many as a hundred men. From two to 
four vessels liave been built here annually, making a total 
of from seventy-five to one hundred, including must of the 
splendid steamers of the old Ontario and St. Lawrence 
Steamboat Company's lines. This busine.-is began here at 
about the time the burdensome tonnage duties upon the 
lakes, amounting almost to a prohibition, had been removed 
in part by the Hon. Joseph Hawkins, of Henderson, who 
represented this district in Congress. From this time there 
existed no limit to the .size of the vessels but that of the 
locks of the Wcllaiid canal. The first ves.sels built here were 
the Jesse. Smi/h and Ilonitiu Gates, commenced by Captain 
Pickering and completed by George S. Weeks, for Smith 
& Merrick, in 1830. G. S. Weeks continued building for 
the .same firm, and built the steamer BInck JJnirk, and the 
schooners Franklin, Jeffersnn, Margiana Wilktts, Monroe, 
Gazelle, Mailison, Lucinda, C/eopafia, Western, Chesa- 
peake, Robert Wood, E. G. Merrlek, Si/tpli, and others, 
besides the steamer Swan. 

John Oados commenced building for E. G. Merrick & 
Co. and Fowler & Essolstyn in 1841, and built the schooners 
St. Lawrence, John Oades, D. N. Barney, Superior, In- 
vincible, New York, Quebec, America, Flying Clond, Sov- 
ereign of the Lakes, Northern Light, White Cloud, North- 
erner, Sky Lark, Rcpiddic, Clayton, Amelia, Adriatic, 
Northern Belle, Dashing Wave, Monlicello, Adirondack, 
Radiant, Clayton Belle, M. F. Merrick, Montana, Port- 
land, Kearsarge, and others, and the steamers Niagara, 
Cataract, Ontario, Bay State, Neio York, Jenny Lind, 
British Empire, British Qneen, Midge, and Widgeon. 

Thomas Rees built the schooner Montitainrer, Harrison 
Persons the schooner Marshjicld, and A. F. Barker the 
schooner ILibohn. Simon G. Johnston began building for 
Fowler & Hs.selstyn in 1854, aiiil built the schooners Grey- 
hound, Eagle Wing. Watchful, Mediator, Senator, Snoio 
Bird, Brooklyn, Montpelier, Montcalm, Montgomery, Mont- 
morency, Mont Blanc, Jrene, L. B. Stone, Scud, William 
Home, Hatfie Johnson, llinry Fidgtr, and Black Diamond. 
He also built the steamers T. S. Faxton, H. S. Johnston, 
and Island Belle. 

The aggregate tonnage of these vessels and steamers is 
about 40,n00 tons, and the cost about $2,00(1,000. Mr. 
Johnston is the only one now extensively engaged in ship- 
building at Clayton, Mes.srs. John Oades and Fowler k 
Esselsfyn having removed to Detroit, Michigan, where they 
still continue their old business with equal success as when 
at Clayton. To secure the privileges of a coxsting trade 
with Canada, which are granted to ves.sels built on British 
soil onlj', a ship-yard was established several years ago by 
Fowler & Esselstyn at the foot of Wolf (or Grand) Island, 
in Canada, and four or five miles above this port. 

THE GREAT FIRE. 

June 6. 18.50, Clayton was visited by quite a destructive 
conflagration, which greatly retarded its business develop- 
ment. The fire started in a building that stood on the 
present sit* of the band-stand, next to A. F. Barker's brick 
block, and burned through to Thomas Rees' warehouse. 
The fire started in the clothing store of L. P. Davidson. 



The sufferers were L. D. Davidson, clothing store ; E. L. 
Hawes, .shoe shop; John Johnston, dwelling and store; 
Amos Ellis, .M.D.. drug store; Hale k Dean, general store; 
Perry Caswell, boots and shoes ; William Dclaney, clothing 
store ; John Keating, clothing ; R. G. Angel & Co., gen- 
eral .store ; and one other building, the occupant of which 
could not be ascertained. The total loss was about §25,000 ; 
on which was an in.surance of only 86000. 

The business facilities of Clayton are unsurpas.sed by 
any other village of like population in the State ; and the 
abundance, cheapness, and quality of its domestic market 
make it desirable as a place of residence. Its delightful 
location, in close proximity to the Thousand Islands, on 
the St. Lawrence, and the reputation of the magnificent 
scenery surrounding the village on every hand, draw multi- 
tudes of tourists and visitors, who pronounce a summer 
stay at Clayton the height of enjoyment and repose. Here, 
within sight, are many of the beautiful isles forming that 
most wondrous of all archipelagos. It is justly celebrated as 
aflbrding the very best of piscatorial sports, and is among 
the best trolling grounds for mu.scalonge, black bass, and 
pickerel on this continent. The salubrity of the air, the 
health-insj)iring lake and river breezes, conspire to make it 
a desirable place to pass the summer months. The conve- 
nience with which the village is reached, either by rail or 
water, is also a feature in its general popularity. Clayton 
is the terminus of the Ulica & Black River railroad ; while 
the elegant steamer " Faxton," Captain Holt commanding, 
makes tri-daily trips to Cape Vincent <luring the entire 
season, there connecting with all trains on the Rome, Water- 
town & Ogdensburgh railroad. 

The well-dcservod reputation of the Clayton hotels is 
also a worthy auxiliary to the comfort and enjoyment of 
those visiting this beautiful resort. Pre-eminent among the 
old established hotels is the 

WALTON HOUSE, 

which maintains an enviable position among watering-place 
houses of entertainment for good management, an admirable 
cuisine, and agreeable accommodations. Mr. S. D. John- 
ston, the proprietor, has had a long experience in the 
business, and an extended residence in this vicinity renders 
him capable of understanding the peculiar requirements of 
his quests, and his affable disposition and courtesy make 
him a popular host. Nor is the 

HUBBARD HOUSE 

behind its neighbor in all of those requisite qualities ; and, 
on the whole, it is a matter of congratulation alike to the 
citizens and the pleiLSure-seekcrs to have two such admirable 
hotels at their disposal. 

As an evidence of the moral and material progress of the 
place we may mention that it has four churches, — denomi- 
nationally classified Methodist Episcopal, Baptist, Prot- 
estant Episcopal, and Roman Catholic ;* a well-managed 
graded school, and an ahly-edited weekly newspaper; a 
lodge of Free and Accepted JMasons, and a Temperance 
Reform Club. 

•^ See unJcr hoad of '■ Religious." 



348 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



THE BUSINESS INTERESTS 

embrace three dry-goods stores, of whicli S. H. Johnson, 
George McKiiiley & Co., and H. S. Barker arc the proj)ri- 
etors respectively. There arc two clotliing stares, five 
general stores, of whicli those of D. C. Porter, H. C. Rees, 
and W. W. Angel are the most extensive. There arc two 
drug stores, of which tliat of Amos Kills, M.D., is in all 
itj5 appointments etjual to those usually found in the larger 
cities. The building is as spacious, the stock of goods as 
fine and varied as those found in any similar establishment 
in the State. The other drug store is kept by E. D. 
Burton in Captain M. Halpin's imposing new stone block, 
— the most magnificent and substantial structure in this 
part of the country. There are one boot and shoe store, 
that of Perry Caswell (a merchant of nearly forty years' 
experience in the village), two jewelry stores, and the usual 
number of other business establishments and niccbaiiical 
shops. There are a grist-mill, foundry, saw-mill, two planing- 
mills, and other industrial interests; a ship-yard, operated 
by S. 6. Johnston ; the extensive rafting and lumber-for- 
warding establishment of Thomas Rees ; the private 
banking house of Barker & Grant; and other minor 
interests too numerous to mention. It has four resident 
ministers; three physicians, of whom Dr. A. Ellis is the 
oldest practitioner; two lawyers; one dentist; and one 
photographer. The industry and energy of the inhabitants 
have done what thoy could to vie with the munificent lavish- 
mentsof nature which the place enjoys ; all and everything, 
in short, of man's handiwork betoken the activity and inge- 
nuity of a tiusteful, industrious, and enterprising class of 
people. 

VII.L.VGE INCORPORATION. 

Clayton was incorporated April 17, 1872, by a vote of 
the citizens, as provided in an act passed by the State legis- 
lature, April 20, 1870. The vote stood 140 for, and 51 
against, the iussumption of corporate honors. The first elec- 
tion for village officers was held at the Walton House, May 
8, 1872, at which the following were elected: Elijiili Mc- 
Carn, president; S. G. Johnston, William Hawes, and S. 
D. Johnston, trustees; Stephen Hill, treasurer ; Charles M. 
Marshall, collector; and C. H. Ross was apijointcd clerk. 

FrcsidcHts. — 1873, H. E. Morse; 1874, James John- 
son; 1875-70, R. M. Esselstyn ; 1877, James Hayes, 
present incumbent. 

The present officers are : Trustees, S. H. Wilbur, Hial 
Cook, and Sceber Mi^Carii ; Treasurer, H. Ileldt ; Collector, 
Xura Bates ; Clerk, A. E. Wood ; I'olice Constables, A. D. 
Hayes and S. W. Eddy. 

CI,.\YTON DEPART.MENTAL SCHOOL. 

In 1855, in what now compri.scs the villiigc of Clayton, 
were two school districts, numbered eight and twenty-two, 
divided by James street. During that year there was a 
joint School-meeting of the inhabitants of these districts, 
to determine whether they should be organized under wliat 
was then known as the Union free-school law. Two or 
throe votes onl^' were lacking to make the necessary two- 
thirds majority to decide the f|uestiou affirmatively. On 
April 2'.l, ISjtJ, an order w:is made, signed by Luke E. 



Frame, supervisor, James Johnson, town-elerk, and H. 
E. Morse, town-superintendent, consolidating these school 
districts, the consolidated district being then named and 
siueo known as school district number eight, of the town 
of Clayton. The town-superintendent appointed the first 
school-meeting to be held on May 21, 1850. At that 
meeting Alden F. Barker, Robert G. Angel, and George 
C. Dean were elected trustees ; V. A. Benjamin, clerk ; 
James F. Angel, collector ; and P. Caswell, librarian. At 
an adjourned meeting held on the 2Sth of the same month, 
a resolution was passed to raise S3000 by tax on the 
district, for the purpose of building a school-house. Owing 
to a destructive fire the following month, which con- 
sumed the principal business part of the village, the t;ix 
was not levied. For ten years thereafter the schools were 
continued in the two old school-houses, which furnished 
poor and inadequate accommodations to the pupils. From 
two to f lur private schools were supported in the district ; 
the inhabitants gave very little attention to common-school 
matters, and the annual meetings were sparsely attended. 

At the annual .school-meeting in 1805 there were three 
legal voters present, and the sum of $3000 was voted to 
be raised for building a new school-house. The trustees, 
deeming the amount insufficient, did not levy the tax. At 
the next annual school-meeting, held October 11, 1800, there 
were seven or eight pei-sons present, and a resolution was 
passed to raise the sum of $5000 for a new school-building. 
II. E. Morse and George N. Gould were the acting tru.stees 
at this time, and they decided to levy the tax. They wore 
petitioned to call a special meeting to reconsider the vote of 
the annual meeting ; the request was denied, and an appeal 
was brought to the superintendent of public instruction, 
who dismissed the appeal. At a special meeting held in 
January, 1807, there was a large attendance, and the res- 
olution raising the tax voted at the annual meeting was re- 
scinded. By reason of the vote of the annual meeting, 
the decision of the trustees, the appeal therefrom, and the 
action of the special m!!eting, the necessity and propriety of 
building a new school-house had been fully discus.sed in the 
district; and at a special meeting held on March 7, 1807, 
called at the request of a large ])ortion of the inhabitants, 
a resolution to raise the sum of S5000 for a new school- 
building Wiis passed unanimously. The tax was levied, and 
a brick building, forty-five feet square, tw^o stories high, 
arranged fur four (lej)artments, was furnished and ready for 
the teachers in November, 1807. The school-grounds join 
the public scjuare on the northeast. The sehool-bnilding 
cost §5782.58. II. E. Morse, George N. Goubl, and Simon 
G. Jiihiiston were the trustees; and Thomas Rees, Joseph 
Thibault, Asa K. Porter, were the building committee during 
the erection of the building. The first teachers were Rev. 
B. E. Whipple, principal ; Miss Laura Everest, 2d dept. ; 
Miss N. M. Stevenson, 3d dept.; Miss Cornelia Eddy, 4th 
dept. 

The principals from the organization to the present 
have been B. E. Whipple, M. P. Littlefield, .M. Campbell, 
John Felt, E. D. Abbey, Frank H. Peck, M. E. Duolittle, 
and George N. Strough, the present iiicumbent. For the 
last two years a fifth department has been necessary, and a 
sixth could be profit.ibly employed. The present teachers 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



349 



arc (Jeorgc N. Strougli, iiiiiKi|i;il ; Mis.s Mary J. Kecs, 2d 
di'pt. ; Miss Rcttio Morse, 3d liepl. ; Miss Anna Locklin, 
4tli dept. ; Miss Anna Marshall, 5tli dopt. 

THE POST-OFFICE 

was estabiislicd under the name of Cornelia in 1821, and 
General William II. Angel was appointed the first post- 
master. The present ineunilient is 0. AV. Smith. Tlie 
business of" the office (or the year ending October 1, 1877, 
is represented by the subjoined statistics : Number of money 
orders issued, 090 ; amount, S8(I00. Number of money 
orders j)aid, 540 ; amount, ^5ur)0. Number of registered 
letters received, 150 ; number forwarded, 2(t0. Amount 
received for postage and box-rents, SI 200. 

THE CLAYTON INDEPENDENT. 

Tlie first edition of tliis paper was issued on Tbursday, 
November 14, 1872, by Messrs. J. R. Beden and Wm. 1). 
Clark, under the firm-name of Clark <& Beden. January 
2, 1873, ]Mr Beden retired and R. F. Clark entered the 
concern. The ]]ublication of the paper was continued by 
Clark i*t Clark up to October 1, 1874, when the latter re- 
tired, and the foimer runained alone until he .sold out to 
Wm. II. Rees, October 7, 1875. 3Ir. Rees continued the 
publication until March 9, 1S7G, when the jirescnt jiub- 
lisher, W. W. Ames, purchased the office. The original 
size of the paper was '.){> by 40, but during the ]iniprietor- 
ship of Mr. Rees it was elianged to 24 by 3G, and restored 
to its former and jiresent size by Mr. Ames in March, 
187fi. The liiih iiniihiit is an ably-edited and live family 
weekly, and enjoys, as it deserves, a liberal patronage. ' As 
its title implies, it is inde]iendent in all things. 

THE BANK OF CLAYTON. 

Tills institution was cstabli.shed by A. F. Barker and 
R. P. Grant, October 1, ]87() ; the former gentleman occu- 
pies the position of president, (he latter tliat of cashier. It 
is a bank of deposit and discount, and docs a general bank- 
ing business. It sells drafts on New York and Watertown, 
and is noted for the promptitude with which it makes col- 
lections. Financially, the concern is sound, being good 
for one hundred cents on the dollar every time. 

THE CLAYTON CORNET BAND. 

This excellent musical organization was formed in Au- 
gust, 1874, under the able instruction of II. M. Lewis, of 
Watertown. The first officers elected were, Thomas B. 
Bell, jiresident; S. H.Johnson, secretary and treasurer; 
Ernest Walt, leader; James Coueli, H. E. Gates, and C. 
A. Ellis, finance committee; W. O. Bennett, M. Vandc- 
walker, and J. B. Flynn, executive committee. The amouut 
of ?249 was subscribed by the citizens, wiiicli, with a small 
amount advanced by the band, bought the first .set of 
instruments. 

In 1875 the members equipped themselves with a neat 
and tasty uniform, at a cost of -5500. In 1S7G they ]iur- 
chased an entire new set of instruments, made by the Bos- 
ton Musical Institute Manufactory, which cost about §600. 
They liave expended about S2000 sinee tlicir organization, 
all of whicli they have paid with their own earnings, and 



without financial assistance from the citizens. The liand- 
room is located in the hall of the Potter block, which tliey 
have leased for five years, and they have one of the finest 
practicing rooms in the county. 

The band at present numbers fifteen pieces, and consists 
of the following members, namely : Ernest Walt, E-flat 
clarionet ; J. B. Flynn, first E-flat cornet ; Richard Dris- 
coll, second E-fiat cornet; Milo Walt, first B-flat cornet; 
John Thibault, second H-flat cornet; S.J. McCarn, first 
E-flat alto; C. A. Ellis, .second E-flat alto; E.J. Harlow, 
first B-flat tenor; H. Potter, .second B-flat tenor; C. W. 
Sumner. B-flat baritone; S. M. Johns(jn, bas.so trombone ; 
W. O. Bennett, E-flat tuba ; Truman Pcrigo, side drum ; 
A. R. Brookor, basso drvim ; Carl Wilson. cynd)als. 

The Clayton band is an institution of which the citizens 
are justly proud. The members have manifested a com- 
mendable desire to become proficient in their respective 
parts, and by unusual diligence and persevering energy 
have acf|uired an enviable reputation among the best bands 
in the State. To the strange reader tills may seem jiecu- 
liarly the language of eulogy, but, having heard them both 
practice and play, we speak whereof we know. 

THE CLAYTON RUllAL CEMETERY ASSOCIATION 
was formed in 1855, for purposes explained in the sub- 
joined extract from the records, and by those whose names 
arc appended thereto : 

" We the unilcisijjncil. for the purpose of securing suitable lands, 
ami holding them to be used e.\elusi\eljy- for a cemetery or jjlacc for 
the burial of the dead, and the better to jirotcct, improve, and em- 
bellish .«uch cemetery grounds, do form ourselves into an association 
under and neeording to an act entitled ' An act authorizing the incor- 
poration of rural cemetery associations,' ))nsscd .Vpril 2". 184", and 
acts sinee passed amendatory thereto. {Siijuctl) L. A. Hui.t, Thomas 
Rees, V. A. I!kxjami.\, IIk.skv Ks.ski.stvn, Daxikl Poktkii, Xciia 

BaTKS, I'KIiUV CasW KLI., .Jons CaIIV, S. W. VlNCK.NT, Jon.s Oa»ks, 

Amos Ei.i.is, John RKoron, Au.vku Kkkvks, W. Smith, A. R. Calvin." 

The first trustees were James F. Angel, Henry Essel- 
styn, Y. A. Benjamin, Luther Eddy. A. R. Calvin, Thomas 
Rees, John Cary, A. M. Brush, and John W. Fowler. 
James F. Angel was chosen president ; A. R. Calvin, vice- 
president ; Henry E.'^selstyn, treasurer ; and V. A. Benja- 
min, secretary. The present trustees are R. M. Esselstyn, 
Thomas Rees, Dr. Amos Ellis, James Johnson, Luther 
Eddy, S. G. Johnston, R. G. Angel, A. F. Barker, and Dr. 
A. Bain. D. C. Porter is secretary and warden. The 
total number of interments up to September 20, 1877, was 
402. The grounds are neatly laid out and very tastefully 
kept. 

LODGE NO. 290, F. AND A. M., 

was organized February 7, 1853, with the following oflicers : 
James Green, W. M. ; J. D. Aug'sbury, S-. W. ; 0. W. 
Cushman, J. W. ; T. M. Reade, Treasurer; L. J. Rice, 
Secretary. The lodge has worked continuously since its 
organization, and now has a membership of 90. The pres- 
ent officers are 11. E. .Mor.«e, W. .M. ; Wm. H. Rees, S. W. ; 
D. L. Laikins, J. W. ; Perry Caswell, Treasurer ; T. G. 
Rees, Secretary. 

THE TEMPERANCE REFOR.M CLIU 

of Clayton was organized .\pril 18, 1^^77. Its first officers 
were Dr. H. A. Mcllmoyl, I'rcsident; 11. M. Esselstyn, 



350 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



First Vice-President ; Albert Brooker, Second Vice-Presi- 
dent ; C. E. Gillett, Third Vice-President ; W. P. Hawes, 
Secretary ; C. II. Es.sel.styii, Assistant Secretary ; W. W. 
Ames, Treasurer; and Rev. A. W. Cady, Ciiajilain. The 
present officers are R. M. Esselstyn, President ; H. A. Mc- 
Ilmoyl, First Vice-Pi-csidcnt ; H. Elliott, Second Vice- 
President; P. Caswell, Third Vice-President; John F. 
Ames, Secretary ; W. W. Ames, Treasurer ; Rev. A. W. 
Cady, Cha|ilain. The cluli now lias a nicmbcrship of 175. 
Its operations have been attended with very gratifying re- 
sults, and niiieh future usefulness may be reasonably antici- 
pated. 

DEPAUVILLE 

is pleasantly situated on Chaumont river, at the head of 
boat navigation, and six miles above Chaumont bay. It 
received its name in honor of Francis Depau, an importing 
merchant and capitalist of New York, who purchased fif- 
teen lots in Penet's Square. This place at first bore the 
name of Catfi.sh Falls, by which it is still occasionally 
called. The creek above the place is still called Catfish 
creek ; hence the original name of the village. The first 
iinjirovcmcnt was begun by Simon and Jared White, who 
came on as trespassers to get out lumber, but, being warned 
off by the agent, left a large amount of hewn timber, that 
rotted on the ground. From this place they removed to 
Three-Mile Point, on Chaumont bay, where, after a short 
sojourn, they started in May, 1817, for the west in an open 
boat. The party consisted of the brothers, their mother, 
wives, and children, — eleven in all, — and had arrived in 
Hounsfield, a mile or two beyond Sacket's Harbor, where 
they put up for the night. After leaving this place they 
were never seen alive. There were many dissolute soldiers 
and .sailors lounging about the neighborhood. Their boat 
was found robbed of household goods, several hundred dol- 
lars which had been in the po.sscssion of the men were gone, 
and their bodies exhibited unmistakable marks of violence. 
The children were found drowned, but the bodies of the 
women were never found. These circumstances warranted 
the belief of robbery and murder ; but, although the excite- 
ment was intense and general, nothing occurred to settle 
suspicion upon any party sufficient to warrant an arrest. 

In 181G, Nathaniel Norton, Jr.,* who had previously 
been a merchant at Russia, New York, catfie as agent of 
C. II. and E. Wilkes, owners of 12,000 acres on Penet's 
S(|uare an<l adjoining De|iauville. Soon after, David and 
Nathanii;! Ilolbrook came to the ))lace with their father, 
and under a contract of Alexander Lc Ray, the agent of 
I (cjiau, erected a rude ajiology for a saw- and grist-mill, but 
upon failure of payment the premises were .sold, in 1824, to 
Stephen Johnson and Peter .Martin, who had located as 
merchants and lumbermen. At this time there were but 
two or three log houses and the rude mills above referred 
to. 

THE KIIIST HOUSE 

was built by Jnlni Smith (the original John Smith, at 
least of this locality), who came in from Ma.ssachusetts in 
1818. Nathaniel Norton had previously erected a shanty, 

• Sec incident umler Ir'uJ (if •' Karly SiltltMinril." miii: 



a very primitive affair, whicb he covered with basswood 

" troughs," and which was generally in excellent keeping 
with its owner. The fir.?t store was kept by Peter B. 
Beadle, agent or clerk for Stephen Johnson, who sent in a 
small and miscellaneous stock of goods and a few barrels of 
whisky. Peter Martin was also an early merchant. The 
first mills were those erected by David and Nathaniel Hol- 
brook. In 1824, Stephen Johnson built the stone mills, 
which were destroyed by fire in 1851. The present mills 
were erected in 1852 by John W. Ingalls and ^V^illianl 
Huntington, each of whom had married a daughter of Ste- 
phen Johnson. The first tavern was kept by one Win- 
tlirop in 1820. It stood within a few rods of the present 
hotel. In this building the first school was taught in 1820. 
The first church edifice was that erected by the Episcopal 
Methodists as early as 1825. It stood in the rear of the 
present stone school-house, and has long since gone to 
decay. 

Among the early settlers of the village might be men- 
tioned Schuyler Osborn, Erastus Wrii;ht, Dr. William and 
Mrs. Clarissa Frame, Luke E. Fiame, M.D., John M. 
Mount (father of John and Hiram), Gaylord Enosf (father 
of Mrs. Wm. Baxter), Addison Manville, John Norton 
(son of Nathaniel Norton, Jr.), Amos Otis (father of Levi 
C. Otis), Leonard Vincent, Deacon Charles L. Linnell 
(father of George D. Linnell), Ilezekiah and L. K. Patchen, 
Jonathan Hall (father of Foster V. Hall), Squire Spencer, 
John 0. Spencer, and others. 

The growth and progress of Depau ville have been steady. 
The village now contains three general stores, of which 
Byron Fox, Ferry & Lowe, and Cady & William SIcDonald 
are the respective proprietors. It has one tailor- and two 
shoe-shops and three millinei'y-stores, one grist- and one 
saw-mill, three blacksmithies and wagon-shops, a cheese-fac- 
tory, post-office, two churches (Methodist Episcopal and 
Baptist),! '^"'^ ^ well-managed public school. It has one 
resident physician and two ministers of the gospel, two 
justices (Alfred Fox and E. J. Seeber, Esquires), and a 
population estimated at 400. 

LODGE NO. 688, F. AND A. M. 

This lodge was organized in March, 1808, with Archi- 
bald Stertdjurgh, W. M. ; J. A. Diefcndorf, S. W. ; Wm. 
Baxter, J. W. ; John Howell, Secretary; Wm. J. Lowe, 
Treasurer; W. F. Johnson, S. D. ; S. W. Frame, J. D. ; 
II. Mount, Tyler. 

The present officers are S. W. Frame, W. M. ; John J. 
Wilson, S. W. ; Thomas Levis, J. W. ; E. J.- Seeber, Secre- 
tary ; H. Ileyl, S. D. ; S. C. Otis, J. D. ; Byron Fox, Treas- 
urer. The present number of members is 50. The society 
own the hall they meet in. Dr. Luke E. Frame has been 
one of the trustees ever since the organization of the lodge, 
and has done much towards securing the hall and paying 
for the same. Had it not been for his endeavors in this 
direction, it is doubtful whether the society would have a 
place of its own to meet in to-day. 



t Sc-C iHiihT 1k;i.1 c.r " Kiu-ly .«!fllli'liii-lit," autc. 
X Sec linilii' he;ul "!' " Ui'lij;ious." 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



351 



GRINDSTONE ISLAND 

was first settled in 1802, by Amariah Howe. Among other 
early settlers were Daniel Gross, Lewis Jones, Anthony 
Lince, Saiiuie! Johnson, William Wells, and others. The 
principal employment of these parties was rafting The first 
adult death in the town of Clayton (to whieli (Jrindstone 
island belongs) occurred here in 1804. It was that of Jlrs. 
Olive Howe, who was interred on the island. The geologi- 
cal formation of tlie island is mostly granite ; and an exten- 
sive ([uarry is about to be put in operation by a Montreal 
company. This granite is susceptible to high polish, and 
is second only to Scotch granite, which it very much re- 
sembles in variety of color and fineness of quality. The 
island has an area of 5530 acres, and a population, accord- 
ing to the last census, of 350. It contains some good 
farms ; has a school and other evidences of thrift and pros- 
perity. 

RELIGIOUS. 

The religious history of the town of Clayton, owing to 
the loss or destruction of tlie early records of several of the 
societies, is difficult to procure. The subjoined historical 
sketches of the various churches, however, may be depended 
on as generally accurate, as much iii(|uiry and diligent 
search among ancient authorities have been instituted. The 
churches of the jiast that now have no existence, or those 
removed to some other locality, can be briefly mentioned 
liere. 

A Methodist society was organized in the south part of 
the town, December 20, 1833, with Silas F. Spicer, Amos 
Reynolds, Willis Howard, James H. Fuller, and Amos 
Sillett, trustees. A house of worship was erected, and after 
many years' .service as such was converted into a barn, now 
on the Seeber farm, and the society removed to Perch river. 

In 1835 a Congregational church was formed of mem- 
bers residing in this town and Orleans, by the Kev. JIarcus 
Smith, of Watertown. This is no more, having long since 
disbanded. 

In 1838 a Union church was built of stone at Depau- 
ville, and was owned conjointly by the Baptists, Universal- 
ists, and Congregationalists. It is now owned exclusively 
by the Free-Will Baptist Society. 

THE FREE-WILL BAPTIST CUURCH OF DEPAfVILLE 

was formed Jlarch 20, 1820, by Elder Amasa Dodge, of 
Lowville, consisting at first of fourteen members. He was 
succeeded by Elders Russel \\ ay, Jacob Overocker, Wel- 
come I'igley, S. U. Padding, Samuel Hart, Ansel Griflith, 
N. II. Abbey, J. J. Allen, B. II. Damon, J. S Staples, W. 
S. Fowler, W. Joy, J. B. Collins, and W. H. Merriman, 
the present pastor. A society was organized August 20, 
1841, with Nahum D.Williams, Pliineas A. Osborn, and 
Helon Norton, trustees; and in December, 1848, it was 
reorganized. In 1834 a Union cliurch was built, of .stone, 
at a cost of $2200, of which amount Mr. Depau donated 
$500. At present the Free-Will Baptist society have the 
use of the building one-half of the time, the Universalists 
one-quarter, and the regular Baptists and Congregationalists 
the remainder ; at least, such are the terms of the deed. 
The present deacons of the Free-Will Baptist church are 



P. A . Osborn and Isaac Norton ; tlie trustees of the Union 
church, David Norton, F. V. Hall, P. A. Osborn, John 0. 
Spencer, and L. E. Frame, M.D. 

THE M. E. CHURCH OF DEPAUVILLE. 

A Methodist class was organized at Depauville as early 
as 1S21 ; and we find it mentioned as one of the twenty- 
three' appointments in the old Black River district, and 
within the (iencsee Annual Confereuce, in 1S22. Meetings 
were at first luld in private dwellings, and in the old frame 
.school-house, until about 1823, when a house of worship 
was built on the lot in the rear of the present stone scliool- 
house. The society was formed November 25, 1834, with 
Martin Spicer, Abel F. Low, Caleb Closson, Wareham P. 
Case, and Timothy O'Connor, trustees. The present church 
edifice was erected in 1852, and dedicated by Rev. A. J. 
Phelps the same year. The <ledicatory jiraj-er was offered 
by Rev. Gardner Baker, a pioneer in the Methodist min- 
istry, who but recently pas.sed away: it was an impressive 
petition for the divine blessing on the undertaking. The 
dedication of the church occurred near the close of the 
pastorate of Rev. Josiah Zimmerman. The structure is of 
wood, and will comfortably .scat about 300 ])er.sons ; it is 
valued at $5000. The society also has a parsonage. 

The succession of ])astors fnmi 1848 to the present has 
been B. F. Brown, Josiah Zimmerman, Moses Lyon, D. 
W. Roney, H. 0. Tilden, Royal Houghton, Chamberlain 
Phelps, A. F. Wheeler, Moses Lyon (second time), G. D. 
Greenleaf, W. B. Joice, D. Fulford, J. H. Lamb, S. W. 
Worn, AiLson Cheeseman, and S. F. Danlipitli, the present 
incumbent. The present trustees of the church are John 
Howell, John Ilalliday, Eli J. Seeber, Estp, Erastus Wright, 
and Amos Otis. The membership, as reported in the 
" Minutes of Conference of 1877, " is — probationers, 9 ; full 
members, 144; numbers of teachers in the Sunday-school, 
25 ; scholars, 88. 

A class was organized at Plessis, in the town of Alex- 
andria, in 1840, and placed in the Depauville cliarge. The 
society was formed in 1860. The statistics of this society 
are included in the above. 

THE THIRD >l. E. CHURCH OF CLAYTON. 

Religious meetings according to the doctrines of the 
Methodist Episcopal church were held in private dwellings 
and the school-house in Clayton village as early as 1834 ; 
and the following year a small class was formed, of which 
Perry Caswell was appointed class-leader. It was not until 
1840, however, that the society was regularly organized. 
Among the early members were Jane C. Merrick, J. N. 
Fowler and wife, Perry Caswell and wife, Fairfield Har- 
ford, Uri Raymond and wife, Susan Ingenson. Edward Kel- 
logg, John Wilson, Ansou Fowler and wife, and others. 
The first trustees were E. C. Merrick, John N. Fowler, 
Perry Caswell, John WiKson, Fairfield Harford, Wood- 
bridge C. George, and Adonijah Brush. 

At first Clayton was part of a circuit, and had preaching 
one-half daj' every alternate week. The Rev. H. F. Stan- 
ton was one of the earliest preachers. The church edifice 
was erected in 1840; it is built of wood, with a spiral 
tower, and is capable of seating about 350 persons. Its 



352 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



value is $3000 ; parsonacte, $2500 ; making a total value 
of church property, §5500. The present trustees are 
Perry Caswell, Jaim'S Hayes, Alau-son P. Rogers, Benjamin 
Kent, James W. Thompson, James Johnson, and Simeon 
G. Johnston. The incumbent pastor is Rev. E. S. Cheese- 
man ; membership, 114. A SuiKlay-school was oVLraiiized 
about cotemporary with the church, with Mrs. William II. 
Angel and Mrs. E. J. Merrick as superintendent and assist- 
ant. The present number of teachers is 20 ; scholars, 
160; Suj)urintendent, J. W. Thompson. The church and 
Sunday-school are reported in a prosperous condition. 

THE PiaST BAPTIST CHURCH OP CLAYTON 

was organized October 6, 1840, with D. D. Calvin, Henry 
Hurlburt, Henry Walt, E. Bushnell, and A. R. Calvin, 
trustees. It consisted of seventeen persons, mo.st of whom 
were formerly members of the La Fargevillc Baptist church. 
The subjoined is a list of the constituent members: James 
D. Gloyd, Lucinda Gloyd, Henry Walt, Edward Burchel, 
Frances R. Burchel, Abiatha Joy, Almira Shela, Hcla Car- 
penter, Olive Carpenter, Sarah Smith, Cyrus Noyes, Lyman 
Fox, Mi-8. L. Fox, Mrs. D. D. Calvin, John Cook, Henry 
Hurlburt, and Jlrs. C. Noyes. Cyrus Noyes was the first 
deacon. Upon the same day with the formation of the 
cliurch, E. G. Blount, of Clayton, was ordained pastor. 
For one year or more the church met once in two weeks, 
for worship, in the old stone school-house. Elder Blount's 
ministrations were blessed to the growth of the little church, 
and about fifty were converted duriu'j: the first year of its 
existence. The church, in connection with tlie Methodists, 
built the present edifice owned and occupied by the latter 
society. Here they worshiped till the summer of 1S47, 
when the Baptists sold their share in the above-mentioned 
building to the Jlethodists, and jmn-hased the present site 
and erected the edifice now known as the Baptist church. 
It was built during the summer of 1S47, is of wood, size 
52 by 40, and has a seating capacity of 400 persons ; cost, 
$2000. It was dedicated to the service of God, Septem- 
ber 15, 1847, the Rev. Lorenzo Rico preaching the dedica- 
tory sermon from Psalm xxvii. (j. Elder Blount continued 
his labors with the church for twelve years, and it numbered 
at the close of his pastorate 118 persons. G. W. Divoll 
succeeded him, and remained with the church until August, 
1862. Reverends H. E. Real, E. M. Buyrn, J. W. Henry, 
and a second term of Elder E. J. Blount were the succes- 
sive ])astors until 1876. In May of that year, A. W. 
Cady, i)f Hamilton Tiieological Seminary, became the pas- 
tor of the church. He was ordained July 20. 1876, and 
is the present incumbent. The church has been much re- 
duced by removals; it.s present membership is Ci'.i. The 
trustees are J. D. Gloyd, W. A. Dye, J. M. Bennett, Wm. 
II. Consaul, and A. Kendall, Jr. A flourishing Sunday- 
school is connected with the church, which numbers 80 
scholars. Its officers are J. M. Bennett, superintendent ; 
L. E. Bennett, assistant superintendent ; T. J. llecs, secre- 
tary; and Rev. A. W. Cady, treasurer. 

CIIRI.ST PROTESTANT KPISrOPAL ( 111 KCIl 

of Clayton was organizi'd i>n the lUtli (if August, 1868, 
with the Kiv. Henry R. Lockwuod, now of St. Paul's, 



Syracuse, as rector. A meeting for the purpose of per- 
fecting the permanent organization of the parish was held 
in the Good Templars' liall, on the above date, at which 
the following persons were present: John Johnston, Lyman 

E. Phillips, Charles M. Marshall, F. M. Brush, A. M. 
Brush, and George W. Seymour. At this meeting were 
elected John Johnston and Lyman E. Phillips, church 
wardens; Luther Eddy, C. M. Marshall, F. M. Brush, A. 

F. Barker, and Thomas Rees, vestrymen. On March 1, 
1861I, jilans for a church building, donated by T. W. Rich- 
ards, architect, of I'hiladelphia, Pennsylvania, were ac- 
cepted; and on June 27 of the same year the vestry 
ordered the preparing of the lot for the construction of the 
church, and on August 23 the building was begun. Mean- 
while the work of construction progressed as rapidly as 
means would allow. Many valuable donations were made, 
by residents and others, of building-materials, black walnut 
for furniture and trimmings and chancel-furniture, and 
memorial windows. The building was occu])ied as finished, 
October 1, 1876. It is a handsome brick edifice, of Gothic 
architecture, and hiis a seating capacity for about 250. The 
vestry own an eligible site for a parsonage, contiguous to 
the church. 

The rectors of the church have been the Reverends H. 
R. Lockwood, J. O. Drumm, Alexander Rogers, and 
Charles Seymour, A.M., the present incumbent, who ac- 
cepted the call to the rectorship February 16, 1876. The 
present (1877) wardens are 0. W. Smith and A. Bain ; 
vestrymen, Richard M. Esselstyn, Thomas Rees, Lewis 
Elliott, S. Decatur Johnston, and Luther Eddy. The pres- 
ent membership is 60 families; 56 coiumunic;ints. 

The Sunday-school was formed in 1867, by Mi.ss Flor- 
ence Benjamin, in a private dwelling, with four scholars. 
The present number of scholars is 40 ; teachers, 8 ; super- 
intendent, the rector. 

LA PARGEVILLE MISSION (EPISCOPAL). 

This mission is placed under the charge of the rector of 
Christ church, Clayton, and has by this means for several 
years past obtained public ministrations. Services are held 
in the M. E. church building. An appropriate site for a 
church edifice has been secured, excavations for a founda- 
tion been made, plans for a neat building adopted, and part 
of the materials furnished. It is anticipated that the 
structure will be begun and finished within a year. The 
mission has 18 communicants. 

THE OEU.MAN EVANdKI.ICAI, LUTHERAN CHURCH 

of Clavton and Orleans was formed Jlarch 11. 1841, with 
Henry Ha;i.s, Valentine Baldtiitf. and Nicholas Lchr, trus- 
tees. The society now has a neat bouse of worshi]) on the 
road between Dopauville and La Fargevillc. 

THE E\ANliELICAL ASSOCIATION 

of Clayton was organized December 21, 1841, with about 
fifty members. The first trustees were Valentine Dorr, 
Andrew Baltz, and John Haller. The first pastor was 
Rev. Ch. Hummel ; the present incumbent is Rev. H. 
Horn. The church has at present (1877 ) a membership 
of 7li ; nuniber of teachers and scholars in the Sunday- 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



353 



school, 40; Superintendent, Frank Vickers. Present trus- 
tees, Frank Vickers, Michael Lshr, and John Haller. The 
church and Sunday-school are both reported prosperous. 

ST. Mary's roman catholic church 

at Clayton was organized in 1842, with the Rev. Franci.s 
Guth as pastor. Occasional services were held by mission- 
aries in private dwellings and in the school-house some years 
prior to the regular organization of the church. Among the 
early members wore Patrick Cuutwcll and famih', Thomas 
Breiinan and family, Thomas Delauey and family, Joseph 
Thibault, and others. The church building was erected 
the same year. It is of wood, worth about §3000, and 
will seat about 350 persons. There is also a parsonage 
adjoining the church, which is worth probably 82000. A 
new church edifice is to be erected during the ensuing year 
(1878). 

The pastors since the close of Father Gutli's labors 
with the church have been Reverends Michael Guth 
(brother of the first pastor), Luke Harney, James J. 
Sherry, Paul Sauuach, Michael Craven, Louis Arrens, M. 
J. Brown, and James J. Sherry, the present incumbent. 
The officers of the church are the Right Rev. Edgar P. 
Wadiiaus, Very Rev. James Mackey, Rev. James J. 
Sherry, Christopher Downs, and Hugh Hamel, trustees ; 
Thomas Dowdell, clerk ; George Thiboault, treasurer. The 
church numbers 800 communicants ; Sunday-school, GO 
scholars and 36 teachers. Both church and school reported 
prosperous. 

physicians. 

Dr. Amos Ellis has been in the practice of his profession 
as a physician of the regular school for forty-two years in 
Clayton. He is a native of Jefferson County, havir)g been 
born in Brownvillc, January !), 1810. He received his 
medical education at Fairfield, and subsequently studied 
with Walter Welch, M.D., at Adams, and began practicing 
in 1833. He is a member of the Jefferson County Medi- 
cal Society. 

Dr. William Frame located in Depauville in 1822, where 
he practiced until his death in September, 1847. He was 
educated in Herkimer countj'. New York, and commenced 
the practice of medicine in Russia, in that county, in 1804. 
His son, Luke E. Frame, M.D., now of Depauville, .studied 
the science under his father, and graduated at the Geneva 
medical college in 1844, and has been in practice in his 
present place of residence ever since. Solomon V. Frame, 
M.D. (son of Luke E. Frame), now a practicing physician 
of Clayton, is a graduate of the Buffalo medical college, 
class of 1863. Another son, Silas Wright Frame, M.D., 
23 



is a resident physician of Belleville, and is a graduate of 
Bcllevue Hospital medical college, of the class of 1875. 

Dr. H. A. Mcllmoyl is located also at Clayton. Dr. 
Aaron Sumner practiced in Depauville from 1830 to 1876. 

We are indebted to the following-named gentlemen for 
a.ssistance in the compilation of the above historj' of the 
town of Clayton: Thomas Rees, Amos Ellis, M.D., Jerry 
Carter, James F. and R. G. Angel, O. W. Smith, John 
Johnston, A. F. Barker, James D. Gloyd, Alfred Fox, Esq., 
Luke E. Frame, M.D., Thomius Faire, Captain Elliott, 
Perry Caswell, Erastus Wright, William Ba.Kter, E. J. 
Seeber, Esq., Schuyler Osborn, A. Buskirk, Richard Terry, 
H. E. Morse, R. M. Esselstyn, Esq., Revs. S. F. Danforth, 
A. W. Cady, James J. Sherry, aud others. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. 



JOHN JOHNSTON. 

Among the prominent early settlers of Jefferson County 
is he whose name heads this brief sketch. He was born in 
the village of Watertown, September 11, 1816, and has 
since resided in the county. In 1830 he removed to Clay- 
ton from Gape Vincent, and Ikls been a resident of the 
village from that time to the present. In the year 1846 he 
w;is appointed by Polk deputy collector of customs, and 
was removed in 1849 by reason of the change in the ad- 
uiinistration. He was again appointed under Pierce in 
1853, and continued during that and the succeeding ad- 
ministration of Buchanan. In 18G1 he was again removed, 
owing to the change of the political aspect. He was elected 
supervisor in 1867, and served consecutively until 1871 ; 
then an interval of one year, and he was again elected, and 
served from '73 to '76. In 18G1-64 he served as justice of 
the peace. All of the above offices he filled to the satisfliction 
of the people. In 1874 he was the Democratic candidate 
for member of assembly, and received a very complimentary 
vote in his town, though, owing to the large regular Repub- 
lican majority, he was defeated in the district. Mr. Johnston 
has always taken an active part in politics, aud to no one 
man does the party in his town owe as much as to him. 
He is an indefatig-able worker, a good organizer, and a man 
thoroughly posted in political economy. He is an honest 
and upright citizen, and oue who generally enjoys the con- 
fidence of the community in which he has so long resided. 
(See portrait on another page.) 



ELLISBURG. 



This town, embracing Minos and Henderson (No. 6, as 
designated on the surveyor-general's map), was erected from 
Mexico into a township on Feb. 22, 1803; the first town- 
meeting being held at the house of Lyman Elli.s, at which 
the following town officers were chosen : Edward Boomer, 
supervisor ; Lyman Ellis, clerk ; Caleb Ellis and Amos B. 
Noyes, overseers of the poor ; Jeremiah ]Mason, Samuel 
Rhodes, and Benj. Boomer, commissioners of highways ; 
Matthew Boomer, constable and collector ; Abiah Jenkins, 
constable ; John Thomas, Christopher Edmonds, and Dyer 
McCumber, fence-viewers; C. Ellis, Jeremiah Mason, 
Timothy Harris, Benj. Boomer, D. McCumber, Joseph 
Holley, overseers of highways. 

Supervisors. — 1803, Edward Boomer; 1804—5, Lyman 
Ellis; 1806, Nathaniel Wood; 1807, L. Ellis; 1808-9, 
Joseph Allen; 1810, Oriraal Brewster; 1811-14, Lyman 
Ellis ; 1815-16, Ebenezer Wood ; 1817, L. Ellis ; 1818- 
20, Pardon Earl; 1821, E. Wood; 1822-23, P. Earl; 
1824-29, Wadsworth Mayhew ; 1830, Daniel Wardwell ; 
1831-36, Jotham Bigelow ; 1837, Ezra Stearns; 1838, 
Samuel Hackley ; 1839, E. Stearns; 1840, Wm. C. Pierre- 
pont; 1841-42, Ezra Stearns; 1843, Wm. C. Pierrepont; 
1844, John LittleBeld; 1845, James Jones; 1846-47, 
Wm. C. Pierrepont; 1848-49, John Clark ; 1850, Alvah 
Bull; 1851-52, James J. Steele; 1853-54, Alcander 
Dickinson; 1855, Dexter Wilder; 1856, E. B. Hawes ; 
1857, Andrew J. Barney ; 1858-59, Alcander Dickinson ; 
1800-61, George M. Hopkinson ; 1862, Albert G. Earl; 
1863, George M. Hopkinson ; 1804-66, John B. Clark ; 
1807, Albert G. Earl; 1868-69, John B. Clark; 1870- 
73, William Baldwin; 1874^75, James E. Green ; 1876- 
77, Isaac P. Wodell. 

Wolf bounties of S2.50 in 1803 ; of $15 in 1807-8 ; of 
$10 in 1811-12. In 1804-5, " Kesolved, that the method 
of voting shall be by each person's passing round and naming 
the persons he would wish to elect to fill the several 
offices." In 1816 voted to build a towii-hcjuse. 

This town derives its name from Lyman Ellis, of Troy, 
who settled as a proprietor in 1797, and who afterwards for 
several years acted as an agent. He died in town, March 
13, 1847, aged 87. His character is briefly summed up in 
his epitaph : " Modesty, honesty, and charity adorned his 
walk in life." 

April 11, 1796, Marvel Ellis,* of Troy, N. Y., contracted 
with Wm. Constable for the purchase of this town, except- 
ing a marshy tract each side of Sandy creek, near the lake, 
which was afterwards included, and a tract of 3000 acres, 



• Marvel Ellis died in Utica in 1806, aged -IB; he removed there in 
1803. 

354 



in the southwest corner, .sold to Brown & Eddy. The sum 
of $22,111.50 was paid, and a deed given, March 22. 1797, 
upon which a mortgage was given back upon the balance, 
amounting to 898,943.45. This mortgage embarrassed the 
early sales, and confidence was not restored until the 
proj)erty had reverted to the Constable estate, some years 
afterwards. 

The greater part of the town was surveyed by Calvin 
Guiteau in 1796, except the eastern part, that was sur- 
veyed by Nelson Doolittle, and the 3000-aere tract in 1800," 
by Benjamin Wright, of Rome; the latter, in 1808, sur- 
veyed the whole town. A proposition had been received 
from Moody Freeman for the jiurchase of the town, but a 
bargain was not effected. The town, including the marshes, 
which in dry seasons afford wild grass, but which are often 
flowed, contains 54,721 4 acres. The field notes of Guiteau, 
made in 1796, contain the following memoranda: 

Lot 2.3 (three miles above Ellis village). "About 5 chains west 
from the northeast corner are falls of ten or twelve feet, but not 
perpendicular more than four or 6ve feet, which -do not obstruct the 
salmon, as I found many above." 

Lot 34 (ne.\t west of 23). "About 20 chains from the we.«t line is 
a small fall in the creek, whore the water is confined to a narrow 
channel and then expands out, forming a depth of ten or twelve feet 
of water of a smooth, rocky bottom, and filled with inmimcrablc 
multitude of salmon, the clearness of the water being such that they 
may be seen in any part of it." 

In the spring of 1797, Jlarvel and Lyman Ellis, brothers, 
and both interested in the purchase, found their way into 
town, the latter with the view of permanent settlement. In 
the fall of the same year, Caleb Ellis, having met with Lyman 
Ellis at Rome, was casually introduced with the expectation 
that a relationship existed, but none was found; yet the 
interview resulted in an invitation to settle in the new 
town. Caleb Ellis accordingly visited the town, and selected 
a firm on the south branch of Sandy creek, at a place 
where one Waldo had the year previous erected a hut for 
hunting. 

Many men were employed by Lyman Ellis the stune 
season, who had at its close built a dam and saw-mill three- 
fourths of a mile below the jiresent site of Ellis village, 
and the mill was got in operation the same fall, but was 
partly swept off early the next spring by a flood. In the 
winter of 1797-8, Wm. Hieks, with Mr. Buller and B. 
Pierce, remained in town, and in the spring of 1798, Caleb 
Ellis and family, Robert Fulton, Elijah Richardson, Heze- 
kiali Pierce, Chauneey Smith, Win. Root, Vial Salisbury, 
Isaac Waddle, Abram Wilcox, two men by the nanu; of 
Thornton, and others, came into town with Lyman Ellis 
to rebuild the mill and erect a grist-mill ; but nearly all were 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



355 



taken sick, and the pioneers were reduced to great suffering 
from want of provisions and ncc&ssury medical attendance. 

To supply the place of mills, Mr. Ellis and his settlers 
constructed, after models of their own device, those primi- 
tive mortars used from necessity in all new settlements, and 
made by boring and biirnin;^ a cavity into the top of a hard 
wood stump, over which was suspended a pestle by a spring- 
pole. With mucli difficulty, during tlie season, the saw- 
mill was again fitted up and the dam rebuilt ; the iron and 
lieavy freight, as well as the furniture uf settlers, having 
been brought into town in open boats by way of Wood 
Creek and Oswego. 

On the 11th of September, 1798, Marvel Ellis wrote to 
Constable as follows : 

" We have a <^oo<l dam across tbo creek, which has been expensive; 
a good saw-raill, well finished, and running, and have done consider- 
able towards a grisl-niill. We have on tlio same lot a large and 
handsome improvement; have had a fine crop of wheat, and liave 
very fine corn. The people that are on the bind have good improve- 
ments for the time, and are industrious. I inclose you an account of 
the small sales to the settlers, the price sold for, and what has been 
received, which is a small sum in proportion to what has been laid 
out on the land. If people would have been satisfied of having a 
release from the mortgage by paying you, we should have had suf- 
ficient to have made the present jjaymeiit now due. The remainder 
of the money due from tliese settlers is due within a year. We wish 
you to give us some further indulgence, and something to convince 
people that you will release from the mortgage on receiving payment. 
which will enable us to make paj-ments fur the land, and make a 
large settlement soon." 

Inclosed in the foregoing was the fallowing list, with the 
number of acres taken up by each. Joseph Caldwell, GO; 
Wm. Hicks, 51; John G. Hayward, 150; Caleb Ellis, 
12G; Neal Salisbury, 100; Elijah Pettybone, 100; John 
Paddock, 50; Isaac Southerland, 130; Asahel Humphrey, 
41i); iTlisha Phillips, 100; Levi Hoot, 140; Hez. Peirce, 
149. 

The first corn and potatoes raised in the county by the 
present race of settlers was by Lymau Ellis in 1797, who 
also, in 1798, was probably the first to raise winter wheat. 

The first death in Ellisburg w;is Mary, a 3'oung daughter 
of Caleb Ellis, and the first death of an adult was that of 
Sauuuitha Howard. The h.v^t birth is said to have been 
that of Ontario Pierce, a son of Hezekiah Pierce, in the 
summer of 1798. 

The winter of 1798-99 was one of remarkable seventy. 
Snow fell on the 29th of October and lasted till the 20th 
of April. A settler in town (Gideon Howard) having been 
to Home, was returning when the first snow fell, and was 
overtaken by night in the woods near Little Sandy creek, 
five miles from liome. In the morning the snow iiad fallen 
nearly four feet, and was so ligbt that it was impossible 
to travel in it. He had only provision enough to last home 
without obstruction, and was detained three days, endeav- 
oring to struggle through, having constructed a pair of 
snow-shoes, which, however, were of little avail. When he 
reached home he was nearly exhausted from fatigue and 
hunger. 

In the spring of 1799 the dam of Ellis was again swept 
oft' and the mill partly destroyed, when this and the frame 
of a grist-mill were removed to the present village above, 
and the latter was got in operation about 1803. 



Many interesting details of the early settlement of this 
town and county are given in the following extracts from 
the diary of James, the brother of Wm. Constable, who, in 
lS03-tJ, made tours in the summer months through these 
northern counties on business connected with the estate of 
his deceased brother, of which he was one of the executors. 

. . . "September 5, 1803. After traveling some miles, I had 
at last the gratilication uf seeing a settler here (iu No. 10, or Sandy 
Creek). Three men were cutting and burning large piles of enormous 
trees. Ellis heing act^uainled with thi.'m, we went .and stayed in their 
hut, whieh was about 12 feet sijuare, built of logs, no chimney, and 
but very little furniture. There were two beds, in one of which a 
man and wifu slept, and in the other the other two men. One man 
was distant from his family 70 miles. They had a contract from Ji. 
Wright for 500 acres at 12», being first settlers, and from their ap- 
pcaranec and character I think the land well sold, for they are the 
right sort to settle the country. We dined on salt pork, with good 
bread, butter, and chocolate, much to my satisfaction. 

"We left them at 4 o'clock for Ellisburg, 11 miles distant, and soon 
after it began to rain quite hard, and continued till we got home. 
From the timber and appearance of this town I thought it sujierior 
in soil to any we had passed. I had the sutisfaction to find that 
settlers and all other people find it equal to their wishes. We retired 
to bed about 8 o'clock and slept well. It was uiy intention the next 
morning to have gone to see every man in the settlement, but this 
was unnecessary, for immediately after breakfast many of them came, 
and some from a considerable distance. 

*'^ September 6. lliid several consultations with the settlers, who 
seemed well pleased with my coming, and satisfied with my explana- 
tions. I heard of a daughter of one of them who had been seized 
with a fit and lay speechless for the preceding twenty-four hours. 
There was no doctor on the town, and they had to send twenty miles 
twice to one who was from home. This affected me much and deter- 
mined me to propose encouraging one to settle here, when I meet the 
Co-ex'rs. Perhaps a lot of 60 acres given to one would be well be- 
stowed. A parson will also soon be applied for. I find Ellis* house 
and mills good buildings, but unfinished, but he hopes soon to com- 
plete them. They are valuable, ancl should he kept up. lie will bo 
useful here, and I think has some strong claims upon us, as I shall 
explain. 

** September 7. Went after breakfast to see Lake Ontario, 5 miles 
distant, and was much pleased with it. A steady west gale blow up 
the white-caps, which, contrasting with the sea-green color of the 
water, had a fine effect. As far as the eye could reach, and the coun- 
try about us either fine forests, or well cultivated. The more I see of 
the town the more I am satisfied of its value. . . . Mr. Ellis has 
lived here nearly six years, and all he has received from our testator 
has been $221, for commission on lands sold. A lot was promised 
him upon condition of his coming to reside, but he never got a deed 
for it, though his mills were first erected there, from whence they 
have been since removed to where they now are. He now asks the 
ex'rs for a conveyance for the lot promised, being No. 04, and for time 
to pay the above balance, the security for whieh is ample, as his build- 
ings are valued at $2000 and the title to the lot they are ujion is still 
with the executors. 

"There are about 40 families in the town, most of them poor, but 
of that descriptiim of people fit to settle a new country ; few comforts 
about them, and they seem to have few wants j no liquor is to be had, 
and they have not yet begun to distil, nor are there any apples to 
make cider, so that their only drink is water, with which they seem 
content. They do not hesitate about the price of $3, but paying i 
down is very difficult for most of them. There are good horned cat- 
tle amongst them : the horses indifferent, but the only ones fit for a 
new country. They do not seem to regard distance, and go 9 or 10 
miles backward and forward daily, over roads that are nearly impass- 
able. . . . 

"September 8. Left Ellisburg at 4 p.m. for Capt. Boomer's, five 
miles distant, where I slept. This man owned about 100 neres in the 
town, upon which he improved about 15 acres, and the other improve- 
ments are, a log house, with some small buildings. lie has sold the 
whole for $900. receiving the great part down, the remainder well se- 
cured. Other instances of the value they set upon small improve- 
ments might be mentioned, such as another man refusing $1200 for 



356 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



150 a«res, witli little more done than theabove, but they will be better 
detailed hy conversation. 

" Hrptember 'J. Left Boomer's to travel by the State road, which 
passes from Ellisburg through town 7 (Louis, now Adams), 1, 6, 7, to 
Kedfield. . . . AVhat I saw of No. 1 (Lorraine) ig much inferior to 
the remainder, as Wright calls the whole a good town, and it is set- 
tling fast." 

The portions relating to the territory now Oswego and 
Lewis counties are omitted. 

"... Auyuat 21, 1S04. Proceeded on to Ellisburg, and found 
the road from Ellisburg so extremely bad and so seldom traveled, 
and another route, shorter and better, presents itself, so that 1 hare, 
by the advice of Mr. Wright, judged it advi.<ablc to alter to the latter; 
he is accordingly authorized to gi^■e 5 or 6 lots, of 50 acres each, to 
settlers, entitling them to deeds, after residence a certain time, on 10 
and 11, after they have erected buildings and other improvements. 
The road will be nearly direct from Rome to Ellisburg, and about 43 
miles. 

** AiKjiut 23. Went down Sandy creek to the lake, and found the 
marsh covered with hay-stacks, the contents of which had grown spon- 
taneously, and there are many horses and cattle at pasture, which 
proves that this place is of consequence. Some of it is indeed very 
line, and the people are very desirous of buying, but no judgment can 
be formed of the quantity of good and bad, and L. Ellis is therefore 
to send me an estimate before the price is fixed. Went to Christopher 
Edmonds, on the north side of the creek. He has a fine farm and has 
produced the best corn in the town. He expects this year a yield of 
about 90 bushels per acre. This article is very fine throughout the 
place, but the wheat has been affected by the fly and rust. The estab- 
lishment has flourished generally; many settlers have come in since 
last year, and more are expected. There are now 60 families, and 
though cases of fever and ague happen near the lake, and sometimes 
the lake fever, yet the country is a healthy one, and the soil so good 
that it will settle fast. 

. ".;l«^ii«( 24. Left Ellisburg, with directions to Ellis to sell the re- 
served lots (9), proceeding through Louis No. 7 (Adams), which is 
good land, and will settle, nearly the whole being taken up ; thence 
through No. 1 (Hounsfield), formerly sold by Harrison and Hoffman 
to Champion and Storrs, but which now belongs to several proprietors, 
among the rest Messrs. Kcmble ami Hounsfield." . . . 

The journal of travel through towns No. 3 (Rutland), 
No. 4 (^Champion), and St. Lawrence and Franklin counties 
and back is omitted. The remainder of this year's journal 
relates to other sections than the town of Ellisburg. 

" On the way to Ellisburg found many settlers since last year, and 
the improvement considerable ; the crops of wheat excellent, and the 
com good, as they have suffered little from drought. Arrived at 
Ellis' at noon, to remain 2 or 3 days. The mills are in tolerably good 
order, but the water so low they can grind only part of the day. 
Grists are brought from a great distance, and in boats from Oswego, 
and lower. Ellis has built a small house for himself, and a good 
barn. . . . 

"Aug. 9. Went down to the lake, and being fine weather, were rowed 
down Sandy creek to the mouth. The lake is higher than it has been 
for some years, and more of the marsh is covered, which has pro- 
vented much hay being cut. If the waters continue to rise, which 
they think probable, most of the marsh will bo of no use. We re- 
turned from the lake, and were caught in a shower before we got to 
Ellis'. The first rain since leaving Schenectady. ... A school- 
house is now buililing near Ellis' Mills, on the same lot, to bo two 
Btorics high, the upper of which is to be devoted to divine service, 
when any minister travels that way. The town have also subscribed 
towards building a bridge across the creek, at the same place, and 
we agreed to cantribute$20, as they could not raise sufiicicnt, but they 
have engaged to im]>rove the road from the bridge to the north line 
of No. 10. Dr. Dresser has but two patients, and there is less sickness 
than at any previous year in this season." 

The proprietors had adopted the practice of giving cer- 
tificates allowing people a certain time after exploring to 



go for their families before taking contracts, but it was found 
that in many cases these had been transferred, and this 
having grown into a sj'stem of speculation, was discon- 
tinued, as they were given to assist the first real settlers, 
and their transfer operated against the interests of both 
land-owners and settlers. About half of No. 1 was at this 
time sold. A reputed locality of iron ore was visited on 
No. 6 (Redfield), which was thought, upon examination, to 
be coal, but which, from the description given, must have 
been the oxide of manganese. 

One year afterwards (August 8, 1806), Mr. Constable, 
in going over this route, remarked, — 

" Passed from the Long Falls to the bridge at Indian River (Antwerp 
village), where we spent the night. The country generally remains 
as last year, except at this place, where they are building a saw-mill 
for General Lewis R. Morris, who has gone to Vermont, his family 
not having yet moved to this town." The same journal (August, 
1806), speaking of the settlements in Ellisburg, says, "From Asa 
Brown's passed on to Andrews' settlement, on Ellisburg. through a 
very good road, 4 miles. He has made considerable improvement 
here. The s.aw-miU has been long in use, and has enabled them to 
erect frame houses, some good barns, and a large grist-mill, which is, 
however, not yet finished, and after dinner walked to see the lake, 
which, as the wind blew fresh from the west, had a very pleasing ap- 
pearance. . . . Ellis rents the mills for $400 per annum, and his affairs 
will soon be in good order. . . . We heard with great concern the 
death of Elder Littlefield, which happened a few days before our 
arrival. He was a man of some consequence and much respected, 
and has left a widow and nine children. It is supposed he died 
intestate. . . . There have been some cases of sickness during the 
season, but none fatal. Dr. Draper is still on the town, and has con- 
siderable practice. He will continue here, and hopes to build a house 
next year, when he will require a deed for the 50 acres of land to 
which he is entitled. I should have remarked that 180 militiamen 
trained here yesterday (September 2), and it is said by some that one- 
third were absent. If so, the population has greatly increased." 

January 22, 1803, George Tibbets and James Dole, of 
Troy, were appointed agents for Ellisburg, and in 1807 
were paid for their services in land. In the same year, 
Benjamin Wright, of Rome, succeeded as general agent for 
the estate, and fixed his residence at Pulaski, where he 
continued in the capacity of surveyor and agent until 
employed on the canal surveys. 

No incident worthy of remark occurred until 1808, when 
the embargo act was passed; that led to much opposition 
from the Federal party in this county, and was in some 
places on this frontier systematically violated. 

In September, 1808, an event occurred in this town that 
created great excitement at the time. We take it from 
accounts published in the Allmny Guzitte, Oct. 10, 180S. 
A party from Oswego, under Lieutenant Asa Wells, entered 
Sandy Creek, and after seizing a quantity of potash, under 
the embargo laws, proceeded to the house of Capt;iin Fair- 
field, surrounded it, and seized and carried away a swivel. 
31 r. F. being absent, his lady made complaint to a justice, 
who issued a warrant. The constable was intimidated, and 
called upon his fellow-citizens to aid him, when about thirty 
men took arms and went with him, but Wells' men pre- 
sented bayonets, when they desisted, and twenty of the 
men went oflT. Lieutenant Wells ordered the remainder to 
be disarmed and bound, when they were taken, with the 
swivel, to Oswego. On the evening of the 25th of Septem- 
ber the same parly returned, as reported, for the purpose of 



r" 



m 




Resiolncz or I 




S.ELUSBUIiOjEFFCffSON Co. H. Y. 



Slld BuiLDiNas. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



357 



taking the magistrate and constable who had issued the 
papers. A warrant against Wells and two others, for 
felony in breaking open a house, was issued at Sacket's 
Harbor, and given to Ambrose Pease, a constable, to exe- 
cute, who, after examining the law, raised the hue and cry, 
and assembled about 200 persons in Kllisburg, where a con- 
sultation of several magistrates was held, and the next day 
at sunrise about seventy or eighty men, armed and equipped, 
volunteered to aid in the arrest ; but the magistrates durst 
not issue the order for their march, being apprehensive 
that some excass or injury might be done, and the question 
having been raised whether a constable had a right to de- 
mand aid before he had been resisted, the armed men were 
advised to disperse, and the civil officer re((uested to proceed 
to apprehend Wells and the others, withimt the force of 
the county. This proceeding was charged by one of the 
political parties as an attempt of the other to resist, by fi)rce 
of arms, the execution of the laws, and mutual crimina- 
tions were exchanged with much bitterness. To justify 
themselves, and secure public opinion in their favor, the 
civil officers who had taken an interest in the matter pre- 
pared the following statement, which was published in the 
papers of the day, at Utica, Albany, and elsewhere : 

*'At a meeting of the inliaUitants of the county of Jeflferson, in the 
State of Now York, suddenly convened (by cominnnd of the civil 
authority) in the town of Ellishurg, to talce into consideration the 
]>roper and legal mode to apprehend certain felons and robbers, who, 
in the town of Ellisburg in said county, being armed, and under the 
pretense of being in the service of the United States, to enforce the 
embargo laws, did there, violently and forcibly, enter into the dwell- 
ing-house of Captain Fairfield, broke open locks, forced open doors, 
and robbed the said Captain Fairfield of his property, contrary to the 
laws : that they refuse<l to submit to the civil authority of the county, 
and did then and there, by force and arms, seize, bind, and carry 
away to Oswego ten of our fellow-citizens, who were commanded to 
attend a civil officer in the execution of process on the said offenders, 
which citizens have been kept since in close confinement, in want of 
every comfort and convenience of life, without lawful authority, and 
constantly subject to insult of soldiery, who seem insensible of the 
rights, privileges, and liberties of Americans. Feeling the spirit of 
freemen, and viewing this and many other late acts of violence as 
rapid strides towards despotism and martial law among us, the es- 
tablishment of which must occasion a total deprivation of the rights 
for which our fathers and many of us have fought and bled j there- 
fore, 

** Jieiolved, That wo consider it a duty incumbent on us, for our 
personal safety, for the security of our lives and property, and for 
the support of our civil law and authority, to unite in all lawful 
measures to apprehend the said felons. 

** Rcaoti-cfi, That such of our fellow-citizens who have assembled in 
arms t<i aid our magistrates and civil officers in tlic execution of law- 
ful process against Lieut. Asa Wells and others, who stand charged 
under oath of felony, bo requested to disperse until another trial bo 
made by them to apprehend the said .-Vsa Wells. 

" Hemtlfed, That the magistrates and civil authorities of the neigh- 
boring counties be requested to aid us in apprehending and bringing 
to justice the said Lieut. Wells ami divers other persons concerned in 
the said felony. 

'* iteiolveii, That we will support the laws and magistrates of the 
country, and our civil officers in the execution of lawt'ul process. 

" lieivlved, That Aiii/iintim SncL^rt^ Jexse Hnpkinfi, and John Cnwtes, 
Esqs., magistrates of the county, be appointed a committee to cause 
these resolutions to bo published for the information of our fellow- 
citizens. 

"Augustus Sacket, 
Jessk Hopkins, )■ Committee. 
Joii.s OOWLES, 

"EHMnrg, Sept. 27, 1808." 



During the war a company of Silver Grays, composed of 
old men and boys not liable to military duty, was formed in 
Wood's Settlement, but was not called to serve, except to 
guard the beach and mouth of Sandy creek. 

In the spring of 1814 a complete victory was gained, 
with slight loss, by a detachment of troops guarding a 
quantity of military stores from Oswego, under Lieut. 
Woolsey, which had entered Sandy creek, and were at- 
tacked by a detachment from the British fleet. The 
details of this transaction will be given in our chapter on 
the war. 

The aboriginal remains of Ellisburg have given occasion 
for the weak-minded to believe that they were in some way 
concerned with buried treasures, and this being conSrmed 
by the supposed indications of the divining-rod, led in 
early times to explorations for them, despite of the guar- 
dianship of the sjiirits of the murdered, who, according to 
the most approved dcmonologists, are ever placed sentries 
over concealed coffers. The projectors of these speculations 
were in some instances charged with making money out of 
the credulous victims of superstition, by .selling provisions, 
and, in several instances, the diggers wore almost fright- 
ened out of their senses by ghosts and demons. Some got 
fleeced of substantial property in pursuit of imaginary 
wealth, and others lost the respect of sensible men by the 
favor with which they regarded these follies. On a certain 
occasion, in preparing the enchanted circle for digging, a 
lamb was sacrificed to appease the guardian demons of the 
supposed treasure ; but this act was generally regarded as a 
sacrilege, and did much towards bringing discredit upon 
these heathenish orgies. 

In 1828 there again occurred a sickness that was remark- 
able for its fatality, more especially in the vicinity of the 
lake, where scarcely a single person escaped an attack. It 
continued through the summer months, which were re- 
markable for their intense heat, with copious showers, 
alternating with clear sky and hot sun. The lake was very 
high, and the marshes were flowed. The disease assumed 
the type of a malignant typhoid fever, and was very gen- 
eral, extending along the entire frontier, being especially 
severe in the vicinity of marshes and standing water. In 
the western part of the Stat* this year was distinguished 
by the prevalence of intermittent and other fevers. 

The foregoing is mostly taken from the history of Jeffer- 
son County by Br. F. B. Hough. What follows has been 
gathered from personal examination of town and village 
records, and from interviews with those whose memory 
goes back to the time ante-dating the War of 1812, in fact, 
with nearly all who are authority upon the subjects treated. 

Jonathan Dealing settled in the northeast part of town 
previous to the War of 1812, in which he served. After 
the war he removed to Rome, Oneida county, thence back 
to Ellisburg, and finally to Medina county, Ohio. He died 
at Cleveland, in the latter State. One son, G. K. Dealing, 
lives at present in Mannsviile, at which place he is carrying 
on the lower grist-mill, the property of L. J. Howe. 

John Miner, from Schoharie Co., N. Y., settled near 
Ellis village, probably previous to the War of 1812. One 
son. Captain John Miner, began sailing between Ogdens- 
burgh and Chicago in 1830, and followed that occupation 



S5S 



niSTORT OF JEFFERSON COUNTT. NEW YORK. 



for fbttj-oDe yeaus. He at present resides in Mannsrille. 
Another sod, Abram. is a resident of Ellis village. 

Philip Martin, of Massachusetts, settled near the centre 
of the town in 1S06. with Lis wife and one son, P. P. 
Martin, the latter now living in Mannsrille, to which 
fJice be removed his ^lih- in l$o6, after baring taught 
school there for three jeais. Philip Martin's brother, 
Benjamin, located in town about 1S04— 5, and their cousins. 
JesBe, Leri, Amos. Joseph, and Darid, settled about the 
sane time, aD near each other, in the centre of town. Ther 
bda«^ed to the militia, with the exception of Benjamin, 
wbo was exempt, owing to a defect in his eres. They 
were called out once or twice for a short time during the 
War of 1S12-15. the militia being held as " minute men," 
ready to go. at a moment's warning, to the scene of any 
hostile d^nonstration. 

Danid Rounds, of Cheshire, Berkshire Co.. Massachu- 
eetts, made a trip to Ellisbnrg in 1S16. and bargained for 
land, after which he returned to Massachusetts and " took 
unto himself a wife." In the spring of 1S17 he brought 
his wife back with him. and arrived at their future home 
on the 3d of April. The farm was on the old Sacket's 
Harbor road, then the only post-road in the town, about 
two miles west from Mannsville. Mr. Rounds purchased 
wild land, and made the first improvements upon it. In 
the winter of 1818-19 be tanght district school, and after- 
ward taught several winter terms. The money thus earned 
he applied in impn:>ring his farm, paying for help to clear 
it. On thb place he resided until after his fourteenth child 
was bora. Since 1S70 he has been a resident of Manns- 
TiDe. 

John Wilds, a native of Norton, Massachusetts, thirty 
miks from Boston, settled a mQe northeast of Ellis vjllase 
in 1824. He was a shoemaker by trade, and worked at 
that business while Hring on his farm. He was accom- 
panied to the town by his wife and seven children. His 
son, Benjamin P., is a resident of Ellb village. 

Fkidoo T. Whipple, a native of Rhode Island, and later 
a resident of Deerfieid, Oneida Co.. N. Y., located near the 
landing, on Sandy creek, in 1S03. In 1806 he removed 
to the farm now owned by his son, Georse Whipple, a 
short dtstance southeast of Ellis viUage. When he settled, 
he was accompanied by his wife and one child, and a son 
was born upon the place he settled that year. After that. 
and previous to 1 >4)6. be moved back to Deerfieid, in the 
ricinity of which pbce be remained a year, retumin" to 
EDisbtirg in 1806. During the War of 1312-15, he° be- 
longed to the militia of the town, and was at the battle of 
Sacket's Harbor. May 29, 1813. He died in 1814. One 
of bis sisters was married to Marvel Ellis. 

Mr. 'W hippie was a carpenter by trade, and came to 
Ell'isburg to work on the grist- and saw-milk of Lyman 
Ellis. These mills stood above the present '• Stone Mills," 
near where the dam now is. 

Jonathan 3Iatteson. a penjioner of the Revolution, and 
formMly from the State of Rhode Island, where four of 
his children were bora, and afterwards a resident and earlr 
settler of Chenango Co., .\. Y., came in 1S23, with his 
wife and eight children, and located in the northwest part 
of the tcwn of Ellisbarg, where he lived until Sept. 25, 



1^6. when he died in the Soth year of his age. Some of 
his children emigrated to the western States, The elder 
two sons, Thomas and Jonathan, remored with their fami- 
lies in 1842 to Kane Co.. Hi., and settled near the rillage 
of St. Charles. Jonathan died at that place during the 
War of the Rebellion, and Thomas died in Grinnell, Iowa, 
in Angtist, 1S73. having reached a greater age than did his 
father. One son. the youngest, Samuel Matteson. is now 
living near the Wardwell settlement. 

Henry Green, a native of Stonington. Connecticut, came 
into Ellisbnrg in ISO", and in 1S09 settled two and one- 
half miles west of BeUeville. It is said there was then not 
a house between his place and Lake Ontario. Mr. Green 
was. after the War of 1812. colonel of a regiment of militia. 
During the war he served several times as a militiaman. 
His son. James E., is at present engaged in the mercantile 
business at Belleville. 

Amaziah Fillmore settled in the town of Ellisbnrg about 
1810-11. His brother, Ethni Fillmore, located afterward 
in Mareh. 1S15. with his family. Several of the descend- 
ants of these men are now living in town. A third 
brother, John Fillmore, died in Vermont, His son, Joseph 
Fillmore, b at present a resident of Henderson, but lived 
for many years in the northwest part of EllLsburg. 

Willard Alverson, fivtm Halifax, Windham Co., Tt., lo- 
cated in the town of Henderson in February, 1817, and 
the fall of the same year removed to EUisburg. and made a 
permanent settlement on the farm where he now resides 
with his son, Wallace W. Alverson. For a short time after 
coming to thb town be lived with his uncle, Knight D. 
Reed, who had settled in Henderson several years pre- 
viously, and who removed to Ellisbnrg with Mr. Alverson. 
He was also from Windham Co., Yt. When Mr. Alverson 
came to his place in EUisburg a log hotise and a log bam 
were standing upon it, having been built probably by John 
Haskins, who then occupied it, and had made a small clear- 
ing. Mr. Haskins and his brother Joseph settled here 
twrether, and lived close by the lake-shore, where the land 
was then dry and fertile. Owing to the drifting of the 
sands the waters of Stony creek were diverted from their 
channel, and finally overflowed to such an extent that the 
family was obliged to move to a greater distance fir>m the 
lake. Some of the timbers of their old house, and part of 
the sweep used to draw water from their well, are yet stand- 
ing. The Haskins' made quite a business of burning lime, 
quarrying the stone ftx>m the outcropping strata in the 
vicinity, and the remains of the old lime-kiln are yet to be 
seen. The Haskins place was finally purchased by Samuel 
Matteson, now living near the Wardwell settlement, north 
of Pierrepont Manor. John Haskins' son Horace emigrated 
to Sycamore, De Kalb Co., III., where he now resides. 

Salmon D., John, and Aaron Blanchard, with their 
father, located in the town of Henderson some time pre- 
vious to 1817, and afterwards removed to EUisburg, where 
the elder Blanchard erected a blacksmith-shop, west of the 
present Alverson place. Two of the sons. Aaron and John, 
built a saw-mill on Big Stony creek, in Henderson, below 
Henderson village. The three sons afterwards went west, 
.\aron and John driving through to Illinois with their 
teams, and settling at St. Charles, Kane Co., and Salmon 





ffrs. or ANDRLW A. WH£ELER,M*'.w-uf.auseu/ffr. 



MAEOUS JUDSON 
was bom in Monroe, Fair- 
field county, Connecticut, 
April 21, 1802. His fath- 
er was Stiles Judson, the son 
of Ezekiel Judson, of the 
same place. 

Mr. Judson moved to f 
Champion, Jefferson Coun- | 
tj, N. Y., in 1820. He was | 
married December 9, 1824, ] 
to Susan Coughlan. Two • 
years thereafter, in the fall ' 
of 1826, he lost his father, 
mother, two sisters, and 
brother-in-law, all within 
nineteen days. He has one 
brother and two sisters still 
living. 

In 18-10, he moved from 
Champion to Lowville, Lewis 




County, N. Y. In 1871 he 
moved to Mannsville, where 
he now resides. By trade, 
Mr. J. is a carpenter and 
joiner. In politics, up to the 
time of the repeal of the 
Missouri Compromise, he was 
a Democrat, since which time 
he has voted with the Repub- 
lican party. He has been a 
member of the church since 
1832. He hius n^tired from 
all active business, having, 
by a life of industry and strict 
economy, accumulated an 
ample competence. His resi- 
dence and grounds in Manns- 
ville, ■■'. sketch of which ap- 
peal's below, are among the 
finest iu the town of Ellis- 
buig. 



MARCUS JUDSON . 




^: >. 



. "fijft*- 



Resioenc£ of UARCUS JUDSON, Mak 

JlffttfMOH CWIHTY. K. Y 



ilSBUff&. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



359 



locating later in the State of Wisconsin, where he now re- 
sides. Aaron is yet living at St. Charles, where John 
recently died. Aaron and John learned the blacksmithing 
trade, and both worked at it after going west. The former 
afterwards worked at the carpenters' trade. 

Ellisburg has sent a number of her people to Illinois and 
Wisconsin, those in the former State all locating near St. 
Charles, where they have accumulated considerable property, 
now of value owing to its proximity to the city of Ciiicago, 
and the quality and quantity of its agricultural productions. 

Rufus Richardson, one of General Washington's life- 
guards during the Revolution, setted in town very early. 
He died Sept. 16, 1841, aged 81, and was followed by 
his wife, who had reached the age of 90, on June 4, 1851. 
Their son Freeman, now also deceased, was a soldier of 
1812. The old Richardson farm is in the northwest part 
of the town. 

William W. Walker, another old settler of Ellisburg, 
died in 1832. Zephaniah Penney and George Reed (father 
of Knight D. Reedj were also early settlers of the town. 
Samuel Dean located in March, 1810, on the farm now 
owned by Charles Eastman. He was from Chester, Wind- 
ham Co., Vt., and was accompanied by his wife, five sons, 
and two daughters. The place upon which he settled was 
originally taken up by Simeon Daggett, from Westmore- 
land, N. H., who had made some improvements. Mr. 
Dean's daughter, now Mrs. Amos E. Wood, came out in 
February, 1812, after her mother's death, which occurred 
in December, 1810. 

The Eastman, Mason, Hoisington, Wodell, Noble, and 
other families were among the early settlers, and some of 
the finest farms and best improvement,s in town are now 
owned by their descendants. Many whose names have 
been forgotten, and of whom no record has been kept, were 
at an early day residents of the town, and afterwards moved 
awaj'. 

EARLY ROADS. 

The first road which is described on the town-records 
was laid out Oct. 7, 1803, and is recorded as follows: " Be- 
ginning near the end of a road cut out on the Sixth Town 
from Levi Schofield's to Hungry Bay, and where said road 
intersects a division-line of Great Lot 54 on said town ; 
thence (by courses given in description) to the south line of 
the town of Adams, meeting a road laid out by the com- 
mi.ssioners of said town to the said line." 

Following is the survey of a road " laid out by the com- 
missioners of highwuy.s for the town of Ellisburg, in said 
town, Dec. 20, 1803. Beginning at the road near the house 
of Lyman Ellis, on the north line of lot No. 70, thence 
north 81° west along said line 104 chains and 66 links, 
until it intersects the road laid out from Christopher Ed- 
munds' to the town of Adams." 

A road was laid out May 12, 1804, surveyed by Lyman 
Ellis, " Beginning on the east line of lot No. 25 in said 
town, where the road th.it is laid out running from Jere- 
miah M;iS()n"sto Joseph Ilolley's intersects .said line ; thence 
north along said line 154 chains and 75 links, until it in- 
tersects the road leading from Asahel Hoisington's up to the 
south side of the north branch of the Great Sandy creek, 
to the town of Adams, laid out by actual surveys." 



Another road, laid out Aug. 30, 1804, and al.so surveyed 
by Lyman Elli-s, is described as follows : " Beginning at 
the south line of the town of Adams, at the southeast cor- 
ner of William Thomas' land, at the south end of a road 
laid out on the town of Adam.s, at a ' Small Beech Saplin;' 
thence south 45° west, 5 chains, to a maple-tree standing 
on the line of the road laid out by the commissioners of the 
town of Elli.sburg in the year 1803." 

A ro.id laid out June 21, 1804, surveyed by Lyman 
Ellis, was as follows : " Beginning on the lot No. 76, at the 
mouth of Bear creek, so called, thence (by bearings given) 
to the west lineof town.ship No. 1,5} miles and 15 chains." 
Another road, laid at the same time, is recorded as " Be- 
ginning on the ridge, so called, where the road leading from 
the mouth of Bear creek, so called, to the west line of 
town.ship No. 1, cros.ses said Ridge; thence (by bearings 
given) to the south branch of Big Sandy creek, and to the 
road by Mr. Isaac Burr's." 

At a special town-meeting, held July 24, 1813, the fol- 
lowing-named persons were chosen as the Jirst sclutol com- 
missioners and inspectors for the town of Ellisburg: Com- 
missioners, Oliver Scott, Elijah Woodworth, William Case; 
Inspectors, George Andrus, Lyman Ellis, George Jenkins. 
Oliver Scott was released from the position of school com- 
missioner, and Asa Averill appointed in his place. In 
1813 and 1814 the town was divided into seventeen school 
districts, and public school buildings were first erected 
during those years. Schools had previously been taught 
by subscription, in houses built in the same way, or in any 
buildings which could be conveniently used. The first 
school-house is mentioned in " Constable's Journal," at the 
date August 9, 1805. 

LAKE VIEW HOUSE. 

In the spring of 1874, a neat and commodious framo 
hotel was built by Stephen Wood on the shore of North 
Pond, for the accommodation of people seeking a pleasant 
summer resort. The building cost about fifteen hundred 
dollars. The locality is a fine one for fishing and boating, 
and in the spring and fall for shooting wild-fowl. During 
these seasons hunters come to the place in considerable 
numbers. The present proprietor of the establishment is 
Mr. Wood's son, George M. Wood, who has made the place 
one of favorite resort to pleasure-seekers, and has a lurge 
custom. A good view of Lake Ontario is here obtained, 
looking out across the pond. 

DAIRYING INTEREST^ 

Within the limits of town there are at present a dozen 
establishments for the manufacture of cheese, and the in- 
habitants realize from this branch of industry a constant 
and considerable profit. The following are among the more 
important factories now carried on : 

Mannsville Cheese- Factory. — This institution was started 
by Messrs. Shepherd & Grenell in 1863, and operated by 
them for two or three years. The present proprietor is E. 
L. Stone. During the months of September and October, 
1877, the average daily receipt of milk was about 7000 
pounds, but as high as 14,000 pounds were received daily 
earlier in the season. Eleven cheeses daily was the fall 



3G0 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



mannfacture of this year, weighing sixty pounds each. Tlie 
factory is run by steam, and contains four vats and thirty 
presses. Two hands employed besides the proprietor. Build- 
ing, frame. 

Ellis Village Factory. — Frame building, erected in 1 869, 
by James Rogers. Pre.sent proprictore, Touslcy & Reynolds. 
Average daily receipt of milk for season of 1877 about 
6000 pounds. In October of this year manufacturing 
eight 60-pound cheeses daily. Factory operated by steam. 

Graves Factory, northeast of Ellis village, on road to 
Pierreport Manor, built some twt^lve or fifteen years ago by 
Melvin Stearns. Present proprietor, Peleg Graves. Ten 
to twelve chee.ses per day have been made at this factory, 
but only two being made daily in October, 1877. Build- 
ing, a small frame. 

Bellivillc Factory. — The building now occupied by this 
establishment is a large frame structure originally erected 
by Matteson Freeman for a earriagc- and wagon-storehouse 
and manufactory. The present proprietors (October, 1877) 
are J. W. Overton and 0. and A. Ingraham. Average daily 
receipts for the season of 1 877 about 7000 pounds. Largest 
number of cheeses made any day during the .sca.son 19. 
Making in October, seven daily. Products of this factory 
sold generally at the building to buyers from New York, 
and shipped to that city. 

There is a large factory near the Wardwell settlement, 
and others of more or less importance throughout the town. 

IMPROVED STOCK. 

James Brodie, a native of Scotland, left her " banks and 
braes" in 1846 and emigrated to America. He brought 
with him the thorough knowledge, enterprise, and experi- 
ence of a successful, practical Scotch farmer and stock- 
breeder, and was therefore prepared to embark in the enter- 
prise of introducing improved stock and developing it in 
liis adopted country. Within a few years he entered into 
the business, and the following are the importations with 
wliich he has been connected : In 1851 the world-renowned 
Ayrshire bull, " Kelburn," and the cow, "Mary Gray," 
whose record at local. State, and National exhibitions stands 
unrivaled. In 1853 one pair of Yorkshire swine was im- 
ported, and during the .same year Messrs. Brodie, Converse, 
and Ilungerford imported seven short-horns, four Ayr- 
shirDs, and twenty-two Leicester sheep. In 1854, Messrs. 
Brodie and Hungerford imported four Ayrshire, three short- 
liorns, and thirteen sheep. In 1856 ten Leicester sheep 
and one York.shire boar were brought out by the same 
gentlemen. In 1861, Messrs. Brodie and Campbell im- 
ported five Ayrshire cattle, together with sheep and swine, 
and in 1864 three Ayrshire bulls. In 1871, Messrs. Brodie 
and Converse made the most extensive importation of Ayr- 
shire cattle ever made in the State, embracing twenty-five 
head, carefully selected from the herds of t«n of the most 
distinguished breeders in Scotland ; also eight Shetland 
ponies from the Shetland Islands, and a York,shire boar 
i'rom England. 

Mr. Hugh Brodie has personally superintended the im- 
portation of nearly all the improved stock brought into the 
country, having crossed the Atlantic nine times; and tho 
skill and judgment evinced in his selections have been the 



subjects of praiseworthy comment from the best judges on 
the continent. From the Yorkshire swine imported by 
jVIessrs. Brodie and Converse has sprung the " Improved 
Cheshire," or "Jefferson County Hog," so well known 
throughout the county and State, and in other portions of 
the Union. 

Messrs. Brodie and Converse have, for about ten years, 
been engaged to some extent in breeding Clydesdale horses, 
and own one of the only two establishments in tho State 
for breeding Shetland ponies, the other being near Buffalo, 
owned by the Widow Lord. The records of the various 
local exhibitions, from the time of the first importation to 
the present, bear gratifying testimony of success, and out- 
side of local and State shows, the herds of ]NIessrs. Brodie 
and Converse have been successfully represented at tlie 
National .show at Boston, at Chicago, Cincinnati, St. Louis, 
and in Canada. These include also the sheep and swine, 
and at Boston the short-liorns. 

There are at present (Oct., 1877) three herds of Ayr- 
shire cattle in town, bred from animals purchased of Messrs. 
Brodie and Converse, viz : The herd of N. Wood & Sons, 
numbering 22 head ; "Cool Spring Herd," of the Wm. H. 
H. Ellsworth estate, numbering 10; and the "Hill-side 
Herd," of Marlin Wood & Son, numbering 14. Messrs. 
James Brodie & Son own, in their " Maple Grove Herd," 
60 head, and the " Riverside Herd," owned by James F. 
Conver.se, consists of 100 head. Beside these herds, there 
are numerous individual animals owned in town. The 
Leicester sheep at present owned by Messrs. Brodie & Son 
number 84, and by Mr. Converse 30. There ai-e a few 
others in the town. 

Prominent among the herds in other parts of the State, 
as well as in other States, arc those of Hon. Samuel Camp- 
bell, which were founded by the purchase of eight short- 
horns, — which formed a part of the most remarkable selling 
lierd in this country, — and also about twenty head of Ayr- 
shires, — the latter constituting the nucleus of a very prom- 
inent herd. 

James F. Converse is the son of Thomas Converse, who 
settled here in 1835, coming from Oneida county, and 
locating on the farm now occupied by the former. 

THE LAKE-SUCRE. 
]\Ir. Hough, in his History of Jefferson County, says, — 

*' The l.ake-shorc in this town is nearly a straight line, and is bor- 
dt'reil l>y a l<»w ridge of sand-hills, scantily covered with trees at a 
few {tuints, but mostly composed of drifting sands. Behind this is a 
large marsh, that extends several miles each way from Sandy creek, 
in which are open ponds. These marshes are without timber, are 
covered with sedges, aquatic (>Iants, and wild rice, and when the lake 
is low a considerable portion of thorn may be mowed, but in high 
water they arc mostly flowed. A large part of tho marsh remains 
unsold, and is used as a kind of common. Where eajiable of tillage 
it is found very productive. 

"Tho lake-shore has been the scene of many wrecks since the 
country was settletl, the first within the memory of those living 
having occurred in the fall of ISOO, when a small schooner from Mex- 
ico to (jananoque. Capt. Gammon, master, was lost off Little Stony 
creek, and all on board perished. A boat with eight men, that was 
sent in search of the vessel, was also swamped, and all hands were 
drowned. 

"About 1807 a family was located by Mr. Benjamin Wright at 
the mouth uf Sandy creek, to afiTord aid to shipwrecked persons, and 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



3G1 



since that period this lonely dwelling has sheltered many a suffering 
sailor who might otherwise have perished. Within the memory 
of the present tenant, who has occupied the prcii.ises thirty years,* 
the following vessels have been wrecked on this coast, and several near 
the house; * Atlas,' 'Asp,'* Huron,' * Fame' of Genesee, 'Two Sisters,' 
' Victory,' ' Hornet,' ' Three Brothers,' ' Medora, ' ' Burlington,' ' Caro- 
line,' * Henry Clay," ' Neptune,' 'Napoleon,' ' AVhite Cloud,' and several 
others, names not known, of many of which the entire crews were lost, 
and of others a part were saved. These arc but a part of the whole 
number that have been lost here, and thesubject of establishing a light, 
or at least one or more life-boats, with the necessary ajtparatus, on 
the beach, for use in case of shipwrecks, commends itself strongly to 
the charities of the humane, and the attention of the government. f 

" In 1829 a survey of the mouth of Sandy creek was made by order 
of the general governmtnt, with the view of improving it for a harbor. 
The estimated cost of the work was SliG.OdO, but nothing was ever 
done towards etfccting this. The coinj)letion of the railroad has 
diminished the amount of commerce at this place, which was always 
sninll. A warehouse has been erected at the head of navigation, on 
each branch o{ the creek, but these are little used at present. Sandy 
Creek is a lawful port. 

" The fisheries in Me.\ico bay, and in front of this town, have 
within a few years assumed much importance, and recently gill-nets 
have been introduced and used, at great distances fr4»m the shore, in 
deep water. It was found that the placing of these before the mouth 
of streams injured the fisheries, and the subject was made a matter 
of complaint to the board of supervisors at their session in 1862, who 
passed an act by which it was forbiilden to jilace seines or nets across 
or in the waters of Skinner creek, an<l the north and south branches 
of Big Sandy in Ellisburg, or within SO rods of the mouth of either, 
under penalty of $50." 

The ElUshurg Uition Library was formed February 16, 
1813. Caleb Ellis, Brooks Harrington, Oliver Scott, Shu- 
bael Lyman, and Isaac Burr were elected the first trustees. 
Like most others of the class, this ha.s been abandoned.]; 

ELLIS VILLAGE (ELLISBURG POST OFFICE). 

This is the oldest village in town, and is located on the 
south branch of Big Sandy creek, at its junction with Bear 
creek, about four miles above the mouth of the former. A 
record of the first settlement here appears in Constable's 
journal at the beginning of this article. 

The first frame building in the village was erected proba- 
bly by Lyman Ellis, and stood on the ground now occupied 
by the brick store of Mr. Dunn. In 1S03 this house was 
occupied by a family named No3'es, with whom Pardon T. 
Whipple and family staj'ed a short time, when they came 
that year to the town. At this time a hotel was kept in a 
log house which stood about on the ground now occupied 
by the Hufistatcr House, which latter building was erected 
previous to the War of 1812. The present proprietor is J. 
M. Huffstater. 

A post-office was established here as early as 1806-07, 
with Lyman Ellis as postmaster. The office has been con- 
tinued from that time, and the present postmistress is Miss 
S. M. Bullock. 

Potash was made here to a considerable extent previous 
to the War of 1812, the manufacture of this article being a 
source of much profit to those engaged in it. There were 
also two or three distilleries at one time, built subsequent 
to 1803. 

The " Stone Mills" were partially built in 1828, by Peter 

« Written in 1853. 

f Life-saving station, with boat, since established. 

X Hough's History of Jefferson County. 



Robinson, and afterwards purchased by Samuel Cook, who 
finished them. They originally contained three run pf 
stone, the same as at present. The stone of which the mill 
was constructed was ((uarried from the creek and drawn by 
Benjamin F. Wilds, who also built the dam. The old spar 
dam built by Lyman Ellis was removed by Jlr. Wilds to 
make room for the new one. The present log dam is the 
third one at this place, and was built by George and Henry 
IMillard at a comparatively recent date. The present pro- 
prietors of the " Stone Mills" are Messrs. Hopkinson & 
Dennison. 

Steam Cabinet-Shop, established by F. II. Millard in 
1873. The building is a frame structure, formerly the pub- 
lic school-liousc, and has been considerably enlarged by Mr. 
Millard. Nearly all kinds of furniture are manufactured 
except parlor sets, — chamber sets being a specialty. The 
furniture is principally retailed in the vicinity of Ellis and 
neighboring villages. 

Planing-Mill and Sash- and Blind-Factory, established 
about 1872 by A. J. Smith, in a building above the one now 
occupied by him, where he continued the business for one 
sea.son, and purchased at the present location, where he has 
since continued. A portion of the building he now occu- 
pies was erected about 1825-30, and a carding-machine 
put in and run for some time by Benjamin Benias. It was 
afterwards converted into a ehair-faetory and operated by 
Samuel and C. C. Comee, from Massachusetts. Finally it 
passed into the hands of R. P. Goodenough, who established 
a carriage- and wagon-factory ; the latter sold to A. B. JIc- 
Donald, he to E. W. Ayer, and Ayer to Harley Otis, who 
intended to open a sash- and blind-factory but failed to do 
so, and after owning it a short time traded it to John 
Woodall, from whom Mr. Smith purchased. The latter put 
in the machinery for his purpose and began work in his 
new quarters. He disposes of all he can manufacture in 
the neighborhood, finding a ready market. 

Furniture JIanufactory, located on Sandy creek, a short 
distance above the village. It was originally erected for a 
grist-mill by Scott & Davis, some years previous to 1828, 
and when the Stone Mill was built below this mill was 
bought out, a stipulation being inserted in the deed that it 
should not be used for grist-mill purposes thenceforth. 
Deeds to this property are yet made in that way. The 
present proprietor. G. S. Hudson, established business on 
Bear creek, in the eastern part of the village, in 1857, and 
operated a shop there until 1870, when he purchased the 
old mill, which he rebuilt and refitted throughout in 1871. 
Here he has since carried on the business. The principal 
manufactures are chamber sets and extension tables, although 
all kinds of furniture are manufactured to order. The 
business is principally retail, with a small amount of job- 
bing. A saw-mill and carding-mill are operated in connec- 
tion with the fiirniture factory, and all the lumber used, 
except the black walnut, is manufactured by the proprietor. 
The walnut is from the western States. 

Amos Hudson emigrated to Ellis village in 1820 from 
Worcester Co., Mass., with his wife and five children. He 
was a scythe-maker by trade, and built a small shop where 
the agricultural works of his son, L. F, Hudson, now stand, 
on Bear creek. Previous to his coming an oil-mill was 



362 



HISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



built at the same place by Lyman Ellis, William McCune, 
and Joseph Bullock. This was burned about 1818. Amos 
Hudson died in 1830, and in 1833 L. F. Hudson estab- 
lished a shop for the manufacture of agricultural imple- 
ments, which he has since carried on. For some years 
after his father's death he made scythe.s. His manufac- 
tures at present are cultivators, general agricultural imple- 
ments, and edged tools. He also does a large business re- 
pairing machinery. 

A tannery was built near the stone grist-mill about 
1824-5 by Thomas Crandall, from Petersburg, Rensselaer 
county, N. Y. The business has been discontinued a num- 
ber of years, and the old building is now used for a cider- 
mill. A mile above the village, on Sandy creek, a grist- 
mill was built by John Shaw about 1827, and is now owned 
by J. C. Allen. A distillery was built soon afterwards by 
Alfred and Daniel Steams, and operated for quite a num- 
ber of years by the latter. A carding-maehioe stood here 
in 1820, run by Elam King, and was probably built by 
him. The only one of these institutions now standing is 
the grist-mill. The creek bed in the neighborhood of this 
mill is worn by the action of falling water and small stoues 
in places, so that numerous "pot holes'" appear, varying in 
size from a small cup-shaped hollow to a pit eight or ten 
feet in depth and as many in diameter. There is a natural 
fall here of several feet in perpendicular height, on the top 
of the ledge constituting which the dam is built. Many 
theories have been advanced regarding the origin of the 
holes in the rock which are found here, but the explana- 
tion here given is undoubtedly the true one, as it is evi- 
dent that the harder stones which are found in all these 
cavities have, in the motion given them by the constantly 
falling water, worn the softer lime-rock into the curious 
shapes here presented. The same thing appears at all the 
falls and cascades above this, but in no place so remarkable, 
perhaps, as here. 

Theron Holley, from Whitestown, N. Y., a son of Jona- 
than Holley, a resident of Connecticut and a soldier of the 
Revolution, settled in the town of Ellisburg about 1809, 
near the Wardwell settlement. He was a young man at 
the time, and soon after married Anna Tousley. Mr. Holley 
served in the War of 1812, and died during or soon after it. 
His son, Theron Holley, Jr., is engaged in the mercantile 
business at P^llis village, and is the only one of two chil- 
dren (Sanford and Theron) now living. He has carried 
on a dry-goods and general store here for thirty-two years, 
previous to which he had operated a store containing trim- 
mings, etc., for ten years, making in all forty-two years in 
business at this place. 

THE FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF ELLISBURG 

was formed by David M. Di.xon and Oliver Leavitt, Jan. 
1, 1817, with si.x members. The Rev. J. A. Clayton was 
employed soon after, and was the only settled pastor. He 
was installed Nov. <), 182G. He had several successors. 
On the 11th of Nov., 1823, a .society was formed, of which 
the trustees were Amos Hudson, Hiram Taylor, Daniel 
Wardwell, John Otis, Wm. T. Fisk, and Wni. Colo. A 
church ediflce was erected, but the organization became re- 
duced, and was finally given up in the summer of 18-14, 



having numbered 143 members. The church has been for 
some time private property, and in 1843 was taken down. 

THE UNIVERSALIS! CHURCH OF ELLISBURG 

was formed August 26, 1821, with 19 members ; the 
present number is 50. The persons chiefly instrumental in 
forming it were Isaac Mendall, Silas Emerson, John Clark, 
and Rev. Cornelius G. Persons. The clergy have been C. 
G. Persons, Chas. B. Brown, Oliver Wilcox, Luther Rice, 
Pitt 3Iorse, Alfi-ed Peck, and others. The society was 
formed September 2, 1833, with J. Mendall, Edmund M. 
Eldridge, Daniel Stearns, Edmund Palmer, and Richard 
Cheever trustees. A church was erected at Ellis village 
in 1843, at a cost of §1500. This organization is kept 
alive, although it has no pastor at present. 

THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL SOCIETY 
in Ellisburg village was formed March 5, 1832, with Oliver 
N. Snow, Benj. Chamberlin, Lyman Ellis, Jeremiah Lewis, 
and Hiram Mosley trustees. In 1833 they built a church, 
which in 1850 was removed, repaired, and a steeple added. 
In 183G a parsonage was built. The present pa.stor is Rev. 
Mr. Woodard. The church is a neat frame building, sur- 
mounted by a bell-tower and spire, in the former of which 
has been placed a very musical, deep-toned bell, the notes 
from whose iron tongue can be heard at a distance of several 
miles from the village. 

BELLEVILLE. 

This place was begun as a farming settlement about 1802 
-03 by IMotcalf Lee, Bradley and Joshua Freeman, Martin 
Barney, James, Benjamin, and Jedcdiah McCuniber, and a 
few others. Elder Edmund Littlefield, a minister of the 
Baptist faith, soon after settled. The place being favorably 
situated for mills gradually grew into a village. Soon after 
the War of 1812-15 a meeting was called at the suggestion 
of Calvin Clark, a merchant, to select a name for the place. 
A committee was appointed, who chose the present name, 
said to have been taken from Belleville, in Canada. Pre- 
vious to this time it had been known as Hall's Mills, from 
Giles Hall, who in 1806 purchased of J. McCumber a hy- 
draulic privilege here, and resided in the place for many 
years. Mr. Hall was a man much esteemed. He built a 
gri.st-mill here, and also erected the first blacksinith-.shop 
and the first trip-hammer. His mill stood in the up]ter part 
of the village. He also built a saw-mill, which is yet 
standing, now the property of II. C. Staccy. A stone 
wagon-shop, built on the creek by Mr. Hall, near his saw- 
mill, was afterwards purchased of his son by Mattcson Free- 
man. It was burned down, and. through the aid tendered 
by citizens of the village, rebuilt by Elisha Littlefield, now 
of Adams. It is at present the property of H. C. Stacey. 

Bradley and Joshua Freeman, who settled here in 1802 
-03, were brothers. The former located on the place now 
owned by Mrs. Calvin Clark. Joshua Freeman was a Bap- 
tist elder, and occasionally preached while carrying on his 
farm. 

Samuel Borden built a tannery and currier's shop here at 
an early da)'. 

The first tavern was kept by John Hawn, who had pre- 




^ii> 1,1 





Mi^s.Lavias Hllmorl. 






^'^.^. 





Views of Froperty or LAVIAi. 







m9^ 

■■''« 




LAVIAS F\LLMOf{Z. 



ZeP H.H.rtLLMOffE. 



--•'«£l.-?:---,S^K»-- 




)tiL, Llusburg. JcrrEffsoN Count r. N. Y. 



IfCSIDENCE or LAVIAS AND M. M. FlLLMORE 





Fifor J. Dunbar Houghton. 




RcsioENCEor N.CMUOHT0N,BcllvilleJo„n ., i^u 

jLrrcHSON counTr n.y. 



o D Lj r; »^ 



HISTORY OF JEFFEKSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



363 



•viously opened the first store at the village. The "store" 
consisted of a short counter in one end of his house, with 
a small stock of goods behind it. He built an addition to 
his house afterwards and opened a tavern. Laban Brown 
was among the early merchants. A cabinet-shop on the 
south side of the creek was established by Norman Barney, 
in a building previously used for a wagon-manufactory. 
The present proprietor, J. H. Carpenter, purchased it in 
1SU3, and has carried on the business since, making nearly 
all kinds of furniture. 

A grist-mill was built on Sandy creek, in the upper part 
of the present corporation of Belleville, some years previous 
to 1S2(), by Abraham Miller and Rufus Mather, of Marl- 
boro', Windham county, Vermont. Not long after this, 
and previous to 1820, they deeded about an acre of land to 
Owen Howard, upon which he built a chnir-factory, and 
carried on quite an extensive business for a number of 
j'cars. Miller & Mather afterwards sold out to Cotton 
Kimball, who built the frame grist-mill now standing. The 
first mill was one of the old-fashioned frame structures com- 
mon at that day. The dam was near the mill. Kimball 
removed this dam and built one about half a mile above 
the mill, and dug a "ditch" raceway. The grist-mill is 
now the property of Dr. Elton Hanchett, and is known by 
the old familiar title, " Mather's Jlill." 

During the time Howard was running his chair-factory, 
a clotli-dressintj establishment was built and opeiated by 
Harvey P. Dwight. A carding-machine was afterwards put 
in below bj' Luther Mather, and carried on by him for some 
time. Finally Samuel Northrup erected the preseut build- 
ing, and began both carding and cloth-dressing. The es- 
tablishment is now the property of H. H. Harris, who carries 
on cloth-dressing, carding, and manufacturing. 

A hotel called the " Central House" was built early by 
iSIatteson Freeman, and after being owned by several persons, 
was finally burned down while the property of I. L. Dillen- 
back, who was then running it. About 1873 he built the 
present " Dillcnback House," on the site of the Central, 
and is now its proprietor. Both these buildings wore frame 
structures. Philemon Stacey aud his older brother, John, 
from Halifax, Vermont, settled at Belleville in 1808. John 
was married and Philemon single. The latter worked with 
his brother, and learned of him the carpenter's trade, and 
the two built some of the first liouses in the place. John 
Stacey removed to Buffalo and died there. Philemon is 
yet living in Belleville with his son, H. C. Stacey, at an 
advanced age. 

Lebbeus Harris settled at Belleville about 1815, coming 
from Cooperstown, Otsego Co., N. Y. He married the 
widow of Demas Thomas, who came here with his father, 
John Thomas, from Vermont, about 1811, and settled in 
the north part of the village. In 1812, Demas Thomas 
built the frame house now standing near the residence of 
his son, D. C. Thomas, after which he went to Vermont 
and married, returning with his wife to Belleville. About 
a year after his marriiige he died, leaving a widow and one 
child (D. C. Thomas). He had made many improvements 
upon his place, and at his death left everything in good 
shape. As has been mentioned, his widow was afterwards 
married to Mr. Harris. 



Zerah Brown, a native of Waterbury, Conn., moved into 
Jefferson County in March, 1805, and settled in the town 
of Lorraine (then Malta). His son, Samuel Brown, now 
living at Belleville, moved his father into Adams in 1828, 
and in 1837 came to the place where he now resides. 
Samuel Brown's older brothers served in the War of 1812, 
one with the regulars and four with the volunteers. Zerah 
Brown died in December, 1847, in his 84th year. His 
wife died in Juno, 1837. Samuel Brown recollects at- 
tending a school which was kept in an old blacksmith-.shop, 
near Lorraine " Huddle," in 1805. In 1807, a log school- 
house was built and covered with elm-bark, which Samuel 
Brown helped hi.s father peel from the trees. This building 
was originally without floors, but these necessary portions 
were afterwards p\it in, the upper one being of cherry timber. 
In the school kept in the old black.smith-shop, in the winter 
of 1805-6, the teacher was Deacon Gladwin Bumpus. This 
shop had been built by a man named Soles. In the .school- 
house the first teacher was Miss Betsy Burpee (or Burpy), 
who taught in the summer of 1807. The following winter 
an Irishman, called " Ma.ster Tisdell," taught the school. 
INIiss Burpee afterwards nuirried Aaron Brown, since de- 
ceased, and is now residing near Lorraine " Huddle." 

At Belleville a frame school-house was built as early as 
1806-7. This was afterwards burned down and replaced 
by a briek building. The present scliool-hon.><c is a neat 
one-story frame building, large enough for the purpose it is 
designed for, as most of the children begin attendance at 
the academy as soon as they have " outgrown" the com- 
mon school. 

BELLEVILLE UNION ACADEMY. 

The following account of this institution is made up 
from Dr. Hough's history and a historical address by Pro- 
fessor Houghton : 

The " Union Literary Society," at Belleville, in Elli.sburg, 
was originated by the efforts of the Rev. Joshua Bradley, 
a Baptist clergyman, who, about 1824, began to labor to 
interest the public in the cause of education, and drew up 
a plan upon the manual-labor system, which, he represented, 
would combine all the advantages that an academy could 
bestow, and aftord a revenue from its earnings to sufficiently 
remunerate the stockholders. With this expectation, stock 
was subscribed, a lot given by Giles Hall, and on April 13, 
1826, an act of incorporation was obtained, by which Jo- 
tham Bigelow, Orin Howard, James W. Kennedy, John 
H.igedorn, Amos Heald, Peter N. Cushman, Wesson 
Thomas, Pardon Earl, Samuel S. Haws, Edward Boomer, 
Sidney Houghton, Benjamin Barney, Samuel Boyden, 
Ebenezer Webster, Israel Kellogg, Jr., Jesse Hubbard, 
Hiram Taylor, Henry Green, Rufus Hatch, Charles B. 
Pond, Calvin Clark, John Barney (1st), Samuel Pierce, and 
Godfrey W. Barney were constituted, with such as might 
associate with them, a body corporate, to have perpetual 
succession, and limited in their powers to the support of an 
academic school ; the yearly income of their estate might 
not exceed §5000. 

While preparations for building were pending, a school 
was commenced by Mr, H, H. Half, under the direction of 
Mr. Bradley, which was taught for a time in a private 
house at Mather's Mills, one mile above Belleville, and 



364 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



afterwards in the Baptist church. The location of the in- 
stitution having been settled with some difficulty, from the 
struggle of rival interests, the erection was commenced in 
1829, and on January 1, 1830, the present academic bulld- 
intr was dedicated. On the 5tli of the same month it was 
received under the visitation of the regents, upon the ap- 
plication of the trustees and Benjamin Durfee, Nahum 
Houghton, James McCumber, Henry Shaver, Jesse Brews- 
ter, Matthew Green, Thomas Clark, Amos Pratt, Daniel 
Wait, Culver Clark, Jotham Littlefield, Wadsworth May- 
hew, and Charles Avery, who had contributed to its 
erection. 

Charles Avery was appointed principal, and for a time 
the academy flourished to a degree that justified the highest 
expectation of its friends, and attracted great numbers of 
students from distant parts of the county. Mr. Isaac Slater 
served as assistant the first year, and William D. Water- 
man the .second, at the end of which Mr. Avery was suc- 
ceeded by Mr. La Rue Thompson, who stayed two years, and 
was followed by George W. Eaton, who remained a year. 
Joseph Mullin and H. H. Barney were next employed ; 
the first for one, the other for two years, when the school 
was for some time closed. In 1837, Mr. T. C. Hill was 
employed a year, when the building was closed by the 
mortgagee. Efforts were then made throughout the town 
to free the institution from debt, and in this the Rev. J. 
Burchard took an especial interest, and these efforts were 
attended with success. 

The Rev. G. J. King was next employed as principal, 
and at the end of a year he associated with Richard Ellis 
as joint principal, and in a few months was succeeded by the 
latter. He filled that station about three years. Orsemus 
Cole, R. Ellis, Calvin Littlefield, George Ramsay, John P. 
Houghton, and J. Dunbar Houghton have since been em- 
ployed, the latter having been for the last two years the 
principal.* 

The library of the Savortian Society, connected with this 
academy, was formed under the general act April 12, 1833, 
with Edward Kellogg, Thomas J. Field, C. M. Elbridge, 
Roswell Barber, 0. S. Harmon, Wm. T. Searles, L. H. 
Brown, and Allen Nims, trustees, which was continued till 
1848. There is, belonging to the academy, a small library 
and a fine collection of apparatus for illustrating the physi- 
cal sciences. The building contains, besides recitation- and 
school-rooms, about a dozen apartments for students. 

The money received from the literature fund and tuition, 
and the number of students for each year, down to 1852, 
are shown in the following table, derived from the oflicial 
reports of the trustees to the regents of the University : 

Iiitoralure Nn. of 

Yiam. Slonry. Tuition. Sludentii. 

1829 $189.00 $1370.00 

1830 132.24 769.96 30 

1831 160. 46 920.00 52 

1832 111). 10 393.63 35 

1833 -15.69 450.00 26 

1834 83.85 500.00 50 

1835 70.80 460.00 53 

1836 70.00 400.00 30 

1837 42.40 425.00 30 

1841 297.82 1000.00 82 

1842 307.50 750.00 60 

* Written in 1853; for additional names see fnrtlier on. 



Literature 

Years. Sloriey. 

1843 ¥255.02 

1844 136.44 

1845 161.78 

1846 151.45 

1847 229.31 

1848 249.95 

1849 205.89 

1850 169.72 

1851 196.40 

1852 164.28 

Total $3427.10 





No. of 


Tuition. 


Students 


$570.00 


53 


350.00 


110 


266.00 


86 


326.00 


95 


530.00 


118 


675.00 


138 


447.00 


97 


180.00 


89 


253.00 


120 


703.00 


188 



$11,738.09 



About 1850 a considerable amount of scientific apparatus 
was purchased for the use of the school, and a few valuable 
additions were made to the library. The school term for 
1853 closed with an exhibition in the old stone church, 
where the Baptist church now stands, the proceeds of 
which amounted to S38.G4, and the expenditures to S22. 
Of the net proceeds, $6 were given to the Baptist so- 
ciety, for the use of the house, and $10 were added to the 
library fund. This exhibition was the first of a series 
which were continued for many years, and which produced 
an income of several hundred dollars. 

J. W. Bishop, one of the students of this institution, 
subsequently became an engineer on the Grand Trunk 
railway of Canada, and in later years eventually removed 
to the west. During the War of the Rebellion he served in 
the Union army, and rose to the rank of brigadier-general. 
A. MofFatt, another student, engaged for a time in teaching 
in Louisiana, and afterwards engaged in mercantile busi- 
ness. He now resides in the city of Troy. Among other 
prominent students, L. J. Bigelow adopted the profession 
of the law, and also edited a paper in Watertown, where he 
subsequently died in the midst of his usefulness ; D. V. 
Dean is now a professor in the medical college of St. Louis, 
Mo. ; and J. M. Zethmaycr died in Antwerp while engaged 
in teaching. 

The following is a list of teachers emplo3'ed in 1856: 
Rev. J. Dunbar Houghton, A.M., principal ; Rev. J. W. 
Whitfield, teacher of painting and drawing; N. W. Buel, 
M.D., physiology and anatomy ; Miss Lois M. Searles, pre- 
ceptress ; Mrs. E. A. Houghton, music ; Miss Amelia Brig- 
ham, ornamental. During the summer of 1856 the Aicilities 
of the school were increased by the erection of a new build- 
ing at a cost of about four thousand dollars. During the 
fall term of 1857, A. J. Brown, A.M., and wife were added 
to the corps of teachers. In the winter of 1858-59, Mr. 
W. T. Wright was teacher of mathematics. In the summer 
vacation of this year Professor Houghton advanced SIOOO 
for the purpose of finishing the third story of the builditig. 

On the 30th of June, 1859, there was a gathering of the 
alumni at the academy. In the fall of this year the faculty 
was increased by the addition of John P. Buckley, A.B., 
professor of Greek and Latin ; George Foy, assistant in 
English. Very many of the students and some of the 
ofiicers entered the army. For a time during the early 
years of the war it seemed as if the school must be broken 
up; but by strenuous exertions it was kept going, and sur- 
vived the troublous times. 

In 18(il the name was changed to "Belleville T^nion 
Academy." Mr. Foy, who had entered the army, was 
killed on picket duty in 1861, and his remains were brought 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



365 



home for burial. Major Barney and Mr. Buckley, with 
others, fell at the second battle of Bull Run, in August, 
1802. Major B.'s remains were brought hoiuo, and three 
thousand people attended his funeral. In the autumn of 
1863, Mr. Pierce and wife resigned their positions as 
teachers. In the winter of 18(33-34 the academy was pre- 
sented with a beautiful silk flag by James E. Green. At 
the close of the academic year ending July, 1864, Prof 
Houghton, who had been in charge of the school for thirteen 
years, resigned his po.sition. During his administration the 
library had nearly doubled in the number of its volumes, 
and additions to the value of three hundred dollars had 
been made to the scientific ajiparatus. 

The following statistical statement shows the number of 
scholars and receipts in money for each year, from 1852 to 
1SC3, inclusive: 





Whole number 


Litemturo Received from 


From 




of studenti*. 


scholars. 


rcgeuts. 


tuitions. 


18.i2 


118 


86 


$164.00 


$703.00 


1853 


208 


96 


169.00 


918.00 


1854 


253 


118 


207.00 


931.00 


1855 


287 


8S 
143 


195.00 
273.00 


2987.00 


185fi 


275 


9916.00 


18S7 


190 


143 

158 


273.00 
289.32 


777.00 


1858 


205 


1334.00 


1859 


209 


173 


335.00 


1358.00 


1860 


227 


189 


357.00 


1423.00 


ISfil 


230 


174 
172 
146 


312.00 
303.00 
275.00 


1448.00 


18t)2 


236 


1600.00 


181).'! 


209 


1408.00 


1804 


''19 


No report. 
153 






1S65 


187 


299.00 


2108.00 


186G 


342 


257 
137 


782.00 
497.00 


5525.00 


1867 


280 


4552.00 


1868 


100 


38 


86.00 


824.00 


1869 


No report 

130 




1870 


65 


294.00 




1871 






117.00 


900.00 


1S72 


147 


20 


132.00 


1789.00 


1873 


m 


16 


96.60 


1386.00 



The latest report (date not given) shows 170 students, 
with no statistics. The principals succeeding Rev. J. Dunbar 
Houghton have been, Rev. Benjamin D. Gifford, A.B. ; 
Rev. Buel A. Smith (since dead) ; E. H. Hillier ; R. L. 
Thatcher, A.M. ; Willard A. Grant, A.M. ; and Henry 
CaroD, A.M.* 

INCORPORATION OF VILLAGE, ETC. 
Belleville was incorporated in 18G0, and the following 
corporation officers elected May 29 of that year : Trustees, 
De Alton Dwight, Alcander Dickinson, Daniel Hall, Abner 
M. Durfee, Calvin LittKfield ; Clerk, Arthur J. Brown; 
Assessors, William R. Pennell, Collins F. Armsbury, Henry 
F. Overton ; Treasurer, James E. Green ; Collector, Cyrus 
N. Rowe ; Pound-master, Patterson W. Stevens. At this 
election 52 votes were cast. From tlie by-laws of the 
corporation the following extract is made, as showing one 
of the most important features of the government of the 
place : 

" Section 5. No cnttle, horses, sheep, or fwinc shall be permitted to 
run at large within the limits of said corporation : and all persons 
owning or possessing any cattle, horses, sheep or swine, found run- 
ning at large in any of the streets of said corporation, shall forfeit 
and pay for each such offen.^e the sum of one dollar for the use of 
said corporation, and may bo prosecuted therefor before any court 
having jurisdiction thereof.'' 

* This account and aecomp.nnying statistics are very imperfect, but 
arc the best we could obtain. — [Oistoriax.] 



The oflScers elected for 1877 are as follows : Trustees, 
Hoiatio Evans, Chester Wright, J. H. Carpenter, H. H. 
Harris, A. M. Durfee; Assessors, E. Jennings, T. B. Kin- 
ney, S. P. Gillett ; Clerk, W. B. Doane ; Treasurer, N. C. 
Houghton ; Collector, W. B. Wright ; Fire wardens, B. 
Barney, Levi Johnson, Stephen Vogel ; Pound-master, I. 
L. Dillenbeck ; Street Commissioners, Horatio Evans, 
Wellington Martin, H. H. Harris. 

Belleville is located principally on the north bank of the 
north branch of Big Sandy creek, although the corporation 
includes a considerable territory on the south side of the 
stream. 

The Sacket's Harbor and Ellisburg railway passed through 
the village, and during its continuance brought much busi- 
ness to the place, but since it has been taken up the town is 
left to depend on its local manufactures and the reputation 
of its excellent academy, with the trade from the sur- 
rounding country. It is located in the midst of a fine 
agricultural region, and is the most important village in 
the town. Sandy creek has here a broad, rocky channel, 
and affords power for considerable manufacturing except 
in a dry season. 

THE ELLISBURO AORICDLTURAL SOCIETY 

was organized March 8, 1849, the first officers being Alvah 
Bull, president ; Mason Salisbury, A. G. Earl, vice-presi- 
dents ; William T. Searles, recording secretary; Samuel 
Hackley, corresponding secretary ; Green Packer, James 
Brodie, A. F. Wood, M. Stearns, M. S. Wood, T. Shepard, 
executive committee. 

At its first organization, it was designed to apply to 
the town of Ellisburg onlj', and was instituted and sus- 
tained by a number of spirited agriculturists who were de- 
sirous of promoting a competition in the rearing of stock 
and the details of farm husbandry in general, but who 
found it difficult to attend the fairs of the county society, 
or to excite through them that local interest and emulation 
so desirable to attain. 

Comparatively, but few had attended the fairs at Water- 
town, and the benefits of as.sociation scarcely extended to 
the more remote sections of the county. The first fairs of 
the society were held as follows: at Ellis village in 1849 
and 1850, at Belleville in 1851, at Ellis village in 1852, 
and at Belleville in 1853. 

By a resolution of January 8, 1853, the citizens of 
Adams and Henderson were allowed to compete for pre- 
miums, but all meetings were to be held in Ellisburg; and 
March 10, 1853, an eligible lot, partly in a cleared field 
and partly in an open wood, was leased from William T. 
Searls for ten years, the first six years being free of rent, 
on condition that the premises should be inclosed in a high 
board fence, and the remaining four to be paid at the rate 
of ten dollars per annum. The subjects for premiums em- 
brace the various classes of domestic animals, agricultural 
implements, the produce of the field, the orchard, the dairy, 
and the garden, household manufactures and miscellaneous 
articles; and the money with which these various pre- 
miums are paid is derived from the annual contributions 
of members. 



3GG 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



SOCIETIES. 

" Collins Lodge, No. 168,* I. 0. 0. F.," was the first 
lodge established here bj a secret order, and is now in a 
flourishing condition. It was instituted February 4, 1852. 
The officers for 1877 are as follows : N. G., C. Ellis ; V. 
G., J. S. Miller; Secretary, J. H. Carpenter; Treasurer, 
A. Brimmer. 

" Rising Light Lodge, No. 637, F. and A. M.," was in- 
stituted Feb. 20, 1867, with the following officers : W. M., 
William Jenkins ; S. W., D. H. Cole ; J. W., Be.stow 
Dexter ; Sec, Fred. Edwards ; Treas., C. Littlefield ; S. D., 
A. W. Kilby; J. D., H. Cooper; Tyler, S. Vogel. This 
lodge has a fair membership. The officers for 1877 are as 
follows : W. M., H. H. Williams ; S. W., L. Muzzy ; J. 
W., R. Hall ; S. D., Charles Fulton ; J. D., A. A. Scott ; 
Sec, J. n. Carpenter; Treas., A. M. Durfee; Tyler, A. L. 
AVilliams. 

" Belleville Grange, No. 5, P. of H.," was organized in 
the fall of 1873, and, as its number indicates, was one of the 
first formed in the State. It occupies a hall on the second 
floor of the brick block built in 1873 by James E. Green, 
and is one of the most imjiortaut granges in the county. 

THE BAPTIST CHURCH 

was the first to effect an organization in town. Before the 
furmation of the present church of this order at Belleville, 
a few persons had been gathered by Elders Colwell and 
Littlefield, and adopted a covenant and articles of faith, 
with whicii Elder L. and some others were dissatisfied, 
and which a council of brethren from neighboring churches 
decided to be contrary to the faith of the Baptist church. 
They were accordingly disbanded, and Elder L. having 
died, there was for some time no ministry of this order. 
About 1807, Joshua Freeman, then a young man, and one 
who has since been prominently connected with churches 
of this order in the county, feeling that something should 
be done towards reviving a church, with another young 
man, named Amos Noyes, commenced holding meetings at 
Belleville. In this they had the cordial sympathies and 
aid of many, among others of Deacon Edward Barney. 
The previous covenant was modified to suit their views of 
gospel truth, and signed by eleven persons, who were soon 
joined by others, and Aug. 22, 1807, a council called for 
the purpose gave them the right hand of fellowship as a 
regular Baptist church. They enjoyed oidy occasional 
preaching till 1810, when Martin E. Cook, a licentiate, 
was called to the care of the church, lie was afterwards 
ordained, and continued to labor in the ministry, with 
great acceptance, during twenty-four years. Since then 
the following ministers have served as jiastors at different 
periods : .Daniel D. Reed, Abiicr Webb, Joel II. Green, 
A. Webb (2d time), John F. Bishop, David McFarland, 
A. Cleghorn, who stayed about seven years ; G. W. DevoU, 
six years ; F. E. Osborne, three years ; Elder Ford, as a 

supply for one season ; Ames, L. E. Spafford, and the 

present ])astor, P. D. Root. 

The membership in June, 1877, was 139. A Sabbath- 
school has been kept up since soon after the organization of 



Given in another account at No. 421. 



the church, and is at present in a flourishing condition. It 
possesses a library of 208 volumes. 

In 1819 a union meeting-house was erected at Belleville, 
costing about 83300, but the society never perfected its 
organization, which led to litigation. In March, 1829, the 
building was burned. A Baptist society had been formed 
Dec. 4, 1821, with Matthew Green, Benjamin Barney, and 
John Barney (2d), trustees. lu 1831 the present Baptist 
church at this place was built, at a cost of about $2400. 

THE FIR.ST PRESBYTERIAN SOCIETY 

in the town of Ellisburg wa.s formed Aug. 28, 1820, and 
elected Nathan Barden, Isaac Burr, Wm. T. Fisk, Amos 
Hudson, Liberty Bates, and Royce March trustees. In 
1830 it was reorganized, and the same year erected, in 
Belleville, a meeting-house, at a cost of about $500. A 
church organization was formed at the house of Nathan 
Barden Dec. 18, 1829, by the Rev. Jedediah Burchard, of 
five males and six females, and on Feb. 11, 1830, it united 
with the AVatertown presbytery. The successors of Mr. 

Burchard have been Spencer, J. Burchard f2d time), 

0. Parker, C. B. Pond, C. W. Baker, S. Cole, J. A. Can- 
field, Ingersoll, J. Carlisle, J. Burchard, and others. In 
1853 the society erected a fine frame church, at a cost, be- 
sides the lot, of $2800. This was afterwards sold to the 
Methodi.sts, and is now used by them, the Presbyterian 
society having been disorganized, and no meetings have been 
held by the latter since they sold their building. 

THE FIRST METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH AND SOCIETY 

in Belleville was formed May 5, 1841, having Edward 
Boomer, Elias Dickinson, Thomas Ellis, Edward B. Hawes, 
Jesse Hubbard, Riley Chamberlain, Hall W. Baxter, Nelson 
Boomer, and John R. Ilawes trustees. A church was 
built near the Wardwell Settlement, and afterwards removed 
to Belleville. This building has since been sold to the 
Catholics, and the Methodists purchased the church built 
by the Presbyterians. The parsonage belonging to the 
society, formerly used as a private dwelling, was taken in 
trade for the old church. The present pastor is Rev. 0. C. 
Cole. The membership in October, 1877, wa.s about one 
hundred and fifty. A Sabbath-school is supported, with a 
membership of one hundred, including teachers, and a 
library of about two hundred volumes. 

ST. John's catholic church. 

This organization held meetings fii-st in 1875, in the old 
Methodist cluueh, which they had repaired. The.>i;e meet- 
ings were conducted by Rev. Father Hogan, of Wa(<irtowu, 
to whose parish the church belongs. His assistant. Rev. 
Father Ryan, attends at present, holding meetings once a 
uuiMth. The membership in October, 1877, was thirteen, 
not including several who live at some distance from the 
church, and are not accounted as regular members. 

MANNSVILLE. 

Tliis village is located on Mannsvillc, or Skinner, creek, 
two miles south of Pierrepont Manor, on the line of the 
Rome, Watertowu and Ogdensburgh railway. The first 
settlement was made licre by David I. Audrus, as agent for 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



367 



Samuel Wardwell, of Rhode Island, wbo had made exten- 
sive jmichai-e.s hero and elsewhere in town. The improve- 
ment by Andrus was slight, and the place only began to 
increase in 1822, when Daniel Wardwell came on and took 
charge of the purchase made several years previous by his 
father, and in 1823 he began the erection of a cotton-factory, 
which stood a short distance below the present village, and 
■was fitted for 600 spindles. Soon after, Major H. B. 
Mann purchased half of the factory, which had been two or 
three years in operation when it was burned, Feb. 16, 1827. 
The loss was estimated at §10,000, and the factory was 
never rebuilt. The present name was adopted on the 
establishment of a post-office in honor of Newton Mann, 
father (?) of Major H. B. Mann,* who was among the 
earliest settlers here. The first mails were carried in old- 
fashioned saddle-bags, on a man's shoulders, coming via 
Salina village, a small cluster of houses near the site of the 
present city of Syracuse. After regular mail-routes were 
'established mails were carried on horseback when it became 
possible to travel in that way. The present postmaster at 
Mann.sville is William Wardwell. William Earl, now 
living at the village, recollects when but three newspapers 
were received in the town of Ellisburg, and these were sent 
to settlers by friends at their old homes. One was taken at 
Ellis village, one at Belleville, and the other at Woodville. 

William Earl, now of Mannsville, is a son of James 
Earl, who settled near Pierrepont Manor, in 1811, with his 
wife and a large family of children. James Earl was too 
far advanced in years to serve in the War of 1812, but his 
patriotism was equal to any emergency, and he turned out 
on every occasion of alarm. Two of his sons, William and 
Caleb, belonged to the militia of the town, and were called 
out on several occasions, being present at the battle of 
Sacket's Harbor, May 29, 1813. James Earl died at the 
age of 93 yeai-s. In 1837, William Earl removed to 
Mannsville. He was first on the site of the village, " be- 
fore a stick was cut," and has witnessed its development 
from a forest to a hamlet, and from a hamlet to a prosper- 
ous village, within the period since he came here a boy. 

The first settler was David I. Andrus, already mentioned, 
who built a saw-mill on the creek where the present grist- 
mill of Young & Bettinger stands. In 1811 enough 
lumber had not yet been sawed to roof it, but it w;is run- 
ning at that time. The mill afterwards passed into the 
hands of the Woodards, who operated it many years. Its ma- 
chinery was run by an old-fashioned " flutter-wheel," which 
w;is capable of carrying a stream of water from five to seven 
feet in width and six inches in thickness, yet the stream was 
so constant that the heavy and ponderous wheel need never 
be stopped for lack of" water to turn it. At present, 
owing to a system of ditching the land and the removal 
of the timber from the face of the country, the creek is 
much diminished in size, and the volume of water is so 
small that at times it is difficult to run even a small wheel. 

The first dwelling in the village was the present " Jeflbr- 
son House," erected by David I. Andrus, for his own use, 
out of lumber sawed at the mill. Andrus occupied it 



* Newton MnnD iligj iu Mannsville, and Major H. B. Mann 
Whit€sboro', and nyue of the familj now reside at the village. 



some time, and the first man who used it for the purposes 
of a tavern was probably Joseph C. Wood, who was its 
tenant in the capacity of a landlord for a space of time not 
recollected. William Earl helped raise this building, and 
in 1837 purchased it of a man named Jackson, who 
was carrying it on at the time. Mr. Earl refitted and 
repaired it, and kept his inn to the general satisfaction of 
the public for about fifteen years. The present proprietor 
is Don C. Bishop, who has expended about fifteen hundred 
dollars in adding to and repairing it. The building is 
frame, and the only hotel the village has ever possessed. 

SCHOOLS. 

As soon as the increasing needs of the village demanded 
some place at which their children might receive the rudi- 
ments of an education, a frame school-house was built on 
the site of the present school building, and the voice of the 
" master" was heard in the village, and his opinions consid- 
ered as important by the villagers on all subjects. The 
date of the building of this temple of learning has passed 
from the memory of the " oldest inhabitant," but many are 
living who spent the time they could spare for study be- 
neath its roof; and when the building was removed it was 
realized that a landmark of the past had gone from among 
them, and its walls would echo no more to the recitation of 
the pupil or the " swish" of the ma.*tcr's rod. 

The grist-inUl is of recent origin, having been erected by 
J. D. Finster in 1863 or '64. It is a frame building, con- 
taining two run of stone, and the business is principally 
custom, with some merchant work. It is now operated by 
Messrs. Young & Bettinger. 

The saw- and planing-mill was built in 1870, by Messrs. 
Finster & Woodard. The manufactures are hard and soft 
wood lumber, doors, sash, blinds, mouldings, general house- 
building material, cheese-boxes, etc. The average number 
of hands employed is seven. Present proprietor, 0. J. 
Woodard. 

John Woodard, from Brattlcboro', Vermont, was one 
of a family of seven children who located near Mannsville, 

in 1812, with their father, Captain Woodard, a 

veteran, probably, of the Revolution. Capt. W. first lived 
a mile west from Mannsville, and afterwards purchased a 
farm near Ellis village, and was prominent among the set- 
tlers of the town. He held for many years the office of 
justice of the peace. He met his death by the sad accident 
of falling from a load of hay and breaking his neck, the 
fall being caused by the sudden start of the oxen which 
were drawing the load. John Woodard, at an early date, 
owned land on the site of the village of Mannsville. He 
died about 1S57, at the age of 08 years. He had served 
during the War of 1812, and received a pension from 
government for his services. Asa Brown, also from Ver- 
mont, came at the same time the Woodards settled, and 
located west of Mannsville, on the farm now owned by 
Corydou Brown. Asa Brown is said to have been the 
strongest man who ever settled in this part of the country, 
and many stories are related testifying to his amazing 
strength. It is said that whenever his services were en- 
gaged at a '• raising" he would easily lift and place heavy 
logs until (lie walls were tiMj high for him to reaeh. 



368 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



The first tannery in the village was started by Daniel 
Goddard about 182G, at which time he settled here, coming 
from Smithville, in Adams. He was originally from Massa- 
chusetts. The building which he purcha.sed and converted 
into a tannery had previously been a distillery, and was 
built possibly by Major H. B. Mann, from whom Mr. 
Goddard bought. Mr. G. operated the tannery until 1847, 
when he was taken sick. He died in 1848, aged 55 years. 
Mrs. Goddard is yet residing in the village. Her fatlier, 
William Withington, a native of New Hampshire, located 
in Oswego county, N. Y., in 1818. In 1849, J. J. Bald- 
win, from Sandy Creek, Oswego county, came to Manns- 
ville and engaged in the tanning business, which he has 
followed most of the time since, having two tanneries 
burned since he located here. He is now carrying on the 
manufacture of wagons and carriages. 

William M. Wardwell, the present postmaster at Manns- 
ville, is a grandson of Samuel Wardwell, who has been 
previously mentioned in connection with the early settle- 
ment of the town. A son of the latter, Samuel Wardwell, 
came to the town of Elli.sburg in May, 1829, and lived for 
five years in what is known as the " Wardwell Settlement." 
In 1836 he removed to Mannsville. Daniel Wardwell 
settled in town in 1811-12, and afterwards located at 
Mannsville. At this writing (October, 1877) he is re- 
siding at Rome, Oneida county, and is the oldest practicing 
lawyer in the State. He practiced while in Jefferson 
County, was a member of the Assembly previous to 1830, 
and twice represented this district in Congress. He built 
the Jirst store in Mannsville, the building being the front 
part of the store now occupied by the post^oflSce and G. A. 
Huggins' hardware store. This establishment contained a 
small general stock, such as was usually kept in country 
stores of the time. 

In the fall of 1877 Mannsville contained a post-office, 
one saw- and planing-mill, two grist-mills, four blacksmith- 
shops, two wagon-shops, one tanuerj', nine stores, one har- 
ness-shop, one 2-story frame school-house, five churches, 
one dentist, one lodge of Odd-Fellows, one grange of Patrons 
of Husbandry, one cheese-factory, two lawyers, and three 
physicians, of whom the oldest in practice here is Dr. G. 
C. Hibbard, the others being Drs. A. T. Jacobs and S. L. 
Merrill. 

SOCIETIES. 

" Mannsville Lodge, No. 175, 1. 0. 0. F.," was instituted 
in 1853, with a .small ineniberstiip. The early records of 
this lodge have been burned, and it is impossible to par- 
ticularize as to names and offices of original members. The 
present member.ship is about eighty, with officers as follows : 
N. G., L. Beman ; V. (i., 0. H. Balch ; Sec, A. M. Brown. 
A fine lodge-room is fitted up in the third story of the 
Blandon bluck, and the society is flouri-shing. 

"Mannsville Grange, No. 16, P. of H.," was chartered 
Jan. 26, 1874, with thirty members. The firet meeting 
was held Nov. 6, 1873. The fii-st regular ofiicers were 
installed Jan. 5, 1874, and were as follows: Master, 0. S. 
Potter; Steward, Ira Balch; Chaplain, C. Luinm ; Sec., 
Wm. G. Hitchcock; Treas., E. O. Grcnell. 

The present membership (October, 1877 ) is about 60. 



The grange has a tasty hall fitted up over the blacksmith- 
shop of 0. H. Balch. The grange was incorporated Sept. 
25, 1877, and E. Frank Sias elected Purchasing Agent. 
The present officers are: Master, 0. S. Potter; Overseer, 
Luther B. James; Sec, Wm. G. Hitchcock; Treas., Wm. 
Beebe ; Steward, Ira Balch ; Financial Sec, E. F. Sias ; 
Lecturer, Wm. H. H. Si:is ; Chap., N. V. Webb ; Organist, 
Mrs. Dr. G. C. Hibbard ; Assistant Steward, Fred James ; 
Lady Asst. Steward, Miss Alice Woruier ; Gate-keeper, J. 

C. Davis ; Ceres, Mrs. W. H. H. Sias ; Pomona, Mrs. Ira 
Balch ; Flora, Jlrs. Wm. Balch. 

This lodge, as will be seen from its number, is one of the 
earlier ones formed in the State, and is in a flourishing 
condition. 

THE BAPTIST CHURCH OF MANNSVILLE 

was formed about 1831 by the union of one in Lorraine 
and one in the west part of the town. The latter, styled 
the " 2d Baptized Church of Ellisburg," was formed Oct. 
8-13, 1817, under Elder Timothy Brewster, assisted by 
Elders Emery Osgood, of Henderson ; Matthew Wilkie, of 
Wilna; Martin E. Cook, of Ellisburg; and Elisha Morgan, 
of Rutland. In 1833 this sect, with the Congregationalists, 
erected their present place of worship at a cost of §1600. 

The first pastor of this congregation at Mannsville was 
Elder Allen. Those succeeding him have been Elders 

Jonathan N. Webb, Henry AVard, Daniel Reed, 

Heath, Abner Webb (afterwards sent on a mission to Bur- 
mah, and now in the western part of the United States), 
Joshua Freeman, H. L. Grose, LeanderHall, J. M. Beenian, 

Howell, J. W. Ford, Lindsay (a Scotcliman), 

and the present pastor. Elder D. K. Smith.* 

The edifice belonging to the society is a frame building, 
with a capacity for seating easily 250, and witli little 
crowding nearly or quite 300 persons. A Sabbath-school 
was organized within four or five years after the organiza- 
tion of the church, and has a membership of about 140. 

D. H. Wheeler is the present superintendent. The school 
has a library of about 100 volumes, and a corps of teachers 
numbering ten. The membership of the church was 173 
in June, 1877. 

THE SECOND CONOREGATIONAL CHURCH AND SOCIETY 

of Ellisburg was organized at Mannsville Aug. 18, 1834, 
with Roswell Keeny, Benjamin P. Grenell, and Daniel 
Wardwell, trustees. The early records of this church have 
been burned, so that it is impossible to give much regarding 
its early history. For a long time the society owned an 
interest in the only meeting-house in the place (the Baptist), 
but in 1856 they erected their present frame church edifice, 
at a cost of about §3000. It will seat about 250 persons ; 
is surmounted by a neat spire, and stands in the eastern 
part of the village. 

The first preacher who had charge of this congregation 
was probably Rev. Mr. Moulton, in 1834. In 1830, Rev. 
Charles B. Pond was here. From about 1838 to 1842, 
Rev. Charles Baker ; succeeding him were Revs. Elisha P. 
Cook, Taf^, Osborn (the latter came probably 

* It is pu8siblo that one or two inay bo omittod from tliis list, as it 
iti givon from muinory hy an old member of the ctmrch. 



HISTORY OF JEFFEllSOX COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



369 



about 1852) ; in 1856, Rev. Alvin Parmelee, who stayed till 
about 1862; next, Rev. Calvin Chapman, who vemaincd 
two years ; Revs. Charles Gillette and S. Y. Lumm ; the 
time of the latter expired in July, 1877, since when the 
church has been without up to the time these notes were 
taken (Sept. 29, 1877). The present menibcrship is about 
120. A Sabbath-school is connected with the church, 
having about 80 members. A. K. Heddin is the superin- 
tendent. The school ha.s nine teaclicr.s and a .small library. 

MKTIIODIST KI'ISC01'.\I, OIIUKCII. 

This society was organized about 1847-50, and a fVauic 
church built. The congregation was originally in connce- 
tion with the one at Elli-s village in a single charge, but is 
now a station by itself. Since 1860 the pa.stors have been 
nearly as follows: Revs. 0. Holmes, 1860 to 1862 ; D. W. 
Roncy, 1862; A. Cheeseman, 1866; Ward W. Hunt, 
1867-8; M. T. Hill, 1870-71 ; George W. IMIller, 1872; 
E. H. Waugh, 1873^ ; I. L. Hunt, 1875 ; N. M. Caton, 
1876; O. P. Pitcher, 1877; the latter being the present 
pastor. Rev. C. C. Phelps probably belongs at some place 
on the above list also. 

In September, 1877, this church had about 85 members. 
A Sabbath-school is sustained, with a considerable member- 
ship and a library of about 100 volumes. The church has 
a well-proportioned spire, but, in common with the other 
churches of the village, is without a bell. Nearly all the 
churches are taking steps toward securing these articles, 
and ere long the sound of the " church-going bell" will un- 
doubtedly call the people together in the time-honored 
fashion of old. 

CHURCH OF CHRIST. 

An organization of this denomination, more familiarly 
known as the " Disciple Church," was eifected at Manns- 
ville in 1871. Previous to this a congregation had been 
formed as early as 1830 in the old school-house which stood 
in District No. 7 before the present stone structure was 
built. The first preacher of this denomination who held 
meetings in town was probably Rev. Josiah I. Lowell. 
Jasper J. Moss, Dr. Shepherd, and llev. Mr. Y'earnshaw 
were also among the early preachers, and held meetings in 
the Congregational church at Ellis village, from which they 
made some converts. The congregation as formed at 
Mannsville consisted of about 70 members, and w;is under 
the pastoral care of Elder J. S. Hughes, the first p:»stor 
here. Since him the pastors have been Elders W. T. New- 
comb and John Roggs, the latter in charge at present. 
Others have been here as supplies for a short time each. 

A frame church was built in 1872, at a cost of 82500, 
and will comfortably seat 250 persons. A Sabbath-school 
was organized about the same time the congregation was 
formed, and has been kept up since. Its first and only 
superintendent has been L. F. Hudson, who yet holds the 
position. Stewart Plummer is the a.ssistaiit superintendent. 
The school is in charge of seven teachers, and has a small 
library. The membership of the church was about 85 in 
the fall of 1877. 

SEVENTH-D.VY ADVENT CIlt'RCU. 

The first Seventh-Day Advent church was organized in 
Ellisburg in 1851, this being about the time organizations 
24 



were begun by this denomination. The first to enter into 
the organization — a new idea to them, as they believed the 
coming of the Lord was close at hand — were Lorenzo and 
Jane Lowrey, Abel Tuttle and wife, William and Polly 
Brigham, Henry Brigham, A. H. Robinson, Lurettiv Rob- 
inson, ^Madison and Huldah Ballon, and Henry II. Wilcox 
and wife. A. II. Robinson w;ts ordained local elder. This 
people have no settled pastors. Their ministers are evan- 
gelists, who from time to time visit the churches. 

A frame church edifice was erected in Mannsville in 
1850. It is 26 by 40 feet in dimensions, and will seat 
about 200 persons. Contains no furniture except tabic, 
chairs, stove, and lamps. Membership in October, 1877, 
42. A Sabbath-school was organized about 1860, with 
Henry II. Wilcox as its first superintendent; it.s present 
membership (Oct., 1877) is 36. It has a small library. 
The Sabbath-school officers for 1877 were as follows: 
Superintendent, N. L. Burdick ; Assistant Superintondcnt, 
Joseph Ferrin ; Secretary, Jennie Lowrey ; Librarian, 
Charles Fulson ; Treasurer, Mittic L. Burdick ; Chorister, 
George Hall. 

PIERREPONT MANOR. 

In March, 1805, Joseph Allen, with Pardon Earl* and 
Arnold Earl, from Galway, N. Y., came in by way of Red- 
field to Adams, and thence worked their way through the 
forest to Bear creek, and settled on the site of the jireseut 
village of Pierrcpont Manor. William Tabor, William 
Case, two or three families by the name of Simmons, and a 
few others, settled for farming purposes soon after. Allen 
opened the first inn, and Oliver Snow the first store. Mr. 
P. Earl, after 1807, became a local land-agent, and a man 
of extensive business, and in 1822 the agency of the estates 
derived by H. B. Pierrepont from William Constable, lying 
in Jefferson and Oswego counties, was assumed by William 
C. Pierrepont, his elder son, who has since resided here, 
and acquired the title of these lands. The village is by 
plank-road five miles from Adams village, two from Manns- 
ville, and thirteen from Pulaski. The R., W. & 0. railroad 
has a station at this place. Few villages will compare with 
this for the neat and quiet aspect which it presents. It is 
situated on the level of the lake ridge, and commands a 
distant prospect of the lake. 

A melancholy accident occurred near this place, on the 
evening of May 6, 1852, by an engine, while running back- 
wards, coming in contact with a hand-car containing a party 
of young ladies and gentlemen, by which three of the former 
were killed and one severely injured. The hand-car was 
taken contrary to explicit orders of the company by em- 
ployees, who wore at once discharged. No blame was at- 
tached to any one, except those who had allowed the hand- 
car to be placed upon the track. 

Joseph Allen was a native of Massachusetts, and a black- 
smith by trade ; he emigrated about 1780 to Galw.iy, Sara- 
toga county. New York, and as soon as 1800 began to talk 
about emigrating to the " Black River country." His old- 
est daughter, Nancy, about 1803, married Joel Brown, and 
moved to Ellisburg, and settled near the present village of 

« Mr. Eiirl died at Piorrcpont Manor, Jan. 9, ISU, aged 02. 



HISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Adams. In 1804, Mr. Allen sold liis faiin in Galwaj', and 
in 1S05 moved to Eilisburg, and settled as above stated. 
This was immediately preceding the creation of Jefferson 
County, and the .spot was in the midst of an unbroken wil- 
derness. The place took the name of Bear Creek, from the 
stream on which it is located, and retained it until subse- 
quent to 1822, at which time William C. Pierrepont settled 
liere, and g;ive it the present name. Consideiablc dissatis- 
faction was evinced in the change of name by some of those 
who had resided here longest. 

John Allen, a son of Joseph Allen, in some historical 
notes prepared by him a short time preceding his death 
(which occurred May 6, 1876), states that the first white 
man who came through from Richland to this place was 
one Deacon Harding, who was in search of a stray horse. 
There was at that time no road between these places other 
than a line of blazed trees. The Aliens sowed some oats 
after they came, as late as July, on the site of the present 
hotel, and the season was so favorable that they ripened 
and yielded well ; they were raised for fodder, however, 
and were not thrashed out. Mr. Allen had been to the 
neighborhood in the fall of 1804, and purchased his land, 
and built a log house on the ground where his son, Elihu 
Allen, now has a black.smith-shop. He also set out an 
orchard iis soon as he could procure trees, probably about 
two or three years after he located. The orchard is yet 
standing, in the rear of the " Pierrepont Manor Hotel." 
Mr. Allen built a frame addition to his house within a short 
time after settling, and kept tavern in it, doing so from 
necessity, as there was no one else to attempt it. In 1818 
or '19 he built the present ''Pierrepont Manor Hotel." 
When he first came he erected a small shop in which to do 
blaeksniilhiiig, and performed all work of this kind neces- 
sary in the settlement. He afterwards worked quite ex- 
ten.'^ivi^ly at the trade, and ceased his labors only upon the 
arrival of another blacksmith in the little hamlet. This 
man's name was Joseph Pope. A Methodist preacher, 
named Leander Cole, also did some blacksmitliing here 
long before a church was built. 

Arnold and Pardon Earl, who came with the Aliens, 
si;ttled, the former half a mile cast of Allen, and the latter 
in the western part of the present village. The Earls and 
Aliens were related, Joseph Allen's wife being a sister of 
Arnold Earl and cousin to Pardon Earl. 

A school-house was erected about 1811 ; a frame building 
on the north side of Bear creek, which served the purposes 
of a .school-house, church, and place for general meetings. 
The first teacher was Or.son Tuller, a very cajiable man and 
one much respected by his pupils. He was at the time 
living in tlie western part of town. 

ZION cuuRrii (kplscopal), 

at Pierrepont Manor, was legally organized January 4, 
1836 ; Amos C. Treadway being at the time rector. Wil- 
liam C. Pierrejiont and Thomas Warren were cho.sen church 
wardens, and Thomas 151enking, Jr., Cornelius M. Tabor. 
Ja.son Marsh, Harvey Allen, Pardon Earl, Thomas E. 
Williamson, Robert Myrick, and John Allen, were elected 
vestrymen. A church had been erected the summer pre- 
vious by Mr. Pierrepont, at a cost of $3000, which was 



consecrated August 16, 1836. The rectors have been the 
Rev. Me.ssrs. A. C. Treadway, Nathaniel Watkins, Josiah 
E. Bartlet, C. B. Ellsworth, and others. A parish school- 
house has been built, standing opposite the church. 

UNION CHURCH. 

A meeting of the Christians of the place was held 
January 22, 1855, pursuant to notice given l>ecember 31, 
1854, for the purpose of taking into consideration the or- 
ganization of a Free Church, those composing the meeting 
having held worship for some months in the school-house. 
The assemblage was presided over by Elder S. H. Tait. 
An organization was effected February 20, 1855, with 19 
members. The trustees elected this day were Albert G. 
Earl, Hiram Allen, Benjamin Randall, Samuel Bemis, 
Franklin Waite, William Williams, and Loren Bushnell, 
and the name " Free Church and Society of Pierrepont 
Manor" was adopted. A church was built the same year, 
and Mr. Taft preached here four or five years, since which 
time the house has been occupied by nearly all denomina- 
tions, although the Methodists and Baptists have used it 
most. 

A post-office was established early at the Manor, with 
Thomas E. William.son as postmaster. The present occu- 
pant is E. J. Robinson, the office being located at his store. 

Pierrepont Manor contained in October, 1877, three 
stores, three blacksmith-shops, two churches, one frame 
school-house, a post-office, and one hotel. 

WOOPVILLE, 

a small village on North Sandy creek, about three miles from 
its mouth, ibrmerly Wood's Settlement, was settled by 
Ebenezer, Ephraim, and Jacob Wood, sous of Nathaniel 
Wood, of Middlctown, Vermont, who came in to look for 
lands with Orimal Brewster, Simeon Titus, Ephraim Wood, 
Jr., and Hezekiah Leftingwell, in the fall of 1803. Me.ssrs. 
E. & E. Wood purchased May 26, 1804, for §2294.80, a 
tract of 754 acres, and in March, Ephraim Wood, with a 
daughter and three .sons, came in to reside, his brother 
Ebenezer remaining to settle the estate. Rev. Nathaniel 
Wood, their father, an old man, came on in June, 1804. 
Obadiah Kingsbury, Oliver Scott, and others came the 
same year. A small mill w;is built, and in 1805 got in 
operation. In 1805, Ebenezer Wood, Nathaniel Wood, 
Jr.,* Mosely Wood, Samuel Truesdale, and families came 
in, and several young men. A field of corn planted by the 
Woods on the marsh, as late as June 7, produced an im- 
mense yield, which greatly rai.sed the reputation of the 
settlement and the hojies of the settlers. 

When the Woods came in they followed the old Redfield 
turnpike into Adams, and the balance of the way cut their 
own roail. The mill spoken of above was built by them. 
A paper-mill was built here about 1846 by the Messrs. 
Clark, and is si ill standing. 

Oliver Batclu'ller, now residing in Woodville, came here 
from Siratlon, Windham Co., Vt., in the winter of 1808-09, 
settling in March, 1809. He had been here the year pre- 

* Kculion Wood, afterwarils Governor of Ohio, an J Iiilcr ft resident 
ul' Valjiumi.su, Suutli Anu'ricn, wiis u gun ul' Nalliuniul WuuU. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUxVTY", NEW YORK. 



371 



vious and examined the country, and the general aspect 
beiuff favorabli! lio made the location as mentioned. He 
wa.s hut twontj'-two years of age at the time. In 1815 he 
married Polly, a dauglitor of Ebcnczor Wood. Mr. 
Batcheller belonged to llic militia dnrinjr the War of 181;i, 
and w;is several times called out. He \v;is a blacksmith by 
trade, and while at work in the village hoard of the fight 
which was progressing, between Woolsey's and Appling's 
men and the British,* on the north bank of the south 
branch of Sandy Creek, and hurried at once to the scene of 
action, arriving just as it was over. This engagement was 
perhaps a quarter of a mile below the present boat-landing 
on the south branch of the creek. 

Soon after Mr. Batcheller settled at Woodvillc, he built 
a blacksmith-shop on the ground now occupied by the store, 
at the south end of the bridge. He afterwards moved a 
short distance up the creek, and built a second shop and 
put up a trip-hammer. His first shop was the first one in 
the village. Mr. Batcheller is now (October, 1877) in his 
ninety-first year, and has voted at every election since he 
came to the village. 

The first attempt at merchandising in the village was 
made by Ebenezer Wood, who brought in a few such goods 
as were neces.sary for the use of the settlers. This was soon 
after he came, and in the spring of 1809 he had a few arti- 
cles still on hand. The first regular store, however, was 
opened by NathaJi Burnham, who .settled here in 1812, and 
carried on the business for some time. The first hotel was 
kept by Ebenezer Wood, in his dwelling, which stood im- 
mediately in front of the spot now occupied by the residence 
of Nathaniel Wood. The present hotel was built for a 
dwelling, probably by Nicholas Meade, a shoemaker, and 
converted into a hotel some time afterward. The present 
proprietor is llollin H. Gray. 

A .school was taught in the village previous to the War 
of 1812. At present the place has a neat frame school 
building, ornamented with columns in front, standing in 
the eastern part of the place. 

A post-ofiBce was established some time between 1820 
and 1830, prcviou.sly to which time the people had received 
their mail at Adams, Ellis village, and other places. The 
first postmaster was probably Asa Avcrill ; the second was 
Augustus Victor Wood, who occupied the office for seven- 
teen years. The present incumbent is Nathaniel Wood, Jr. 

About 1846-47, William Gray built the shop now owned 
by his son, William Gray, Jr., for blacksmithing, wagon- 
work, and repairing. The present proprietor has enlarged 
the shops, and has ijuite an extensive and lucrative practice. 

SOCIETIES AND ORDERS. 

"Orion Lodge, No. 286, F. & A. M.," was formed at 
Woodville, Oct. 27, 1817, with Martin E. Cook. W. M.; 
Oliver Scott, S. W. ; Ebenezer Wood, J. W. It was after- 
wards removed to Ellis village, and about 1827 abandoned. 

" Olive Lodge, No. 642, Sons of Temperance," formed 
at Wondville, April 1, 1850 ; long discontinued. 

'' Eagle Lodge, No. 47, Good Samaritan.^,' organized at 
Woodville, April 15, 1852. First in the office cf W. C. 
w;is G. A. Jenkins. Lodge not now in existence. 



* See chapter on War <•!' 1S12-15. 



LIPE-8AVINQ STATION. 

This station was established in the autumn of 187G. It 
is situated at the mouth of the Big Sandy creek. The 
building is of wood, 45 by 20 feet in dimensions, and the 
station is provided with the neccs.sary apparatus. The 
crew con.sists of a captain and six men. The present cap- 
tain is Wm. E. Van Alstyne, and the names of the men 
are as follows: Sanford Van Alstyne, H. J. Noble, Charles 
Wood, Edward Chapman, CharUis Dennis, and Enos Kil- 
born. The eastern co;ist of Lake Ontario is a dangerous 
locality in time of storms, and this station is likely to be of 
great benefit to those who arc exposed to the perils of the 
deep. 

THE BAPTIST SOCIETY OF WOODVILLE 
was formed Jan. 27, 1825, with Ebenezer Wood, Oliver 
Scott, Amaziah Fillmore, I'edro Scott, Wm. Ellsworth, and 
Abijah Jenkins, trustees. The church was formed by the 

Rev. Asa Averiil, since whom Peleg Card, Buckley, 

W. B. Downer, L. Rice, and others have been employed. 
The society has a house of worship, which has long been 
unused. It is a frame building, standing east of the store, 
and now in a dilapidated condition. 

THE CONQREQATIONAL CHURCH OF WOODVILLE 

was formed Nov. 22, and a society Dec. 14, 1836, of which 
Ebenezer Wood, Oliver Batcheller, and Wm. Gray were 
trustees. A union house had been erected and partly fin- 
ished previously ; in 1837 it was taken down and a brick 
church erected at a cost of about 81100. Rev. Chas. B. 
Pond became the first pastor, and was installed Jan. 23, 
1840. In four years Elisha P. Cook succeeded, since 
whom David Powell, J. Burchard, Frederick Hcbard, 

Smith, and others have been employed. Mr. Hebard 

is the present pastor, having returned to the charge after 
an absence of nearly twenty-five years. 

The present brick church, built in 1868 at a cost of about 
S9000, and dedicated in August, 1869, stands on the site 
of the old church, which was taken down to make room for 
it. It will seat about three hundred persons, and lias a 
session-room in the rear capable of seating over a hundred. 
A very fine Mason and Hamlin organ, costing SOOO, has 
been placed in the church. The Sabbath-school has a 
small library. 

The first bridge across Sandy creek at this place was an 
open structure of wood, built in the summer of 1808. It 
was planked over, and stood across the stream whore the 
dam now is. The present King iron bridge was erected 
in 1869, at a cost of S6000, and consists of two spans. 
The Wood saw-mill stood where the grist-mill now is. The 
latter was built in 1825 or '26 by Samuel Cook, who after- 
wards finished the stone mills at Ellis village. The present 
proprietor is S. T. Wood. 

RURAL HILL P. 0. 
The first settler here was Jedediah Hill, who located in 
the spring of 1815. The place afterwards passed into the 
hands of his son, Eben, then to a brother of the latter, John, 
who sold it to Araasa Hungerford, Jr. On the death of 
the latter it became the property of his brother, Philo Hun- 
gerford, the present proprietor. 



372 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



A post-office was established in February, 1849, and 
Philo Hungcrford was appointed postmaster. He has held 
the position ever since with the exception of a short time 
during; the administration of President Buchanan, and at 
that time the man who was appointed in liis phice lived 
without the precincts of the office and did not occupy it, 
I^Ir. Hungerford attendini; to its duties. Mr. Hungerford 
has lived at the hill since 1844. 

The locality was known for years before the establish- 
ment of the post-office as " Buck Hill," from the fact that it 
was a great resort for deer, and large numbers of these ani- 
mals were killed here by the early settlers. Edwin Burn- 
ham opened a store before the establishment of the office, 
calling it the '* Rural Hill Store," and the office received the 
name of '* Rural Hill Post-office" in consequence. It has 
luid at different times several stores and shops, a tavern, 
etc., but at present there is very little business in the place. 

PRE-HISTORIC REMAINS. 

The ideas entertained by some of the early settlers re- 
garding the aboriginal remains of this town, and the prac- 
tice which .some were, through ignorance, led into, of 
searching for buried treasure, have been mentioned. The 
iollowing mention and description of the ancient forts and 
their surroundings are taken from the journal of Rev. John 
Taylor, of Massachusetts, who made a missionary tour 
through the Mohawk and Black River countries in 1802. 
This journal was published in the ''Documentary History 
of New York" in 1850, and from that work wc make the 
subjoined extracts. Mr. Taylor afterwards settled in Men- 
don, Monroe county, N. Y. (1817), and in 1832 removed 
from there to Michigan, and died at Bruce, Macomb county, 
in that State, in 1840, at the age of seventy-eight. 

" Sfj)t. 1, 1802. I this morning started from Mr. Johnson's/- rode 
2 miles, nnd entered into a wilderness of 24 miles without a house. 
The mad was cut out this summer, and is a tedious, hilly, rooty, 
muddy, stumpy, solitary rond. Traveled, as I supposed, 12 miles; 
ealled at a lurgc hemlock; bent down some friendly maples tliat my 
horse might gnthor the leaves. Enquired of my saddle-bags for some 
dinner ; made a comfortable meal. Divided my dinner with ray hor?c; 
as he was not accustomed to eating meat, gave bim a douljle portion 
of lircad. After refreshing in this manner, traveled on the other 13 
miles, and camo upon the south branch of Sandy creek, about three 
miles from the Inko. Crossed the river; turned to the cast ; in about 
half a mile came to the old fort; examined it, nnd found m^'self lost 
in conjectures. Kodc 4 miles to Mr. Hockley's on the north branch. 
This is about 4 miles above the junction of the 2 branches, about 4i 
miles from Ontario. This is as fine a tract of country as I think I 
ever saw. It is heavy timbered ; but the land is as rich as land can be. 
This is a rich country from here to the Black river. This town, and 
undoulitedly all this country, has been, in some ancient jieriod, thickly 
iiihnliited. In many places there arc evident marks of houses having 
stood as thick as to join each other. The remains of old firc-phiecs 
built of stones, wclla evidently dug and stoned to a eonsiilerabU* dej)lh, 
nnd the remains of old forts nnd intrenchments, are all evidences t)f this 
fact. The fort on the south branch is phnighcd, and the old fire-places 
appear to have liecn aljout two rods npait, thro 'out the whole. The 
curthenware of a peculiar structure, nnd of singular materials, is scat- 
tered over ihc ground. The jtoint of a steel sword — 2 edges — about 1 
foot i long was fouml last spring in ploughing the fort. The fortifica- 
tion is regularly built nilh 6 sides and 5 gateways; i.s about 20 rods from 
the river, upon the \. bank, 1100 or 1000 rods to the northeast. Near 
the north branch is another furt, west of which, 160 or 200 rods, there is 

*■ In Kcdficld. 



an intrenchment lately found, half a mile in length, in a straight lino, 
and also a breastwork. 2k north of this is another fort, regularly built, 
containing about 10 acres. Upon all those works the trees are of 
equal dimensions with those around. I measured one and found it 4 
feet diameter, and saw some which had fallen and were almost con- 
sumed, which appeared to bo of equal dimensions, and which grew 
upon the highest parts ot the fort. The people frequently find pipes, 
something in the form of German pipes. The bottom of the N. branch 
of the river is a level rock. Standing at a little distance it looks like 
ice; when within a rod and a half or 2 r<Jds it is crooked. This rock 
may be found all over tlic country, from 15 to 20 or 30 feet under- 
ground; it is all a limestone, nnd is filled with sea-shells, petrified or 
cemented into the solid rock. At the end of the lake there are large 
marshes, on which vegetation is very rapid. S(»me of this is planted 
with corn, and produces abundantly; but in consequence of there 
being so much grass and other productions, which cannot be gathered, 
the people are, in the fall of ye year, liable to a distressing fever, — 
much more malignant nnd dangerous tbau the common fever and 
ague. It is this season hitherto healthy ; none have the fever, except- 
ing a few who have collected hay upon the marshes, near the mouth 
of Sandy creek. In the lake there are large winrows of sand, 5 miles 
in length, on which there stands, hero and there, a pine and some 
other small trees, which makes the appearance from the land very juc- 
turesque. This town began to settle in '98 ; is called Mexico, or Ellis- 
burg ; in the town of Mexico, 9 miles square; about 30 families; is 
rapidly settling: inhabitants very rough in general. An evidence of 
this country having been formerly settled, beyond what has been men- 
tioned, is this: European productions, and such ns would be left hy 
an improved people, are found here, as currants, black and red, an- 
gelica, plantain, English parsley, high bahns. peppermint, nnd indeed 
almost everything which is found on Connecticut river. 

" There are in the marsh hewn and square timbers, which have 
been dug up many feet from yc surface, and where this people mow. 
A battcau has also been clug up from a considerable depth under the 
surface, half a mile from the lake, in the marsh. 

"Mr. Ilackley tells me that between the lilack river nnd the St. 
Lawrence there arc ye same marks of former settlement as here. 
There are forts built in the same form ; and all ye marks of a society 
different from that of Indians. Last summer a man, in digging a 
cellar, found, a foot under the surface, that he had fallen upon an 
old colepit. I am told by the people here that pieces of broken 
bricks are found in all the lands they plough. 

''Sept. l.f I have this day rode a mile and a half into the woods 
to examine the remains of another fort, and I am truly thrown into 
a wilderness of conjecture. The fort lies upon 2 sides of a small 
creek, which is about the centre between the N. and S. branches of 
Sandy creek. It is an irregular fort, but was built with a good deal 
of art. The ditch is at present in many places 4 feet below the sur- 
face. Standing in the ditch, I find that I can just oversee the land 
in the fort. In one direction it is an hundred rods across, and, on an 
average, it is about 50 wide. There are a number of gateways. On 
both sides of ye creek there are most singular walls. Upon the east 
side there is one redoubt about 8 rods from one of the gateways. Some 
parts of the wall arc double<l, or, rather, there is an inner and an outer 
wall. The ground appears to bo very much broken upon the N. E. 
corner, and looks as though there had been works within works. 
Within the walls, upon each side of the creek, there arc wells, or pe- 
culiar springs which answered for wells. I am in doubt whether 
those appearances are such as give sufficient evidence that they are 
the efi'ccts of art, 

*■ Upon the west side of the creek the well is at the corner of ye 
fort, nnd upon the top is about 9 rods round. It descends, and is very 
steep until it comes to a point at tho bottom. In the corner of this 
basin there is a living spring, — the water rises and passes ngain 
into the ground. A judc may be run down into the spring about 15 
feet. 

" Sept. Z. 4 miles i to tho \. east at No. 7. A decent, respectable, 
industrious people in general ; anxious for privileges. Most of tho 
people from Cunnci^tiuut. Visited a fort \\ miles from the river, No, 

. This fort was built in yo same manner with the others. It stands 

upon yo east side of a nmrsh, which was evidently onco a pond. Tho 



•(■ There is something wrong in the date previous to this, it being 
also given as Sept. 1. Mr. Taylor could hardly have done so much 
in one day. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



373 



wall begins upon the top of tho bank, and is 300 paces round to tho 
bank, where it ends. The baao of the anj^lc is 120 jmcos. Probably 
the bank was picketed. It has several gateways. In this trenuh there 
is one dead tree that is almost ready to fall to pieces, which measures 
4i in diameter; and many trees stand upon ye banks of this ditch 
4 feet diameter. The land hero is tho first rate; and in this town 
there has beou no sickness since they began to settle, excejjt in one 
or two instances of persons who had lieeu down to the lake in tho 
unhealthy season. The fact is, that all this country is a rich meadow ; 
it is nKulcgruund fur many feet from the surface. There is now before 
me a field of corn equal to any I ever saw in Dcerfield meadow, tho' 
dunged; no plough or harrow has ever been on the land, nor hiis it 
been hoed but twice, and then slightly. Everything which is put 
into the ground grows as rank as possible; but the people are yet 
very poor, having been on but 2 years. Deer, salmon, and trout very 
plenty. This is H miles in a direct line from tho lake. Salmon run up 
every freshet, and ye people can easily take them with spears. But 
3 families in this town the winter before the last. I find, by intelli- 
gent people in whom I may contidc, and who have seen them, that 
there arc 2 other forts in this quarter. One lies on the forks of tho 
north branch of Sandy Creek, 3A miles S. east from tho fort which I 
examined in this town, about 90 rods in diameter: and that there is 
another 3 miles to the N. W. uf the one I examined. This is an oc- 
tagon, containing about two acres, with 2 intrenohmonts extending 
in din"erent directions from the fort 20 rods. The whole of these works 
are made in tho solid rock : are about i feet deep and four feet wide. 
This is a most stupendous work, and could not have been effected with- 
out iron tools. 

" In this country may bo found growing wild, and in great plenty, 
hops, grapes, cranberries, plums, strawberries, gooseberries, black- 
berries, raspberries, currants, plantain, dock, yarrow, spikenard, 
sarsaparilla, mullein, burdock, dock, English pnrsley, French sorrel, 
peppermint, common mint, catnip, thorn apples, of which pies are 
made. Indian corn, potatoes, oats, and flax, peas, beans, and all kinds 
of productions grow very rank. Wheat this year was hurt with tho 
rust, but grew amazing rank. Face of tho country beautiful, no stones 
of any consequence. From 3 pints of barley 3 bushels were produced 
this year. There appears by the best accounts to be forts, built in tho 
manner of those on Sandy creek, all over the country, from the St. 
Lawrence to (he Black river, and south and scmthwest all round tho 
lake, particularly, and upon the Military grounds, and these by ac- 
count correspond with thoso on the Ohio in their conformation. They 
are a ditch, and the earth is banked up on tho inside. The ditches 
of those which I have seen I think must have been at first about 8, 10, 
and 12 feet wide; how deep cannot be even judged with any degree of 
certainty until some person, who has time, shall dig down and throw 
out the made earth. By whom were these works wrought?- Not by 
tho natives, surely, because in various parts of this country iron im- 
plements are dug and ploughed up. And if the natives ever had tho 
art of working iron, it is not probable they would lose an art so use- 
ful. Further, nothing ever apjjeared in the natives which indicated 
so much improvement in tho art of self-defense as to build forts so 
regular as those are found to bo. Again, the fort near Sandy creek, 
which is cut in the rock, must have been a work too stupendous for 
untaught savages to effect, and it is doubtful whether it could havo 
been done without the use of powder. And there is a difficulty at- 
tending this fort: on condition or suppose it to have been done by 
any European nation, they would not have undertaken a work so 
arduous when so little benefit could have been derived from it in pro- 
portion to the work. Who, then, wrought those works? That they 
were done by the hand of man there is no doubt; but by whom, and 
when, and for what purpose must remain at present incxplicablo 
enigmas. What has become of this people? And why havo we no 
histories of such a nation as must have inhabited this part of tho 
world? Were these tho works of tho antediluvians, or is this tho 
land of Nazareth, to which Esdras says the ten tribes traveled, and 
were an hundred and twenty days on their journey? Or is it tho 
Vineland of tho emigrant Swedes, who returned to their native coun- 
try but once? Or are thev ye works of Spaniards in searching for 



gold ? Or was this land inhabited by the emigrant Mexican after tho 
Spanish conquest ? That these works were not done by French or 
English is beyond a doubt from various reasons too numerous to men- 
tion. I am informed that in the Military tract several pieces of 
stamped coin are found which cannot bo read by the ignorant peas- 
ants, and which I am fearful will be lost. Probably, if a knowledge 
of those ancient people is ever obtained it will bo derived from in- 
scriptions, on stones or metals, which may have withstood tho rust of 
time." 

Three-quarters of a century have passed away since the 
learned divine above quoted puzzled his brain about the 
traces left by an unknown race of people, and turned over 
in his mind the various theories as to their origin, use, and 
manner of construction, and with all that the rcscarchi^s of 
the archaeologist have yet brought to light, — and their 
labors have been unint^nnitting and not without reward, — 
the question is almost as much in the dark as at that time. 
The shadowy traditions of the ancient Allcgcwl^ transmitted 
through the descending years, regarding themselves and 
other nations of their day, their struggles to wrest from 
each other the broad country they inhabited, are imperfectly 
recorded in history. A thorough knowledge of the art 
of defense was indeed theirs, as the works similar to those 
herein described, scattered throughout the country, truly 
testify. Their knowledge of the manufactures was also 
great, as shown by the numerous relics gathered by treas- 
ure-seekers, and they must certainly have been much 
further advanced in civilization than the present savage 
races of the continent, AVhat terrible feud, or chain of 
circumstances, has wrought their destruction and blotted 
their race from the land? AVhere research fails in satis- 
factory results, and history has spread do record of this 
people before us, conjecture is at best feeble, and we forbear. 

Among those who have furnished historical data in this 
town we are indebted to the following : 

At Mannsville. — William Wardwoll, William Earl, J. J. 
Baldwin, Daniel Rounds and son, 0. J. Woodard, 0, 11. 
Balch, N. L. Burdick, D. C. Bishop, pastors and members 
of churches, and others. 

At Ellis village. — Benj. F. Wilds and son, Theron Hol- 
ley, proprietors of manufactories, and others. 

At Belleville.— II. H. Plarris, PhilemoQ Stacey, D. C. 
Thomas, Sanmel Brown, W. B. Doane (corporation clerk), 
pastors and members of churches, James E. Green, J. II. 
Carpenter, and numerous others. 

At Pierrcpont Manor. — The Aliens and others. 

At Woodville. — Nathaiiioi Wood, Oliver Batchcller, R. 
H. Gray, Mrs. A. V. Wood, J. H. Converse, Mrs. Amos 
E. Wood, and others. 

At Rural Hill.— Philo Hungerford. 

For the town. — Sam'l Matteson, Willard Alvcrson, Lavias 
Fillmore, James Brodie & Son, George Whipple and sister, 
G. K. Dealing, Mrs. Capt. John Miner (at Mannsville), P. 
P. Martin (of ^Mannsville), George M. Wood (Lake View 
House), and many others. 



874 



HISTOKV OF JKKFKKSON COUiNTY, NEW YOKK. 



BIOGEAPHICAL SKETCHES. 





\VM. O. IIITIIROCK. 



SIKS. \VM. G. lIlTrHCOCK. 



WM. G. HITCHCOCK 



was born in Wcstfield, Orleans Co., Vt., March IG, 1828. 
His father, Jdseph Hitehcoclc, and motlior, whose maiden 
name was Betsey Prentiss, were both natives of West- 
minster, Windham Co., Vt. They had eleven children, — 
five sons and six dauglitors, — all of whom reached mature 
age. The parents are still living with their son, the sub- 
ject of this sketcli, at the advanced age of ninety years, 
though both are very feeble. Wm. G. is the tenth child, 
and moved with his parents to the town of Worth, Jefferson 
County, then known as Lorraine 2d, in 1845. At the age 
of twenty he bought a farm of 100 acres, to which was 
afterwards added an 80-acre piece. 

He was married, March 4, 1852, to Orcelia E. Clark, 
the youngest child and only daughter of Dea Sylvester and 
Electa Clark, who wire natives of ]*ittsficld, Mass. Her 
mother died Dec. 2!», 1871. The father is still livinsr. 



making his hduie with his son-in-law and daughter. Of 
her brothers, two are still living, viz. : Myron A., a farmer 
in Wisconsin, and Florello 11., a farmer in Ellisburg. 
There have been three children born to Mr. and Mrs. H., 
only one of whom, Cora Jlay, eleven years of age, is living. 
Mr. Hitchcock has devoted his life to farming, and 
though called to fill, at times, local town offices, has been 
no seeker for ]iublic positions. In politics he is Republi- 
can, casting his first vote for John C. Fremont. He has 
been a member of the Congregational church from his 
eighteenth year. Mrs. H. has been a member of the Bap- 
tist church at Maniisvillo for twenty-eight years. If a 
literal obedience to the fifth commandment entitles to long 
life, then should both Mr. and Mrs. II. live long in the 
land, for none can be found who have honored father and 
mother mure than they. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



375 



A. A. WHEKLER. 

This <j:ontleni;in is tiio youii^ost of six c-liildrcii of Philip 
and Ruxauna Wheeler, and was born at Maniisville, in this 
township, July 18, 1836. His fatlier. Philip Wheeler, was 
l)orn near Troy, Rensselaer (\>., N. Y., June 30, ISOO, on a 
120l)-a('rc tract of land purchased by Lis falher from the 
Van Rensselaer estate. 

Piiri-lP WilEKLKK wa.s a descendant from Enp;lish 
and Dutch pan'rita!j;o, his father's ancestry coming from 
Worcestershire, England, and his mother's from both Eng- 
lish and Dutch families. Philip's father was a New York 
slaveholder, and he (Philip) inheriting the slaves, manu- 
mitted them at once, and before he was obliged to by law. 
After settling his father's estate Philip Wheeler moved into 
the city of Troy, where he engaged in the mercantile busi- 
ncse, including rafting lumber from Troy to New York, in 
which he continued about five years, during which time — 
about 18'24 — he was married to Roxanna She|pherd, daugh- 
ter of Thomas Sheplierd, who.se wife was a descendant of 
the Browns, of Rhode Island, owners of the " John 
Brown Tract." The Shepherd family was of English stock, 
and fiom New Hampshire, and the grandfather of iNIrs. W. 
mirried into the Cops family of Cops' Hill, Boston. 

Philip Wheeler, together with his wife and father-in-law, 
Mr. Shepherd, came to Jefferson County in 1825, and tlie 
two gentlemen ]nirchased and improved a largo tract of 
land near ftlannsville. Mr. Wheeler, after clearing his 
]ioition, sold it and moved into the village, where he pur- 
cluused the property of Hon. Daniel Wardwell, then mem- 
ber of Congress from this district. This property included 
about two hundred acres of land. Immediately after lo- 
cating in the village Mr. Wheeler engaged again in mer- 
cantile pursuits, carrying the business on upon a large scale 
and credit system for twenty years, during which time he 
never had a claim disputed or a litigated suit, at the same 
time managing his farm and accumulating a large property 
through continued success. He finally disposed of his 
stock in trade, and for the balance of his life gave his atten- 
tion wholly to managing his farm, which had been dimin- 
ished by the sale of the western portion to a little more 
than one hundred acres, including the homestead. Upon 
the part of the farm sold much of the village has since been 
built. Mr. W. died in Nov., 1872, his wife having pre- 
ceded him three years to the " land of the hereafter." Mr. 
W. was noted during life for his sound judgment and 
great strength of cliaracter. He was also always strongly 
attached to agricultural pursuits. His wife, the partner of 
his joys and sorrows, and sharer of his reverses and suc- 
cesses for nearly half a century, was known for her very 
charitable disposition and her kindness to all in adverse 
circumstances. Both were passionately fond of their chil- 
dren, and were also members of the Methodist Episcopal 
church, which society in INIannsville Mr. Wheeler was 
largely instrumental in founding. Their son, A. A. 
Wheeler, during his youth worked on the farm and at- 
tended the school in the village, and when seventeen years 
of age entered the Jefferson County Institute, at Water- 
town, at whiih and under private tutors he fiiiislied a 
preparatory course for college, after which he entered the 



Union College at Schenectady, from which he was gradu- 
ated in the class of 1858. In 1859 he was graduated 
from the Albany law-school with the degree of LL.B. 
(Under suhiiequent charters this institution and the Albany 
college have been consolidated into the Union University.) 
While at the law-school Mr. Wheeler read in the office of 
the celebrated criminal lawyer, William A. Hadley, and 
soon after graduating entered the law-office of Starbuck & 
Sawyer, at Watertown, where he remained one year. He 
began practicing at Maiuisville in 1860. In August, 1862, 
he volunteered in the 10th N. Y. Heavy Artillery, and was 
commissioned senior first lieutenant of Capt. A. Cleghorn's 
company, " E." During the fifteen months he .served the 
command was stationed at Fort Richmond, on Stiiten 
Island, at Sandy Hook, and in Fort Mahan, in the de- 
fenses of Washington. At the end of this time he returned 
home for the purpose of tjiking command of a company in 
the 20th N. Y. Cavalry, but his arrangements not being 
consummated he remained at home. Previous to his en- 
listment he had been interested in recruiting troops, and 
speaking at meetings for that purpose in various parts of 
the county. 

In politics he is thoroiighli/ Repuhfican, and began 
stumping for the party on its organization in 1856, before 
he was old enough to vote. The work then begun he has 
kept up since, being prominently engaged in the campaign 
for Hayes and Wheeler in 1876. His first speech during 
that canvass was delivered by reciuest at Watertown, before 
the Republican club of that city. The effort on that occa- 
sion was highly lauded by the papers and all who heard it, 
and his speech was reported in full. Mr. W^heeler has 
represented the district at two State conventions, and taken 
active part in the debates on questions there arising. 

On his return from the army he resumed the practice of 
law, which he has since continued with marked success, and 
commands a good practice, with respectable increase. He 
resides on the old place, which is the same as his father left 
it, and has the management of the farm, although he de- 
votes no personal labor to its improvement. For a number 
of years heretofore he has to some extent spent time and 
labor of his own upon it, but everytliing is now done by 
means of hired help. Mr. Wheeler is a gentleman of cul- 
ture and a close student, being well versed in science and 
literature and other subjects kindred to his profe.s.sion. As 
an orator and debater he ranks high. 

Of Philip Wheeler's children but two beside A. A. 
Wheeler are now living, Sally A., Philip, and John having 
pxssed to " the other shore." 

Dr. T. B. Wheeler, a graduate of the military school at 
Norwich, Vermont, attended school at Cazenovia and at the 
Union Academy in Belleville, Jefferson County. Ho is also a 
graduate of the College of Physicians and Surgeons at New 
York City, from which institution he was appointed resi- 
dent surgeon in the famed Bellevue Hospital. 

He married a daughter of Andrew Shaw, a prominent 
merchant of Montreal, Canada, Master of the Trinity Board, 
and is now a resident of that city. 

Dr. William L. Wheeler received his education at the 
Methodist school at Cazenovia, at McGill College, in M(ra- 
treal, and graduated from the College of Physicians and 



376 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Surgeons at New Y'ork. Was also appointed resident sur- 
geon at Bellevuc hospital. In IStil he entered the U. S. 
Navy as assistant surgeon in the reguhir service, and re- 
mained in it for six or seven years, a portion of which time 
he was on board the monitor PciUipscn. During the en- 
gagements around Charleston he took an active part, and 
on one occasion was a volunteer in a storming-party sent 
against Fort Sumter. After leaving the service he en- 
gaged in a very successful and lucrative practice at Ithaca, 
Tompkins county, New York, and finally married the eldest 
daughter of Gov. William B. Lawrence, of Oclire Point, 
Newport. R. I., where he is at present residing, engaged in 
the practice of his profession. 



CHARLES GOODENOUGH 

wtis bom in Brattleborough, Vt., Oct. 11, 1807; the eldest 
son of Daniel and Nancy Goodenough. His father was 
bom in Brattleborough, July 6, 1786. The mother's 
maiden name was Nancy Miller; she was born March 9, 
1788. They had seven children, — five sons and two daugh- 
ters, — viz., Charles, subject of this sketch ; Nancy F., born 
Feb. 3, 1809; Charlotte, born Aug. 20, 1813, wife of John 
Boomer, now living in Harmony, Chatauqua Co., N. Y. ; 
Caleb, born Nov. 28, 1815, died April, 18.55 ; Henry Mil- 
ler, bom April 22, 1819, died in infancy ; Harry, born Dec. 
1, 1821, died Aug. 20, 1820; Alfred, born Jan. 12, 1825, 
died March 12, 1844. The four former were born in Brat- 
tleborough, Vt., the three latter in Ellisburg. In March, 
1817, the family moved from Brattleborough, and settled 
in the southwestern portion of Ellisburg. The father died 
Aug. 12, 1855 ; the mother, July 29, 1857. 

His sister Nancy married Wm. S. Lindsey, Jan. 20, 
1831. By this marriage there were four children, viz., 
Hannah, born Aug. 25, 1831, died Nov. 11, 1854; Daniel, 
born July 19, 1833, died Nov. 22, 1850; Charles, born 
March 15, 1830; Lostine, born Dec. 10, 1838. Wm. S. 
Lindsey died April 15, 1838. Lestine married Harry M. 
Dailey, Dec. 31, 1800. One daughter, Effie H., was born 
to them, Feb. 10, 1800. Mr. Dailey died March 3, 1800. 
Mrs. Dailey was again married, July 4, 1873, to Geo. W. 
Greene. 

The subject of this sketch lived with his father till he 
was twenty-one years of age. He had previously bought of 
Pierrepont ten acres of land, the first of the large landed 
property of which he afterwards became possessed. When 
twenty-one years of age he went to live with his sister, Mrs. 
Lindsey, who kept house for him, after her husband's death, 
as long as he lived. His second purchase was a ten-acre 
piece, upon which he built his first house. He first leased, 
and afterwards owned and ran, the " Goodenougli" saw- 
mill, situated near his house, on Lindsey creek. By profits 
from this mill and fi-om his lands he continued adding to 
his estate, until, at liis death, he was the owner of about si.x 
hundred acres of land. He died of a tumor March 9, 1870. 

Mr. Goodenough was never married. By the terms of 
his will the bulk of his large property was left to his 
sister, Mrs. Lindsey. The " homestead" farm of Kil acres 
and saw-mill were willed to her son, Charles Lindsey. 



Two thousand dollars were willed towards the erection of a 
church, and the " Goodenough" Slethodist Episcopal church 
— a neat and substantial structure, situated near his late 
residence — stands a monument to his liberality. Mr. Good- 
enough was one of those men of whom it may be truly said 
the world is better by their having lived in it. A godly 
man in a locality which for some reason liad gained the 
sobriquet " No God," his influence, while living, went far 
towards reclaiming the place and gaining for it a better 
name. 



ERASTUS B. HAVEN. 

Luther Haven, the father of the subject of this sketch, 
was born in Newton, Mass., May 25, 1792. He came, 
with his father, into New York State in 1794, and settled 
in Frankfort, Herkimer Co., in 1807. He came to Ellis- 
burg, and bought by "piece-meal' what now constitutes 
the " homestead farm," in the southeastern part of the town. 
He was married, July 0, 1814, to Pliebe Tracy, by whom 
he had ten children, viz.: Polly 5Iatilda, born April 3, 
1815, died July 14, 1841 ; Harriet E., born May 1, 1817, 
died Aug. 1, 1828; Sophrona, born March 12, 1819; 
John, born Feb. 13, 1821, died iMarch 24, 1804; Erastus 
B., born May 11, 1823; Laura A., born June 9, 1825, 
died Feb. 2, 1852; Phebe D., born Sept 1, 1828, died 
May 12, 1847; Fanny F., born Feb. 0, 1831, died Oct. 
8, 1847; Jennette R., born Sept. 9, 1835; Sarah C.,born 
Sept. 22, 1837. The latter, the wife of A. A. Fi.sh, lives 
in Florida, Iowa. Jennette U. is the wife of H. AV. Todd, 
and lives near Oswego, N. Y. Sophronia, unmarried, lives 
in Mannsville, and keeps house for her father. 

Mr. Haven is among the few surviving early settlers of 
Ellisburg, and it may be said of him that few have lived a 
more active life, and none more esteemed in the community. 
His wife died June 7, 1847. The subject of this sketch 
has always lived iu Elli-sburg, on the spot where he was 
born. He was married, Sept. 23, 1857, to Mary Freeman, 
daughter of Elder Joshua Freeman, by whom he has had 
two children ; one died in infancy, and Clarence F., born 
April 25, 1802. In politics Mr. Haven was first a Whig, 
then Republican. Though not a member of any church, 
he has been an attendant upon the Baptist church, of 
which his wife is a member. 

Of the many good farmers of Ellisburg, few, if any, have 
been more .^uceessftil than Mr. Haven. Thorough in all 
his undertakings, prompt and upright in all his dealings, 
no one has better deserved success. To tlie original home- 
stead farm he has added other adjoining lands, until he is 
now the possessor of over 000 acres, all in a body. 



NAHUM C. HOUGHTON, ESQ. 

Nahum Houghton, the father of the subject of this 
sketch, was born in Marlborough, Vt., Feb. 6, 1790. He 
was married to Mary M. Brown Nov. 3, 1816. Five sons 
and two daughters were the issue of this marriage, viz.: 
Algernon Sidney, physician, born July 21, 1817; died 
Nov. 21, 1874, in Belleville. Rev. James Dunbar, bom 
.July J, 1S20, principal for thirteen years in the Union 




SoPHRONA Haven. 





f^fRS.E.B.HAVCN. 



LuTHtH Haven. 





E.B. Haven. 



C. r. Haven . 



HISTORY or JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



377 



Academy of Belleville, also of the Adams Institute, Oneida 
and Carthage academies; died at Carthage Oct. 8, 1874. 
Lucy L., boni May 1, 1822, wife of Alcandor Dickinson, 
living at Belleville. Nahum C, suhjcct of this sketch, 
born Jan. 8, 1825. Charles M., born March 1, 1827 ; 
deceased. Nancy M., born Oct. 20, lS2!t, widow of 
George Fletcher, living at Rural Ilill. Amour Do Val- 
ance, born Juno 23, 1836 ; died Aug. 7, 1838. 

Mr. Houghton's father was among the earliest settlers of 
Ellisburg, and was called out at the time of the battle of 
Big Sandy Creek, but arrived just too late to take part iu 
the engagement, lie died December 17, 1845. 

The subject of this sketch was born in Belleville, and has 
always lived there. He received his education in the dis- 
trict school and at the Union Academy. He remained at 
home, helping on the farm, till he was twenty-one years of 
age. For si.x or seven years thereafter he devoted himself 
principally to teaching vocal music. The four years follow- 
ing he was clerk in Alcander Dickinson's dry-goods .store. 
He then entered into business on his own account, and 
carried on the dry-goods trade for seventeen years. He 
was postmaster for thirteen years of that time, and over.seer 
of the poor for three years. At the present time Mr. 
Houghton is justice of the peace, and has served in that 
capacity for the last two yeans. At the same time he 
carries on a fire and life insurance and general collection 
agency. In politics, Jlr. Houghton has acted with the 
Whig and Republican parties. He has been a warm friend 
of education and religion, and h;xs always contributed his 
share of means for the support of the churches and schools 
of his neighborhood. For two years he has been trustee 
and treasurer of the Union Academy, in which institution 
he has always takeli a deep interest. He was married 
Oct. 27, 1858, to Marietta Warrener, daughter of Walter 
and Eliza Warrener. They have no children. 



JAMES F. CONVERSE 

was the youngest son of Thomas and Lydia Converse, and 
the youngest but one of fourteen ehildrcn, twelve of whom 
are still living. Both his grandfather, whose name was 
David, anil his father were natives of Belchertown, Mass. 
The grandfather moved at an early day to Bridgewater, 
Oneida county, N. Y., and he and his wife died there. His 
father married in Bridgewater Lydia Stratton, and moved 
into Ellisburg, Jetl'urson County, iu March, 1835, having 
purchased of Azariah Doane his farm of 235 acres, lying 
near Woodville, north of the north fork of Sandy creek. 
The house in which the family lived is still standing, the 
fii-st hou.se north of the iron bridge, and is still owned by 
the subject of this sketch. AVith the exception of three 
years, in which the family lived in Belleville, they lived in 
Woodville. The father died there Sept. 24, 1858, the 
mother having died in Belleville June 18 of the same year. 
The subject of this sketch was born October 2, 1825, in 
Bridgewater, Oneida Co., N. Y. He prepared for college 
at the Union Academy, Belleville, and graduated at Hamil- 
ton College at the age of twenty-three. In 1848 he bought 
the homestead farm, and has worked it ever since. He first 



engaged, in company with James Brodie and George S. D. 
Hungerford, in the importation of blooded stook in 1855, 
since which time, mainly in cimipany with James Brodie, 
he has continued such imjjortations. Ayrshire cattle have 
been the chief feature of their importations, though it has 
also embraced Leicester sheep, short-horns, York.shire swine, 
and Shetland ponies. His herd of Ayrshire cattle at the 
present time numbers 100 head. His conveniences for 
keeping stock are not surpassed by any in the country. In 
1874 he built his large barn, 105 by 45 feet, with ba.scment 
stable under the whole. In the following year he built his 
residence, one of the finest farm-houses in the county. 

Mr. Converse was married November 12, 1857, to 
Marietta Bull, daughter of Alvah and Louisa Bull. Their 
children are Frank A. aud Marietta May. Mrs. Converse 
died Nov. 18, 1865. 

3Ir. Converse was again married Dec. 11, 180G, to 
Adelia C. Hopper, daughter of Samuel and Betsey Hopper. 
Two children — George Henry and Clara J. — are the is.sue 
of this marriage. 

In politics Mr. Converse is Republican. He hxs been a 
member of the Congregational church since he was ten 
years of age, and of the Congregational church at Wood- 
ville since its organization. His four sisters and seven 
brothers, living, are members of either the Congregational 
or Prc.sljytcM'iau churches. Mr. Converse was prominent in 
organizing the Ellisburg Agricultural Society, — a society 
which has been in existence about thirty years. 



JAMES BRODIE 



was born in Lochwinnoch, Rcnfrew.shire, Scotland, Oct. 14, 
1798, the second son of Robert and Margaret Brodie. 
Robert, his eldest brother, died at the age of twenty-two, in 
Scotland. His younger brother, David, died at the age of 
twenty-one, in Scotland. His father died when he was nine 
yeai-s of age, and he liv(!d with his mother till he was twenty- 
one. He then eonimeneed farming on his own account, at 
Barr Hill, Ayrshire. He was married Dec. 25, 1819, to 
INIargaret Brodie, daughter of Hugh and Elizabeth Brodie. 
Nine children — seven sons and two daughters — have been 
born to them, viz., Robert, born Oct. 19, 1820, a farmer, 
living in Henderson ; Margaret, born Dee. 25, 1823, wife 
of George Maxon Burdiek, living in Watertown ; Elizabeth, 
hin-n July 28, 1824, widow of Alexander Faird, living at 
Woodville; James, Jr., born June 12, 1826, died in Cali- 
fornia, Nov., 1850; Hugh, born Jan. 1, 1830, married to 
Annie Jonas, and assisting his father in carrying on the 
home farm; David, born Feb. 3, 1835, married to Maria 
Jane Huggins, and living in Iowa ; John, born July 28, 
1838, died Jan., 1871 ; William, born Dee. 25, 1840, living 
with his father ; Alexander, born Aug. 28, 1842, married 
to Martha Ellsworth, and living in Clare, Clare Co., Mich. 
Mr. Brodie emigrated to this country in 1847, and settled 
on the farm he still owns and occupies iu Ellisburg, consist- 
ing of 157 acres, bought of Samuel Hackley. Acting upon 
the belief that it costs no more to feed a good animal than 
it does a poor one, Mr. Brodie, while thorough in all 
branches of farming, has paid more particular attention to 
the importation, improvement, and raising blooded stock. 



378 



HISTORY OP JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



He imported the first Ayrshire stock which came into Jef- 
ferson County. His son David, twicu, and his .son Hugh, 
eight times, have crossed the Atlantic for the express pur- 
pose of importing blooded .stock. Ayrshire cattle, York- 
shire swine, and Leicester sheep have been the principal 
breeds in which he has dealt. Without detracting from 
what others in the county have done towards improvement 
in its stock, it will not be saying too much to state that 
none have done more than Mr. Brodie. 

In politics Mr. Brodie has voted the Republican ticket, 
though he is no strong partisan, believing in voting for the 
best men without reference to party. In Scotland both Jlr. 
and Mrs. Brodie were members of the Reformed Presbyte- 
rian church. They were both members of the Presbyterian 
church at Belleville, but are now attendants upon the Con- 
trreiiational church at Woodville. 



LAVIAS FILLMORE 
was born in Middletown, Vt., Aug. 1, 1811. In October, 
1816, liis parents moved, and settled in Ellisburg, on the 
same place where he now lives. His father, whose name 
was Ethni, died in Boylston, Oswego Co., March 25, 1844. 
The mother lived twenty-eight years after her husband's 
death with her son (subject of this sketch), and died, April 
7, 1872, at the age of ninety-four years. Lavias was the 
only son of nine children, four sisters deceased, viz. : Ru- 
netta, wife of Elijah Houghton ; Mariam, wife of Stephen 
W. Hackley ; Harley Fillmore ; Alzina, wife of Thurston 
Baxter; and four living, viz.: Harriet, living at Rural 
Hill ; Adelia, wife of R. Rudd, living in Boylston ; Lo- 
disca, wife of Cyrus Woodruff, living at Sandy Creek ; 
Lavina, wife of Mr. Farmer, living in Lorraine. 

In March, 1816, the father first came to Ellisburg, 
liavingpurchiu'sed the land of Pierrepont, 2.5 acres, all woods, 
and built a log cabin. When the family moved in, in the 
fall, there was no floor ; stumps served for chairs, and bed- 
steads were constructed of poles. The father and son 
cleared and worked the farm together up to the j'ear 1841, 
when the father sold the farm to his son, having purchased 
500 acres in Boylston. Mr. Fillmore was married, Sept. 
1, 1836, to Marietta Thayer, daughter of James and Fanny 
Thayer. Six children were the issue of this marriage, viz., 
H. H. Fillmore, born Nov. 9, 1837 ; Orson B., born Aug. 
7, 1839, died July 27, 1843; Lucy Helen, binn Jan. 23, 
1843, died June 15, 1847 ; Ferry De Forest, born July 19, 
1846, died Dec. 11, 1855 ; M. M. Fillmore, born Oct. 18, 
1848. H. H. Fillmore married Mary Kemp, Nov. 27, 
1800. Two children were born to them, viz., Menzo E. 
and Emma Marietta. M. M. Fillmore was married, April 
16, 1872, to Jennie Chamberlain. Arthur M. is their 
only child. After the death of his father Lavias paid up 
a large balance due on the Boylston land, which had been 
left a legacy to his sisters. Besides the " home" farm of 
256 acres, Mr. Fillmore is the owner of a farm of 62 acres, 
also the " Hemmingway" farm of 247* acres, which is 
worked by his son, H. H. Fillmore. He has also a half- 
interest in another farm of !•() acres. 

This large projierly, with hou.ses and outbuildings to 
correspond, and which are among the best in the county, 



is the result of a life of unremitting industry and economy, 
coupled with strict honesty and integrity in all his business 
transactions. Few men have been blessed with better 
health and a stronger constitution, and consequently few 
can be found who have " put in" more " hard days' work" 
than has Mr. Fillmore. Though not a member of any 
church, he has always contributed to the building and sup- 
port of the churches in his township. In politics, he is a 
Democrat, but never a seeker for office. Thoroughly de- 
voted to his family, a kind and obliging neighbor, a good 
citizen, no one more deserves the respect and esteem iu 
which he is held in the community. 



ALVAH BULL 



was born in Huntington, Chittendon Co., Vt., Feb. 5, 1803. 
His grandfather, Chrispin Bull, w;is the third settler in the 
town of Danby, Vt., an account of whose life was published 
in a history of that town, by J. C. Williams. 

His father, Elijah, died in Danby in 1848. His mother, 
whose Christian name was Eunice, died in the same place 
in 1868. His sister Annie, widow of Greene Packer, lives 
in Adams, this county. Chrispin Bull, a farmer, living in 
Ellisburg, and Clark Bull, living in Wallingford, Rutland 
Co., Vt., are brothers. 

When Alvah was two years of age his parents moved to 
Danby, Vt. He remained with them till he was twenty- 
nine years of age. In the fall of 1831 he came to Ellis- 
burg, and bought, where he now lives, 147 acres of land ; 
54 acres of Seth Brewster, and 93 acres of Seth W. Brew- 
ster. Returning to Vermont, he was married, Feb. 11, 
1832, to Louisa Packer, daughter of James and Mary 
Packer, of Guilford, Windham Co., Vt., and on the 1st of 
JIarch following moved on to his farm. While in Ver- 
mont, from 1827 to 1832, he worked at blacksmithing, 
since which time he has followed farming. Six children 
have been born to them, viz., James A., living in Minne- 
apolis, Minn. ; Marietta, deceased wife of James F. Con- 
verse; Eunice, wife of Wm. Mathers, living in Henderson; 
George E., married to Mary Brimmer, living with his 
father, and helping to carry on the homestead farm ; Frances, 
wife of M. D. Swan, living at Belleville; and Henry Clay, 
married to Maria Edmonds, living at Collingwood, Meeker 
Co., Minn. Mr. Bull has served six years as assessor and 
one year as supervisor of the town. In politics first a 
Whig, then a Republican. Of Quaker descent, throughout 
his life he has endeavored to live up to the motto " honesty 
is the best policy." His wife has been for many years a 
member of the Baptist church at Belleville, and Mr. Bull 
has always contributed his proportion of means towards sus- 
tiiuing the church. A great '• home man," fond of chil- 
dren, an accommodating neighbor, no one in his community 
is more deserving of the respect and esteem in which he is 
held. 



FREDERICK WILLIAMS. 

This gentleman was the third child of Alexander and 
Rhoila Williams. His grandfather, wlios<> name was Otli- 
niel, was born in Providence, R. I., and was one of the 





SKMUEL Q-f^lQQS. 



I^FfS.SAMUBL Q/f/QGS. 




OldHomf of SAMUEL GRICGS. How owned By NEWELL GRIGGS &. M/^. <S.Mps. L. W. ABBOTT. 

HlNniRSOy. JlfUFISON c.n V 1 



'<^^V '^^'^ 




fiON.&CORQE BABBITT. 



fARS GEOn&L BABBITT. 




ffcsiOENCc OF HON. Geo. BABBITT, HcNOEifsON Jefferson Co-.N-Y. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



379 



first settlers in Chester, Vt. His grandmother's maiden 
name was Field, a descendant of the early settlers of 
Providenee. His father was born in Chester, Vt., April 
21, 1794. In 1818 he came to Ellisburg and bought of 
Nathan Lapham 154 acres of land, .situated two miles west 
of the village of Belleville, all woods. Remaining about 
one year, he returned to Vermont, and was married to 
Rhoda Reed, of Rockingham, Vt. After their marriage 
he moved on to the farm above named, and occupied it till 
his death, which occurred April 21, 1876. Their children 
were as follows: Lucena, wife of Amos Randall, of Lorraine ; 
Lucretia, wife of Joseph Randall, of Relleville ; Frederick, 
subject of this sketch ; Arrosina, unmarried, living in 
Belleville ; Laurilla Lestina, widow of Frank Tecar, killed 
at the second battle of Bull Run ; Abigail A., wife of 
Fayette M. Wise ; H. II. Williams, married to Ophelia 
Clark, and living two miles west of Belleville ; Mary D., 
unmarried, living in Belleville. 

The subject of this .sketch was born at the homestead, 
March 17, 1828. lie lived there until he was twenty- 
four years of age. Besides attendance at the common dis- 
trict school, he attended the Union Academy, ofi' and on, 
for four years. He was married March [), 1853, to Cor- 



delia Swan, daughter of Dewey and Polly (whose maiden 
name was Rounds) Swan. His wife died June 27, 1871. 
Frank M. is their only child. 

He was again married JIarch 23, 1873, to Marionette 
Swan, sister of his first wife. Mason Swan, wlio died at 
the age of sixteen ; M. D. Swan, living near Belleville ; 
Daniel M. Swan, living at Leavenworth, Kansas, are 
brothers of Mrs. Williams. 

Mr. Williams first bought and settled on a 70-acrc lot 
about two miles east of Belleville in 1852. In ISCI he 
sold it and bought 63 acres where he now lives, one mile 
east of Belleville. In 1866 he firet engaged in growing 
peas and beans for the seed trade, and the business has 
yearly increased upon his hands, and has been very success- 
ful. 

In 1872 he built his present residence, a fine brick 
structure, which, with its furnishing and surroundings, is 
one of the ]ileasantest homes in the township. Mr. Wil- 
liams has alway.s taken great interest in the Union Acade- 
my, and has been active in the recent effort to endow that 
institution. In politics he is Republican, and has been a 
member of the Baptist church in Belleville since he was 
fifteen years of age. 



> o o e* — 



HENDERSON. 



This town comprises number six of the "eleven towns," 
and is the most westerly in the county, if we except the 
Galloo and Stony i-slands, which belong to Hounsfield. It 
was formed, with its present limits, February 17, 1806, 
from Ellisburg. 

The first town-meeting was held at the bouse of Reuben 
Putnam, jMarch 11, 1806, at which Jesse Hopkins was 
chosen supervisor ; Mark Hopkins, clerk ; Lodowick Salis- 
bury, Daniel Spencer, and Emory Osgood, assessors ; Elijah 
Williams, constable and collector; John B. Carpenter, 
Samuel Hubbard, poor-m;isters ; Marvel Uanley, Asa Smith, 
and Anthony Sprague, commissioners highways ; George 
W. Clark, Willes Fellows, and Jcdediah McCuniber, fence- 
viewers ; Reuben Putnam, pound-master ; Israel Thomas, 
James Barney, Levi Scofield, Thomas Drury, Calvin Bishop, 
Robert Farrell, Benjamin Barney, John B. Carpenter, 
William White, Simeon Porter, path-masters. 

The successive supervisors have been as follows: 1806- 
10, Jesse Hopkins; 1811, James Henderson, Jr.; 1812, 
Asa Smith ; 1813, Mark Hopkins: 1814-15, Asa Smith ; 
1816, Mark Hopkins; 1817, John S. Porter; 1818, Noah 
Tubbs; 181 1), Asa Smith ; 1820-24. Noah Tubbs ; 1825 
-26, Caleb Harris; 1827, Jonathan Bullard ; 1828-31, 
Caleb Harris; 1832, Peter N. Cushman ; 1833-34, Caleb 



Harris; 1835-37, Peter N. Cu.shman ; 1838-40, David 
Montague; 1841, George Jefters ; 1842— 43, John Carpen- 
ter; 1844, Joseph A. Montague; 1845, William McNeil; 
184t)-51, Henry Green, Jr.; 1852, Washington Bullard; 
1853-55, Henry Green, Jr.; 1856, William P. Davis; 
1857-58, Clark Auehard ; 1859-62, William Dobson ; 
1863, Truman 0. Whitney ; 1864-65, George G. Whit- 
ney ; 1866, William Dobson; 1867-68, Albert A. Davis; 
1869, L. B. Simmons ; 1870, A. A. Davis ; 1871, William 
Dobson; 1872-75, Leonard Seaton ; 1876-77, John Chap- 
man. 

In 1811-12 it was voted that Canada thistles should be 
mowed in the old of the moon, in June, July, and August. 
Penalty, §5; one-half to the complainant, one-half to the 
overseers of ])oor. Wolf bounties of $10 in 1807 to 
1815, except in 1809, when S5 were ofiered for wolves, 
wild-cats, and panthers. 

This town fell to the share of William Henderson, of 
New York, one of the four who bought the eleven towns 
of Constable, and from him it derived its name. He was 
accustomed to spend a part of each summer here for several 
years, and remained interested in the title of the town till 
his death. 

There was an ancient portage from the head of Hender- 



380 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



son bay to Stony creek across this town, by which the ex- 
])0sure of passing Stony Point, which forms a cape difficult 
to navigate with small boats, was avoided. At the head of 
the bay there is said to be a trace, thought to be the re- 
mains of a kind of wharf or landing. The evidences of 
aboriginal occupation were noticed at one or two places in 
this town, and near an ancient trench inclosure there is 
said to have been found a golden cross, about two inches 
long, and furnished with a ring to be worn on the neck. 

On Six-Town Point can yet be seen the traces of an old 
fort, supposed to have been built by the French. It is 
square, with bastions at the angles, and its location is pecu- 
liarly adapted for defense, commanding as it does the en- 
trance to the bay. Six-Town Point is a narrow neck, or 
peninsula, extending into the lake on the west side of Hen- 
derson bay, and in high water becomes an island. Its con- 
tinuance forms several islands, to the west of which lie the 
group including the Galloo and Stony islands. 

More than half the boundary of Henderson is formed by 
the waters of Henderson bay and Lake Ontario. Big and 
Little Stony creeks flow through the town, the former liav- 
ing at an early day furnished motive power for numerous 
mills and manufactories. Several are yet located upon 
its banks, principally at Henderson village. At its mouth 
is a harbor of easy access, though not as safe as others. It 
was at one time hoped the Government would establish a 
port here. Several vessels were built at a ship-yard which 
was located immediately below the bridge crossing Big 
Stony creek, near its mouth. In 1808 the first one was 
built, and was capable of carrying a considerable cargo of 
grain. She was floated out light, and afterwards used in 
the lake trade. Dr. Barney, now of Ili-nderson village, 
recollects seeing the men at work on her, but does not now 
remember who built her. 

The surface of the town is much diversified. In the 
southwestern portion the land is low, but little elevated 
above the surface of the lake, and very fertile. Forming 
a ridge in its r 'ar, and extending around to Henderson bay, 
is the ancient lake- beach, rocky, and for some distance cov- 
ered by a very thin soil. At Henderson bay the shores 
are higher and-moro abru]it, the basin being nearly occupied 
by the water. A rolling territory stretches off" to the south 
and east until the blufis of Big Stony creek are reached. 
This stream h;is cut a deep channel through the limestone 
rock, and aside from its interest to the geologist it presents 
many picturesque and attractive features to the seeker after 
the licauties of Nature. East of Hendersoii village is a 
deep hollow, wherein a pond has been Cornied by an ancient 
beaver dam, the ereek here s])reading out and covering an 
extent of perhaps three hundred acres. Passing a ridge 
between Big and Little Stony creeks, we reach the latter, 
which is but a small stream, yet has furnished power for 
several mills in the past. In the southciist part of the town 
the stream pa.sscs through Six-Town pond, which, like the 
point of the same name, received its appellation from the 
town to which it belongs. In other portions of the town 
are found traces of ponds which formerly existed, and the 
remains of dams built long years since by the beaver, which 
at an early day inhabited this region in vast numbers. 

On Stony Point, the extreme western projection of Hen- 



derson, is a light-house, built in 1837, an appropriation of 
S3000 having been made March 3 of that year. The 
lake-shore from the mouth of Stony creek northward and 
eastward is rocky, and free from bays of any kind between 
there and Henderson bay. When a steady west gale is 
blowing, the effect of the rolling waves and dashing breaker.-* 
is most picturesque. In the other direction from Stony 
creek the .shore consists of almost barren hills of sand, in 
the rear of which lie in many places extensive marshes. 
The wide, sandy bcaeh is beaten hard by the waters in the 
ebb and flow of centuries, and a drive along it is a source 
of much enjoyment. Away to the westward stretches 

" The sea, the sea, ttie open sea ! 
The blue, the fresh, the ever free !" 

and in clear weather the south shore is visible in a low, dim 
outline, appearing of nearly the same color as the water. 
Lake Ontario is a noble sheet of water, and many of its 
choicest beauties of shore scenery are to be found in Hen- 
derson. In fact, there is probably nothing upon its shores 
surpassing in loveliness the beautiful Henderson harbor. 
This harbor, for extent, safety, and facility of access, has 
not its superior on the lake. This circumstance gave value 
to the township, in the oj)inion of the early proprietors, and 
had a beginning been properly made and directed with 
suitable energy, the place might at this time have been an 
important commercial point. 

The town was surveyed into lots, in 1801, by Benjamin 
Wright, of Rome, the plan of subdivision being similar to 
that of Adams, into lots and quarters. In 1805 lot No. 
20, near the present village of Henderson Harbor, was sur- 
veyed into twenty lots, or four ranges, of ten lots each, for 
the purpose of a village. 

The town of Henderson began to settle, under the agency 
of Asher Jliller, of Rutland, about 1802, the land books 
showing that Thomas Clark, Samuel Stewart, Philip Cru- 
mett, John Stafford, and Peter Cramer had taken up lands 
in this toven, to the extent of 1195 acres, on October 26 
previous. Moses Barret, William Petty, Daniel Spencer, 
Captain John Bishop and .sons, Calvin,* Luther, Asa, and 
Sylvester, Jedediah and James McCumber, Samuel Hub- 
bard,f Elijah Williams, Levi Seofield, William Johnson, 
David Bronson, John and Marvel Danley, Andrew Dal- 
rymplo, Luraan Peck, Jonathan Crapo, George W. Clark, 
Thomas Drury, Anthony Sprague, Daniel Forbes, Emory 
Osgood, and many others settled within two or three years 
from the opening of settlement, being mostly emigrants 
i'rom New England. 

On Henderson bay, three miles east of the little village 
of Hender.son Harbor, a Scotch settlement was formed in 
1803-7 by John and Duncan I)rummon<l, Charles and Peter 
Barrie, Duncan Campbell, Thomas Bell, James Crawe, 
Daniel Scott, and James McCraull, from Perthshire in 
Scotland. A .store was opened by C. Barrie in 1823, in 
this settlement, and kept several years. Abel Shepard 
located in the same settlement in'180G. 

A paper, showing the balance due from settlers in this 
town, Jan. 1, ISOi), contains the Ibllowing names of those 

» Died Jiiiiuary 2-1, 1850, aged sixty -eight. 
I l<ieil July 14, lt^4:t, aged eighty-two. 





Oeoi^geW Collins 



MffS. GEO/fGCW.CoU/NS 




Res or G-. W. COLLINS. HiNoiRSON.JEmffsoN CoJ. Y. 




^i^--^'---"-^"--- 



ResiDfNCZ of S/ME( 



"x 





fiRS. iMAR) fJtAJHLI^. 




£)? , Hlnderson. JcrrERsoN Co., N Y. 




if^^^:^^ 




^,<,^ J^ ^^.^ 



:M 



A'.- *$*='ii#^-'''--^\^r;- .r*': .^ .'*;,- 




MRS. T. 0. WHITNEY, HiNoiH5on_JufLHSON Co., M V 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



381 



■who were living in town at that time : A. Jones, R. Favel, 
Jeremiah Harris, Horace Heath, Samuel McNitt, Amos 
Hart, Daniel Hardy, Benj. Hammond, Samuel Jones, 
Daniel McNeil, Martin T. Morseman, Applcton Skinner, 
Asa and Ira Smith, Samuel Foster, \Vm. Warinj;, Wm. 
White, Daniel Pierce, John B. Carpenter, Luther S. Kul- 
linger, Lodowick Sali.sburj, T. Hunsden, W. White, and 
Thomas Bull, who owed an aggregate of §17,734.87, for 
lands. Dr. Lsaac Brnnsou became an owner of a large tract 
in 1807, which was sold and settled by a separate agency. 
Abel French succeeded Jliller a few months in the agency, 
and April 8, 1805, an agreement was made between Wui. 
Henderson and Jesse Hopkins, by wliich the latter became 
the agent of this town and Pinckney, and continued in the 
employment of ^Ir. Henderson many years. Some diffi- 
culty, growing out of the agency, led to the publication of 
a pamphlet by Mr. Ilopkin.s in 182J5, which affords some 
interesting data relative to the early hi.story of the town. 

In 1803—1 but ten families wintered in town. In May, 
1800, there were seventy families, generally middle-aged 
and young people, with small propertj-, but industrious and 
contented, although many were quite poor, who had ex- 
hausted their means in getting into the town, and were 
destitute of provisions. A contract was made soon after 
for clearing twenty-five acres of lands at the harbor, which 
the proprietor had hoped to establish as a commercial port, 
and caused to be surveyed into a village plot, to which he 
gave the name of Ktijilcs. The bay was named the Bay 
of Naples, and high expectations were founded upon the 
future greatness of this port. On the declaration of war, 
Sacket's Harbor was selected as the great naval station of 
the lake, and both Mr. Henderson and his agent were, it is 
.said, being opposed to that measure, averse to having any 
military or naval operations undertaken at this place. It 
in consequence lost the opportunity which, with judicious 
management and decided natural advantages, it might have 
secured of being a place of importance. 

Mr. Hopkins built a house and opened a land-office near 
the town of Naples, which he had laid out, the provision.s 
used for his laborere being brought from Kingston, and 
the lumber from Ellisburg and Sacket's Harbor. In 1807 
a small store was opened, and several unsuccessful attempts 
were made to bring business to the place. Among other 
measures, Mr. Henderson procured the passage of a law for 
the opening of a State road from Lowville to Henderson 
Harbor, which was laid out from Lowville into Pinckne_y, 
but never completed. He also, in 1800, caused a dam and 
saw-mill to be built on Stony creek, near the head of navi- 
gation, but the former gave way and the enterprise resulted 
in a total loss. In the next season the dam was rebuilt, 
and a mill erected at great expense. In 1811 a negotiation 
was held with General Matoon, of Massachusetts, for the 
sale of the township, but failed on account of the prospects 
of war. In 1812, Mr. Hopkins erected -a large-sized school- 
house at the harbor, which was to serve also as a place for 
religious meetings. He also commenced the building of 
vessels at this place, the first of which was a schooner of 
twenty tons. Several large clearings were made on account 
of Henderson the year previous. In the year 1814 a sec- 
ond vessel, of forty tons, and soon after two others, were 



built, and the place began to present the appearance of con- 
siderable business. Mr. Hopkins continued in the agency 
until 1822, engaged with varied success in a series of specu- 
lations, some of which were successful and some very un- 
fortunate, when, having fallen considerably in arrearsi, he 
was superseded in the agency, and his improvements taken 
to aj)ply on his liabilities. 

About 1817, Samuel Nutting came from Columbus, 
Chenango Co., N. Y^., and settled on the place now owned 
bj' his sons, Samuel and Charles Nutting. He was accom- 
panied by his wife and one child, — Sallj- Mr. Nutting's 
eldest brother, Simeon, settled previously on the farm now 
owned by Joseph Fillmore. His brothers, Luther, Ezra, 
Leonard, and John Nutting, arrived at nearly the same 
time with the others. The Nuttings were the first perma- 
nent settlers in this part of the town, and for some years 
the only ones. Samuel Nutting purchased his place of his 
brother-in-law, Stephen Reed, who had made slight improve- 
ments upon it. Reed originally took up considerable land 
in the neighborhood, but sold it all to the Nuttings. He 
moved from here into the western part of the town, and 
afterward lived in Ellisburg and other parts of the county. 

Charles Carter, a brother-in-law of the Nuttings, located 
at nearly the same time with the latter, ou a place half a 
mile west of Samuel Nutting's. These farms are all near 
the lake-shore, and are among the most fertile in town. 

Thejirst actual settler was a trapper named David Bron- 
son,* who also set out the first orchard, the second being 
planted by Christian Salisbury. He built a log house on 
low land now occupied by George W. Collins, about the 
centre of town ; cleared about an acre of ground and sowed 
it to turnips, seeding it with herd's-grass. In high water his 
house was flooded, and he was forced to move. Conse- 
quently he took up his abode fiirther east, on what is now 
known as " Bishop street," and finally located in the west- 
ern part of town, on land now owned by Leonard Seaton. 
It was on this place that he set out his orchard. Abraham 
Wilkinson, from Charlton, Saratoga Co., N. Y., settled in 
Jefferson County in 1806, locating on Stony island. Three 
years later he moved to Galloo island, and in the spring of 
1812 to Henderson. He was accompanied to the county 
by his wife and six children. He served during the War of 
1812, and died about 1SG5. His sons, Silas and William 
Wilkinson, yet reside in the town. Mrs. Silas Wilkinson's 
father, Paul Stickney, settled in the town of Adams about 
1800, coming from Litchfield, Oneida county. He was a 
native of New Hamjishirc. William Wilkinson was a sol- 
dier of 1812. 

Jason Crittenden, a veteran of the Revolution, came from 
Massachusetts, and settled iu town previous to the War of 
1812, bringing his wife and a small family of children with 
him. Several children were born after he .settled here. His 
son, Harvey Crittenden, who married a daughter of Jona- 
than Matteson, Sr., of Ellisburg, served fifty-seven days in 
the War of 1815, — three days too short a time to entitle 
him to a pension, — and is at present residing in New Y'ork 
City. Members of the famih- are yet living in Henderson. 

Jesse Hopkins, fourth son of Joseph Hopkins, in 1805 

* See previous list. 



382 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



became Mr. Henderson's agent for this town. He vfas born 
in Waterbury, Connecticut, May 20, 176G. His father was 
a prominent citizen, and was repeatedly honored with the 
public confidence. For tiiirtj' j'ears he held the office of 
judge of probate, and died while in discharge of his official 
duties. At the age of seventeen Jesse Hopkins, on the visit 
of Generals Washington and La Fayette to his father's 
house, pleased the latter so well that he was made his aid 
during a series of military operations in that (juarter. His 
youth prevented him from enlisting in the army, and his love 
of country from accepting the invitation of La Fayette to 
visit France and engage in a lucrative pursuit. He says of 
him.self, in a volume which he published in 1828 :* 

" I was in childhood at the commencement of the RcTolutionary War, 
and at its close had Just arrived at that age which entitled me to 
shoulder my musket, — an age alive to all the interesting events of the 
day. Being a son of a Revolutionary patriot, who was a member of 
the State legislature, I had an opportunity of acquiring considera- 
ble political information for many years, as well as inhaling that 
spirit of patriotism which was characteristic of the times. . . . The 
same spirit which actuated our ancestors in acquiring the privileges 
we cnjo}' is as essential to their continuance as it was to their attain- 
ment ; therefore the youth of this country cannot be too often re- 
minded of the hardships and trials of various kinds which their 
forefathers endured, and through which they are now enjoying the 
richest temporal blessings Heaven has in store for man." 

" Mr. Hopkins also wrote poetry with much taste and 
fluency, several fine pieces of which still exist ; but, although 
meritorious, he never allowed them to go beyond the sacred 
precincts of the family circle. He first engaged in manu- 
factures, among which was that of silver-plated shoe- 
buckles, which soon came into general use. In 1803 he 
married at Hartford, but his wife dying soon after, he spent 
five years in speculating in the West Indies. After his 
return he married his cousin, a granddaughter of Samuel 
Hopkins, D.l)., the celebrated divine of Newport, Rhode 
Island. 

" In 1805 he was appointed an agent for Henderson ; 
where, after various success, and, as he claimed, ill-usage 
from Mr. Henderson, he was ultimttcly unfortunate. In 
the settlement of that town he evinced great public spirit 
and devotion to the settlers and public generally, and con- 
tributed largely from his own means towards measures 
tending to the general welfare. Perhaps his greatest error 
arose from the tenacity with which lie adhered to his fed- 
eral creed, and opposed any niiiitar}' or naval operations in 
Henderson harbor, which would have given that place an 
importance it will scarcely now attain. This sacrifice of 
interest to principle was cliaracteristic of the man. He 
erected a fine seat at the head of the bay, commanding a 
prospect of unrivaled beauty ; and during all the reverses 
of an eventful life he was characterized by a remarkable 
ambition and energy of character, which never seemed 
daunted or lessened, even by the infirmities of age. He 
died at Henderson, in the 71st year of his age."f 

"Joseph Hawkins, a native of Connecticut, settled in 
Henderson about 1810, where he continued to reside till 
his death. He took a prominent part in the business of 
this section of the county, and after the war became some- 



* " Patriot's Manual," embracing stirring and Revolutionary topics, 
t Hough. 



what extensively engaged in the commerce of the lakes. In 
1828 he was elected to Congress, Mr. Perley Keye,s being 
his opponent ; and while in office was in.strumental in pro- 
curing a reform in the laws that applied to the navigation 
of the lakes, of which his personal acquaintance had led 
him to sec the necessity. This Act was passed March 2, 
1831, which abolished custom-house fees and substituted 
salaries, placed British vessels on an equal footing with 
American, as related to the amount of duties, and fixed 
the tariff of goods from the Canadas at no higher rates 
than were cliarged at the colonial poi^. The Act required 
the registry of ves.sels employed in the coasting or carrying 
trade, and belonging in the United States. As the law had 
previously existed, it had operated as a premium for small 
ves.sels and a prohibition for large ones, and led to various 
modes of evasion, among which was the building of large 
vessels, and flooring up, so that the measurement, by the 
custom-house rules, would be much less than the actual 
capacity. Mr. Hawkins held for several years the office of 
county judge, and adorned the society in which he lived by 
his amiable and gentlemanly deportment. He died in Hen- 
derson, April 20, 1832, aged 50. His friends E. Camp 
and E. G. Merrick placed over his grave a tablet with the 
following inscription : ' The navigation of our lakes was 
relieved from grievous custom-house fees by his zealous 
efibrts as Member of Congress in 1830.' "| 

Amasa Hungerford, from Bennington Co., Vt., settled, 
in 1810, at the locality now known as Hungerford's Cor- 
ners, southeast of Hender.son Bay. The place had been 
originally settled by a man named Hart, who built a log 
house. The present frame dwelling was built by Amasa 
Hungerford in 1817, and remains in nearly its original 
shape. It contains a number of chairs which were made 
more than a hundred years ago, and were Mr. Hungerford's 
property. JMr. H. was uncle to the mother of the cele- 
brated poet, John G. Saxe. The Hungerford farm lias 
several tim&s, in the days of the first Jeffijrson County 
fairs, taken the first premium, as being the fineist, best 
improved, and best regulated farm in the countv. Mr. 
Hungerford's father, Capt. Amasa Hungerford, was a sol- 
dier of the Revolution, and never came to Jefferson County, 
although his wife died here. Amasa Hungerford's place is 
now the property of his son, Benjamin Hungerford, who is 
living in Michigan. In 1816, Orriu and Uriah Hunger- 
ford settled here, purchasing farms near the Corners. 

Sylvester Finney, of Warren, Litchfield Co., Conn., re- 
moved to Oneida Co., N. Y., about 1704, when that county 
was mostly a wilderness. Of his later removal to Hender- 
son his son. Rev. Charles G. Finney, the great Congrega- 
tional revivalist, speaks as follows in his autobiography : 

" In the neighborhood of my father's residence we had just erected 
a meeting-house, and settled a minister, when my father was induced 
to move again into the wilderness skirting the southern shore of Lake 
Ontario, a little south of Sacket's Harbor. Here again I lived for 
several years, enjoying no better religious privileges than [ had in 
Oneida county." 

In 1812, Charles G. Finney left here and went to Con- 
necticut, and from theuce to New Jersey, locating near 



t Hough. 





Mrs £ J. Wall. 



o&^-^-^^C^-^U. 




RES or MRS.CJ. HALL.tiL'.SLRSo^JnTE/fsoNCo.HY 




Residence or W. P. DAVIS .Hit 




tsou. JcrriRsoN Co., New Yof^k . 



m^ 





I^RS.Wm.S GRtGQS. 



Wm. S.Griggs. 




Hts. or Wm. S. &RlGGS,tiLnuLKMHJiinKSON CoNY 



HISTORY OF JEFFf:RSOX COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



383 



New York City, and engaging in school-teaching. In 1818 
lie returiitd to Jefferson County, N. Y., and entered, at 

Adams, tiie law-office of "Squire AV ," as a student. 

During his stay here he was converted, and here bojj;:in 
his Christian labors. He afterwards made himself famous 
as a revivalist in the United States and England, and for a 
long time was pastor of the First church at Oiierliii, Ohio, 
and lecturer in the seminary at that place. He was born 
at Warren, Litchfield county, Connecticut, August 29, 17!>2, 
and died at Oberlin, Oiiio, August 16, 1875, having nearly 
completed his 83d year. The old Sylvester Finney farm is 
a mile south of Henderson village. One of Sylvester Fin- 
ney's sons, Zenas, owned a farm near the upper point of 
Henderson harbor, now the j)roperty of Eaton Alexander. 
Another sou, George W. Finney, became widely noted for 
his lectures on the subject of temperance. He finally died 
in California. 

THE VILLAGE OP HENDERSON HARBOR 

occupies the site of the village of Naples, previously men- 
tioned. When Naples was laid out a lot of four acres was 
reserved for a public square, and donated to the village by 
Mr. Henderson. On this lot a frame school-house was 
built by Jesse Hopkins in 1812. The first school was 
probably taught here in 1813 ; the teacher was a lady, 
whoso name is now forgotten. 

The Jirst school in the town of Henderson was kept in a 
log school-house, which stood one and a fourth miles south of 
Henderson village, in the winter of 1808-09. The teacher 
was Alfred Forbes, or Fobes. Before the sehool-house was 
built at Henderson Harbor, Dr. Ellas Skinner, the Jirst 
jjlii/sician who settled in town, and who lived here, taught 
school in one end of his dwelling. He is remembered by 
those who attended under him as a "brisk wielder of the 
birch and rule,"' and had his switches (!) graded in length 
to reach either a long or short distance, and no pupil was 
safe from their tender touches, no matter in what part of 
the room he might be. 

John Blanehard taught in the school-house in the winter 
of 1S17-1S, and was chiefly remarkable for the accuracy 
he had acquired in throwing at the heads of his pujiils any 
missile upon which his hand happened to alight. A man 
named Bancroft taught either just before or just after Mr. 
Blanehard. The sclu)ol-house now in use is a frame build- 
ing, standing on the hill in the eastern portion of the vil- 
lage, and is the third one which has been erected at the 
place. One of the three was burned. 

Samuel Cole, from Rhode Island, .-icttled at Henderson 
Harbor iu 1812, where he engaged in the tanning and 
slioemaking business. In 1817 he removed to a farm near 
Hender.«on village, which was owned by Thomas Drurj% the 
widow of whose son (Thomas Drury, Jr.) !Mr. Cole mar- 
ried after the death of his first wife. While Mr. Cole was 
in business at the Harbor he associated with him a man 
named Dye, to whom he afterwards sold. Dye dispo.sed of 
the property to Benjamin Andrus, who afterwards removed 
to a farm acro.ss the bay iu the western part of town, and 
finally to Oswego county. Mr. Cole emigrated from Hen- 
derson village to the Slate of Wisconsin, where he died. 
His brother, Jonathan Cole, who settled at Henderson vil- 



lage in 1814, is still residing there, and has long held the 
position of deacon in the Baptist church. 

William W. Warner, from Rens.sclaer Co., N. Y., came 
to Henderson Harbor in March, 1813. He had in 1811 
located on Galloo island, but after the declaration of war 
and the commencement of hostilities he removed to the 
maiidand. During the season of 1813 he, in conifiany 
with others, including Jesse Hopkins, built a small schooner 
called the Ileiiiliison, of about 40 tons burden. In Octo- 
ber of that year this vessel was impressed into the service 
of the United States, after which Captain Warner sailed 
her. This vessel was with the unfortunate expedition of 
General Wilkinson in the fall of 1813. She was burned after 
landing the men at Ogden.sburgh, to prevent falling into 
the hands of the British. In the spring of 1814 he built 
a vessel of fifty tons, called the Lily. She was sold in the 
spring of 1815, and the Auffiisia purchased from the Gov- 
ernment. Captain Warner's death occurred at Henderson 
Harbor in 1817. 

Captain Warner's son, Capt. John S. Warner, began 
sailing in 1817, and led the life of a sailor until 18tJl, — a 
period of forty-four years. Since then he has resided at 
the Harbor. In 1850 he purchased the " Frontier House," 
then a private dwelling, and in 18ljl repaired it thoroughly 
and opened it as a hotel, with the present name. He car- 
ried it on until 1876, when he rented to Capt. Edward 
White, the present landlord. 

When the Warners first located here (1813), a hotel was 
kept by Hinckley Stevens, who probably built it. It stood 
opposite the site of the present " Frontier House," and was 
kept by Stevens and others until about 1830. While the 
old hotel was running, a second one was built by a man 
named Chandler. It was opened in the fidl of 1826, and 
stood on the west side of the road, on the corner south of 
the present Frontier House. These hotels were all frame 
buildings. Chandler's was burnt about 1863. 

Subsequent to the War of 1812 a considerable business 
was done at the Harbor in the way of buying and shipping 
stock and grain, which at that time went to Kingston. 
The first wheat ev«r shipped from here by water was taken 
out by Capt. J. S. Warner, on the schooner Richard J/.> 
and carried to the Genesee river, from whence it was taken 
to Rochester. In 1842 and '43 a small steamer, called 
the John Maishidl, Capt. J. S. Warner, made tri-weekly 
trips between Hendei-son Harbor and Kingston. During 
the .seasons of 1876 and '77 the steamer J. F. Dnyin, 
Capt. Reuben Warner, plied between Henderson and 
Sacket's Harbors, connecting at the latter place with trains 
on the Utica and Black River railway. 

Ship-building was largely carried on at Henderson 
Harbor until recently. The last vessel constructed here 
was the Jennie While, a schooner of about 350 tons, capa- 
ble of carrying 15,000 bushels of wheat, — now engaged in 
the lake trade between Ogdensburgh and Chicago. 

The village has a picturesque location on the eastern 
shore of the bay, and in the summer presents quite a lively 
appearance, owing to the numbers of people who come here 
to spend that seiison in pleasure. And to no place could 
they go and find better facilities for enjoyment. Here are 
all the requirements for fishing and boating, together with 



3S-t 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



the many beauties spread forth by the lavish hand of 
uature. 

HENDERSON VILLAGE. 

About 1807-8 a deacon of tlie Presbyterian denomination, 
named Follows, built a saw-mill and a grist-mill* on Big 
Stony creek, and originated the settlement which has grown 
into the present prosperous village. These mills soon after- 
wards became the property of John Putnam, who finally dis- 
posed of them to Lodowick Salisbury. The latter, in 1812, 
made general repaii-s upon them, lie had, in 1811, opened 
the _/?)•«< store in the village, in which, in 1812, Lowrey Bar- 
ney, now a physician of long practice, was clerk. Salisbury 
procured a portion of his goods at Utiea and Albany, 
although they mostly came through by night from Mon- 
treal, and were transported in bateaux. The second store 
in the town of Henderson was opened in 1809 or '10, about 
three miles southeast of Henderson village, by Williams & 
MeCumber, and Dr. Barney also clerked for them. These 
men afterwards engaged in the lumber business, and at last 
succumbed to bad management or the shortcomings of irre- 
sponsible creditors. 

As eiirly as 1812 a building was erected and occupied by 
Amos White and James Nash as a carding-mill. These 
men sold to a company, which was formed .May 25, 1814, 
known as the " Henderson Woolen-Manul'aeturiiig Com- 
pany," of which Elihu Shepard was president. The first 
trustees were Allen Kiiby, Hezckiah Doolittle, Joseph 
Dickey, Tilley F. Smead, and Chester Norton. A consid- 
erable sum of money was expended in improvements, in- 
cluding the building of a woolen-mill. The property finally 
reverted to the original owners, Messrs. White & Nash. 
The former carried on the mil! and carding-machine for 
a while, and sold it to A'alentine Parker, who, being a mill- 
wright by trade, converted it into a grist-mill, afler selling 
the machinery to parties at Watcrtown. Since then it has 
been operated as a grist-mill, and is now the property of 
Luther Reed. Parker's father, Joseph Parker, was among 
the early settlers of the town. 

A second grist-mill is running at the village, which was 
built by George Finney. After placing in it one run of 
stone, Finney disposed of a share to Alonzo Leffinu:well, 
and the two are the present proprietors. The mill is one of 
the best in the county, and has a large custom. 

A distillery was built by a man named Calkins, about 
1810-11, and was the first in the place. Another was 
afterwards owned by William Henderson, and operated by 
his agent, Nathan Goodell, as early as 1815-16. Corn was 
taken by Mr. HendersDU in payment for land, and manu- 
factured into whisky, which brought a fair price in cash. 

About 1S08-9, Deacon Fellows built his house, — a plank 
and frame structure, — and opened a tavern, the first at 
the village. He sold this, together with his mills, to John 
Putnam, who in turn dLsposed of the whole property to 
Lodowick Salisbury. The latter afterwards associated with 



• The grist-mill was burned about 1870. It wan then the properly 
of G. W. Finney, who in ISTI erected a new grisi-uiill on the aits of 
Ihe old saw-mill, kucwn as Iho " Kurcka Mills," now owned by Ij. \V. 
Finney and A. M. Lt-flingwoll. 



him Martin T. Morseman, now of Saekot's Harbor, and the 
property w;is subseijuently all disposed of to other parties. 
Salisbury has been dead a number of years. 

A short time previous to 1812 a post-office was established 
at Henderson Harbor, and Mark Hopkins appointed post- 
master. He vras succeeded by Mr. Stevens, father of Sliu- 
bael Stevens, who now lives in the town. The office, after 
a short time, was removed to Henderson village, on the 
resignation of the postmjister at the Harbor, and the first 
man installed as postmaster at the village was Rev. Holland 
Weeks, a Swedenborgian preacher. His successor was 
Henderson Spencer. The present incumbent is diaries H. 
Sprague. Henderson Harbor has been without a post-office 
since its removal to the village. 

Dr. Daniel Barney, the second physician in the town of 
Henderson, was originally from Rhode Island. In 1794 
he removed to Little Falls, Herkimer Co., N. Y., and from 
there afterwards into JofTersoii County, living successivelj' 
in Rutland, Adams, and Henderson, settling in the latter 
town in 1807. He died May 19, 1828. His son. Dr. Low- 
rey Barney, now residing at the village, began practicing 
in 1814. He received a dijiloma in 1822 from Fairfield 
Medical College, Herkimer county. 

Henderson Village was long known as Salisbury's Mills, 
and this name is used freciuently at present. It is located 
in the valley of Stony creek, principally on the north side 
of the stream, and about three and one-half miles from its 
mouth, and is surrounded by a good agricultural region. 

STOCK. 

Among the fine herds in this town is that of Simeon 
Mather, near Roberts' Corners. The cattle are of the Dur- 
ham or short-horn variety, and among them is the famous 
Bull "Lord Mervin, 4th," a magnificent animal. (Sea 
view.) 

WASHINGTON LODGE, NO. 256, ¥. AND A. M., 

was organized at Henderson JIareh 10, 1816, with Emory 
Osgood, M. ; Noah Tubbs, S. W. ; Daniel Leonard, J. W. 
In 1824 it contributed half the expense of building a Bap- 
tist chnreh, the second story being fitted for a lodgo-rooui. 
About 1832 it sold out to the society and was discontinued. 

THE HIi.NDEllSON SOCI.\L LIBKARV 

was formed Feb. 9, 1819, of which Percival BuUard, Peter 
N. Cushman, Chester Norton, Rufus Hatch, Thomas Fobes, 
Allen Kilbey, and Elijah Williams were elected the first 
trustees. 

THE FIRST BAPTI.>«T CHURCH OF HENDERSON 

was formed June 26, 1806, at the house of Merril Danley, 
by Emory Osgood, who officiated as pastor till Sept. 11, 
1823. In October, 1818, the members being scattered, a 
new church was formed from this, the parent body being the 
same that now worships at Smithville, and the colony that 
of Henderson village. 

THE FIRST BAPTIST CHCRCH OF SMITHVILLE 

was formed Sept. 29, 1823, with Henry Keith, Austin 
Robbins, aud Ebenezer Sumner, trustees. This society, in 





Leonaf{d Scaton, S^ 




^ ^^^'>z ^ao-^?^.. 





Resioencc of LEONARD SZATONJii.,HcNOEi<sw.JcrrcRS0NCo.,HY 




S £ASr VIEW 



RcsiDCNcc or R. LZFFINGWi 




HcNDE/fsoN.JerrtHsoN Co-.N Y 



ffSAR VIEW. 




f/IRS.flARVEY SMITH. 

( DtZCA S to) 



fulRS.fiARVEY SMITH. 




Ris.oi HAffVtV 5MiTH, 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



385 



concert with the Congregationalista, in 1832 erected a stone 
church at Smithvillc, 41 by 60 feet, at a cost of about 
$3000. The church contains an audienco-rouin with 200 
sittings, a session-room, and a gallery for the choir. It is 
heated by a Boyanton salamander furnace, and lighted by 
Frink's reflectors. The society coiitenqilalc adding a new 
steeple at an early date. The present board of trustees are : 
A. \V. Robbins, chairman; A. P. Hall, secretary ; H. Hill, 
J. A. CampbelK 8. D. Lord, ^[ 0, and Herrick Wiles. In 
1875 the Baptist society leased the interest of the Congre- 
gational society for the term of one hundred years. Pres- 
ent membership, 30. Average attendance of Sunda3'-.sehool, 
50 scholars. lion. Chas. A. Benjamin, superintendent. 
The clergy employed since Mr. Osgood have been Elders 
Elisha Morgan, Jesse Elliott, Norman G. Chase, J. N. 
Webb, Daniel D. Reed, Elisha Sawyer, Henry Ward, 
Joshua Freeman, Amasa Heath, and others. Present pas- 
tor, P. K. Sheldon,— since Dec. 3, 1873. 

The " First Baptist Society" of Ilendei-son was formed 
June 5, 1824, with Samuel Cole, Shubaol Athiston, and 
Amasa Brown, trustees. In 1824 this society, assisted by 
the Masonic fraternity, erected a church, the latter using 
the second story as a lodge-room. They sold their interest 
about 1832. In 1853 this building, which stood a little 
south of Henderson village, was taken down, and a new one 
erected near the centre of the village. The same clergy 
have generally been employed here as at Smithville. 

THE SECOND B.VPTI.ST CUURCH OF UE.VDEKSOX. 

This was formed January 1, 1820, with 66 members. 
The first pastor was Rev. Emory Osgood, who was followed 
by Elisha Morgan, Jesse Elliott, H. Chase, Russell Hervey, 
Alba Wedge, D. D. Read, John Wilder, Elisha Sawyer, 
Alba Cole, Joseph R. Johnson, John F. Bishop, and others. 
A church was erected in 1823 at a cost of S1800, and a 
second one about 1852-53, costing $2800. 

THE PRESBYTERI.\NS, 

about 1820, erected a-small church in Henderson village 
that hits been for many years taken down, and they have 
no place of worship at present in town. A society was 
formed on the 28th of October, 1819, with Adonijah 
Wheatou, Ralph French, and Jesse Hopkins, trustees. 

THE METHODISTS 

first organized a society in this town Julj' 29, 1830, with 
Beebee Smith, Cyrus Hall, Amos White, Joseph J. Hatch, 
and Calvin Bishop, trustees. The first society at the vil- 
lage of Henderson was formed April 9, 1844, with Harvey 
Crittenden, Amos White, and Sylvanus Ward, trustees. 
The Methodists have two churches in town, one on Bishop 
street and one in the village, erected by the above societies 
respectively. The present pastor is Rev. C. JIanson. The 
society is in a flourishing condition, with a fair membership. 

THE S.MITHVILLE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 

was formed Jan. 3, 1824, by Rev. Abel L. Crandall, of 32 
members. March 13, 1824, the church resolved to unite 
with the St. Lawrence presbytery, on the accommodation 
plan. Rev. Messrs. J. Ingersoll, D. Spear, L. A. Sawyer, 
25 



J. Covert, A. Putnam, H. Doane, George J. King, Charles 
Halsey, L. M. Shepard, George Turner, and Henry Budge . 
have since been employed, mostly one-half of the time, the 
remainder being at North Adams. In 1829 the church 
joined the Black River As.sociation, and has since so re- 
mained. Meetings were held in a school-house, built with 
the view of holding meetings, until the present church 
was built. The Congregational Society of Smithville was 
formed Sept. 16, 1S23, having William Gilbert, Joseph T. 
French, and Daniel McNeil, trustees, who united with the 
Baptists in erecting a church, as above stated. 

THE KIll.ST UNIVERSALIST SOCIETY OK HENDERSON 

was formed January 13, 1823, with John S. Porter, Ros- 
well Davis, and Ama.«a Hungerford, trustees. The Hen- 
derson Universalist Charitable Society had been fjruied 
Feb. 5, 1819, of thirteen members, but not legally perfected 
till four years. In 1839 a church 40 by 60 feet was erected 
in the village, at a cost of $3000, and dedicated in Decem- 
ber, 1839. On March 9, 1822, a church organization was 
effected by Rev. Pitt Morse, of nineteen members. The 
clergy since employed have been P. Morse, C. G. Person, 
Seth Jones, P. Morse, L. Rice, Alfred Peck, and others. 
The present pastor is Rev. Mr. Rice. 

SWEDENBOROIAN. 

December 25, 1825, a society of the New Jerusalem was 
formed in EUisburg, at Brewster's school-house, of 13 mem- 
bers, in that town and Henderson, but mostly in the latter. 
Rev. Holland Weeks, formerly a Congregational minister, 
of Abington, Mass., who came into Henderson to reside in 
1821, and who soon began to hold meetings in school- 
houses, w;is the promulgator of these doctrines in town, and 
preached gratuitously for many years. The meetings of 
the new church were kept up regularly by him at the 
school-house in Henderson village till near his death, July 
24, 1843, aged 75 yeans. The greatest number of mem- 
bers was between thirty and forty. The first members 
were Holland Weeks, Joseph Dickey, Moses J. Morseman, 
Edward Leslie, Jeremiah Si;i.s, Charles Stearns. Jr., John 
Burt Blauchard, Lucy Ann Blanchard, Alvin Wood, Lydia 
Wood, Ann H. Adams, Hannah M. Goodale, and Harriet 
A. Weeks. 

BUSINESS. 

In October, 1877, Henderson Village contained eight 
stores, three blacksmith-shops (two having wagon-.shops in 
connection), two tailors, one harness-shop, two grist-mills, 
one saw- and shingle-mill (owned by John Chapman), three 
churches, a two-story frame school-house, two hotels (A'ew 
York House, by Capt. F. J. Raiusdell, and Excliange, by 
C. Weaver), four physicians, two lawyers (A. A. Davis and 
Alonza Lefiingwell), one dentist (E. J. Richards), two mil- 
linery establishments, one barber-shop, and two billiard- 
rooms. The place is rapidly improving, and during the 
summer of 1877 several new stores have been erected, be- 
sides other buildings. 

In another portion of this volume will bo found an ac- 
count of the famous balloon vo\'age of I'rof John Wi.se, Mr. 
La Mountain, and others, in July, 1859, from St. Louis, 
Mo., to Ilendei-son, landing in town on the second of that 



386 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



month, on the farm of T. 0. Whitney, in twenty-three 
liours from the timt' of starting. 

We are undor obligations, for iuformation furnished, to 
Dr. Barney and others at Henderson Village, Capt. Warner 
and others at Henderson Harbor, and Samuel Nutting, 
Levi Crittenden, Joseph Fillmore, Silas Wilkinson, Philo 
Hungcrford (of Rural Hillj, Rev. 1'. K. Sheldon, and 
others in that town. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



THE FAMILY OF RUSSELL WALLACE. 

John Wallace, father of Ru.s.sell Wallace, was born in 1777, 
in MiLssachusotts. Anna Nevens, his wife, was born in New 
Hampsliire. They were married in 1796, came to New York 
State in 1806, and settled in the woods, two miles back of 
Henderson village. Like all new setlleis, they endured 
many privations. He was called out in the War of 1812. 
His wife was energetic and industrious; she conquered 
difficulties and encouraged her husband when despondent, 
and was the mother of fourteen children, eleven of whom 
lived to be men and women. 

Ru.ssell Wallace was the fiftli child, born July 3, 1806. 
He lived with his father until lie was twenty-one. He 
traveled some at this time (under pay), visited Washington 
city, spent a few weeks with his brother in Boston ; he also 
spent some time in Canada ; and finally returning home, 
went into business with his father, in which he continued 
up to the time of .his marriage. He then bought the farm 
on which his widow now resides. He was a man of intelli- 
gence and integrity, a good financier, a kind neighbor, hus- 
band and father. He outlived all his children but one, and 
died regretted at the age of si.xty-five, Aug. 22, 1871. 

The parents of Mrs. 11. Wallace — Thonuis Bell, born in 
Scotland in 1781, Margaret Leckie, his wife, born in 178:i!, 
in the same place — came to America tliosame year. After a 
brief stay in New York city, they came on to Sacket's Har- 
bor, where a neiglibor had preceded them. He took up 
land on the shore of Hendereon bay, then an unbroken 
wildi^rness where the howl of the wolf disturbed their 
nightly slumber. The first winter was full of privations; 
sad and lonely, they oft looked back to the dear old liome 
they had left behind. He was called out with his neigh- 
bors to defend the frontiers from the British and Indians. 
He lived many years on the farm he first took up, and died 
in 1861. His wife, a woman of intelligence and active 
business habits, died in 1867, regretted by hc.v children. 
Their children were seven in number, — four girls and three 
boys. The two oldest, John L. and Susan J. Bell, were 
invited by their uncle, Robert Leckie, of Washington city, 
to sj)end a few years with him and attend school. They 
went in 1829, and were present at the inauguration of 
General Jackson. John died in Septendjer of the same 
year, of bilious fever. Susan J. stayed with her uncle 
seven years, sharing with his daughter all thi! advantages 



that wealth and position could give, — R. Leckie, her uncle, 
being a retired gentleman of fortune. She married, in 
1834, Capt. J. L. Keelen, who died in 1836, from injuries 
received on being thrown from a l)orse. Her uncle died in 
1834. Conscijuciitly, on the death of her husband, she 
returned to her old home; was married again in 1841, to 
R. Wallace, and went to reside on the ferm on which she 
now lives. Their children were six in number, three boys 
and three girls. 

The oldest, Helen E. Wallace, was a young lady of fine 
mind and of active business habits. She married, in 
1862, R. F, Van Valkenburgh, and died in 1868, aged 
twenty-six years, leaving one child, Marian H. 

The second daughter, Marian E., was good and beautiful 
in all her ways ; kind and gentle in spirit, the fragrance of 
her life remains. She was born Nov. 26, 1844, married to 
H, M, Blount in 1862, and died in 1865, leaving a boy, 
Clarence W. 

Russell Wallace, Jr., born April 24, 1846, died in 1864. 
He was intellectual, amiable and kind in disposition, and 
beloved by his family, Mila L, Wallace, born Feb, 26, 
1850, and died in 1869 ; she had sterling ([ualities of mind 
and heart, beloved by those that knew her well, and to her 
father and mother a rare gift that fled too soon, Danford 
L. Wallace, born iMay 25, 1851, and died Sept, 27, 1852, 

Sherman L. Wallace, born July 23, 1853, married June 
2, 1872, and died Sept, 27, 1877. He was the only child 
that survived his father, whose place he took on the farm, 
the business part of wliicli he conducted with gre;»t ability for 
one so young. He was honest and truthful, well ([uidified 
to take an active ])art in the concerns of human life, a kind 
son, a good and faithful husband, for whose early death the 
widow and mother mourn. 

The wife of Sherman L. Wallace, Ella M. Joiner, was 
born Dec. 17, 1855, is a lady of culture and refinement, 
well known in the community in which she lives for her 
amiable disposition and correct deportment. 

The widow of R. Wallace survives husband and children, 
and enjoys good health ; at the age of sixty-eight is keenly 
alive to the prosperity of her country, the community in 
which .she lives, and her neighbors in particular; although 
surrounded with many blessings, she will ever mourn tor 
the loved ones gone before her. 



ROSWELL DAVIS. 



Among the early permanent settlers Roswell Davis might 
be numbered, having moved about the year ISll from 
Lunenburg, Vt., with his family of wife and two children, and 
purchased a farm in Bishop street, in said town, which is 
now owned and occupied by his youngest son, W. P, Davis, 
He purchased by contract, and. by j]ersevorance and industry 
paid for his farm. About tlie year 1840 he became the 
owner of the I'utnam farm, upon which the first town- 
meeting Wius held in town. During the War of 1812 he 
was traiuently called out to defend our lines, and was at 
the battles of Sacket's Harbor and Sandy Creek, and as- 
sisted in carrying the yrcat cable I'rom Sandy Creek to 
Sacket's Harbor, 




Wsr^' ''" 



■ t'^ 






Wff5 SUSAN J WALIACC. 



RUS5CLL WALLACE. 




RiSIDEHC 



RUSSELL WALLACE, HtMDEFsoH.JtffCRSoM Co .H Y. 







Ella M. Wallace. 




Shci^man Wallace:. 



Helen E, Wallace. 





Ma/^ian E. Wallace:. 




Mila L. ifKAiLAcr. 



l^ussELL Wallace. 




fffSIOENCE 01 ABLl LilLnfOHU, nOULHTS LORNEffS. JEFFERSON LD, S T. 



HISTORY OF JKFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



387 





UERBKKT BABBITT. 



MRS. HERBERT BABBITT. 



HON. GEORGE BABBITT. 



There is a peculiar felicity in recording the life and char- 
acter of a man wlio has made the life contest succes.sfully, 
and by his own exertions has surmounted the obstacles that 
lie ill the path of all, and throuirh these varied struggles has 
maintained an unblemished reputation. Among this class 
of men stands the subject of this sketch. 

George Babbitt was born at Rodman, Jefferson Co., 
N. Y., Sept. 20, 1818. His father, Deodatus Babbitt, was 
born in Hadley, Mass., in 1790, and came at an early day 
to this county, where he died in 1828. His mother, Phoebe 
(Strong) Babbitt, was the daughter of Hon. Nathan Strong, 
one of tiie first .settloi-s of the town of Rodman, having 
moved from Old Durham, in the State of Connecticut. 
When in his tenth year young Babbitt's father died, and 
when fourteen years of age he was api)renticed to Jason 
Fairbanks, Esq., of Watertown, to learn the saddlery and 
harn&ss trade, with whom he remained three and one-half 
years, and then removed to Utica, where he followed his trade 
for the ensuing four years. He then spent four nidMlhs in 
Clinton, Oneida Co., and afterwards removed to Smithville, 
this county, where he li.is since resided, with the eseeption 
of two yeai's on the plains and in Calit'ornia, two years in 
Sacket's Harbor its deputy collector of customs, and three 
years in Watert<i\vn while discharging the duties of the office 
of sherifl". In 18(ji> he engaged in the mercantile business in 
Smithville, in which he continued for seven years, disposing 
of his business in 18G9 and moving i^n to his farm, near the 
above-named village, where he now resides. He was post- 
master of Smithville twelve j'cars; was elected a member of 
the legislature of the State of New York in 1857 ; was ap- 
pointed deputy collector of customs at Sacket's Harbor in 
1861, and served two years, resigning that position in 1803 
to engage in the mercantile business; was elected sheriff of 
his native county in 1872, and served one term. In all of 
these important positions Mr. Babbitt gave general satis- 



faction to his constituents and to the people at large. 
Faithful to every trust in him reposed, diligent in the dis- 
charge of his official duties, honest in his opinions, and fair 
and impartial in the administration of the affairs pertaining 
to his several offices, he necessarily won golden opinions as 
an honest legislator and an upright man. 

As an evidence of his enterprise, we might mention that 
in the spring of 1854 he, in company with his brother-in- 
law and Dr. Hiram Salisbury, of Elmira, N. Y., went to 
Missouri and purchased a drove of sheep, which they drove 
acro.ss the plains to California, where they disposed of them 
at a fair profit. Ho returned to his home in this county in 
the fall of 1855. On the 9th of Aug., 1845, he was united 
in marriage with Miss Harriet Augusta, daughter of Hon. 
Elihu M. McNeil. She was born in tienderson, July 14, 
1824. Her father was one of the early settlere of Hender- 
son, having moved into the town with his father at ilic age 
of nine years, coming fnnn Hatfield, Mass. He was a 
member of the legislature of the State of New York in 
1842 and 1840; was also a member of the convention that 
revised the constitution of this State in the summer and fall 
of 1846. 

Mr. Babbitt's general character is so well known, and, 
we may add, so highly appreciated by the people of Jeffer- 
son Count}', that anything of a laudatory nature we could 
adduce would be superfluous. Every one will agree with us 
we feel assured, when we summarize hiiu as an intelligent 
citizen and an honest man. 

HtlRBERT Dk.mont B.\bbitt, only SOU of Gcorge and 
Harriet A. Babbitt, was born at Smithville, Jefferson Co., N. 
Y., Nov. 3, 1847. He received a common-school and aca- 
demic education, attending Union Aeadenij' and Hunger- 
ford Collegiate Institute. He spent .several years as clerk in 
his father's store, and there learned those liabits of industry 
and gained the business knowlcdjie that have cbaracterizcl 



388 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



his subscf|uent career. While cng-aged with his father in 
the peacoCul occupation of mercantile husincNS, the safety of 
the Union was inijierillud, and he left his fatlior's house and 
went to its defense, enlisting as a private soldier, joining the 
One Hundred and Eighty-sixth Regiment, commanded hy 
Colonel Rradlcy Winslow, and served until the close of the 
war. He took part in the assault on Petersburg, on the 
2d of April, 18G5, and participated in several engagements 
of lesser importance. On his return he resumed his clerk- 
ship with his father. On the organization of the national 
guards of the State of New York, he was appointed aid-de- 
camp, with the rank of lieutenant, on the staff of Brigadier- 
General Bradley Winslow, his old colonel in the army, and 
is still on General W.'s staff as inspector of rifle practice, 
with the rank of major. In 1873 ho was appointed deputy 
sheriff by his father, and at the expiration of his father's 
term of office he received the appointment to the same office 
from the present sheriff, A. W. Peck, Esq. He has made 
an CTninently faithful and efficient officer. 

On the 30th of June, 1874, he was married to Miss 
Lsabella Merriam, daughter of Samuel G. Merriam, Esq., of 
New Haven, Oswego Co. She was born Blay 23, 1851. 
This union has been blessed with one child. Portraits of 
l^Ir. and Mrs. George Babbitt, and of Mr. and Mrs. H. D. 
Babbitt, together with an illustration of the residence of tlie 
former, adorn our pages elsewhere in this work. 



TRUMAN ORSON WHITNEY, 

son of Erastus and Hannah Whitney, was born in Hender- 
son, ]\Iarch 11, 1813. His father married, for his first 
wife, Hannah Jerome, by whom he had six children, 
namely, John, Truman Orson, Randal, Dorval, Safrona, 
and Maria. His second wife, Betsy Wood, had four chil- 
dren, — Ilannali, Elfrieda, Eveline, and Fanny. His father 
died in October, 1855, and his step-mother in 1874. 

Martha ^Vood, daugliter of James and Barbara Wood, 
w;ls born in Ellisburg, August C, 1815. Her father mar- 
ried Barbara Ireland, by whom he had eleven children, as 
follows: Epinetus, Timothy, Steven, Horace, Mary, Dolly, 
Hepsey, Martha, Betsy, Julia, and P^mma. Her mother 
died in 185G, and her father in 18G4. 

T. O. AVhitney was married to Martha Wood, in Ellis- 
burg, March 12, 1840, and commenced housekeeping in 
Henderson April 10 of the same year, where they lived 
until his death, and where his widow still resides. Mr. 
Whitney held the office of assistant revenue assessor from 
1863 to 1867, and was sujicrvisor of the town in 1SG3. 
In the spring of 1872 he was wounded in the ankle by the 
accidental discharge of a gun, and his foot was amputated 
by Dr. Grafton, of Watertown. In a short time, by the 
aid of an artificial foot, his loss was hardly noticed. He 
died March 3, 1876, after a brief sickness of two weeks, 
aged sixty-three years. He was one of the pioneers of the 
county, having immigrated to the town nearly fif'tv years 
ago. He was a man of considerable ability, and faithfully 
fulfilled the various offices of trust to which he was elected. 
He was one of the heaviest farmers of the town, having in 
his possession at the time of his death about 450 acres of 



land, all in one farm. In his death the people felt that 
they had lost one of their best citizens. 

Speaking of liis burial, a correspondent to the press says, 
" The funeral of T. 0. Whitney was held at his late resi- 
dence on Sunday last ; sermon by Rev. L. Rice, Univer- 
salist minister. A larger concourse of people I have seldom 
seen. People from all parts of the town and from several 
other towns were present. The house, though capacious, 
could not contain the throng." 

Mr. Whitney was a Republican in polities ; and, although 
a member of no denomination, he was a regular attendant of 
the Universalist church. He was perfectly temperate in 
his habits, using neither liquor nor tobacco in any fbrm 
whatever. 

Truman 0. and Martha Whitney had four children, 
namely, Elvira, born August 6, 1841 ; was married to Al- 
bert Benedict, of Waterville, Oneida county, N. Y., June 
IG, 1869; has two children, — Clarence, horn Aug. 21, 
1872 ; Ada, born Dec. 8, 1874. Myron J., born January 
27, 1843 ; he enlisted in Co. K, N. Y. Vol. Inf , was in 
the battles of South IMountain, Antietam, and both battles 
of Fredericksburg; he was honorably discharged in 1863; 
he married Florence White January 28, 1872; they have 
two children, — Edward 0., born December 27, 1872, and 
Myron Lee, born May 23, 1876. Byron, born October 23, 
1849; died August 25, 1857. Jay, born January 12, 
1856. 

Portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Whitney, together with an 
illustration of the old homestead, can be seen elsewhere in 
this work. 



GEORGE W. COLLINS 

was the only .son (of a family of seven children) of John 
Collins, one of the earliest pioneers of the town of Water- 
town, where the .■subject of this sketch was born July 11, 
1S22. He received a limited education at the district 
schools of his native town. At the age of twenty-one he 
commenced life for himself, having previously lived with 
and a.ssisted his father on the homestead farm, which he after- 
wards worked himself. On tlie 15th of January', 1843, 
he was united in marriage with Fanny Stewart, daughter 
of William Stewart, Esq., an old and prominent citizen of 
Fulton county, tliis State. Five children were given 
them, of whom all survive but one which died in infancy. 
Their names are: Helen J., Franklin M., George H., and 
De Witt C. 

In 1SG5, Mr. Collins removed to the town of Henderson, 
and first rented the farm known as the A. C. Clark place, 
which he subsequently purchased. It contains 240 acres, 
and is kept in an admirable state of cultivation. 

On May 22, 1877, he sustained tlic loss of his wife, who 
had been to him a true and faithful companion, sharing his 
early struggles, and as.si.sting, by her thrift and fine domestic 
<|ualities, in his success. This was a sore bereavement to 
him, and one which will evidently leave its impress on his 
life for a long lime to cnme. 

In per.>ional character, Mr. C. is a gentleman of un- 
blemished reputation, and one who enjoys the respect and 





Gr G-.WHITNEY 



f^lRS.Q.GMhlTHEY 




Residence of &.G-. WHITNEY, HmoERSONjemRsoN Co N. Y. 




HesiocNCi or GiORGL BUHNLL, fitHaiHSOH.JtniHUQn CoJ.Y. ■ 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



389 



esteem of his fellow-townsmen. In politics he is a Demo- 
cnit of the good old Jefforsoiiian school. In religious be- 
lief ho is liberal, never liaving afBliatcJ with any particular 
deuoujination. (See illustration on another page.) 



A. D. STANLEY 



was born in the town of Rutland, this county (whither his 
father removed in ISIO), July 5, 1818. In the year 1823 
he removed with his father to the farm now occupied by 
0. M. Stanley, adjoining the one on which he now resides, 
and an illustration of which can be seen elsewhere in this 
work. Mr. Stanley married Mi.ss Jlary, daughter of Jonas 
Benjamin, PIsij., an early and highly respected settler of the 
town of Hounsfield. Three children have been born to 
them, namely, De Forrest, Charles, and Homer; all, ex- 
cept De Forrest, residing at home; and he is married, and 
lives in the next house to his father's. The father of Mr. 
Stanley was a minute-man in a cavalry regiment in the 
War of 1S12, and was stationed at Sacket's Harbor during 
the trouble there. In politics the old gentleman was a 
Wiiig; and A. I), is a Rejiublican. In religion he is 
liberal, but a regular attendant of the Uuiversalist church. 
He owns 400 acres of land in one body ; is a straightfor- 
ward and honest bu.sine.ss man, and a good citizen. (See 
purtrait.s of himself and wife, with illustration.) 



LEONARD SEATON. 

Among the prominent pioneers of the towns of Ellis- 
burg and Henderson none were better known or more 
liighly respected than was the subject of this sketch. For 
nearly sixty years he was closely identified with the busi- 
ness and material development of those towns, and by his 
integrity and general fair dealing won a reputation that will 
last through succeeding generations. Leonard Seaton was 
born in Granville, Washington Co., N. Y., Aug. 1, 1794. 
At the age of thirteen he was apprenticed to Rufus Barnes, 
of Rome, N. Y., to learn the trades of tanning, currying, 
and boot- and shoe-making, at which he served seven years. 
The only educational advantages he received were those 
afforded at the district school, which he attended during 
the winter months. In March, 1814, he volunteered a.s a 
private soldier in the war then going on with Great 
Britain, serving under General Dearborn. He marched to 
Sacket's Harbor, where he served until the cessation of 
hostilities, when he received an honorable discharge. In 
1817 he came into Jeffer.son County, and purchased lands 
in the towns of Elli.sburg and Henderson, upon which he 
continued to work, during the summer months, until 1820, 
when he effected a permanent settlement in the former 
town. He thus became a genuine pioneer, and a.ssisted in 
the material development of those towns. In 1822 he 
united in marriage with Miss Polly Pennell, a native of 
Oneida 'county, by whom he had five children, namely, 
Andrew P., Boynton C, Leonard, Jr., Francis P., and 
Samuel G., of whom all except the daughter are living; 
she became the wife of S. M. Clark, of Iowa, and died in 
1874. Ill July, 1834, Mre. Seaton deceased, and shortly 



thereafter Mr. Seaton married Sarah S. Chapman, which 
union resulted in eight children, namely, Mary M., Ar- 
minda D., Cornelia, Chauncey E., Ambrose B., George L., 
Loui.sa, and Herbert J., of whom all but Cornelia survive. 
She died j'oung. 

In 1837 Mr. Seaton removed into the town of Hender- 
son, where he continued to reside until his death, which 
occurred August 15, 1872, when seventy-eight years and 
fifteen days old. By his death the coinniunity lost an 
hdiioiable and upright citizen, his familj' a kind and loving 
husband and father. He was a man whose character re- 
mained unblemished to the last, and perhaps the death of 
no citizen of the town was more deeply lamented. He 
took a deep and lasting interest in everything pertaining to 
the welfare of Ids town, and, although he never sought 
office, he was made asses.sor and comnii.ssioner of Ellisburg 
for twenty years. In politics he was a Democrat of the 
Jeffcrsonian school. By industry and close attention to 
business he accumulated a fair competence, and thus left 
his widow, who still survives him, and is now hale and 
hearty, though in her sixty-seventh year, comfortably situ- 
ated in this world's goods. 

LEON.\iti) SE.iTON, Jr., third son of the above, was 
born July IS, 1827, and was brought up to and learned 
the same business as his father had learned before him. 
Young Leonard received his education at the district 
school, with one or two terms at Belleville Academy. In 
1862 he closed out his business at a sacrifice and enlisted 
in the army, and was promoted t<j first lieutenant in the 
Tenth New York Heavy Artillery. In ISG.^ he was mus- 
tered out, and came home with liLs health considerably im- 
paired. He tlms sustained the patriotism which his father 
evinced almost half a century before. Mr. Seaton enjoys 
an extensive popularity, as Ls shown from the fact that he 
served four years in the board of supervisors, having been 
elected from a Republican town, he being a Democrat, and 
he came within 186 votes of securing an election to the 
office of sheriff in 1875. For a number of years he carried 
on the business of tanning, currying, and boot and shoe 
business, and afterwards went into that of ship-btiilding. 
He built three of the largest lake-boats that go through the 
canal, the aggregate tonnage of which was 1700 tons. 
Their names were the " L. Seaton," " James Wade," and 
" Jennie White." He was also for some years in the mer- 
cantile business, together with attending to his farms, which 
foot up a total of 550 acres. In 1850 he married Harriet 
A. Bates, by whom he had one daughter, Florence C, 
born March 11, 1857. His wife died in 1859; and in 
1866 he married Jlre. Stephen W. Chapman, who sur- 
vives. (See illustration and portraits elsewhere in this 
work.) 

ABEL BICKFORD, 

son of Levi and Esther Bickford, was born at Lowville, 
Lewis Co., N. Y., Sept. 30, 1811. His father, a native of 
New Hamp.^hire, was born in 1774, and emigrated to Low- 
ville, Lewis Co., in 1801. His mother was a native of 
Rhode Island, and was an early pioneer of Lewis county. 
They were married about 1803, and became the parents of 



390 



inSTOEY OF JP:FFKRS0N county, new YORK. 



ei-^Iit children, all of whom grew to maturity. Levi was a 
farmer by octupation, and reared his family to the same 
pursuit. In politics, he was a Wliijr. He died Dec. 1, 
1830. Mrs. L. Bickford lived to be seventy-eight years of 
age. 

The subject of our sketch w^as the fourth child, and was 
reared to industry and economy. At the age of sixteen 
lie commenced working out by the month, which he fol- 
lowed some ten years. He was married to Miss Betsey 
Lewis, of Harrisburg, Lewis Co., N. Y., June 6, 1838. 
She was born March 20, 1817. Mr. Bickford commenced 
life a poor boy on a farm, and to-day he is one of the sub- 
stantial and wealthy men of Henderson. In May, 1871, 
he settled in Henderson, where he is living to-day. In 
politics, Mr. Bickford is a llepublican, and in his native 
county held various positions of trust and honor. His wife 
was a worthy member of the Baptist church, a faithful 
wife, and an affectionate mother. She died Sept. 10, 1875. 



EEUBEN WOOD LEFFINGWELL 

was born near Woodville, in tlie town of EUisburg, Jefferson 
Co., N. Y., Dec. 7, 1805. Ilis father, Hezckiah Leffing- 
well, Jr., was born in Connecticut, March C, 1777, and 
was one of the early settlers of EUisburg, coming there 
about 1800, from Middleton, Vt., with his wife, Miriam 
Wood, to whom he was married Nov. 18, 1800. He was 
a soldier in the War of 1812, a pioneer in the settlement of 
Jefferson Cour.cy, a member of the ^Methodist Episcopal 
church, and, later in life, a believer in the doctrines of 
Swedenborg. He died in 18G6, surviving his wife about 
thirty years, and leaving descendants. His father, Heze- 
kiah, Sr., was a native of Connecticut, and a soldier in the 
Revolutionary War. He married Lydia Wetherell, July 
26, 1761, and died leaving numerous descendants. 

Sarah Leffingwkll, formerly Carpenter, was born at 
Guilford, Vt., May 29, 1808. Her father, Cyrus Carpen- 
ter, was a resident of V^ermont for many years. His father, 
Benjamin Carpenter, was born in Relioboth, Mass., in the 
year 1720; was a magistrate in 1704; removed to Vermont 
in 1770; was a field officer in the Revolution; a founder 
of the first constitution and government of the State of 
Vermont; a member of the Executive Council; and liou- 
tenant-goveriior of the State in 1778. He was of English 
descent. 

The subject proi)er of this sketch, R. W. LKKKiNinvEi.L, 
was married to Sarah Carpenter, at Guilford, Vt., June 5, 
1831. He brought his wife to EUisburg, and subscf|ucntly 
on to the farm where they now reside. Mr. Loffingwell is a 
good practical farmer, liaving devoted his time and energies 
exclusively to agricultural and dairying pursuits. About 
1800 he was elected president of the Illlisburg, Adams, 
and Henderson Agricultural Society. He received the first 
premium on dairy products from the Jefferson County 
Agricultural Society, about 1800. In fine, he has been 
eminently successful in his operations, his dealings always 
being characterized by honest and upright motives. He is 
universally resjiccted and esteemed its a good citizen and a 
useful uiember of society. 



A. M. Leffincwell, son of the above, was born in the 
town of Henderson, Sept. 20, 1842. He received his 
education at the district school and Union Academy, from 
which he was honorably graduated in 1800. The following 
year he entered the Michigan University, at Ann Arbor, 
where he spent two years in the literary, and the same 
length of time in the law, dcjiartments, graduating frnni the 
latter in 1871. Was admitted to practice at the Michigan 
bar, and subsequently to the bars of New York, at Brook- 
lyn. In 1874 he embarked in the milling business at Hen- 
derson, which he still carries on in connection with his 
profession. In 1870 he married Miss Ilattie Cook, which 
union has been blessed with two children, namely : Kittie 
M., born July 26, 1871 ; and Sarah, born Oct. 2, 1875. 
In 1877 he received the Democratic nomination for special 
surrogate. 



GEORGE BUNNEL. 

The subject of this sketch was the son of Moses A. 
Bunnel and Lola Hitchcock. The former was born in Wal- 
lingford. Conn., Nov. 18, 1774, and died Feb. 14, 1852; 
the latter was born in New Haven, Conn., Feb. 11, 1776, 
and dccoa.sod Oct. 12, 1807. They were married Feb. 5, 
1804, and about the year 18((9 they removed from Blan- 
ford. Mass, to the town of Russell, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., 
being engaged in keeping a hotel during their residence 
there, which extended through some ten or eleven years; 
then removed, with his family, to Canandaigua, Ontario 
Co., N. Y. He now as.sumed the occupation of a farmer. 
His familj at this time numbered eight children, — three 
sons and five daughters, — viz., Moses, Reuben, Alfred, Jane, 
Nanc\', Cornelia, Frances, and Sarah. While located here, 
another son, George, the youngest of the family, and the 
subject of this sketch, was born. May 10, 1823. 

After a residence of about ten years at Canandaigua, the 
family removed to the town of Henderson, Jefferson Co., 
N. Y., and took up a farm, on which the parents lived and 
died, the father at the age of seventy-eight, and the mother 
at the venerable age of ninety-two, at the dates given above. 

George Bunnel was married, Oct. 14, 1857, to Miss 
Lorentin Gilman. She was born Feb. 12, 1835. 



JOEL DODGE. 



The subject of this sketch was b(jrn in Herkimer Co., 
N. Y., Feb. 12, 1817. His father was a native of New 
York, his mother of Connecticut, and were among the 
early pioneers to Herkimer county. Mr. Dodge is one in 
a family often children, all of whom lived to be of age, five 
of whom are still living. He was reared on a farm, and 
has followed it ever since. He worked by the month for 
some time after becoming of age. On the 3d of 3Iarch, 

1842, he married Jliss Sarah Adams, of Ot.sego Co., N. Y. 
She was born Sept. 8, 1822. As a result of this happy 
union finir children were born to them, namely, Sarah 
Jane, died at the age of six ; Jane M., died at the age of 
fourteen; Chas. H. and Alice M. On the Ist of May, 

1843, Mr. Dodge came to Henderson, and settled on the 
farm now owned by Jas. Dodge. In the spring of 1870 





Austin Bobbins. 



Mrs. Austin Robbins. 



D. M. HALL, 

son of Daniel and Anna Hall, was born in Houns- 
field, July 1 1 , 1824. Hij, parents were of New Eng- 
land origin, and were among the early pioneers of 
this county. He was reared a farmer, and followed 
it through iifo with siiccesi?. October 10, 1851, he 
married Miss E. J. Robbins, daughter of Austin aud 
Eunice Kobbins, natives of Massachusetts. Mrs. 
Hall was born iu Adams, June 1, 1825. As a result 
of this happy union, three children were born, 
namely, Arthur M., Willis D., and Eliza E. Mr. 
Hall commenced farming for himself in Hounsfield, 
and, after two years, removed to the town of Adams, 
where he lived for fifteen years, and then settled on 
the farm where his family now reside. He was a 
man of more than ordinary ability, and was esteemed 
most by those who knew him best. He was a Repub- 
lican in politics, and held various offices of trust 



and honor in his town and county, such as loan com- 
missioner, assessor, etc. He died September 25, 
1872. 



AUSTIN ROBBINS. 

The subject of this sketch was bom at Marl- 
borough, Massat;husetts, September 23, 1786. While 
young, he learned the wagon-maker's trade, and this, 
together with farming, was his business through life. 
He wa.« among the early pioneers of Jefferson County, 
and settled in Hounsfield. He married Miss Eunice 
Morton, of Cortland county, Xew York. She was 
born November 3, 1788. Nine children were born 
to them, one of whom is Mrs. E. J. Hall, donor of 
this sketch, etc. Mr. Robbins was a member of the 
Baptist church. In politics, was first a Democrat, 
and then Republican. He died October 27, 1867, 
and his wife died July 6, 1863. 




J.m 



^,. , Captain H.R.WAffNEi^ 



'% 




s^-3 



:»^Cij^ v:v* 




RESIDENCE, of H.R.WARNEff 




ON, 'lL:.J-~6^M^^Urtli^U^ .: 



A. y. 








Joel Dodge. 



/Wffs.S/iFPAH Dodge. 




Residence or JOEL DODGE, Henderson. JerreffsON Co W. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY. NEW YORK. 



391 



he settled on the farm he now owns. It contains 120 
acres. 

In the sprin;4 of 1875, Mrs. Dodge w:is taken sick, and 
for two years was a great sufferer. She died Feb. 25, 
1877. Mr. Dodge and wife have been worthy members of 
the Methodist Episcopal church for the p;ust thirtj'-five 
years. Mrs. Dodge w;ls a true wife and an affectionate 
mother, and a faithful worker in her Master's vineyard. 



SIMEON MATHER. 

Among the substantial farmers and business men of 
Henderson none bears a better record for honesty and 
economy than the .subject of this sketch. He is tiie son 
of Wm. and Polly Mather and grandson of Timothy 
Mather. He was born in Adams, Jefferson Co., N. Y., 
June 10, 1822. His father was a native of Vermont, and 
emigrated to this county in 181G, settling in the town of 
Adams. He was a .soldier in the War of 1812. He was 
an industrious fanner and good citizen ; he reared his family 
to industry and economy, and his four living sons are fol- 
lowing in his footsteps. He lived respected and died re- 
gretted, leaving a- good fortune to his family, which wa-s 
divided among them satisfactorily and without any COST. 
He died June G, 1859, and his wife died Aug. 25, 18G1. 
A beautiful marble monument marks their resting-place at 
Roberts' Corners, — a tribute of respect and affection by the 
children to the memoiy of their parents. 

Simeon, who is the generous donor of this brief sketch, 
and a representation of whose beautiful home may be seen 
eKscwliere in this work, was reared to industry ou the farm, 
which occupation he has made his life study, and that with 
success. He has been president of the Agricultural Soeiety 
of his town and county. He was married to Miss IMary 
E. Green, daughter of Col. Henry and Hannah Ureen, of 
Ellisburg, June 3, 1847. She was born Nov. 18, 1827. 
As a result of this union three children were born to them, 
namely : Adelbert G., born May 25, 1848 ; Foster 1)., born 
July 25, 1854; and Lida E., born April 15, 1860. In 
politics Mr. Mather has always affiliated with the Demo- 
cratic party. 



CAPTAIN H. R. WARNER. 

This gentleman commenced life by going to live with and 
work for one Franklin, who resided on Grenadier Island, 
and whose principal business consisted in smuggling, and 
other nefarious methods of making money. Young Warner 
received from his master a sumuier suit of clothing and a 
tolerably good winter outfit, and was allowed to attend the 
district school part of the winter months. When twelve 
years of age he worked for a man by the name of Johnson, 
a farmer, for four dollars per month, out of which he as- 
sisted his mother to provide for the younger children. In 
April, 1820, he shipped on board the schooner "Richard 
M.," of Henderson, fir six dollars per month. The ne.xt 
spring he shipped with Captain Hawkins as cook. He had 
to stand watch two hours at night, for which he received 
an extra glass of grog. Next year he shipped before the 



mast, with the same captain, and got twelve dollars a month. 
Sub.se<(uently he was promoted to master of the '• Richard 
M.," and on the first voyage rescued the cook from a watery 
grave. 

In February, 1828, he married a daughter of Allen 
Kilby, a well-to-do farmer, also carrying on the tanning and 
currying business. In the spring of 1828 he hired out to 
sail the " Rob Roy." In November of the same year his 
wife presented him with a fine boy, which prasented a new 
inducement to increased exertion. In the spring of 1831 
he shipped iis second mate on board the ste;tmer " Ontario." 
After the boat was laid up for the winter, he and his 
brother-in-law purchased a small schooner, call(;d " Lady I. 
Robbins," and ran her as a packet from Henderson and 
Saeket's Harbor to Kingston. He afterwards sold out to 
good advantage. In May, 1837, he, in company with nine 
others, purchased the .schooner " L. I. Robbins," and started 
for Thunder Bay Island, having heard wonderful stories 
about fortunes being made by fishing in Lake Huron. 
They caught between 300 and 400 barrels of fish, which 
they shipped to commission merchants, two of whom failed, 
owing the little company 81200 ; so that when they figured 
up the proceeds of their sciuson's labors, they had cleared 
only SI 00. Mr. Warner spent a great manj' years on the 
lakes and river, and was quite an experienced navigator. 
He furnished the notes for the above sketch, notwithstand- 
ing he is now in his seventj'-first j'ear. He is endowed with 
a remarkable memory, and can " spin a j'arn," as the sailors 
say, in first-cla.ss style. He is now retired from active life, 
and enjoys the fruits of his industrious and reasonably 
successful life. (See illustratiou elsewhere in this work.) 



HARVEY SMITH, 



son of Asa and Elizabeth Smith, was born at Galway, 
Saratoga Co., N. Y., May 24, 1797. His father was a 
native of New England and his mother of New Jersey. 
Mr. Smith is the oldest of a family of ten children, and 
was reared t<j industry on a farm. He came to Henderson 
in company with his parents in February, 1805. His father 
and mother were therefore among the early pioneers of 
Jefferson County, and lived to be si.xty-one and seventy 
years of age respectively. He was married to Miss Sarah 
Bell, of Albany Co., N. Y., Feb. 2, 1824. She was born 
June 14, 1803. They had nine children who <;rew to 
maturity. Mr. Smith has followed farming as his occupa- 
tion, and has made it a success. For more than forty years 
he has been an acceptable member of the M. E. church, and 
has been a liberal supporter of the same. In polities he is 
a Rcpubliaui. Mrs. Smith was a faithful wife and an 
affectionate mother, and after enduring a vast amount of 
pain she passed away June 13, 18GS. Mr. Smith married 
for his second wife the sister of his first wife, a 3Irs. Nancy 
Clark, of Wisconsin ; they were married Oct. 5, 1871. 
She is the mother of twelve children by her first husband, 
eight of whom are dead. A view of Mr. Smith's "oW 
home" and portraits of himself and wives are elsewhere in 
this work. 



HOUI^SriELD. 



The town of Honnsficld comprises town nnmber one of 
the Black River tract, and was formed from a part of 
Watertown, February 17, 1806. It is a part of the origi- 
nal Boylston Tract, and in common with ten other towns in 
Jefferson and Lewis counties, comprising an area of nearly 
300,000 acres, became the property, July 15, 1795, of 
Nicholas Low, William Henderson, Richard Harrison, and 
Josiah Ogden Hoffman. These eleven towns form what 
has since been known as the Black River Tract.* 

On the division of the tract this town fell to the share of 
Hoffman and Harrison, " and the north part was conveyed 
June 13, 1707, for §58,333.33, to Champion and Storrs, 
amounting to 11, 134 J acres, with the town of Champion 
(25,708 acres). On the 14th of November, 1708, Cham- 
pion and Storrs sold a portion of the above to Loomis and 
Tillinghast, receiving two notes of S6000 each, which, with 
a mortgage upon the premises, not being paid, the tract was 
sold by a decree of Chancery, at the Tontine Coffee-House 
in New York, June 20, 1801, and bid off by Augustus 
Sacket. of that city, who received a conveyance from 
Champion and the assignees of Loomis and Tillinghast. 
While the sale was pending, Mr. Sacket having heard of 
tlie location, and inclining to engage in its purchase, made 
a journey early in 1801 to the place, and was so struck 
with the great natural advantages for a port which the 
place presented that he ha.stened back, and having secured 
the purchase, returned with a few men to commence im- 
])rovcment8. In the second and third years he erected an 
ample and convenient dwelling, and the little colony received 
the accession of mechanics and others."'|' 

" This town derives its name from Ezra Hounsfield, a 
native of Sheffield, in England, who, about 1800, came to 
New York as agent for his brothers, John and Bartholomew, 
manufacturers and merchants of Sheffield. He engaged in 
the hardware trade, and, in company with Peter Kimbull, 
purchased in common the south half of township No. 1, or 
the present town of Hounsfield. This purcha.sc was made 
of Harrison and llnffinan, March Id, 1801, and subse- 
rjuently other and smaller purchases were made. Mr. 
Hounsfield was a bachelor, and died in New York, about 
1817. By his will, dated April 7, 1812, he a])iiointed 
David A. Ogden, Edward Lynde, John Day, and Thomas 
L. Ogden his executors, who advertised a sale at auction 
of the remaining interest of the estate in town at Sacket's 
Harbor, August 1, 1817. The executors bought in the 
property and afterwards conveyed it to Bartholomew, the 
father of George Hounsfield, the present heir of the family, 
living in Sheffield. 



• Sec GpniTftl History of the Cimnty. 

t Dr. HougU'» History of Jeflcrsoo CouDly, p. 173. 

392 



'• The town is said to have been named through the in- 
fluence of Mr. Augustus Sacket, who was an acquaintance 
of Mr. Hounsfield. 

" From an early period of the purchase the waters of 
Black River bay were regarded as an eligible place for a 
commercial point, and in a work published in Paris in 
1801]; the following description of it is given, under the 
name of Niahovre : 

" 'At the bottom of this gulf Black river empties, formiDg a har- 
bor sheltered from the winds and surges of the lake, which, during the 
prevalence of the southwest winds, roll like those of the ocean. The 
land on the right or south of this bay is extremely fertile, and is a 
grove more fresh than can elsewhere be seen. That on the left, i.e., 
the country that extends to the north as far asihe St. Lawrence, and 
east to the Oswegatcbie, is not less fertile, and the colouists begin to 
vie in settling it.' 

" This bay is elsewhere in the work described as compris- 
ing all the waters within Six-Town Point and Point Penin- 
sula, which on ancient maps was named La Famine, by 
the French, and Hungry Bay, by the English. On some 
maps this term is applied to what is now known as Hender- 
son bay, and in others to Chaumont bay. The origin of the 
name is unknown, unless, perhaps, it may have been derived 
from the misfortunes of De La Barre in 1684.''§ 

The town of Hounsfield was the outgrowth of proposi- 
tions previously made for the erection of a new town from 
portions of Watertown and Adams, the original design 
being to take three ranges of lots from the north side of 
town number seven and annex them to number one, and 
give the new town the name of Nitrport. November 10, 
1803, a special meeting was called in Adams, at which the 
matter was taken under consideration, and by a vote the 
division wa-s rejected,, although a petition was framed ask- 
ing for the erection of number eight into a separate town ; 
and it was accordingly set off at the next session of the 
legislature and organized under the name of Iluriixun, since 
changed to Rinlman. 

THE SURFACE 

of Hounsfield is .somewhat diversified, though in the main 
it is level. Nearly through the centre flow the waters of 
Mill creek, one branch of which rises in a long strip of low 
land, originally a swamp, filled with tamarack, black ash, 
some cedar, elm, and other varieties of timber peculiar to 
such a locality. It has been drained to a considerable ex- 
tent, and much of it cleared up. As » consequence, the 
creek becomes nearly dry during the summer season, and 

X Voyage dans la Haute Pensylvanie, ct dans I'Etat de New Vork, 
par un mctnbre ailopiif de la Nation Oneida, vol. iii. p. 408. 
J Jeff. Co. Hist. 





Anson Pouefi. 

Anson Potter (Hounsfield), an example of untiring 
industry, a pioneer of Hounsfield, and a present citizen of 
most honorable standing. Anson Potter has demonstrated 
qualities of high order, and to acquire superiority in a 
chosen calling has put forth unremitted exertions. He 
was the second child in the family of John and Lydia 
(HoUoway) Potter, and was born in North Brookfield, 
Massachusetts, March 29, 1803. His father was a farmer 
of limited means, and came with his family to Stowell's 
Corners, in the township of Hounsfield, in the year 1805 ; 
here he remained for several years, and maintained his 
family by working as a day-laborer. About 1808 he pur- 
chased fifty acres of land, which is a part of the farm now 
owned by his grandson, Newman H. Potter, for which he 
was to pay five dollars per acre ; here he struggled with 
poverty for a number of years, for the maintenance of his 
family and the removal of the incumbrance upon his 
property was a severe task ; but, being a man of indomitable 
will and perseverance, he overcame every obstacle, and to 
his first purchase added one hundred acres, which is at this 
time one of the finest farms in the township. As may be 
supposed, our subject's advantages wei'e limited in every 
particular, excepting the acquirement of a robust constitu- 
tion and a strong pair of arms with which to fight the 
battles incident to the settlement of a new country. As soon 
as able to swing an axe he commenced work upon the 
farm, attending the district school for a few weeks in the 
winter ; he, however, acquired a good common school educa- 
tion. When about nineteen years of age he commenced 
business for himself by taking jobs in clearing land, and 
being desirous of securing some one to share " his joys and 
sorrows," he made the acquaintance of Miss Abby M. 
Fall, whom he married September 26, 1826. Her father, 
Henry T. Fall, was an officer in the Revolutionary army, 
and served during the war ; soon after peace was declared, 
he settled in Litchfield county, where Mrs. Potter was 
bom, April 11, 1802. In 1811, meeting with some re- 
verses in business, he emigrated to the town of Rodman ; 
he, however, ended his days in the town of Brownville, at 
the advanced age of ninety-six years. 

Soon after Mr. Potter's marriage he purchased about one 
hundred acres of wild land on "big lot number 36," 



^RS. Anson Fotter 

town of Hounsfield, for whicli he was to pay five dollars 
per acre. His situation at this time was certainly not au 
enviable one, his resources being his good wife, an axe, a 
pair of fustian breeches, an ox team, good health, and a 
strong will, while his liabilities were an encumbrance of five 
hundred dollars upon his farm. And now commenced the 
struggle for the possession of his home ; the land was heavily 
timbered, and the construction of a farm was no small task ; 
but, by degrees, field after field was added, and industry 
and frugality were rewarded, and to the first purchase he 
added from time to time until he became the owner of over 
one thousand acres of fine land, seven hundred of which 
was in one body and lay in the town of Hounsfield. 
This magnificent property was acquired, not through specu- 
lation or heirship, Dut by honorable toil, and Mr. Potter's 
success as a farmer shows what can be done by industry, 
economy, and good executive ability. He now owns a beau- 
tiful farm of two hundred acres, which is a monument to 
his thrift and energy. This farm is probably one of the 
best in Jefferson County, a view of which can be seen on 
the next page. 

Mr. and Mrs. Potter have been blessed with five children, 
named in the order of their ages : Walter W., Newman H., 
Lorentine C, Lydia M., and Anson A. Walter W. is a 
farmer and a resident of Eaton county, Michigan ; Newman 
H. is one of Hounsfield's thrifty farmers, and did his 
country good service a.< sergeant of Company K, 35th 
New York Infantry ; Anson A. is living in Brownville ; 
Lydia M. is the wife of Harrison E. Spalsbury, of Leonidas, 
Michigan; Lorentine C. is the wife of Chauncey W. Bates, 
of Polk City, Iowa. No family of children were ever 
blessed with parents more kind or indulgent, and their 
parents are proud to know that they are fully appreciated. 
Although they have outlived their allotted time, they are 
still in the possession of good health and all their faculties, 
and are sustained by an implicit religious faith, — that of 
the Presbyterian church, of which he is a "ruling elder" 
and a liberal patron, and at whose altar they kneel, 
" humble recipients of its holy symbols." 

Mr. and Mrs. Potter are exemplars of " long lives well 
spent," and it is the wish of their paany friends that many 
years may yet be granted them. 




ffZSIOENCE or ANSON POUZFf ,Bm-^NviLLL, JcrrtRsou Co., N.Y 




ir— ii-afBiHifriiiiiiu 



RESiDCNCt or N.H. POTTER , HouNSFiCLD, JcrrcRSON Co.H.Y 



HISTORY OF JEFFEKSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



3'J3 



does not afford the power it did ere the timber in the region 
was cut away and the well-springs of its existence sapped. 
The entile face of the country, aside from the water sur- 
face, was covered at its early settlement witli a dense growth 
of lieavy timber, and the pioneer, in its improvement, used 
his axe as the primal lever in the uplifting of his chosen 
lionie to its present rank in a prosperous region. 

Besides Mill creek there are numerous other smaller 
streams, and the boundary between Ilounsfield and 15rown- 
ville is formed by Black river. The western and north- 
western portions have tlieir entire front on the waters of 
Black Bivcr bay and Lake Ontario, with a shore line of 
about twelve miles. 

Gull, Snake, Great ;ind Little Galloo, and Stony islands, 
lying west of the town in Lake Ontario, belong to it, al- 
though they are nearer to Ilendereon. On Galloo island 
is a liu'ht-house. The first one was built here in 1820, and 
rebuilt in 18G(j. Om what is known as Horse Lsland, 
which is merely a continuation of the point west of the 
village of Sacket's Harbor, with but very shallow water be- 
tween it and the mainland, a light-lmuse was built in 1831, 
and rebuilt in 1870. It is a strong brick structure. The 
island contains twenty-seven acres, and is something over 
a mile west of the harbor. 

Parts of the villages of Brownville and Dexter are in 
Hounsficld, and aside from these and Sacket's Harbor there 
are the post-offices of East Ilounsfield and Stowell's Cor- 
ners, and the clusters of dwellings around the early-settled 
localities of Field's Settlement, Camp's Mills, Jewettville, 
and the Bobbins Settlement. 

EARLY SETTLEMENT, 

The first white man who braved the dangers of the then 
wilderness, and swung his axe 

"Amid the sca-likc .solitude," 

was Amos Fox, who, about 1 800, located near the present 
" Muskalonge Burying-Ground," probably on great lot 36. 
He is given the credit of having made the first improve- 
ments in the town, and his name appears prominently upon 
its earlj' records. None of his family now live in the 
neighborhood, and he himself has long since closed his 
life's labors and laid down to bis long rest. 

The arrival of settlers was quite rapid upon the nature of 
the country becoming known, and as early as September, 
1 802, a traveler reported about thirty families living in town- 
ship number one. Before the breaking out of the War of 
1812-15 the town had become comparatively well tilled. As 
timber was abundant, and ashes commanded a greater price 
than anytlung they could raise at the time, the manufac- 
ture of pot- and pearl-ashes was extensively carried on, 
nearly every man receiving a share of profits from the 
traflic in those articles. 

Several years previous to the War of 1812, five brotliers, 
Solomon, Robert, Asher, Austin, and Jo.-hua Bobbins, 
came from Berkshire county, Massachusetts, and located at 
what is now known as the Bobbins Settlement, in the 
southwest part of the town. These men were the first 
settlers in that locality, and made the first improvements. 
There were originally seven brothers in the family, one of 



whom, Levi Bobbins, settled in Champion, where he is now 
living, having reached the age of more than ninety j-ears. 
Some of the younger representatives of the family are now 
living at Sacket's Harbor, where B. S. Bobbins, son of 
Solomon, lived for many years and carried on the mercantile 
business. Mrs. Lucy Blin, also a resident of the village, is 
a daughter of Joshua Bobbins, and to her acknowledg- 
ments arc due for information furnished. 

Elijah Field, from Woodstock, Windsor county, Ver- 
mont, located at what is known as Field's Settlement, in 
the spring of the year 1806, and was the first settler in the 
neighborhood. His son, Lebbeus, a minister of the de- 
nomination known as Christians, located here in the spring 
of 1807 with his wife and daughter. In 1816 he removed 
to great lot 28, where he is now living with his son Heze- 
kiah, at the advanced age of ninety-eight years. This 
latter fiirin was purchased by Lebbeus Field from second 
hands, although he made the first improvements upon it 
himself. 

Soon after the Fields had become residents of the locality 
they were followed by Palmer Wcstcott, who manufactured 
potash on quite an extensive scale, considering the facilities. 
The Ives family settled afterwards, and of all these families 
descendants are now living in the township. Hon. Willard 
Ives, now of Watertown, has become a prominent man in 
the county, and the life of Bev. Lebbeus Allen, though 
prolonged much beyond the average period of human exist- 
ence, has been one of welldoing. Asahel Joiner, living 
west from Mr. Field's place, is also an early pioneer of Jef- 
ferson County, and has been a sojourner on the earth for a 
period of o>te himdrcd and two years, his birth dating back 
to the beginning of the " War for Independence." 

William and Charles Green, and others of the family, 
came from Rhode Island, and, after stopping for some time 
in Rensselaer county, settled in the town of Pinckncy, Lewis 
county, in 1812. Charles Green at one time took a contract 
for clearing timber in the very heart of what is now the 
flourishing city of Utica. William Green served in the War 
of 1812, probably volunteering from Lewis county. About 
the year 1816 his crops in that county were almost entirely 
destroyed by frost, and, leaving everything behind, he soon 
after started with his family and walked to Adams, where 
he resided until 1836, when he again removed and made a 
final settlement in Ilounsfield, where his death occurred 
about 1866. Charles Green, who came to Adams at about 
the same time with William, is still living in that town, and 
affords another example of tenacious and hardy age, being 
now ninety-eight years old. 

Ebenezer Allen, a native of Windsor county, Vermont, 
settled with his family in March, 1808, on the place now 
owned by his grand.son, Lebbeus F. Allen, great lot 38. 
The family at that time consisted of himself, his wife, and 
ten children, of whom the oldest was twenty years and the 
youngest about eleven months of age. A log house was at 
once erected upon the place and other imjirovements made. 
Mr. Allen had served five years in the Bevolutionary 
army, and attained the rank of major, which title clung to 
him through life. His son Leonard, father of Lebbeus F. 
Allen, was a soldier during the War of 1812-15, and served 
in the operations around Sacket's Harbor, being engaged in 



394 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



the memorable battle which took place there on May 29, 
1813. He now draws a pension for his services. 

Ira Inglehart, a native of Canada, removed to St. Law- 
rence county previous to the War of 181 2, and settled near 
Ogdensburgh, afterwards coming to Philadelphia, Jeiferson 
County, and next to Watertown. He served in the Amer- 
ican army during the war, participating in the Sacket's 
Harbor fight, and in the fall or winter of 1815 left Water- 
town and made a final settlement in school district No. 6, 
now called ** Jericho," in Hounsfield, where he owned a fine 
farm. His son, C. W. Inglehart, has been a resident of the 
village of Sacket's Harbor for fifteen years, and over sixty 
years an inhabitant of the town, having come to it with his 
father in 1815. 

In the southern portion of the town settlements were 
also made quite early, more especially towards the eastern 
boundary, in the neighborhood of Stowell's Corners. Na- 
than Baker was among the early comers, locating some time 
previous to the year 1807, near the south line of the town. 

The following account of the loss of a child in the woods 
near the Price settlements was written by Mr. David Mer- 
ritt, an Englishman, who settled here in February, 1805 : 

*' The parents of the child had recently sctUcd in the woods, half 
a mile from any other dwelling. It was of a Lur(I's-I>:iy evening, 
about sunset; the father set out to visit his nearest neighbor, and, 
unobserved by him, his son, a child of four years, followed him. The 
father tarried nn hour or two and returned, not having seen the little 
wanderer. The mother anxiously inquired for her child, supposing 
her husband ha 1 taken him with him ; their anxiety was great, and 
immediate, though fruitless, seareh was made for the little fugitive. 
Several of the nearest neighbors were alarmed, and the night was 
spent to no purpose in searching for the child. On Monday a more 
extensive search was made by increased number.", but in vain j and 
the distressed parents were almost frantic with grief and fearful 
apI>rehenaion8 for the child's safety. 

" Another afflictive and sleepless night passed away, and the second 
morning beamed upon the disconsolate family, the child not found, 
and by this time (Tuesday) reports were in circulation of a panther's 
having been seen recently in the woods by some one. This circum- 
stance gave a pungency to the grief and feelings of every sympa- 
thetic heart unknown before, and the timid and credulous were ready 
to abandon any further efforts to recover the child, and give the dis- 
tressed parents up to despair. 

'* It was, however, concluded to alarm a still more extensive circle, 
and engage fresh volunteers in a work that must interest and arouse 
even the unfeeling on common occasions. A messenger was dis- 
patched to Sacket's Harbor, a distance of six miles; it was in itself 
an irre:*iHtible appeal to every feeling heart. To teel was to act. 

"Messrs. Luff. Ar<hby, Morritt, and others immediately mounted 
their horses, and repaired to the scene of painful anxiety; this was 
about eleven o'clock in the forenoon of Tuesday. When tbey arrived 
at the spot, the number present that had collected from all quarters 
was about five hundred men, and they were formeil in a line, extending 
to the right ancl U'l't of thi; house a mile each way, so that every foot 
of groudil they passed in their seareh should come umlcr their obser- 
vation. The order of the day was that no person should iire a gun, 
Bound a horn, halloo, or make any needless noise whatever ; but, with 
vigilance and a sense of duty to the distressed parents, use every 
effort to recover the child. If the child was ftnind alive, every jierson 
that had a gun was to fire, and every one that had a horn, to sound 
it ; on the contrary, if the child was found dead, one gun only should 
bo flred, as a signal to the remote lino to cease searching. 

'' In this way, in silence, they had marched about two miles, when 
a distant gun sounded; it. was an anxious moment. 'Is the ohild 
alive?' was a tliought tliat ran through every mind; a moment more 
and the hope was confirmed, for the air and forests rang with guns 
and horns of every description. The lines were immediately broken 
up, and each ran, anxious to sec the little lost sheep. The dear tittle 



fellow was presented to his now overjoyed parents, — a scone that 
overcame all present. 

" When the little boy was found, ho wa>i sitting on a small mossy 
hillock, in the middle of a swamp, surrounded by shallow water. 
When the man who first approached him extended bis arms and 
stooped to take him up, he shrunk from him and appeared frightened, 
and showed a disposition to get from him. But he was much ex- 
hausted, and seized eagerly an apple that was held to him. Had he 
not been rescued from his situation, he probably would have died at 
that spot."* 

EAST HOUNSFIELD POST-OFFICE. 

About the beginning of the War of 1812, Stephen Blan- 
chard, a man who is remembered by many now living, 
moved to this place from the State of Vermont. About 
1820 he built a hotel, which is still standing as the upright 
part of the present " Half-way House." The locality was 
long known as " Blanchard's Corners," and the hotel as the 
" old Blanchard Stand." The building has been repaired 
and refitted, and is now under the management of William 
Warren. Blanchard never had any children of his own, 
and has been dead about thirty years. " Steve Blanchard ' 
is, however, remembered as one of the old-fashimied stamp 
of country landlords, and the " Corners" have witnessed 
many a jollification at the old hotel. 

In the neigliborhood of 1850 a post-office was established, 
the first postmaster being Nelson Jones, who held the office 
until the beginning of Lincoln's administration, when Mar- 
vin B. Scovill was appointed. Upon the election of Gen- 
eral Grant to the presidency the present incumbent, 
William Warren, was appointed, and has held it continu- 
ously since. The mail was originally carried over the 
Watertown & Sacket's Harbor plank-road, and delivered 
here daily. At present it is transported by rail, and de- 
livered at the station three-fourths of a mile south of the 
office. 

Mr. Warren's father, Thomas W. Warren, emigrated 
from St. John's, New Brunswick, about 1824-5, and settled 
near Blanchard's ('urners, where he now resides. 

A CJiecse- Factory was built here in the spring of 1870, 
which has made a market for the surplus milk of the 
neighborhood, and been a source of profit for patrons and 
proprietors. The only article of manufacture is cheese, and 
from one thousand to fourteen hundred has been the annual 
average number. For the season of 1877 the number will 
reach about twelve hundred. They have brought an 
average price in market of about seven dollars. The build- 
ing is a frame structure, and stands a short distance west 
of the corners. 

ROADS. 

Among the early niads in the town were, one leading 
from Sacket's Harbor to Rome, Oneida county, laid out by 
commissioners appointed by the State, and money raised 
for its improvement afterwards, in 1813; a road four rods 
wide, authorized by an Act of the Legislature, April 8, 
1808, to run from Brownville or Hounsfield and "unite 
with the great road leading from Home to the Iliver St. 
Lawrence, at Putnam's Ferry ;" a military road, built in 
1819, from Sacket's Harbor east through Brownville, Pa- 
melia, F(Uir Corners, &c., to Plattsliurgli (^only jiortions of 
it ever completed) ; the Oneida and Jefferson turnpike, for 

• Hist, of Jotr. Co. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



395 



Ihe construction of whkh a compnny was incorporated 
April 8, 1S08 ; tlie Watcrtown aud Satkct's Ilarlmr plaiik- 
ruad, Ijuilt in 1847-S, and others. When the country 
was settled the only road.s were path.s through the woods, 
or blazes on the forest-trees to guide the traveler on his 
way, and it early lucanie in'ecs.>'ary to introduce lliese im- 
provements. The main thoroughfares were laid out liberally 
as to width, and much credit is deserved by the 6rst comers 
to the rcjiioii for their painstakinjr in the way of iu)prove- 
mcnt and advancenient in all things for the public good. 

UAII.KO.VUS. 

The Trenton & Sacket's Harbor Railroad Company was 
chartered May 15, 1837, and commis,sioners appointed to 
receive subscriptions for stock, but no work was ever done. 
May 23, 1850, tlie Sacket's Harbor & Ellislnug Railroad 
Company was organized, and after numerous drawbacks and 
troubles the road was finally completed to Pierrepont Manor, 
and opened for the regular pas.«age of trains June 1, 1853. 
At the Manor it connected with the Rouie, Watertown & 
Ogdensburgh railway, and at the Harbor with the steamers 
of the Ontario and St. Lawrence Steamboat Company. 
The road continued its existence until 1862, when it was 
finally abandoned. The Sacket's Harbor branch of the 
Utica & Black River railway was completed to the village, 
and trains began to pass over it in the spring of 1875. It 
has a fair business, principally freight, and three trains 
daily in each direction. 

CANAL. 

"About 1S23 a project was brought up for diverting a portion of 
the waters of the Blaclt river from the lower pond in Watertown into 
Pleasant anil Mill tfrccks, to su]>pl^- a water-jiower to Sacket's Har- 
bor. The subject was referred by the legislature to the attorney- 
general for his opinion, who decided that private property had often 
been taken for private purposes: but from the opposition of H. Cof- 
fecn, 0. Stone, and others, through whose lands the canal would pass, 
with active influence at Brownviile, the measure was then defeated. In 
1825 the effort was renewed, and an act passed April 20, 182j, which 
authorized Joseph Kiiuball, Amos Catlin, and Daniel Hall, Jr., to 
divert the surplus waters of the river into Pleasant and Stony creeks 
in Adams, Hounsfield, an<l Henderson, for hytlraulic purposes : dam- 
ages to be assessed by Egbert Ten Eyek, Clark .-Vllen, and Joseph 
Hawkins, and road and farm bridges were to be maintained by the 
Company. The act was coupled with a proviso that the waters 
should not be taken from any dam then existing tcithtmt the written 
consent of the ownerif. That provision efl"ectuully defeated the project, 
for it was ne.\t to impossible to coin{>ly with it. Being still determined 
to prosecute the matter, a meeting was called at Sacket's Harbor, 
February l.'t, lS2fi, at which strong resolutions, urging their necessi- 
ties and deprecating the proviso of the law, were passeii. The annual 
loss and inconvenience to farmers for want of the privilege was esti- 
mated at from $10 to $50 each for those on the lake-shore and vicinity, 
and measures were taken to get the obnoxious restriction removed by 
the legislature. On the ITth of April, l.S2r>, the act was amended; 
but still the work was attended with <litTieulties that could not be sur- 
mounted. The proposition was next discussed of making the pro- 
posed canal navigable, which it was estimated could be done at a cost 
of $200,000, from Carthago to Sacket's Harbor, and that an annual 
revenue from tolls, amounting to $16,000, might be expected, 

" .\n act was accordingly procured, April 15, 1828, incorporating 
the Jefferson County Canal Company, with a capital of $;i00,000, in 
shares of $100, in which Vincent Lo Ray, Philip Schuyler, Egbert 
Ten Eyck, Elisha Camp, Jason Fairbanks, Levi Beebe, Arthur Bron- 
son, John Felt, and Joseph Kimball, were named the first parties. 
Nothing w-as done under this act. It being understood that Mr. 
Elisha Camp, of Sacket's Harbor, was willing to assume, under cer- 
tain conditions, the stock necessarv for the construction of the work, 



a meeting was held at Watertown, December 30, 1829, at which a 
committee of three was appointed to confer on the propriety of the 
course, and learn what encouragement would be afforded in aid of the ' 
work. 

" By the act of April 28, 1829, a tax was imposed upon real estate 
within the village of Sacket's Harbor and on the mill-sites on Pleasant 
creek, amounting to $.1000 in two years, to be assessed in proportion 
to the benefits reeeivetl, and on the 20th of April, 18.')0, Elisha Camp 
was appointed a commissioniT for (his duty, in place of Daniel Hall, 
resigned, ami the act was extended till June of that year. A canal, 
twenty feet wide at top and twelve at bottom, four feet deep, was 
inad<> in 1830, from llunlington's Mills, two miles above the village 
of Watertown, to the Big .Swamp, and in 1832 it was finished, sup- 
plying to the village of Sacket's iiarlnir a valuable water-power, 
upon which were erected there a grist-mill, two saw-u)ills, plaster-mill, 
paper-mill, furnace, etc. The law was so framed, however, as to give 
rise to litigation. The greatest difliculty encountered was in main- 
taining the first half-mile of the ditch, which was constructed along 
theumrgin of Black river, where it was liable to be washed away on 
one side and filled by slitles of clay and sand on the other. These 
difficulties finally led the work to be abandoned, after having been in 
use about ten years, to the pecuniary loss of all parties concerned."* 

SCHOOLS. 

The first .school in the town was probably taught in the 
village of Sacket's Harbor. Outside the village the earliest 
school we have been able to learn anything of was taught in 
the winter of 1808-9, in the '' Jluskalmige" neighborhood. 
The building used was an old log dwelling, and the teacher 
was probably Ainasa Fox. The next season (1809) a frame 
school-house was built, — the first in this part of the town, 
if not the first in all the territory included in it. It is yet 
standing on the farm of George Frazier, and is now occu- 
pied as a dwelling, after having been to some extent re- 
modeled and reimired. 

At Blanchard s Corners, now East Hounsfield Post- 
Office, a log school-house was built previous to 1816, and 
stood a number of years. After this a frame house was 
built, which burned down, and a stone edifice was next 
erected, which was finally torn away and the present frame 
school-house built west of the old site. 

CHURCHES. 

The " Christian Church of Hounsfield" was organized in 
1820, by Rev. Lebbeus Field, with a membership number- 
ing about forty. A division occuiTed in the church and a 
new organization was afterwards effected. In 1843 a neat 
frame church was erected near Blanchard's Corners, at a cost 
of about $1100. Mr. Field continued to be the main pillar 
of the society until age forbade him to labor longer, yet 
now, when nearly a hundred years old, he occa.sionally finds 
his way to the tabernacle and listens to words from other 
lips, sjieaking upon the same subjects which he discussed 
more than half a century ago. The present membership 
of the church is not large. 

The " Seventh-Day Baptist Religious Society" was 
formed December 26, 1847, with Benjamin Maxson, Elias 
Frink, John Utter, Nathan Truman, and John Witter, 
trustees. A church was built in the neighborhood known 
as "Sulphur Springs," which is still standing. The so- 
ciety holds its meetings on the seventh day, — Saturday, — 
and on Sundays the church is occupied by a Methodist 

* Hough. 



396 



IIISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



cldss, which has flourished here for many years. The latter 
is in eliargc of the pastor at Jacket's Harbor, at present 
Rev. S. M. Fisk. 

FIIIST TOWX- MEETING. 

After the organization of the town due notice was given 
by Aniasa Fox, E.sq., and a town-meeting was convened at 
the house of Ambrose Pease, and from tlience adjourned to 
the house of Joseph Landon, March 4, 1806. The follow- 
ing is a list of officers chosen : Supervisor, Augustus 
Sacket; Clerk, William Waring; Assessois, Amasa Fox, 
William Baker, Samuel Bates, Jr., Theron Hiuman ; Com- 
missioners of Hlgltways, Ambrose Pease, Robert Robbins ; 
Overseers of the 7^ow, Jotham Wilder, John Patrick ; Col- 
lector, Jeremiah Goodrich ; Constables, J. Goodrich, Wil- 
liam Galloway, John Root. 

The supervisors for Hounsfiold from 1806 to 1877, in- 
clusive, have been as follows: 1806-8, Augustus Sacket; 
1808 (special meeting), Elisha Camp; 1809-18, E. Camp; 
1819, Hiram Steele; 1820-23, E. Camp; 1824, Daniel 
Hall, Jr.; 1825, E. Camp (special meeting to fill va- 
cancy ), William Baker; 1826-7, Daniel Hall, Jr. ; 1828, 
E.Camp; 1829-41, Daniel Hall; 1842, Seth P. Newell, 
Jr.; 1843, Benjamin Maxon : 1844, D. Hall; 1845, Au- 
gustus Ford; 1846-7, B. Maxon; 1848-50, Jesse C. 
bann; 1851, Samuel T. Hooker; 1852, J. C. Dann; 
1853-6, Edgar B. Camp; 1857-8, Daniel McCulloch ; 
1859, Theodore Canfield; 1860, Sylvester I. Lewis ; 1861, 
Andrew Smith; 1862^, Luther Barrows; 1865, Jay 
Dimick; 1866, Walter B. Camp; 1867-8, Jay Dimick; 
1869-72, Theodore Canfield; 1873-5, William" E. Tyler; 
1876-7, Samuel N. Hodges. 

At the meeting above mentioned it was 

" Jlemiheil, That the inhnbit'tnts of this town, who shall hunt any 
wolf or panther in this town (though hu sboulil Isill such wolf or 
panther in any other town), shall be entitled to $10 bounty. 

" Uttiilrnl, That three delegates be appointed by this town to at- 
tend a general meeting of the county to nominate a suitable candidate 
for the legislature, at their own espcnse." 

Theron Hinman, Augustus Sacket, and Amasa Fox 
were appointed. At a special meeting called fur the pur- 
posse, January 10, 1807, A. Sacket, John Patrick, and 
Elisha Camp were chosen to represent the town at a meet- 
ing of delegates at Watertown, to take into consideration 
the military situation of the county. They were instructed 
to protest against any undue influences that might be exer- 
cised in the meeting. 

Annual town-meeting, held at the house of Amasa Fox, 
March 3, 1807: 

" Rrmilveii, That there shall be a bounty of twenty-five dollars paid 
to the inhabitant of this town who shall raise the greatest quantity 
of hemp above five hundred weight." 

Also, a bounty often dollars was voted for every wolf or 
panther started within the town and killed by any inhabitant 
thereof Elisha Camp was ajipointed surveyor to the town. 

1808, — voted not to accept the State road as a town road. 

Annual town-meeting, March 5, 1811 : 

" litKihcJ, That Lutlier Kiad and .loshua Cross be permitted to 
retail liquor fur this day." 



Annual town-meeting, March 3, 1812 : 

" Reinhcd, That hogs be free commoners, if yoked ; the yokes to 
be 21 inches long by l.'i, and small hogs in proportion. 

•' Resolved, That any resident or land-bolder of the town, he or his 
agent being notified by an inh.abitant of the same that there is a 
patch or parcel of Canada Thistles likely to go to seed on the land 
in bis possession, or in the highway adjoining the same, pointing to 
him the place, and shall within three days thereafter neglect to mow 
down or destroy the same, so that they shall not go to seed, shall for- 
feit and pay a fine of one dollar for every such neglect, to be collected 
the same as an action of debt. All fines so collected shall be deposited 
in Town Clerk's ofiice to approjiriate as premiums to any inhabitant 
of this town who shall discover the most practical method of destroy- 
ing said thistles, and will actually destroy the most, — such appropria- 
tions to be under the control of the town at their future annual 
meetings. 

" Ueu'dvetl, That the above resolve is made the duty of the Consta- 
bles. 

" Resolved, That the agent shall not be individually responsible on 
the above resolve.'* 

In 1815 the poor-masters were authorized to build a 
poor-house for transient poor, if they thought it necessary. 
At a special meeting in 1824 the poor-house system was 
voted ag.iinst, and a remonstrance recommended to the 
legislature. Wolf and panther bounties were continued 
until 1816. A bounty of fifty cents was offered on each 
fox scalp in 1822, 1823, and 1831. In 1828 the highway 
commissioners were directed to oflfer as stock to the plank- 
road leading from the bridge at Dexter to Bagg's Corners, on 
the Watertown and Sacket's Harbor plank-road, half the 
cost of said bridge, and in case of refu.sal to accept, to 
petition that the bridge should be made a toll bridge. 

MILITART. 

From the breaking out of the War of 1812 the citizens 
of Hounsfield have been Imbued with an intensely patriotic 
spirit, which adhered to them as a result of the experiences 
during that war in their very door-yards, as it were, — and 
which was undoubtedly strengthened by the blood which 
flowed in their veins as descendants of a race of heroic 
men, — veterans of the war for independence. When the 
echoes of the gtins fired at the doomed Fort Sumter in 
April, 1861, rolled northward and reverberated among the 
hills and valleys of the " Em|)ire State," Jefferson County 
sprang at once to arms, and Hounsfield was one of the fore- 
most towns to send volunteers to the front. No extra in- 
ducement in the way of bounty was needed as an incentive 
to enlistment. Men came pouring in from all directions, 
and oftiMod themselves eagerly as defenders of the country 
which called them her sons. 

"October 19, 1S61, on the authority of Governor Morgan, of Xew 
York, tho barracks (Madison barracks, at Sacket's Harbor) were 
opened as a depot for volunteers by W. U. Camp, a citizen of Sacket's 
Harbor, who was named on the staff of tho governor, with tho rank of 
colonel, and charged with the 'command of tho volunteers to bo 
quartered at Sacket's Harbor.' The governor was induced to open 
tho barracks as a recruiting station on account of the jiatriotic as- 
sociations that clung to tho place in the memories of the j>cople, 
especially in tho northern part of tho State. In this ho wos not mis- 
taken, as every regiment he permitted to bo raised here was quickly 
filled up by the youth of the stirrounding country. Col. Camp found 
many of the buildings in a state of decay. To fit for occupancy some 
$:;0(Mt were expended in repairs. A portion of the eastern row of 
men's <|uarters was set aside as a hospital. 



mSSfJBT fW 



n»-. 




irita .aiiigmt joieij tibr die 

ft IK 
roaUeaod. [r" ■"■■*" •"■" :il riie ~ 
: js amid, be imad. -jl ^ ^taie jr -- 
die rrniiiiMinii ^gaaii^tBi trr "i*^ oiack. <*>»— ^ 
«a» » bad one imi ns ^mv -anm ]<£. 



.IVK JK SardL 



aBfci 



X;.. jEoibas. -iiB, . TM die imak - ' 

mtU-. - -fmrnrrx mut -mt. ^anni « rinMT Jntttc- 

leeHveti dieir smniEy die vgiim '"■»■■" 

ami 





"OLi 




l^ll 




>(^ifa» Beaadof 

df a oft onae bv die a>«a-<a«x. jir die p«rpasB it inthw^ 
anei^ »< M ! w *'sqr >r -^i iiw? -p oaa. v» die aeon ir 

ifeoaw: - li CO «■■& 

-»aso. d» 



eir tjuiUi*: 



— «. jr^'i'j. "n.a ■ 

di«?fr Tmuy ■'fhra 



; ^-iii.;:-„ T«H»e. ■ 



aiHaiB 











•^ -BBTT 


lUk 




71^ i 


warn*-. 






'te 7i^ 






;. 


T^rir 


il««t 


CZi^ All? T^ 


J|^,~i 




3Bea ±aiK Suob^ 



EJMSh. m VMS tM * rwH TMi fw mi him 'niiiiiiini x 
boMfanil iia3Hs so <Mdk wiifaBaaai: to ail tbe- fwo. jr' 
iiiiiiiii die tail &r JUO.'MM ibbk ft «■» a* aucsua 



r;« "*3r" •■ - ■mmtt 






ji. L£u<uB3K«L is. duSeaa^ue. 













'la »» lUEOil&r^wu Tiirr'ic^i .xicnutuiu lOiJ^'urx. -"«■ -Eter^ 



398 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



derson to Sacket's Harbor. These were the earliest ones. 
Mails were lonj; carried on horseback, and finally stage-lines 
were established, and the mails transferred to them. In 
the summer of 1819 a line of stages was placed on the 
route between Sacket's Harbor and Utica, passing through 
Adaius and Rome. Among the proprietors of this line was 
James Thomson, who was also proprietor of the " Rome 
Hotel," at Rome. Trips were made over this line tri- 
weekly, and it was run in competition with a line over the 
Black River road. It in time became very popular, and 
was well patronized. 

In the summer of 1S53 a telegraph line was built from 
Watertown to Sacket's Harbor, by citizens of the latter 
place, over the direct plank-road connecting the two points. 

" The south part of the town, sold to Kemble and Houiis- 
field, was first placed in the hands of Silas Stow, of Low- 
ville, as agent, and in an advertisement in the Columbian 
Gitzette* of Utica, June 11, 1804, the land is represented 
as excellent, and ' the flourishitig state of Mr. Sacket's vil- 
lage, its advantages of water carriage, and its valuable fish- 
ery, rendere it one of the most inviting objects to an indu.s- 
trious settler.' "f 

Interest in " Mr. Sacket's village" increased, and to such 
an extent had its many advantages been realized that " on 
the 5th of March, 18U9, Sacket conveyed 170U acres, the 
present 

VILLAGE OF SACKET'S HARBOR, 

to Cornelius Ray, William Bayard, and Michael Hogan for 
880,000 in trust, and a few days after Ezra Hounsfield and 
Peter Kemble conveyed to the same parties their interest in 
the tract.J In a declaration of trust subsecjueutly made, 
the parties concerned in this purchase appear to have been 
C. Ray, W. Bayard, M. Hogan, Herman Le Roy, James 
McEvers, Joshua Waddington, James Lenox, William 

Maitland, William Ogdcn, McLeod, Benjamin W. 

Rogers, Duncan P. Campbell, Samuel Boyd, Abraham 
Ogdcn, David A. Ogden, and Thomas L. Ogden, each own- 
ing one-fifteenth part, except D. A. & T. L. Ogden, who 
together ownad a one-fifteenth part. The first three named 
were trustees of the others, and Mr. Eiisha Camp, a brother- 
in-law of Mr. Sacket, who settled in the village in 1804, 
and has since remained a leading citizen, was appointed the 
resident agent, under whom the estate was sold, the last of 
the business being clo.sed up about 1848 or 1849. As 
these proprietors were mostly extensive capitalists of New 
York, it is to be presumed that their influence was exerted 
in securing from the general government some portion, at 
least, of that attention which this place has received during 
and since the war as a military and naval depot ; but which 
can scarcely be s;iid to have conferred a lasting benefit upon 
it. The expenditure of several million dollars for labor and 
materials would, in the opinion of most people, be sufficient 
to impart a visible impulse to the prosperity of a place, but, 
from causes which it might be improper or foreign to our 
purpose to investigate, such has not been the case hcrc."§ 

• Vol. ii. No. 65. t Hough. 

J .lufTcrson Dceda, B. 260, where a mi»|i made by William Bridge, 
in March, 1809, ia also recorded. 
^ ilougli. 



" In 1805, several English families settled at Sacket's 
Harbor, among whom were Samuel Luff and sons, Ed- 
mund, Samuel, Jr., Joseph, and Jesse; David Merritt, 
William Ashby, John Roots, Henry Metcalf, and George 
Sloman. Besides these, John and William Evans, Squire 
Read, Amasa Hollibut, Charles Barrie (probably should be 
spelled Berry), Uriah Rowlson,]] Azariah P. Sherwin, and 
others. Dr. William Baker .settled in 1803, and was the 
first phy-iician. Ambrose Pease and Stephen Simmons 
were early innkeepers, and Loren Buss and Hezekiah Doo- 
little,^ merchants. The place was at an early day very healthy, 
and from February, 1805, till January, 1809, it was re- 
markable that but one case of death occurred (except that 
of infants), and this was from an accidental discharge of a 
pistol by one of the men employed in preventing intercourse 
with Canada during the embargo. The victim of the acci- 
dent was one McBride, who was killed by Julius Torrey, a 
negro, with whom he had been a companion for several 
years on a desolate island in the South Seas, and whom 
for a long time he had not seen, and the accident was felt 
with great severity by him. Late in 1808, typhus fever 
began to appear among the citizens and a detachment of 
United States troops, originating with the latter, and of this 
sickne.ss many died."** 

The first white male child born in the village, or in 
Hounsfield township, was William Rowlson, now a resident 
of the village. His birth occurred September 18, 1804. 
By some 'his sister. Wealthy Rowlson, is stated to have 
been the first, but this is a mistiike, as she was born in Con- 
necticut, from which State their father. Rial Rowlson, emi- 
grated, probably in 1802, and settled at Sacket's Harbor 
among the first who located at that place. He served a 
short time during the War of 1812. Wealthy Rowlson is 
also yet living at the Harbor. 

Henry Metcalf, one of the Englishmen who settled here 
in 1805, joined a military organization at Sacket's Harbor, 
and, on the breaking out of the war with Great Britain in 
1812, joined his neighbors in defending his adopted against 
the encroachments of his mother country. His brother, 
Francis Metcalf, came from England in 1829, and located 
at the Harbor, where his son, Henry Metcalf, still resides. 
Six of Henry Metcalf, Sr's., children are now living in the 
town of Hounsfield. John M. Canfield, from Litchfield, 
Connecticut, settled at Sacket's Harbor in 1817, or po.ssibly 
1819. He was for eight years collector of customs for 
the Sacket's Harbor district. He stopped for a time at 
Watertown, and afterwards at Brownvillc, before making a 
final location in Sacket's Harbor. His son, Hon. Theodore 
Canfield, is now a resident of the village. Squire Read, a 
native of Rhode Island, and afterwards a resident succes- 
sively of Massachusetts and Connecticut, removed from the 
latter State in March. 1802, with his wife, three sons, and 
one daughter, and settled in Adams township, Jeilcrson 
County, New York, where he resided until 1800 or 1807, 
when he came to the present corporation of Sacket's Harbor, 
and made a settlement. He was, during his life, a man of 



II RInl liowUun settled possibly in ISU2. Sec mention of him else- 
where. 

% Soo " Merchiiiit.'," elscwh re. Hough. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



399 



considerable importance in the village and town, and held 
numerous positions of trust. He had seen much service 
duriiij^ the Revolutionary War, havinj;; been in the aiiny 
sevoial times for a period of a number of months each time. 
He was in service on the " Mohawk" for nine months. 
Until the breaking out of the war of 1812-15, he made 
his home at Sacket's Harbor, but soon after war was de- 
clared he changed his place of abode to Bruwnville, where 
he died more than fifty years ago. His son, Captain Daniel 
Read, now an old man, lives at Sacket's Harbor. His title 
of c;ipt;iin comes from service on the lakes as commander 
of several packets and trading vessels. He was the youngest, 
save one, of the children who came with their parents to 
Jefferson County in 1802. His long life on the water hits 
made him familiar with nearly all the crafl which have 
plied the lakes, and his recollection of early vessels and 
their commanders, and incidents connected with the early 
history of the region at the foot of Lake Ontario, is remark- 
able. His sailing days are over, but as a citizen he is re- 
spected by all, and liistoiicai statements made by him are 
accepted as accurate by those who know him. His recol- 
lection of the War of 1812 is vivid, and his faculty of re- 
citing incidents of these days makes him an exceedinuly 
interesting conversationalist. When he passes away Sacket's 
Harbor will have lost a good citizen and a prominent link 
in the connection of her past and present. 

Daniel De Wolf, of the State of Connecticut, lived at 
Sacket's Harbor from 1812 to 1815, and was employed by 
the Government ;is a blacksmith in the Xavy Yard. After 
the war he left the village, and in 1822 returned with his 
family, and made a permanent settlement. He died in 
1829. His son, David 0. De Wolf, now living in the vil- 
lage, is the present Deputy Collector of Customs for the 
port. 

Augustus Sacket,* on his arrival at the place, built a 
saw-mill, wherein was sawed the lumber used in the con- 
struction of his fii'st permanent house and other buildings put 
up at the time. The house was only a small one-story frame 
building, and stood on the spot now occupied by the bafn 
on the old place, at present owned by B. Eveleigh, who came 
to the village in 1834, from England, and for about eight 
years has lived in the second house. Mr. Sacket built about 
180-1, also a frame. Aside from the great abundance of 
hard timber in the surrounding region, there was a tract of 



* "Augustus Sacket, the pioneer of Sacket's Harbor, was born in 
the city of New York. November 10. 176'J, where he received his ed- 
ucation and acquired the profession of law. In 1.S01, having pur- 
chased a tract in llounsficld, he came on and began the first settle- 
ment at that place, and cuuimenced its improvement with much 
energy. Upon the formation uf a collection di:;trict he was appointed 
the first collector, and at the organization of the County Court was 
made first judge. In ISO!), having sold his property in this county, 
he removed to Jamaica, L. I., from whence, in 1812, he went to 
Meadville, Pa., having there purchased 300,000 acres of land, lie 
soon returned to New York City, and in 1S20 he went to Rutherford 
county, N. C, having become interested in a large tract of land in 
that State. By a subsequent transaction he became interested in the 
islands of the St. Lawrence, and returned to Sacket's llarbor, and in 
1S27 removed to Newburg. In these varied changes and transactions 
in land speculations he was ultimately very unfortunate, lie died at 
Albany, April 29, 1827, of a sudden sickness, while on his way to 
this county." — Hough. 



several hundred acres covered with a heavy growth of ex- 
cellent pine, reaching to the present site of Madison Bar- 
racks. The hardware store now occupied by Mr. Eveleigh 
was built by Mr. Sacket's sons, George A. and Edward. 
Sacket's saw-mill was on Mill creek, where were also erected 
early a grist-mill by Samuel Luff, the first one in the neigh- 
borhood, and a cotton-factory, by Solon Stone. These mills 
have long since pas-scd away. 

When the canal was finished to Sacket's Harbor, in 1832, 
a grist-mill, two saw-mills, a pla-stcr-mill, a paper-mill, and 
a furnace were built upon it, principally the property of 
Elisha Camp, to which per.son is due, more perhaps than to 
any other man, the credit of making the village a place of 
notoriety and consequence. He settled here at a very early 
day, and became at once identified with the interests of the 
town. His son, George H. Camp, lives on the old place in 
the village. 

The Jlrst merchant in the village was Charles Berry, or 
Barrie, a Scotchman, who settled about 1806 and opened a 
small country store on the lot adjoining the one now occu- 
pied by the " Eveleigh House." Two brothers, Peter and 
James, came with him, but only one remained, while the 
other went south. Berry sold out to Loren Buss, who had 
with hitn as clerk a young man named Hezekiah Doolittle. 

" The first mercantile operation at Sacket's Harbor on an 
extensive scale was by Samuel F. Hooker, who in 1808 
commenced with a stock of 820,000 worth of goods, and in 
50 days had sold SlT.oOO worth. The business that then 
opened with the brightest prospects was the trade of potash 
to Slontreal, where Astor and other heavy capitalists had 
placed money in the hands of agents for its purchase. The 
embargo of 1808, by withholding those along our frontier 
from a career in which they were highly prosperous, natu- 
rally led to a spirit of evasion of the laws, and the difiiculty 
of exporting this great staple of commerce directly from the 
Atlantic ports to Europe led to extensive and systematic 
measures for forwarding to the lake and river, from the in- 
terior and southern counties of the State, and even from 
New York, large quantities of potash. This sometimes 
vanished in the night, or was shipped with due formality 
to Ogdcnsburgh, where it disappeared, and sometimes an 
open course of defiance of law was attempted. In what- 
ever way it may have escaped, it was sure of reappearing 
in Montreal, where it commanded the enormous sums of 
§200 to S320 per ton, and from whence there was no ob- 
stacle to its export to England. To check this contraband 
trade two companies of regulars were stationed at Ogdens- 
burgh, and Capt. Wm. P. Bennett, with a part of a com- 
pany of artillery, and Lieut. Cross, with a few infantry, 
was stationed heref in 1808 and a part of 1809."| 

Sacket's Harbor Post-Office was established just previous 
to the War of 1812, and Ambrose Pease was appointed 
first postmaster. The office has been continued from that 
time. The present post-mistress is Mrs. 51. Phelps, widow 
of James In»in Phelps, who died while holding the office. 

The Jirst school at the Harbor was taught about 1807-8 
by a man named 3Iitchell, in one part of his dwelling. No 
school-house was built until after the War of 1812—15, 



f Sacket's Harbor. 



J Hough. 



400 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



■when a one-storj frame building was erected on the site of 
the present Union school building. This old school-house 
was used for all public purposes nearly, and served as a 
school-house, church, lecture-room, etc., for a number of 
years. 

The present Union school building, a two-story brick 
structure, was erected about 1840, at a cost of S2U00. It 
is intended for three departments, and is the only public 
school within the incorporation. Excellent schools have 
been taught in it from the beginning of its use, and facili- 
ties are afforded here equal to those enjoyed at many insti- 
tutions of a higher grade. 

The jirst hotel in the village was built on the site of the 
store now occupied by R. C. Read and Brother, on Main 
street, previous to 1805, by Ambrose Pease. It was a 
story-and-a-half frame building, and well known in its day. 
At the banning of the War of 1812 a Mr. Kelsey came 
from Cape Vincent and purchased it, operating it under his 
own name tberaifter. His property at Cape Vincent, in 
common with nearly everything there, was burned during 
the war. After Pease sold out he built the store on the 
opposite side of Main street now occupied by Camp & Co. 
as a drug establishment. The old hotel was finally burned 
to the ground, and for more than twenty-five years the lot 
was left unoccupied. At last the sons of Captain Daniel 
Read purchased it and erected the large frame store build- 
ing now standing upon it and occupied by them. 

On the ground where the " Eveleigh House" now stands 
a hotel was partially built as early as 1S06 by a man named 
Lanning, who sold out before it was finished to Stephen 
Simmons. The latter completed it and carried it on for 
several years. The " Eveleigh House" was built by Am- 
brose H. Dodge, in 1843—14, and opened for custom in the 
latter year. The present proprietor is L. H. Collins. The 
house is built of brick. 

The " Earl House"' was built in 1817 by Judge Elijah 
Field, and opened in December of that year. Captain 
Read was at that time running a packet between Sacket's 
Harbor and Kingston, Canada, and was intrusted with the 
task of procuring, at the latter place, the necessary quantity 
of whisky for use at the opening, which consisted of a grand 
ball in honor of the occasion. The captain, by hard work, 
made the connection, and arrived with the liquor just on 
time. This house has been largely remodeled and added to, 
and is now run under the efficient management of R. M. 
Earl, a retired lake-captain. 

In April, 1317, a stone hotel was begun by Frederick 
White, and finished and occupied by him in the spring of 
1818. It was a large building for that day, and presented 
imposing proportions. Afler many changes of proprietors 
it was finally abandoned for hotel purposes, and is now oc- 
cupied by several families, with some of the rooms vacant. 
On the upper floor a neat though small room w;is fitted up 
for the Masonic fraternity, which finally became somewhat 
too cramped for that purpose, owing to the increase in 
membership. The order now has a fine lodge-room fitted 
up on the next floor below, together with ante-rooms, re- 
freshment rooms, etc. This house was originally called the 
" Union Hotel,"' and though at different times carried on 
under other names the old appellation has remained in gen- 



eral use. White, the first proprietor, was said at the time 
he built it to have been the wealthiest man in the county, 
he being then able to reckon the amount of property owned 
by him at $150,000. He was an able man, but dissipation 
led to his ruin, and he died a pauper. He had been presi- 
dent of the old Jefferson County Bunk, when that institu- 
tion was in operation at Adams. 

During the summer season many guests from different 
parts of the country sojourn at the village, and «njoy the 
pleasures the harbor affords for fishing, boating, and scenery, 
and the town is then at its liveliest. 

INCORPORATION. 

" The vill^e of Sacket's Harbor, comprising great lots 
numbers twenty-two and fifty-four, and subdivision lots one 
and two, in great lot number fifty-two, of Hounsfield, was 
incorporated April 15, 1814. Elections of seven trustees 
were to be held on the first Tuesday of June, annually. 
Not less than three nor more than five assessors were to be 
elected annually, together with a collector, treasurer, and 
as many fire wardens as the trustees might direct. A presi- 
dent was to be chosen by the trustee.^ from their number, 
and some proper person for a clerk. The bounds of the 
village were curtailed April 18, 1831, by the detachment 
of all that portion north and east of the Pleas;iut, or Mill 
creek, wliieh was exempt from the operation of the former 
act. On the 9th of May, 1340, the act was still further 
amended.'"* 

The corporation officers for 1877 were as follows : Presi- 
dent, D. 0. De Wolf; Trustees, B. Eveleigh, Richard Con- 
lin, Barney Hubbard, Lyman Archer, George M. Read, 
James Boyd ; Clerk, Noah E. Bacon. 

" On the 2d of JIarch, 1709, Congress first enacted a law 
appl3-ing to the collection of duties on Lake Ontario, by 
establishing two districts, of which all east of Genesee river 
was included in Oswego, and all west in XUigara District. 
In pureuancc of the act of March 3, 1803, Sncket's Harbor 
District w;»s soon after established, and has been since main- 
tiiined, having been reduced in extent by the formation of 
Oswegalchie District, including St. Lawrence county, March 
2, 1811, and Cipe Vincent District, April 18, 1818, com- 
prising all below Point Peninsula, inclusive."* The col- 
lectors at this port have been : Augustus Sacket, Hart 
Massey, Perley Keyes, John M. Canfield, Thomas Loomis, 
Danforth N. Barnej', Leonard Deniiison, John 0.. Dickey, 
Otis M. Cole, Daniel McCulloch, Abram Kromer, Thomas 
S. Hall, William Howland, Cornelius W. Inglehart (ap- 
pointed deputy collector, and collection district discon- 
tinued), and Deputy Collector David 0. De Wolf, who was 
also a deputy under Daniel McCulloch. Mr. De Wolf has 
been in office about eight years. 

" Congress passed an appropriation of 83000, May 20, 
1826, for clearing out Sacket's Harbor, and an eijual sum 
May 23, 1828, for improving the same. On the 3d of 
May, 1331, the sum of $4000 was appropriated for a bea- 
con. For improving the harbor at the mouth of Black 
river (Dexter) the following sums have been appropriated : 

* Hough. 




£Of^M£UUS ly JNCrLEHAf^T. 







RcsiDdNCE of C. W, iNGLEHART, cor. or Main &Sroao Sts.,Sackii- HafbohN.Y. 




I^.M.EARL, PROPRIETOR. 

Saci^its fiAi^BOP^, Jernf^soN County, N t 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



401 



July 4, 1836, $5000; March 3, 1837, 810,000; July 7, 
1838, S22,401."* 

A ferry was early cstablishi J across Black River bay, 
auJ by au act of March 31, 1821, Cliarlus Culburii and 
Samuel Folsom were licensed to keej) it five yciirs. Ezra 
C. Folsom was licensed for five years on January 21, 1820. 
Trips are now made once a day, or more if recjuired, and 
the ferry is under the care of the courts. 

"In ISla the Uniun Library of Sackct's IIarb(ir was 
formed, with Justin Ruttcriiekl, Elisha Camp, Amos llul- 
ton, Daniel McGiven, James Goodhue, Andrew 13. Cooke, 
and Samuel Bosworlli, trustees, but w;ls of short duration. 
It was .succeeded by the Ilouiisfield Library, A]iril 10, 
1827, with Alexander W. Stow, John McMillan, Nathan 
Bridge, T. S. Hall, and Samuel Guthrie, trustees. About 
500 volumes were collected, but it has been long since sold. 
The Watertown and Iluiinsfield Library was formed Jan. 
11, 1831, with Eliphalct M. Howard, John C. Herrick, 
Chauncey D. Morgan, Obadiah Brainaid, and Oliver Grow, 
trustees, which has also gone dowii.""j' 

" The Young Men's Association for 3Iutual lmj)ruve- 
ment," in the village of Sacket's Harbor, was incorporated 
jMarch 2, 1813. This association, after au existence of a 
few month.s, was di-s.solved. 

RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

"The first regular meetings in this town were held by 
Edmund Luff, an Englisli settler, who, at his own expense, 
erected a house, still standing, for religious .services, and 
preached here uuiny years without fee or reward. There 
being no other meetings in the place, these were generally 
attended by tho.sc of dift'ercnt religious faith. Jlr. Luff| 
was a Restorationist, approaching somewhat the doctrines 
of Universalists, and was a man very free from that narrow 
spirit of intolerance that disgraces too much of what is too 
often denominated if/ii/ioii. His pulpit was opened to cler- 
gymen of otiier faiths, irrespective of name, and both Cath- 
olics and Protestants enjoyed, when occasion demanded, 
the freedom of his house. During the war the house was 
given up for public uses."§ 

sacket's harbor PRESBYTERIAN SOCIETY. 

" At a meeting convened by legal notice at Sacket's 
Harbor, in the town of Hounsficld and county of Jeffer- 
son, on January 12, 1816, for the purpose of forming a 
religious soeietj' at the village of Sacket's Harbor, agreeably 
to the third section of au Act entitled ' An Act to Provide 
for the Incorporation of Religious Societies,' passed April 
5, eighteen hundred and thirteen, Mclanchthon T. Wool- 
sey aud Enoch Ely were unanimou.sly nominated and elected 
presiding and returning officers of the meeting."|| The 
first trustees were M. T. Woolsey (of the U. S. navy), 
Samuel Bosworth, Samuel F. Hooker, Elisha Camp, aud 
Enoch Ely. Jleetings were held in the old school-house 
until a church could be erected. The society was formed 
principally through the efiorts of the officers of the army 

» Hough. t I'>'''- 

X .Mr. Luff died at .•^ackl■t'9 Iliirljnr in 1S22, greatly vcspcctcil. 

^ Houjjh-. 11 Ue-jords uf tliu souifty. 

20 



and navy stationed here, who were anxious to have re- 
ligious privileges, although not members of a church. 

Rev. Samuel F. Snowden was hired as their first minis- 
ter, on a salary of one thou.sand dollars a year, his services 
to begin March 1, 1817. When the church was formed 
.several of the army and navy became members of it. These, 
on removing, Ibruu'd societies at distant poiut.s, — at Green 
Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, and elsewhere. 

In September, 1817, a site for a church was given by 
Thomas L. Ogdcn, and in 1818 au effort was made to 
raise funds for building a church. The work was attended 
with success, and in the following year a church Wiis built, 
the raising Uiking place September 23, 1819. In the great 
fire of August 19,Tf 1843, it was destroyed. The Rev. Mr. 
Judd and vestry of the Episcopal church soon after ten- 
dered the society the use of their church on Sunday after- 
iiouiis, which wa.s respectfully declined, and the se.ssion-hou.sc 
fitted up until a new church could be built. A brick church, 
48 by 64, on the corner of Broad and Main streets, was 
built in 1840, at a cost of 80000. A parsonage b:is also 
been purchased. 

The old church was a large frame building, of au old 
style of architecture, and was alwa^-s filled on meeting occa- 
sions. It was not an uncommon sight to see Genei-al Brady 
march down from Madison Barracks, with three or four 
hundred tronjis belonging to the Second Regiment, then 
<juartered there, aud take their places in the church, and 
the spectacle was an imposing one. The soldiers principally 
used the galleries. 

Rev. Mr. Snowden, the first pastor, was paid by subscrip- 
tion, his salary being largely donated by members of the 
army and navy. After the troops were removed it was 
found to be not as easy a matter to raise the funds where- 
with to pay the pastor, and the amount for a number of 
years succeeding the first two or three was much smaller 
than that originally subscribed. Mr. Snowden continued in 
charge of the congregation until 1826, and was followed by 
Rev, J, Burchard, who came in December, 1826, and stayed 
about one year. The third pastor. Rev. James R. Boyd, 
took charge December 11, 1827, and continued until 1S30. 
Rev. J. Irvin was employed in 1831, and in.stalled January 

5, 1832. In 1836, Rev. Wilson was employed, and 

in 1839, Rev. Sturges a.ssumed charge, staying one 

year. He was succeeded, in July, 1841, by Rev. 

Payson, and he, in October, 1841, by Rev. Town- 
send, who became pastor in February, 1842, and remained 
several years. Rev, Leicester A. Sawyer was calleil Octo- 
ber 29, 1849, and installed as pastor June 11, 1850. The 
pastors in order succeeding him have been. Revs. George 
Bron.son. installed after Mr. Sawyer had finished a six- 
years' pastorate, and remaining three years ; Mr. Warriner, 
one year; A. T. Young, five years; and Henry Ilickok, 
the present pastor, now in his twelfth year at the place. 

The membershiii of this society, Sejiteniber 1.1, 1S77, 
was eighty-six. A Sabbath-school has long been held in 
connection with the church, and Walter B. Camp is its 



r Dr. Hough. In another place it i^ given as occurring August 
21, and one informant in the village says it was the 2:Jd. It was un- 
doubtedly in .\ugust, and in Isi;;. ,\ll agree on these two points. 



Bsaecx or jEnsisii»i: ckicsxt. xev tool 



iF""M «y 



5r:i_ . .. 



i ^OBt t^nCKTtifc 



ajU-tlHBgWiFgS. 



:ciirif.i. 5s; 



iramr 



T£\uhim\an. B iiiiii7.sa>iiiM!a. ^t'yir x az^sf re msfibos. aou 
IT atosT IKK SoBatif^ 



.^ jmt ic de meaaiKS &i^£ ^ As: CBcsaais. iik 



"JTU. Tiiiri "^Ui: -ssHiSU ts^&L 



air 



Z«» ASn aod WBIn Tiim ■miBim . Fifr — X 
lani jjuiiaJla i loK vie Bfeitiy BdHBC. wIa. be lis bc- 



-rv Sm a- ic 



amie 31 K^S«k. 

^ - "---T i fl a ifc -az. ^&s ^y ■ ' »"iip»"t 




at - - ■fsmntt J,Mntt^Kxs- niu . - ^ U.;..-n 

5«w»aiL osi ir > "Ti-^c ananirc 11 •i ir-n » •»»- 



;«i 111 r-. Jt : 

^^ litt-m _■ ..nn_z- __. IU.-X _ ... 

X ^Kk (X *.L,--u. ;- _ ^ -» ■■■■■ j'^-itj-iii^ -.. ■ I .n*^ m 

-<>!iaiL »»]^. "it-rnr Xnz -t "SSL aii£ S9m£ ■an ~'-:^ir- 
Sif^. Ss&im "amjf p»hs ieam ^ar iT. ' - -' 

3^K-^i-er Bet E 5L •■SnnA. Ai_ . ' 1^^ 7 

3fcr .- _ :_ .^ ^--: _ _ , _- 

5. »3.WKL ^ =: fcK. A. •:•. — --_.2. JkoA 7. 

jCer. jr ^ ' ittBT Mil- ' ~ - 

iiaL Aaci " - KscL fi. ^ - __ 

S^w;: ifw- i^ I. l»B»y- Jhi_ ESS: KeiL « K. 3^l 
air~ - - _ 

■ ■mill"*! z^sn^oiQBr ^A. 1 *, 



3sET MiBBgjfemc At- feat igmii rf' 
TiM^ jsE SisE lauju ^j£ hi As dU 



loE m i'^— 



juijiiMfi— met StC b^HBei "fem'S' 1 



i»^ aHi£ jooBS a^i m s ei.' il. ant 3t Ker 




ll~-JT irnr 3i» miT miB- 

-rar.l lT:fS- ^*^9 Ss. iTuuxj ..uUksl :fli£ &^ -MaHinFr 



^SBBJBS. 






n*'' IWTBr - 



Sler. .Jiii. 



* Tlut Esnami. 'Bi^in' itsE iie^ i. -n«»»^7Tiif 



. <gB dbe- la ^ 

- r. \.'iniit. *~icni Xk7 Ci0mi. Bxamifc H^baL 
}fai^Ca nni"fig?iam i- Jiw T^iwiw lihnai 
■T» T-'.in ^-^ WOluBK XrmK. aai£ 



.~ : KfK. 3fr. lifiwH &im Jaa^ t^g» 






JjHIl. SufljCC? ^ 1. Tiiiiinv« -viueo. 



•nwiiiiimig ' 



HBIOSr OF JEFTESSOS CDTSTT. SEW YifOL- 



ISl; Bw. A. a TKaJ«F, Oct *L 1532; B«r. Mr. 
S«Ue, DecL 1«, l&M : £er. Di^ JaU, feM Jm. a. : 
to ISlfi; Ber. Bempmim Wmte, Jr^ S^c 4. 1^46: 1^ 

^M, Xaj 17, 1^£ u L$»«: Ber. H. ' 

1^ t* j[«riL 1^39: Sei^. £>. C. I^r- 

«• laCl; Ber. 3L C Boho, Jml 1 

1«C3; Ber. £. B. 11— |hKj, JaTj I 

13»4; Ber. Jib* Jk. lUvwmm^ Ittt. IZ. \ ■ .^ .. .. -^. 

1?«7: Ber. J. WiKbv; Ber. Xt: BdNr;^; B^r. Wils: 

aid Ber. Xr. WiMie^ tke 

Biwravae. 



TW fiK agMwama of (Ik mAet m J< 
vat wkc «■£ kaavna as -Oubo* Lt^t," af wfcidk tk>: 
im lecHnial mtaam^ was Ui « Sii£^<£i< OkIv Afdl 
4, 1816. Ae ik« dae ike iffiiri'i wae at 61ms: Aa- 
-»iH S>dk«s. W. ML. i. statmm. S. W. 
F&e,J. IT.: KAlo^ Ti 

Ban Kw7, J. J>.; A. Buimuii,. Tjk^ 
kJ ■ JB mwtirnfcip —y rf Ae fiii^fTr rf ifce 
pibK jad «Aa^ |a«B «f ike iii—rj. ihm^ ikoit Jaeak 

3IandL Gi^ H-wJa, GadMsa Tsde. AIbm lip- 

fcn. Sfure Bead. i. '"^bw i , C Xi^ J*nrffc Fteir, 
n«kl Pcner, aai okee, aad iknr wa. mat ^ &r ikt 
Kfer^aJiijijiiM CMMike^i 
ia ike - UaiM Ond" l«i oL k odU leSse 
a idb fiKeal «iik l^Hv abaat ike --Hfni— ~ af tk; 










= Jfis/ 1«^ Jk 318. /: J^ ^ JK.~ «K 
1S1& «kk Haam Scede a> Mjaw. Ike 
bdge caaaat te feaaJ ia ikeTSsae 
ka« •if«a «3 ke fi«a ike RcaBeaMa «r «li 




cksie se fiar aaw iii lia- ac ^:iufs~f Hjeokt. 
Tk.: CafL IbHd Beai. laiaad AsMaaa, Jafaa VJ^. 
»jl IHwa Wirai^ma. ^mms «kg m i^i ii rf ite 
kike wae Alxdk Kbm^. Jaue E^ak FkU. mJ wfes. 
It VK iiiaa 1 aB£3 l£f7. Of ike £iar bmt fira^ 
ia ike vSee «k> were ■■■■tinr. Ibaad Beai ke 
akeaiT kee^ noKkaed. i-tkm 
Sacka's HaAor m tk ^n^ «f 1S19. 
ike ^ oT ikE ^K T«aiF. Skani XlbuKa ss^ei. koe 
ia 1SI4 aal jaiaed ia ISIS. H-^ ing htm 



At 'eaelr jc ISIT-IB ke Jwed ike M.wm b» 

ii-siis>BHa, aad a&aaaaii kecaiMe *. ■^■ber « Asku 
Lodge, fie ia aaa a^kEr-ax J«aR ^f >@e. Jfc XiBbc- 

■^■ ife^^p g^ ^ BBSS iSQCK 4C ISBM ** IBC VBBH^EW ^B IbbUiHBZ^ 

ike dk^ aea- liBas -^ SiL I 
Biatfcel 
F«K mtx. aftick fce i^s^ 

aE ikat ffaee. akoe a »a «f ike Il%:.'£. Sbsam '. 
&i m 1353 « '4. 

firaed Fik. 7, lS*lk, ifM Ik aaSraMa «r < 
'' ::.>kd>ia r. WaAcr^ U^SJi:- 

Ae 3d 4f KadL l£3t. ask ikt S^bvmiK 

r.£A.: 

SeEMSHT. HsKy SasA: C. 
rfg, ImfcrlgME^ ' - T^SH^ir. Jails: B. A-C 
Ah^ Kkanr: 3L :c Wifiaa Taadka. r^3^- r 

ILfdT.Z^A^: X.teT_HaatorGaBh 

Ike ckafter -warn aBswed tia na diiaa . fcv. ^ksr bl 3l- 
■f JC9K. k aoc Kcifad M Hiii^ii l^tt. 
eS.EULB.P.: <faiMPkd|e.K.:MdS^ 
. £. Ife prwrifni igrm fer 1S77 »■>: ^^ 

WxHa Wd 
Ge^E. 

2 fas maOK 3^ 1^ l*isL akk ike iiiilMaiB, i dBrrrr : 
:;«Mei L««. W. JL: J«&b £. B^ £. W.: €»ea»^ C 

>?™a«fc J. W. : UglA F^y. IJBis.: &He Tm Tkck. 

a Ae fiB «f 1S53, sd iiiikw_ SmAs wm ^ae Hd 
ISeH Fna ik Si ^ Atf whA weil Ae U- 

CS'MBfl. S CBHCET ■■H3' IBC ■3Hi£ wT *" -uSIHI^BKlB JdflSSCj 

Ti ITi~ aiii lM»a ■ iwh ii Tail T IH ahra 

Ama^ a fokka. Ae «U a—e t£ ^SaAas Ha&v 

aae laearr «kMBer Meaiea. Tke Heybed^ ^4<^ U. 

a^K sae ^dfcii i : Jaaas Bmi, W. M. : ^"i*'"^* WaA- 
iasm. S. W.: ITii laa^ii lT iftii J. W.; J*&a Wadaag, 
TseK.: Gea« EL BawafcM. Sscl Tk im^ 
Ae mn ia lAe Ai ^ r^aa Haed.^ 



3C Sk^a s H.irs<ir- ii 5>tcC4aiiJ«ir- 1547. ^' 
k a» kAs «(f Ae aadar ia sk 



■L-^<rf a ii ^ii. »^»iA«i« j « *.mnLj i — . 



r4,Ji«- 



JKak'-ta. A«. flC 



404 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Sackct's Harbor probably in 1851, and ceased in December, 
1852. It is related of ex-Presideut Grant that when he 
was stationed at Madison Barracks, from 1849 to 1852, he 
became a lucraber of this institution, and during his stay 
was honored with offices until lie reached the highest it 
afforded. Mainly through his efforts was it kept in a 
flourishing condition, and after his departure it was allowed 
to become disorganized, and was finally discontinued. 

A FIRE COMPANY 

was organized immediately after the War of 1S12, with a 
small membership. It was simply a " bucket brigade," 
and although endeavors were made to procure an engine, 
all attempts failed for many years. The ibllowing adver- 
tisement, inserted in the Suc/cel's Ilurhor Gazette, Nov. 
18, 1817, shows the method by which the citizens kept 
prepared for fires : 

*' The Firo Wardens having reported to tlio lioiird of Trustees (tf tliis 
Village tliat a number of persons have neglected to furnish tlieniselves 
with l-'ire-Buekets, Therefore, yi^t/»f;/rc(/, that all such delinquents who 
do not ]>roeure the number of buckets required by the By-Laws of 
this Vilhige previous to the 22d instant, and report to the Fire War- 
dens, or show satisfactory cause to the Board of Trustees, at their 
meeting on that day at tlie school-house, why the same have not been 
provided, shall be prosecuted without delay. 

" By order of the Board of Trustees, 

"J. Bhtterfield, President." 

The village has suffered severely on several occasions 
from fires, the two noted as follows being the most exten- 
sive: 

" On May 23, 183S, a paper-mill of Col. Camp, at the Harbor, was 
burned, with a loss of from $7000 to $10,000. It had been in oper- 
ation about a year. 

"A destructive fire occurred at Sacket's Ilarljor on the morning of 
Aug. 21, 1S4.'', originating in a warehouse on the wharf, as was sup- 
]>osed from the cinders of the steamer * St. Lawrence,' and, spreading 
rajiiclly, consumed nine buildings on the north side of Main street, 
and eight upon the s<)uth side. Passing up Bayard street, it con- 
sumed several barns and dwellings, and from the violence of tlie wind 
the flakes of burning materials were wafted to the cupola of the Pres- 
byterian church, which was burned. Tpon the alley or street in the 
rear of Main street a number of buildings and much property was 
burned. The whole number of buildings consumed was about forty; the 
loss over $?..i,000. Had this fire occurred in tlie night-time, from its 
rajiidity and violence, a loss of life could have scarcely been avoided. 
An inelTectnal suit was instituted against the steamboat company."* 

It is stated that had the village pos.scssed a good fire-en- 
gine when the last-named fire occurred, much of the prop- 
erty that was burned might have been .saved. Experience 
and loss of property seemed to be needed, however, before 
the neecs,sary steps wen' taken towards finiiishing an engine. 
At any rate, after this fire a hand-engine, manufaclurcd in 
Boston, Ma.ss., was procured through the instrumentality of 
Edmund M. Luff, then the jirincipal member of the fire 
company. Several persons lia<l, ]ircvious to this time, at- 
tempted til build an engine for the town, but had signally 
failed. The one they inircliased is still owned by the com- 
pany, and is in good repair. 

The membership of the ctmijiany in September, 1877, 
was about 45, and its officers were as follows : James 
Biiyd, foreman ; K, E, Rickerson, a,s,sistant foreman ; Al- 
fred H. Stone, captain of liose ; James H, Wilson. as,sistant 



• Uougb. 



captain; John Scroxton, engineer; Charles Lane, secretary. 
One hose-cart is owned by them, together with two hundred 
feet of old and three hundred and fifty feet of new hose, 
the latter purchased in the .summer of 1S77. 

Among the men who have been prominently identified 
with the social and business interests of Sacket's Harbor is 
Daniel JMcCullough, who located here in 182G. lie was 
from the State of Massachusetts, and on coming to New 
York located at first in Martinsburg, Lewis county, where 
he learned the wagon-making and blacksmith's trades. On 
arriving in Sacket's Harbor he jiuichased a shop on Main 
street, and commenced work. He built a pair of four-horse 
coaches, which were, perhaps, the ver}' first manufactured 
north of Utica in the State. During the frontier troubles 
of 1838 he was con.stantly with the troops, then commanded 
by Colontil {"afterwards General) W. J. Worth, who, he says, 
was a fine soldier and a courteous gentleman, Jonah Wood- 
i-uff, of Watertown, of sleeping-car manufacturing fame, 
worked at one time in McCuUoch's shop at Sacket's Har- 
bor. Mr. McCulloch has retired from active business, owing 
to age and infirmity. 

George Camp, a native of Glastonbury, Connecticut, and 
later a resident of Utica, Oneida county, New Y''ork, lo- 
cated in Sacket's Harbor in the winter of 1815— IG. He 
was a printer and a druggist, and engaged in both profes- 
sions during his life in the village. Subserjuent to 1821 
he removed to Lowville, Lewis count}', and, in comjiany 
with an Englishman, purchased what is now the township 
of Watson, for speculative purposes. The Englishman 
proved to be a sporting character, and a man of unscrtipu- 
loiis motives, rendering him an unfit person with whom to 
engage in business, and in consequence Mr. Camp disposed 
of his share in the property as soiin as possible, and returned 
to Sacket's Harbor, where he established himself in the 
drug business. He died in lS5t), at which time his son, 
Walter B. Camp, was a.ssociated with him, and the estab- 
lishment has since continued the business, the present firm- 
name being Camp & Co. Beside Walter B, Camp there 
are two other sons, Talcott and George. • The former re- 
moved to Watertown in 1858, and established the drug 
house now run under the firm-name of Camp & Massey. 
He is also at present president of the Jefferson County 
bank, at Watertown. George Camp, Jr., went to Georgia 
previous to the AVar of the Rebellion, and engaged exten- 
sively in the manufacture of cotton. His factories were lo- 
cated at Roswell, thirteen miles from Marietta, and were 
entirely destroyed in July, 18(54, by General Garrard's cav- 
alry, of Sherman's victorious army, on its memorable At- 
lanta campaign. Mr. Camp hail, with admirable fore- 
sight, formed an o|iinii)n that the .southern arms could not 
be successful, and instead of jilaeing his money in Confed- 
erate bonds, as he was strongly importuned to do, invested 
it in land in the neighborhood of Atlanta, and these lands 
have brought him a competency since the war. The mills 
are rebuilt, and in operation, allhough Mr. Camp docs not 
have iinnii'iliate siijiervision of them. 

NEW.SPAI'EUS. 

As before slated, George Camp was a ]irinter by profes- 
sion, and ^larch IS, 1817, he i.-isued the fir.st number of a 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



405 



newspaper called the Sacket's Hurhor Gazelle. It was a 
twenty-columa folio sheet, Federal in politics, and issued at 
the rate of two dollars per annum. March 17, 1818, the 
namj was changed to the Sac/cct's Ilnrbur Gnzette uitd Ad- 
vertiser, and the publication continued by Mr. Camp until 
1820, when he sold out to Matthew .M. Cule, Elisha Camp, 
and others, who changed it.« iiauic February 9, 1821, to the 
JefferiDii Republican, under which name it was continued 
a year or more, when its publication was suspended. In 
the spring of 1821 the Frcciiians Advocate, m size the 
same as the first papers, and of kindred politics, was issued 
by Truman W. Ilascall. Its publication was discontinued 
in December, 1828. Tlie Courier and the Sac/cil's Ifar/mr 
Qjitrier, with one or two others, were afterwards published 
by J. Howe. On the 7th of September, 1837, Edward II. 
Purdy began the publication of TIte Jefferson Counlij Wlilg, 
which was succeeded October 10, 1838, by the SnekeCs 
JIarhor Jonrmd, edited by D. M. Burnham, a prominent 
lawyer of the place, and now engaged in the practice of his 
])rofe.ssi()n in Chicago, Illinois, and published by Edmund 
BI. Lufi'. Rurnhaui was a native of Adams. Mr. Luff 
conducted this paper, C. Woodward being the printer, from 
April 17, 1815!), till the spring of 1841, and in the summer 
and fall of 1 840 published a small campaign paper, called 
Tke Ifarrisoiiiaii. The press was at this time, and for sev- 
eral years previous, owned by a company of citizens of the 
village. The Journal was enlarged and improved in the 
spring of 1841 by Joel Greene, who at that time became 
the proprietor. At the end of his second year as pub- 
lisher he sold his interest to Calvin Greene, who in the 
same year (1843) discontinued the paper. 

Joel Greene had, in the spring of 1843, purchased of 
Herman S. Noble the Walrrtown Register, and having pre- 
viously opened an office for the publication of the Black 
River Journ(d, began publishing the latter at Sacket's Har- 
bor and Watertown, at which latter place the printing was 
done, the press having been removed there. This paper 
was also Whig in politics. A. W. Clark became proprietor 
of tlie esttiblishraent in 1846, and the publication of the 
Northern State Journid commenced. Uutil March 20, 
1848, no paper w;is thereafter published at Sacket's Har- 
bor, but at that date 0. II. Harris issued the first number 
of the Sacket's Ilarhor Ohsi ever. This was a twenty-eight- 
column folio paper. Whig in politics, and was published 
until 1852, when it was changed to the Jefferson Farmer, 
a neutral paper, and the publication continued for some time 
longer. According to information furnished in the village, j 
the last paper published was called the Sacket's Harbor 
Observer, and wound up its existence in 18(52 or 'G3. All 
these papers were published in the .same office. 

Among the merchants who, in 1817, advertised in the 
Gazette were the following: Josiah Bacon, Jr., whisky and 
hides ; Hooker & Crane, dry goods, groceries, etc. ; Sacket's 
Harbor Apothecary Store ; S. Johnson & Co., general store; 
Elisha Burchard, general store ; Thomas Davis, merchant 
tailor. 

A few extracts in the way of advertisements will not be 
out of place, as relics of a period beyond the recollection of 
most of those now living, and a number of them are here- 
with triven : 



March 25, 1S17. "2 or 3 Post-Riders will find good encouragement 
by circulating ibe Snchet'n liarttur Gazette." 

Same date. " Tbc Steainbu;it Ontario, elegiintly fitted up for Pas- 
sengers, and capable of carrying two tht>u^and Harrcts, will eora- 
nieiice ber operations on tbc ojiening of the season. She will start 
from Sacket's Harbor on Monday morning in every week, ])rocceding 
to Oswego, Sodus Bay, (icuosec River, and Niagara, toucbing at all 
tbese places, and Cape Vincent on her return, and completing ber 
route at Ogdensburgh, on tbc river St. Lawrenae. Cabin passengers 
will pay, 

'• From Sacket's Harbor to Oswego $.'!.00 

Oswego to Sodus 2.00 

" Sodus 10 Cencsce River 2.00 

" tiencseo River to Niagara 5.00 

" Sacket's Harbor tu Niagani 10.00 

" '* " to CajH* Vincent 1.75 

" " " to Ogdensburgb 5.00 

" A reasonable allowance will at all times bo maile for Steeragc- 
Pas.-*cngcr8. Freigbt will be taken on board, and carefully delivered, 
at tbe customary rates. Francis Mallaby, Ksq., of Ibe United Stales 
Navy, an experienced seaman, and a gentleman eminently qualificil 
to fulfill Ibe duties of bis station, bas been appointed to command ihc 
btiaf, iinil until tbc selection of proper agents at tbc several Points, 
will decide all ((uestions relating to freigbt and passage. 

'•.M:ircb 17, 1SI7." 

Several packet boats Siiiled between Sacket's Harbor and 
Kingston, among them the Triumph, Captain Daniel Read, 
the Commodore I'erri/, CapUiin J. G. Parker, and tlic 
Rambler, Geo. R. Cheney, master, as advertised in Jlay, 
1817. 

The average inhabitant of Sacket's Harbor "in those days"' 
was without a knowledge of the properties of what is now a 
common summer beverage, — soda-icater ; and until the pro- 
prietor of the " Sacket's Harbor Apothecary Store" saw fit to 
experiment in its manufacture, and enlighten the people as 
to its excellence as a cooling drink, they remained in blissful 
ignorance of the joys to be derived from draughts of what 
has been recently facetiously denominated " sweetened 
wind." Here is an advertisement which appeared in the 
Gazette, July 15, 1817: 

" .S'.ii/d ir.Kcr, manufactured upon correct cbeinical principles, 
equal to any in tbc Unite i States, now ready for delivery at the 
Sacket's Harbor .^polbeeary Store, sign of the Golden Mortar, oppo- 
site tbe Gazette office, Main Street." 

The exporim.Mit was umloubtcdly successful, as the adver- 
tisement runs through the season, and also appears in the 
issue of subsequent years. 

In 5Iay, 1817, Mr. John McMiiiamy announced that he 
bad opened a select school at Major Pickering's, for young 
ladies and gentlemen. 

During the summer of 1817, a venturesome individual 
aj)pcared in the village, announcing himself as an artist, 
and publishing the following advertisement : 

" LiKRXKSSKS. — Taken at various prices, from 2.) cents to 15 dollar.*, 
at a room over the tlrocery Store of Mr. L. Wbitc. 

" Mr. Wentwortb solicits patronage, and, for tbe short time that ho 
remains in Sacket's Harbor, will, if requested, call on any ladies or 
gentlemen, where their own or family likenesses are wanted, in Pro- 
file, Miniature, or Portraits. 

"July 8, 1817." 

From the following notice it would seem that the citizens 
of the village needed a gentle reminder occasionally that 
there was more dirt in the streets than was conducive to 
the general health of the place, and a broad hint that they 
needed cleaning and repairing at once: 



40G 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



"The citizens of the A^illngc of Sackefs Harbor arc requested to 
turn out on Wednesdny, the ."JOth inst., at 8 o'clock, a.m., to repair 
and elciuisc the streets in the village; as many as can are requested 
to furnish suitable utensils — teams, plows, and scrapers will be wanted. 
AVhen an appeal is made to the public spirit and liberality of the 
Citizens of this Village, it is expected that every man will do his 
duty. 

"July 28, 1817." 

President Monroe, soon after his induction into office, 
undertook a tour through the northern section of the 
Union, to observe the condition of the frontier, and make 
such arrangements for its military security as might be 
deemed necessary. Having reached Ogdensburgh on the 
1st of August, 1817, he was met by Major-General Brown, 
and attended to Rossie and Antwerp, where he was met by 
IMr. Lc Kay, and conducted to Le Raysville. On the 3d 
lie Wiis waited upon by the committee of arrangements, and 
escorted thence by tliree troops of horse, under Captains 
Loomis, Fairbanks, and White, to the house of Isaac Lee, 
in Watertown, where he received a concise though flattering 
address from the citizens, lie then proceeded to Brown- 
vilie, and on the 4th to Sacket's Harbor. The following 
account of the proceedings on the occason of his visit is 
tiiken from the Sacket's Harbor Gazette of August 5, 
1817: 

'• Upon his arrival at the bridge, being the bounds of the village, 
he was saluted with nineteen guns from the Sacket's Harbor Volunteer 
Artillery. The bridge was elegantly Htteil up with nineteen triumidial 
arches, on which were inscribed the names of the several Prcj^idents, 
the first arch being surmounted by a living American eagle. Upon 
passing the bridge the President was introduced by the chairman of 
the committee to a number of veteran officers and soldiers of the Ilev- 
olution, who presented him the following address:* 

*" It is wiih iileiisure that we, a few of the survivors of the Itcvdution. re- 
B'ding in thifi part «>f the country, welcome the arrivnl of the chief iiiaKiftrate 
of the Union. It 18 with incieiisetl sjili.-fiiftion th:it wo recognize in him one 
of tlio iinnilxT onjiugf'il witli us in thi* urdiious ^tru•It;Ie of cstixhliphiiit; the 
itnl.-|K'ii'iiTiie uf our country. Wr liavi* livnl, sir, to sci- ihe fruits of our toils 
and struggles nmi)ly n-tilizctl in thr haiipiiiess and prosperity of our couiilry ; 
nnd, sir. we have the fullest cunfiiU-ncf that, under your ailministration, they 
will tje IianiUMl down to our posterity unlmpsiliod. Like your immortal pn-dc- 
C'-ft-or, the JHuBtrious Wjwhiiigton, may yoii he lionoreil hy the present ami 
future g<jnerations, and finally receive the rich reward with him in realniK 
u1k>vo.' 

"The President received tlie veterans -with great cordiality, and 
expressed much sntisfaclion at witnessing among them some to 
whom he was personally known ' in times that tried men's souls.' 

*' Upon his arrival at the village a national salute was fired from 
Fori Pike. The proocsaion opened to the right and left. He then 
passed through, dismounting at the civic arch in front of the Man- 
sion House, to which ho was conducted by Captain King, chief mar- 
shal of the day, betwucn two lines of children strewing flowers in 
his path. 

" Upon the President's arrival at the Mansion House stoop, perched 
above an awning fprmed by the national flag, on eagle was observed 
to flap his wings. 

'* The following addrej^s was then made to him by the eliairnian of 
the eommitteo ; 

'"Svckkt's lUniioR, Aug. 4, 1817. 
'"To Ills K.xorij,KXOT, Jamm Monroe, Pitrtiinr.NT or tiik I'mtko St\tf^: 

" ' //oiiorfi/ .SVr,— Tho oommitleo appointed iti helmlf of their frllow-citizonH 
would congnitulato Ihe l'r.*Mident of (he ruitnl Stntes upoti liiHaniviil at this 
place. It in with pleasure util'eigned utid unalloyed that all Uemripijons of 
men hohoM among Iheni. fur thf ftrH tiiiif, the rhicf magistrate of the Union. 

'"They look upon it as a pledge that their interests will not lie forgotten, as 
the situation of this «e»t'on of the coutitry will he pcriuinallij known to lilm on 
whom the American people have placed their hlgheitt confldenccund bcjituwed 
ttieir grvateMt honors. 



* The adilress was delivered by Major Cherry, a Revolutionary 
veteran, tlic President's companion in arms and superior oftieor. 



"'And that, althtiugh situated on tlie frontier*, remote from the centre of 
government, they hope to live iti the recollerliuu of him whose huppiues.s it ia 
to prehide over its high and exalted d'-stiriii'S. 

'• ' It is gratifying to learn that the ohject of your arduous tour is to ascer- 
tain whatever will ci.ntrihute to the interest, improvement, or d.-fense of the 
country. It therefore hei-onieH our duty to express the solicitude of our cun- 
stiiueiits as it regards iheir peculiar siluaiiun. Twiie have they been placed 
on the very verge of ruin hy Kucrecsive attacks in the late war. Had works of 
defense heen erected in romnianiling ^ituations, such atteuijits would prohahly 
never have lieen made, — at all events would liave heen repulsed with greater 
certainty and le^s expense of blood. And it will still be observable that addi- 
tioniil (ortificatioiis would be n'quitite to render efleclual a resistance against 
superior numbei-s. Yon fields, which have been dyed with the blood of Colonels 
Bjukus and Mills, ciin attest how much works of defense have there been 
needed! 

'"We trust the periiid is far distant when linstilities fif ever") shall again 
occur; but, as this may not he the fart, piudeiitial reasons wi.uld seem to indi- 
cate the utility of a great mHitaf;/ road in the niusl proper direilioti for uniting 
the resources of the conntiy with this chief military and naval dt.-pot of tlio 
northern frontier. 

" ' The extensive public, and the increasing amount of private, pnipeity, to- 
gether with a per-onal anxiety, we trust will be accepted a-* an ap»dogy for 
specifying that which doubtless has already occurred to your observation. 
These are subjects of minor .nijKn tancc, yet interesting to our ffllow-citizens, 
whitrh we hope will atti-act the notice and not be deemed unworthy the con- 
sidersition of the Kxerulivc of this free and enli;;ht4.-ned repiiblic-. 

'" We cannot conclude wjilmut expressing our convictii-n that /(*• who has 
for uvirly Imlf a c nlurij ilevoted bis services to his country will render his tour 
as eminently usi-ful as it hius lieen grati^ying to the Anieriian people. We deem 
it ahappinr-ss to embiace Ibis oppoit unity of personally expressing our hi^heat 
regard fur your piivatc character and public worth.' 

*"K. CABie, 

'"J. BlTTF.RFIELD, 

"'F. Whitk.' 
*' To which the President, iiniid Ji large concourse of citizens, made 
a reply, to the following purport: 

" 'That he could not e.\press the feelings that were excited by the respect 
and attention paid lini on his cnlmnce into Ihts place; that, in pni'suiug the 
objects of his tour, Sat ket's Harbor natnnilly liad claims to liis attention ; 
that he had been much gniiifietl in pa.-^sing through a country prosperous and 
fertile, containing a population numei-ous, haitpy, and brave; that he >hw in 
the people an altachiuent to their govcrnnuMil, ;ind did not consi<ler the marks 
<»r attention exhibitetl as rendereil him personally, but as honoring the institu- 
tions of our Country; and that he rejoiced to witness such unanimity of his 
Icllow-cilizens, viewing it as a presage of their future happiness an<i glory ; 
and concluded hy ol serving that he was apprisi d of the importance of this 
place as a military and naval position, (hat it had received considerable atten- 
tion from the gt.>vernmenl, ami would continue to do so to the full extent that 
its security and conseriuetice miuired.' 

" The President, having been introduced to the officers of the navy 
by Commodore Woi)lgey, and to the marshal of the day, proceeded 
to review the troops, who inacle a most splendid and military appear- 
ance. He then viewed the 120-gun shiji that was left untini-^hed at 
the conclusion of the war. The sujierb ranges of stone barracks next 
attracted his nttention. 

" In the evening the village was illuminated, skyrockets and fire- 
works exhibited. It may well be said to have been a period of gen- 
eral rejoicing nnd festivity, and will form an era in the memory of 
those present that will ever be recollected with pleasure. 

"The President will embark this afternoon on the United Slates 
brig JoncM, cotnnianded by Commodore Woolscy, for Niagara. We 
understand thnt Major-General Brown and his suite will aecompnny 
him as far as Detroit." 

William Johnston, generally known as ''Bill Johnston." 
and who afterwards fijj;urod so prominently in the '* Patriot 
War," was proprietor of the "Mansion House" at the time 
of President Monroe's visit, and had the honor of being 
" mine host" to the Presidential party. Many of Mr. 
Johnston's children are living, some of them prominent 
citizens of the county, and othei-s respected citizens of 
Clayton. 

PROMINKNT PIIVSICIANS. 

The first regular physician who located in the village 
was Dr. William IJaker, who, as has been stated, settled 
here in 18015. Dr. Benjamin Farley, a fine pliysician, 
settled previous to the war. Another prouiiucnt phy- 



IIISTORy OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



-107 



sician was Dr. James Staikwcathor, who c.itn; probably 
soon after the War of 1812. He was tlie fouiuler of the 
Sacket's Harbor Union Library, and, besides being a physi- 
cian of note, was among tlie foremost in pmnuting the 
prosperity of the village. In the first is.suj of the Sic/cet's 
Harbor Gdzelte the following advertisement appears : 

"/*A^*i'e and Sitnjt^ry. — Duct. R, U. Iliiyes respnctfully informs the 
citizens of Sackcfs Harbor anj the puljlie in genenil, that lie has 
removed to that villa<;^e, where he will make the science of Medirine 
and Hiirijery his only ])iir3uit. All calls in the various branches of 
iiis profession, left at the store of Seymour and Hayes, will be 
attended with promptness and pleasure." 

Among the celebrities who have resided in the village 
Wits one who gained a world-wide reputation for his discov- 
eries and invention^, — Dr. S.\.muel GiiTtmiE. This gen- 
tleman settled here after the War of 1812, his residence 
being near the present iron bridge acrcss Mill creek, on the 
Watortown road. In 1831 he discovered the article known 
as chloroform, at about the same timj with Soubeiran, in 
France, and Liebig, in Germany. " Guthrie obtained in a 
pure state the substance now called chloroform ; but he 
erroneously supposed his product to be the well-known oily 
liquid of the Dutch chemists, which it greatly resembles, 
and for the preparation of which ho believed he had fallen 
on a cheap and easy process. Under this impression he 
called the substance, in his communications, chloric ether, 
one of the names by which the ' Dutch liquid,' or hlchlo- 
ritle uf ctlii/leii, is designated. He was induced to luake the 
preparation from noticing, in Professor Silliman's ' Elements 
of Chemistry,' a reference to the Dutch li(|ui(l as a grateful 
diffusible stimulant, when properly diluted with alcohol and 
water. In relation to the anticipated importance of chloro- 
form, Mr. Daniel B. Smith, of this city, held the following 
language in July, 1832 : ' The action of this ether on the 
living system is interesting, and may hereafter render it an 
object of importance in commerce. Its flavor is delicious, 
and its intoxicating qualities equal to or surpassing those 
of alcohol. It is a strong diffusible stimulus, similar to the 
hydratcd ether, but more grateful to the taste.' {Jo urn. of 
the Fhihul. Coll. of Pharin., iv. 1 18. f* 

Dr. Guthrie was also the inventor of the percussion 
compound for firearms, and manufacturer of the " percus- 
sion pills," which superseded the old flint-locks, and were 
discharged by means of a small plunger, — they, in their 
turn, having more recently given place to the present sys- 
tem of percussion -caps. In his experiments the Doctor 
nearly lost his life by accidental explosion. He had at one 
lime an old man named Tillotson working for him, and 
when the old powder-mill blew up, Tillotson was buried in 
the ruins. The man wis an inveterate smoker, and when 
discovered after the explosion by the Doctor, he was cov- 
ered with a ma.ss of timbers and stone, badly bruised, hut 
with his short black pipe still between his teeth. The Doc- 
tor, on seeing him, remarked that he had but just escaped 
being killed, but the pij>e ivds soivd.' It is said that at 
one time, after his compound became known, the Doctor 
received a consignment of three barrels of caps from par- 
ties in France, who had manufactured tiiem and sent them 

* U. .S. Dispensatory. 



to him to fill, thinking the cap and nipple much better than 
the pill and plunger. The Doctor, in return for the confi- 
dence thus placed in him and liis invention, sent back the 
caps with a formula lor making the percussion and direc- 
tions for making macliini'ry with which to fill them. Dr. 
Guthrie died at Sacket's Harbor, Oct. 19, 1848. As a 
practical chemist he had gained a wide reputation. On one 
occasion, when he was cxperimcMiting with chloroform, he 
put a few drops of it in a ghiss of whisky a man was about 
to drink. On swallowing the li(|uor the man was imme- 
diately made in.sensible, to the terror of the by-standers, 
who thought the Doctor had killed him. The beverage 
was called " Guthrie s Stvcct Whishi/." The Doctor, his 
eye glancing mirthfully, told the people the man was all 
right, and his statement was .soon verified by his rising to 
his feet in his right senses again. When asked how he 
felt, the oidy rejily he vouchsafed was, "Give me some 
more ! " This of course made the Doctor happy, and 
showed him the result of his labors in a most .satisfactory 
light. 

LAWYERS. 

Among those who have figured prominently in the pro- 
fession of the law in Sacket's Harbor, D. M. Burnhain was 
long as.soeiatod with the interests of the village. He had 
an oifice here, and. aside from his practice, entered to a con- 
siderable extent into the newspaper publishing business. 
He is a native of the town of Adams, in this county. He 
finally removed to the western country, and is now a well- 
known practitioner of the city of Chicago, Illinois. 

Hon. John R. Bcimett, now a prominent judge residing 
in Jauesville, Rock Co., Wisconsin, is a native of Ilouns- 
field township, and studied law in Sacket's Harbor, under 
Burnham. 1 1 is parents were extremely poor when they 
settled in the town.ship, and the Judge's father, Daniel 
Bennett, long supported them by burning charcoal, then 
the only fuel used by blacksmiths. The boy John had but 
few advantages in the way of schooling, yet he possessed 
remarkable ability, which soon raised him to eminence, and 
he now occupies a high position of trust. 

Sanford A. Hudsoo, also a well-known lawyer of Janes- 
ville, Wi-sconsin, studied here under Burnham. He was 
previously a blacksmith, and had worked in the village at 
his trade. 

George II. Harlow, the present efficient secretary of the 
State of Illinois, to which position he was elected in the 
autumn of 1876, is a native of Sacket's Harbor. 

BANKS. 

The Sacket's Harbor Bank " was incorporated April 28, 
18:;4, with a atpital of §200,000, in shares of S50 each, 
and a limitation of existence to Jan. 1, 1865. Thomas 
Loiimis, Jesse Smith, Daniel Wardwell, Thomas J. Angel, 
Azariah Walton, Jo.scph Sheldon, Woodbridge C. George, 
Henry H. Coffeen, and Noadiah Hubbard were named 
commissioners for receiving .subscriptions for stock, and the 
corporation had the usual powers, immunities, and restric- 
tions of suclr institutions. Its affairs were to be managed 
by 13 directors, elected annually by ballot, who were to 
choose one of their number president. The charter of the 
Sacket's Harbor Bank came before the Legislature for 



408 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



repeal in Ajuil, ISIj", uikiii a complaint that its officers had 
received and jiaid out ciTtaiii cliecksof a business firm, con- 
trary to the provision of the law prohibiting the circulation 
of bills less than five dollars. The bill for repeal having 
passed the Assembly April 7, large public meetings were 
held at Watertown, Browiiville, Sacket's Harbor, and else- 
where, calling upon the senate to prevent its passage. It 
was apprehended that the sudden withdrawal of so large a 
sum from the circulation of the county would seriously 
derange its business, and the bank and its officers were de- 
fended against the calumnies that had been circulated. 
These efforts proved unavailing, and the bill for repeal 
Wanic a law, May 12, 1838, the directors being appointed 
trustees, until others were appointed to settle its affairs.* 
On April 17, 1837, the charter was restored,"f and March 
25, 18.")2, an act was pa-ssed authorizing a change of its 
place of business to Buffalo, upon the concurrence of two- 
tiiirds of its directors. This measure had been several 
years contemplated, and repeated applications had been 
made to the legislature, which had been defeated. The act 
was at length procured without the knowledge of many citi- 
zens who had previously opposed it.|" 

A State bank at Sacket's Harbor, owned by Edgar B. 
Camp, began business May 17, 1852, with a capital of 
§50,000. It continued for some time, and was finally forced 
to discontinue, causing considerable loss to a number of 
pei-sons and firms. 

A FOUNDRY 

was established in 184H by David McKec and Edward S. 
Hammond. Since about 1858 it has been carried on by 
jVIcKee alone. Plows, stoves, repairs, and all ordinary east- 
ings are manufactured, and in 1857-58 mowing-machines 
were added. The building is stone, with a portion occu- 
pied as a machine-shop. Three hands are employed. 

CEMETERY. 

The village cemetery is located near Madison Barracks, 
and has lately been enlarged and improved. In esaminin" 
the head-stones, the oldest one found was that of a person 
named Hooker, who was born at Windsor, Connecticut, in 
Ai)ril, 1775, and died at Sacket's Harbor, May 2, 1810. 
The stone is overturned and partially covered with turf, so 
as to render a portion of the insciiption illegible. Among 
the older graves are the following: "Mrs. Maria Jacob 
Wheaton, wife of Walter V. Wheaton, U.S.A., and daugh- 
ter of Hon. Stojihen Jacob, died at Sacket's Harbor, March 
15, 1821, aged 27." An old stone by the side of this 
was lying on its face, rendering it impossible to read the 
inscription. "Mrs. Ally Myler, wife of Patrick Myler, 
died March 28, 1822, aged 45 years." "Betsey, daughter 
of Jiihn and Mary Root, drowned May 25, 1825, aged 19 
years," " Sacred to the memory of James Jackson, who 
departeil this ^ tniiisutiiri/' life June 215, 1825. He left a 
widiiw and one child to depli)re his loss." Many neat head- 



• Affidnrits and stntcmenls on llio sulijcct occur in Assembly Docu- 
incnls, I8.i8, niiiulicrs 21."!, 21.1, 21)6, 2'J7, 2'.I8. 

t Report of iMjiuiiiitttc, Willi statLiiRiiti). Assembly iJocumcnts, 
I.SiiS, v., No. 27S. 

I Hough's History of JelTcTson County. 



Stones arc found, and a better site for a la.st resting-place 
for those who have " gone before" could probably not have 
been cho.sen. 

nOAT-l!i;iLDINCi, SHIPPING, AND FISHING INTERESTS. 

" Previous to the war a flourishing commerce had sprung 
up on Lake Ontario, and the following vessels were engaged 
in trade, all of them having more or less business at Sacket's 
Harbor : Genesee Packet, Capt. Obed Mayo, of Ogdens- 
burgh ; Diuna, Capt. A. Montgomery; Fair American, 
Capt. Augustus Foi-d ; Collector, Capt. Samuel Dixon ; Ex- 
periment, Capt. C. Holmes ; Charles and Ann, Capt. Pease ; 
Dolphin, Capt. William Vaughan, and a few others whose 
names were not obtained. The Fair American is said to 
have been the first vessel built under the present govern- 
ment on this lake. She was launched at Oswego for the 
Northwestern Fur Comjiany. Soon after the war, the 
schooners Woolsr^, liamhler, Farmer's Dani/hter, Triumph, 
Commodore Perry, Dolphin, etc., were advertised as run- 
ning on regular linos as packets from this port. Ship- 
building, during the war, was carried on under the super- 
vision of Henry Eekford, who gained, and afterwards 
maintained, great eminence in this department. Noah 
Brown, and others, who began their career under him, 
subsequently became noted as ship-builders. Ever since 
the war, the business of constructing trading-ves.sels at this 
port has been more or less continued, but we have not been 
able to procure the details satisfiictorily."§ 

It is said that the first trading-vessel that ever entered 
the river at Chicago, Illinois, was the Ariadne, sailed 
from Sacket's Harbor by Capt. Pickering. As an experi- 
ment a cargo of pork and flour was shipped in this vessel, — 
the former by Festus Clark, a great pork-packer for that 
day, and facetiously known as " Hog Clark" in conseciuenee, 
and the latter by Thomas S. Hall. The Chicago of to-day 
— the greatest pork-packing centre in the world — would 
smile at the idea of having forty or fifty barrels of pork 
shipped to her as of old from a place so remote as Sacket's 
Harbor, or indeed any other. Captain Pickering after- 
wards committed suicide. The Ariadne was at one time 
partly owned by Captain Daniel Read. 

Henry Eekford, the ship-builder who ac(|uired such 
fame at Sacket's Harbor and elsewhere, aci)uired a large 
fortune bv his efforts in this line during the War of 1812, 
but sul)se(iuently lost most of it through unfortunate stock 
specidations. For several years previous to hk< death, 
which occurred at Constantinople, November 12, 1882, he 
had been chief director of the dock-yards in the Turki.sh 
Empire. The Sultan, in speaking of him, gave kim a fine 
compliment by remarking that " America must be (treat if 
it could spare such men as Eekford." 

The most prominent and attractive relic of the war of 
1812-15 now preserved at the Harbor, is the decaying hull 
of the line-of-battle-ship Aeio Orleans, built as a coun- 
ter-match to the .SV. Lawrence, a three-deck man-of-war, 
.set afloat by the British. The latter vessel carried 120 
guns, and it w:ls ncce.<.sary to at once construct an antagonist 
worthy to measure strength with lur. The New Orleans 



I Hough. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



409 



had a keel of 187 foot, breadth of beam 50 feet, and 30 
feat depth of hold, with a nieasuroment of ^5200 tuns. Slie 
was pierced for 110 guns, but could have carried 120. The 
vessel was never launched, owing to the peace measures 
adopted by the two countries ; and to preserve her the 
government erected a house over her at considerable ex- 
pense. This buildinii has been several times repaired, but 
is now in a dilapidated condition, and fast becoming unsafe, 
while the timbers and keel in the old hull are rapidly rot- 
tening awa\'. The shores or props by which she is upheld 
are apparentlj' as sound as the day they were set. The 
gun-carriages to have received her armament are sound and 
in good condition. This vessel, though she would have 
been a formidable antagonist at the time .she was building, 
would scarcely afl'ord protection to a crew against the iron- 
clad monsters of modern naval warfare. (Sec illustration.) 

The Clilppewa, a vessel of the saiue class, was being 
built at iStorr's Harbor, farther up the bay, but the news 
of peace put a stop to the work upon her also, which had 
not advanced as far as on the New Orleans. A house 
was built over her and preserved for a number of years, 
but the vessel was finally taken down for the iron it con- 
tained, and the house removed. 

The Oiildii",* the first steamer on Lake Erie, was 
begun in the summer of 181(!, and was finished and made 
her first trip early in 1817. A notice of her, with rates 
of passage, etc., has been elsewhere given. The Ontario 
continued to run, seldom exceeding five miles an hour, 
until 1832, when she was broken up at Oswego. A draw- 
ing of this vessel, made by Captain James Van Clcve, from 
sketches he made while clerk on board of her in 182G, is 
in the possession of Mr. De Wolf, present Deputy Collector 
of Customs at Sacket's Harbor. The cai)tain was clerk on 
this boat for the four years from 182G to 1829 inclusive. 
No vessels have been built here for several years, and there 
are at present no facilities for the business. The fishing 
business at the Harbor and in the vicinity has for many years 
been extensive, and now con.stitutcs one of the principal 
commercial interests of the i)lace. Messrs. Robbins and 
Clark, fish-dealers, have .shipped to the extent of six or 
.seven tons of these finny inhabitants of the " vasty deep" 
in a day, and are constantly busy. 

BUSINESS INTERESTS. 

Grain is handled to a considerable extent, and the amount 
transported by the railway during the season of 1877 will 
reach probably one hundred thousand bu.shels. A large 
warchou.se, owned by the railway company, stands on the 
dock, and improved facilities for unloading grain from ves- 
sels have lately been added. Messrs. B. Eveleigh and 
Charles Hall are (juite extensive dealers in coal, the Penn- 
sylvania anthracite being the principal article used. It is 
shipped to the village by way of Oswego, Sodus Bay, etc., 
and is said to be furnished cheaper here than it can be at 
Watertown. The timber for a considerable distance around 
the village has almost entirely disappeared, and wood is 
little, if any, cheaper than coal. 

Among the business buildings of the village the finest 

• Sec illustration mi jiagc 125. 



is the "Bobbins Block," built by B. S. Bobbins, about 
1855, at a cost of six thou.sand dollars. It is a substantial 
brick structure, having on the u])per floor a public hall, 
known as " Ontario Hall," which will .seat about two hundred 
persons. Many ol' the stores arc built of brick, and the town 
generally is substantial and calculated to weather the blasts 
of many years. Many of the earlier buildings were con- 
structed of native limestone, and stand firmly to-day in all 
their (|uaintness of architecture as relics of bygone days. 
Among the fine dwellings of the village are tho.se of Hon. 
Theodore Canfiehl, Waller B. Camp, George II. Camp, 
Leonard Denison, and others. 

sacket's harbor in the war (if 1812-15. 

"On the declaration of war the Ciiitcd States possi-ssed 
almost no means of defense on this frontier. The brig 
Oneida, under Lieutenant Woolscy, with an armament of 
10 guns (a heavy 3C-pound cannon), and a few smaller 
ones, some of which belonged to the State n)ilitia, consti- 
tuted the sum of our means of defen.se. The British, it 
w;is well known, had been preparing for the event one or 
two years at Kingston, and, when the news of war arrived, 
had the mi'ans afloat at that place not only of eumuianding 
the lake, but of landing whatever force they might possess 
at such points as they might select, without a reasonable 
prospect of resistance. Col. Christopher P. Bellinger, with 
a body of drafted militia, had been stationed at this place, 
and an artillery company, under Capt. Elisha Camp, had 
been formed and had offered their services for a short time, 
which had been accepted by General Brown. As ordnance 
and military stores were of first importance for the defense 
of the j)lace, a meeting was called to press upon the gov- 
ernor the importance of an immediate attention to these 
wants, of which the following is a copy of the proceedings ; 

"'Sacket's Harbor, July 11, 1S12. 
"'His Exceli.f.scv Gov. Tompkins: 

" ' Rc'peclcd Sli, — The un<leisigno<l, a comniitleo appointril on Iho 
part of the officers stationeil at .Sacket's Harbor ami tlic villagers for 
the purpose of adopting measures of defense for this place, heg leave 
to address you on this subject. We would earnestly solicit your at- 
tention to tlie exposed situation of this ])lace, its liability to attack, 
and to the most cxpctlitious means of resisling with effect any offen- 
sive operations. This place, it will be known, is the station or port 
from whence the brig Oneiiln derives all her supplies, and almost the 
only harbor she can with safety resort to from the bad weather of the 
lake. It is a village resj)ectable for size and populati^m, and is the 
easiest of access to any hostile naval force upon the lake. The Eng- 
lish have a disposable effective naval force of at least sixty-eight 
guns, while all our defense consists of IS guns on boanl the Otieiita 
and 2 nine-pounders on shore, — less than one-third of what may bo 
made to bear upon us. Under these cireuuistanees, according to the 
established usages of war, it would be bordering upon insanity for 
us not to expect that an attack will be made upon us, the troops 
stationed here driven from their encampment, a lancling effected 
under the cover of naval artillery, and the village demolished, with a 
large amount of property and loss of life. And in fact wc have it 
credibly reported that it is the intention of our enemies to capture 
Captain Woolsey, and destroy the navigation on our side of the lake. 
Having two schooner prizes in port, besides other.craft, wc of course 
must daily expect a visit. Under this point of view wo have for 
some time considered the subject, anil have been awaiting with anx- 
ious expectation the arrival of cannon and ammunition. It is far 
from the wish of the citizens of this place to retire from it with their 
families and effects, and thereby scatter alarm and dismay through- 
out the country at large; but wc assure you, honored sir, that every 



410 



HISTORr OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



consideration of prudence and self-preservation would dictate the 
measure, did nut rcinfurccinenfs of artillery soon arrive. We have a 
very well disciplined company of jirlillery. of citizens belonging to 
this place, who can be rallied at a very short notice, and would iu 
conjunction with the soldiers be competent to the raanugomeut of a 
number of heavy pieces of ordnance besides the two 'J-pounders 
already here. M"c should therefore respectfully solicit that the two 
9-pounders and two sixes and other ordnance at the Rome Arsenal 
might tvitii suitable fi.xed antl other ammunition be forwarded with 
all possible expedition, and if 10 or 12 nines, twelves, or eighteen 
pounders could be forwarded we should consider the troops, the 
village, and the brig Ontitfa, when here, as secure from attack, or if 
attacked would be able to give a good account of our adversaries. 
This |)lace would then be a safe retreat to the Oucidn, should she 
meet with a reverse of fortune, as well as a safe place of refuge for 
the navigation of the lakes, no harbor being easily of access or uatu- 
rally more secure. .At present there is no place to which the Oneida 
can resort with safety in case of an attack with a superior force. 

"'Oswego, Sodus, and Genesee river she cannot enter with her 
guns aboard, and Niagara is too much exposed. We woulil further 
take the liberty of suggesting the propriety of some engineer being 
ordered on, with instructions to erect suitable temporary batteries, to 
be thrown up by the troops, for such pieces of ordnance as may be 
stationed here. Any communication that your honor may think 
proper to make through Captain L. Buss, the bearer, to the keeper 
of the arseual at Rome or otherwise, we have no doubt will be ex- 
ecuted with fidelity and dispatch.* 

" The comniittec who drafted the above were Colonel 
Bellinger, Major Dill, Captain E. Camp, F. White, and W. 
Warriii;j:. 

'• During the war Sacket's Harbor became the theatre of 
military and naval operations on an extensive scale. It was 
twice attacked by the British without success, and it was 
the station from which were fitted out the expeditions 
against Toronto, Fort George, etc., and the unfortunate 
enterprise under General Wilkinson in the fall of 1813. 
From its being the centre of operations so extensive, and 
the retidezvous of great numbers of sailors and soldiers, 
many iticidcnts occurred that possess much interest, and 
scenes of vice and misery inseparable from camps became 
familiar to the citizens. 

'■ At this station about a dozen military executions were 
performed during the war. for repeated desertion, with the 
view of striking terror into the minds of the disaffected, 
but with the effect of increasing the evil. These cases were, 
many of them, young men from New England, of respect- 
able families, who, in the heat of political excitement, had 
enlisted in the army, and who foutid themselves the victims 
of the wanton barbarity of officers, exposed to the severest 
hardshii>s of the camp, and often ill clad and woree fed, 
sometimes without shelter, and always without sympathy. 
Several of tliese cases excited much sympathy, among which 
was thiit of a boy of sixteen years of age, who had been 
bribed with a gold watch to open a prison door at Green- 
bush, and who was here arrested and convicted. Many 
officers and citizens made strenuous efforts to obtain re 
prieve, which were enforced by tiic appeals of a mother, 
but without effect ; the agonized parent followed her child 
to the gallows, and the sympatliizing tears of the spectators 
bespoke the feeling which tlii.s rigid exercise of the iron 
rule of war had occiisioned. 

..." On one occasion the convict, on approaching the 
scaffold, scrutinized its construction with the eye of a car- 
penter, leaped upon the platform, pushed off the hangman, 
and jumped off himsjif ; but a reprieve arrived the instant 



after, and he was restored. The place of execution was 
generally in the rear of the village, where the graves were 
dug, and the convicts were marched to the spot, surrounded 
by a guard, and, after kneeling by their coffins, were dis- 
patched by the shots of several musket.s, a part of which 
only were loaded with ball. There were commonly eight 
men detailed fur this purpose. The brutality of officers 
was in some instances excessive, the most extreme corporeal 
punishment being inflicted for the slightest causes, or from 
mere caprice; and such was sometimes the bittern&ss of 
men towards officers that in one case, it is said, a captain 
durst not lead his company in an action for fear of being 
shot by his own men. 

" Nor were there wantitig incidents of a ludicrous kind, 
which enlivened the monotony of the camp, and showed 
the fiffhts as well as the sluidcs of the soldier's life. 
Abuses will sometimes work their own reform, as was illus- 
trated in an amusing instance at this station during the 
war. A mess of militia soldiers had received for their 
rations a hn^'s head, an article of diet not altogether avail- 
able nor susceptible of fair and equal division among them. 
They accordingly, upon representation of the facts, pro- 
cured at other me.sses in the cantonment a contribution in 
kind, to supply their wants for the coming week ; and after 
the morning review, having placed upon a bier, borne on 
the shoulders of four men, their ration of pork, the3' marched 
through the village, with muffled drum and notes of the 
death march, to the cemetery, where it was solcmidy buried 
with military honors. On the next occasion they received 
from the commissary store a supply of edible meat, and the 
occasion for a similar parade did not afterwards occur. 

"Soon after the battle of May, 1813, a brea.«twork of 
logs and earth was built around the village, one end touch- 
ing the bay, about half-way between the harl>or and Horse 
island, and the other at the site of Madison barracks. No 
opportunity was afforded subse(|uently for the use of tliese 
defenses. The village contained at the close of the war 
several block-houses and catitonments, a cousiilorablc quan- 
tity of military stores, and a large fleet of vessels that were 
laid up at this place ; but these have gradually disappeared 
until little now remains, — the hull of a ship of 120 guns 
and the remaitis of one breastwork."* 

Until within a few years an old block-house was standing 
which occupied a position inside of a work known as Fort 
Virginia. It stood on latid owned by R. S. Robliins, and 
was long used as a stable, and finally removed. The hull 
of the war-vesselJe/?ecsoH, dismantled soon after the peace, 
lies on the waters of the harbor, oti the south side of the 
shiii-house. 

The part taken by citizens of Sacket s Harbor in the 
Patriot War of 1837-40 will be elsewhere described. 

sacket's hakbor naval st.\tion. 

Immediately after the War of 1812-1.5 this station w.is 
established jieriuanently, and Lieutenant Thom.a.s Brownell, 
a sailor under Commodore Perry, appointed to its command. 
This had been an important position during the war, and 
inasmuch as it afforded the safest and best harbor on the 

• Hough. 








■'^=-±2=MM^^ 



/ 



SuNKCH HuLx 'JtfftrfSon " 

jn/r Mjt/jt ../i/r ; u!V< .^ALM/5 I'i^noi.'^. 'v /. MaDISOH Bi/flT/ICKS in IHt Dl SI AUCL AT THE Rk^HT . 




LlNC-or- BAITLZ SHIP fiLW ORLEANS". KUL 187 fT.BUU SBfr.OEFTH oFH0L030f'. 

»- MCASUI^CMCNT 3200 TONS , 120 &UNS."S 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



411 



lake, it was rosortod to ))y vessels of all deseriptioiis. The 
amount owned by the governmeut, and included in the 
property of the station, is between three and four acres. 
The officers in command here since Lieut. Brownell have 
been Capt. Charles T. Flatt, Capt. (ieorgc Sawyer, Cajit. 
James Mcintosh, Captain Josiah Tatnall, afterwards a 
commodore in the Confederate navy duriui; the Rebellion, 
Capt. George N. llollins, also a rebel commodore afterwards. 
Previous to 18G0, Capt. Tatnall liad been to China, and on 
returninii, liavini; been promoted to commodore, relieved 
Captain llollins. Tatnall was a Georgian by birth, and 
this, with constant importuning from many of his friends, 
who were southern sympathizers, induced him finally to cast 
his fortune with the mass of secessionists. His property 
at Sackct's Harbor was afterwards confiscated by the gov- 
ernment. Tatnall is said to have been the head of a most 
interesting family.* Captain llollins went from Sacket's 
Harbor to the Mediterranean, in command of the U. S. 
frigate Susqiicliminii, and on the breaking out of the rebel- 
lion resigned his command and joined the southern navy. 
His success (?) as commander of a flotilla of gun-boats is a 
matter of history. After Tatnall was here the second time 
the command was given to Commodore E. A. F. Lavalette, 
who stayed until 1SU2, in the fall of which year he was 
relieved by Commodore Theoddrus Bailey, afterwards re- 
tired at the rank of rear-admiral. lie stayed until some 
time in 1803, and was succeeded by Henry Metcalf, of 
Sacket's Harbor, who, in connection with his duties as 
ship-keeper, had charge of the station until Jul\', 186G. 
Com. J. B. Montgiuuery was stationed in charge succeeding 
Metcalf, and stayed three years, being succeeded by Rear- 
Admiral J. B. Montgomery. Commodore Francis B. Ellison 
was here next, and stayed two years, or until 1871, and was 
relieved by Com. J. P. McKinstry. The latter stayed but 
about three weeks, and was in turn relieved by Capt. Alex- 
ander C. llhind, who was here only two weeks, after which 
the station was placed in charge of the present ship-keeper, 
Albert H. Metcalf, who has since held the position. 

Commodore J. B. Montgomery received his commission 
as midshipman here during the War of 1812, and was 
soon after assigned to the fleet of Commodore 0. H. Perry 
on Lake Erie. He was with that gallant officer during the 
ever-memorable battle of September 10. 1813, on Lake 
Erie. Montgomery also received his commission as rear- 
admiral at Sacket's Harbor, and was soon after placed on 
the retired list, being at the time in couiniand of the station. 
Master William Vaughau, during his stay here, occupied 
the house now occupied by Jlr. Metcalf. He was " born 
Aug. 15, 177(5, at Wilkesbarre, Pa., and in 17114 first 
visited Canada, while Oswego, Fort Carlton, and Oswe- 
gatchie were held by the Briti.sh, and in crossing the lake 
was required to take out a British passport between Ameri- 
can ports. In 1797 he again returned, and soon after 
engaged in lake navigation. In 1812 he was employed as 
sailing-master, and was prominent and active in that 
c.ipacity through the war. He subsequently resumed the 
nuiriner's life, and was successively master of the steamers 
Sophia, Ontario, BroicnviUe, William Avert/, Telegraph, 

■■■■" Tatnall 1 uilt the iron fence surmountcil with 21-pountl i^hjt. 



and Martha Of/<7rii,on Lake Ontario. For many years he 
resided at Sacket's Harbor, as sailing-master, under pay of 
government. "t 

The .ship-keepers here have been as follows : a German 

named Firm, Richard.son, Joseph Fields, David 

Stewart, Henry Metcalf, Charles Harlow, Frank Kane, 
George Jones, Thomas Lindsay, Henry IMetcalf a .second 
time, and a son of the latter, Albert H. Jlctcalf, who has 
been in charge since the fall of 18GG. He was a member 
of the 142d N. Y. Infantry during the Rebellion. 

The only repres(nilative of the navy now at the station 
is jMaster Charles V. Morris, who is on the retired list, and 
has been at the place about four years. He is a grandson 
of Lewis Morris, one of the signers of the Declaration of 
Independence, and a son of General Jacob Morris, an early 
settler of Otsego county, and a hero of the Revolutionary 
War. General Morris was several years in the State .senate 
from Otsego county, of which C. V. Morris is a native, 
having been born there May 4, 1802. He joined the navy 
January 1, 1818, and went out on the frigate Giierriere, 
commanded by Commodore McDonough, of Lake Cham- 
plain notoriety. This vessel conveyed Mr. Canijibell, U. S. 
Minister to Russia, to that country, landing him at Cron- 
stadt. Mr. Jlorris' next trip was on the ship of the line 
Frauldin, 8G guns. This vessel was modeled after the 
unfinished New Orleans, now lying at Sacket's Harbor, 
and was built by the same nuui who constructed her.J Mr. 
Morris served under Commodores Hull and Bainbridge, and 
other celebrities of the U. S. Navy, and during the late 
Rebellion was under Dahlgren and Farragut. He was em- 
ployed in transporting troops on the Potomac river, and 
during his naval service resided for twenty-.six years in one 
house in the navy yard at Washington, D. C. He was 
kept in service six years after he was retired. His wife 
rendered efficient service in the ho.spitals at Wa.shington 
during the war, and was greatly esteemed by the boys in 
blue. Mr. Morris was an intimate acquaintance and friend 
of President Lincoln, and with this acijuaintance are asso- 
ciated many of the pleasantest memories of his life. His 
sister, Mary Morris, was married to Isaac Cooper, a brother 

of the famous author of" Leather-stocking Tales," James 

Fenimore Cooper. Both are now decea.sed. 

No sailors or marines have been stationed here since the 
War of 1812. The north building, occupied by Master 
Morris, was erected in 1840, and the other, now occupied 
by Mr. Metcalf, in 1850, both under the supervision of 
Captain Piatt, then in charge of the station. These 
buildings are of brick. 

During the " Patriot War," two sloop-of-war batteries, 
32- and G8-pounders, were stored here, and remained until 
the breaking out of the Rebellion, when they were removed, 
with the ammunition, to St. Louis. Mo. In the ordnance 
building there are at present stored twenty Dahlgren guns, 
of nine-inch calibre, and weighing 9500 pounds each, and 
one 30-pounder Parrott gun. The Dahlgrens constitute a 
full sloop-of-war's battery, and were cast in Pittsburgh, Pa. 
The carriages are from Port.smouth, New Hampshire. 



t Hough. 



t Henry Eckfuid. 



412 



HISTOEY OF JEFFERSON COUNTl', NEW YORK. 



MADISON BARRACKS. 

Latitude of barracks, 43° 57' N. ; longituJe, 76° 15' 
AV. ; lu'iglit of barometer, 2G2 feet above the sea ; site of 
post, about 30 feet above Blacic River bay. " Excepting 
a short distance in front of the parade, the land ovorlooiiS 
the water bj' a perpendicular blui?" of limestone. Originally 
a deep valley filled with cedars occupied a portion of the 
parade. This was filled, and the rough place in front was 
sloped ofl'^ and the boundary of the parade towards the 
water was secured by a stone wall, brought up as high as 
the plane of the parade, the surface of which was allowed 
to slope gently from the ofiiccrs' quarters towards the water. 
The .soil of the reservation is chiefly a dark loam, resting on 
a stratum of fossiliferous limestone. The reservation con- 
tains 39} acres, purchased in parcels at different dates as 
required, from July 1, 1813, to March 28, 1817. 

" The reservation was inclosed by a strong stockade of 
pointed cedar posts in 1S17. The cost of preparing the 
site and of erecting the buildings was SI 5(1,000.* The 
cost of the land was probably §1000. The reservation is 
in the form of an irregular four-sided figure, with gates for 
footmen and vehicles on the southern and southwestern 
sides. About a third of the water-front is occupied by 
Fort Pike, an ordinary earth breastwork and water-battery, 
erected in 1812." f 

The officers" and men's (|uarters, guard-house, and hos- 
pitiil building are substantially constructed of stone. The 
ofiicers' quarters consist of two rows of buildings, each 217 
by 33 feet, protected in front by a continuous portico six 
feet in width. The men's quarters are also two rows of 
buildings, running northwest, at right angles to the officers' 
quarters. Each row is 452 feet long and 23 feet wide. 
The ho.sjiital is at the northeastern limit of the reservation, 
about fifty feet from the water. This building is nearly 
square, with wings on the north and south. The grounds 
conipri.se about three acres. The cemetery comjirises about 
an acre. All the graves have head-stones or boards, ex- 
cept a very few old ones, of which there is no history. A 
portion of the officers' quarters was burned in the fall of 
187G, and another fire destroyed the fine (|uartermaster and 
commissary store-house which stood at the lower side of 
the parade, near the water. There are several wooden build- 
ings within the grounds, used for storage, etc., and a few 
of them for dwelling purposes. 

During the summer of 1815, Slaj.-Gen. Jacob Brown 
" issued orders for the building of JIadi.son Barracks, and 
placed his brother. Major Samuel Brown, A. Q. M., U.S.A., 
in general charge of the work, with Captain Thomas 
Tupper, A. Q. M., U.S.A., as his assistant." The above 
orders seem to have been i.s.sued by General Brown on his 
own responsibility, but they were afterwards approved by 
the authorities at Washington. The masonry work was 
done under contract by Orrin Ives, and the carpenter work 
by Jo.seph Kimball, Philo Johnson, and Cliauncey Calhoun. 
The largest part of the labor on the road and buildings was 
performed by the 2d U. S. Infantry, then garrisoning Car- 
toiicment Smith, on Xavy point. Details of the men were 

* By other authorities, $85,000. 
f Medical Hist, of Post. 



made daily, and placed under the charge of an officer who 
forced their task of work with a degree of severity not 
practiced at this day. 

" The ])lan of the buildings was drawn by William 
Smith. Great irregularity seems to have been practiced 
in the expenditure of public funds during the construction 
of this jilaee by the issue of due-bills for labor, which for 
a long time had but little value, and in consequence great 
fraud was put upon some of the contractors, which was in 
some measure remedied by an act of Congress, passed in 
1830, ' for the relief of Je.s.se Smith and others.' The 
bitter effects of these transactions are felt to this day, and 
while the barracks hiis always been an object of juide, and 
an agreeable place of resort to the citizens of Jefferson 
County, some of them arc unable to find in this sufficient 
compensation for their losses connected with the place. 

'• In the fall of 181C the men's (juarters were so far 
completed that five companies of the 2d Infantry moved 
into them from Navy point, though as yet some of the floors 
and porticoes were unfinished. Near the top of the side of 
the officers' quarters, facing the sally-jiort, on each side are 
tablets of stone, inscribed on the eastern side with ' Com- 
menced August 1, 1816 ; completed October, 1819 ;' on the 
western side, ' Erected by the 2d Infantry.' 

" The 2d U. S. Infantry, whose history for twenty-three 
years after the close of the war with Great Britain is in- 
scparalile from that of Madison Barracks, was reorganized 
and filled up in 1815 at this place from volunteers, citizens, 
quartermaster's employees, etc., that were mustered out of 
service at the cessation of hostilities. ;|; The addition of 
these new elements to the regiment required the utmost 
rigor of discipline on the part of the officers to prevent 
outbreaks of intemperance, violence, and the dissolute habits 
that had been leanicd in the camps hereabout during the 
war. The moral tone of all classes along the northern 
frontier apjicars to have been much shaken by the war 
about this time, and among the officers difficulties often 
arose from slight causes, and quite a number of duels are 
reported as having been fought among them at this place, 
during the war and soon afterwards. The first one that 
comes within the scope of this narrative was fought be- 
tween Dr. Burr, U.S.A., and a Lieutenant Smith, 2d 
Infantry. Both parties were slightly wounded, and Smith 
was afterwards liung in Philadelphia for killing Carson, 
captain of an East Indian vessel. While the malign 
effects of the war upon the habits and morals of both sol- 
diers and citizens was seen in the prevalence of intemper- 
ance and other irregularities, a counter-influence soon sprung 
into action among the officers of the 2d Infantry, for about 
this period they took the first steps toward re-establishing 
religious services and for restoring ]iublic order, then so 
much needed in this coiiinuiinly. This regiment after- 
wards, in the western country, was familiarly known as 
the ' jiraying regiment.' 

" The first commanding officer of Madison Barracks was 
Colonel Hugh Brady, Second United States Infantry, who, 



J Regiment organized by CnUinel Hugh lirady, wlio was sub.st- 
qtiently assigned (he command of the post at the Sault St. Mary, and 
died at Detroit, Mich., about IS61. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



413 



as mentioned above, moved into this place, with five com- 
panies of his rcjrimeiit, iu the fall of 181 G. From this date 
to 1833 no records eoncerniuj; the place can be found. 
There is a report, however, that from 181(5 to 1821 an 
artillery company, of which Capt. Ililernum and Lieut. 
Le,;r.<;ett were officers, occupied Fort Pike."* 

AV'hile Col. Brady had command of this station, the re- 
mains of most of the officers who had fallen in the field, or 
died of sickness on the frontier, were collected and buried 
together within the pickets of Madison Barracks, doubtless 
with the intention that at u future time they should be 
honored with a monument. 

" A temporary wooden monument of pine boards — the 
foiiii. without the substance, of a tcslitnonial to their 
memory, and perhaps emblematical of the empt}' and 
perishable honors which our people are too wont to bestow 
upon those who deserve well of their country — was placed 
over the sj>ot where these remains were buried, but which, 
from nciilect and the natural action of the elements, has 
tumbled down."'}" Upon the panels were the following in- 
scriptions : 

Nonrii Side. — "Brigadier-General L. Covingtim. killed, Chrysler's 
Field, U. C, November II, 1S13." " Licuteunnt-Cdloncl E. Backus, 
Dragoons, killed at Sackefs Harbor, May 29, ISl.i." 

E.vsT Side. — '* Colonel Tuttle," "Lieutenant-Colonel Di.t," " ^lajur 
Johnson," '* Lieutenant Vaudeveutcr." 

Soi'Tii .Side. — " Lieutenant-Colonel Mills, Volunteer, kille<l nt 
Sackct's Harbor, May 211, ISIS." " Captain A. Spencer, 2'.llh In- 
fantry, aid-dc-cainp to Major-ticneral Brown, killfd at Lundy's 
Lane, July 2o, 18H." 

Wkst Side.—" Brigadier-Oeneral Z. M. Pike, killed at York, U. C, 
April 27. 1813." "Captain Joseph Xieholson. 1 ttli Infantry, aitl-de- 
cauip to General Pike, killed at York, U. C, Ajiril 27, 1S1.3." 

The remains of Colonel Mills were, a number of years 
afterwards, removed to Albany. 

" From 181G to April, 1828, the garri.son was occupied 
uninterruptedly by the Second Infintry, and the command- 
ing officers were, iis far as can be learned, as follows: 

" Lieut. -Col. Win. Lawrence, from Jan. to Dec, 1S24. 

Col. Hugh Brady, December, IS24, to February, 1S26. 

Capt. F. Staniford, February to March, lS2(i. 

Col. Hugh Br.ady, M irch to May, 1S2I). 

Brevet Capt. James Young, May to June, 1S26. 

Capt. J. D. Wilkins, June to August, 1826. 

Brevet -Major X. S. Clark, August, 1S26, to April, 1S28. 

" On the departure of the troops under Major Clark, the 
belief was entertained th.at there was but a remote chance 
that the barracks would be needed again as a military 
post, whereupon Caj)tain Aldeii Partridge, a teacher of 
some note in a milit;»ry school at Middletown, Connecticut, 
obtained the consent of Hon. Peter B. Porter, then Sec- 
retary of War, for the use of the place for a term of years 
as a military and scientific school, which was approved by 
the President and afterward confirmed by a joint resolution 
of Coiigiv.-is, May 24, 1828 ; but nothing further was done 
towards carrying out the project beyond annouiiciiig the 
object to the citizens in the vicinity. 

" Nov. 21, 1828, the barracks was again occupied by 
two companies of the Second Infantry, under Cajitain Wm. 
Hoffman, who remained in command till April 1. 1829, 
when he was succeeded by 



* Midieal Ilislorv of Post. 



f Uough. 



"Col. Hugh Brady, 2d Infantry, April 1 to May 12, 1829. 
Lieut. -Col. A. Cuminings, 2.1 Infy., May 12, 1829, to May 29. 1831. 
Capt. 0. Ransom. 2d Infantry, May 29, 1831, to Aug. IC. 1831. 
Capt. Wm. llutfinan, 2.1 Infantry, August 10 to Sept. 17, 1831. 
Lt.-Col. A. Cuiumings, 2d Infy., Sept. 17, 1831, to May 20, 1832. 

" The troops at the barracks being required to take 
part in the Black Hawk War, the place was again left, 
unoccupied, and under the charge of Ordnance-Sergeant 
Gaines, till May 19, 1834. 

" In the days of pipe-elayed belts, leather caps, and 
silvered epaulettes a certain amount of stiffness of deport- 
ment and martinet ish regularity of conducting everything 
relating to military routine were regarded as essential to a 
true soldierly bearing, and no better sample of the severe 
tastes of those times in this way can be had than in the 
scrupulous care that was taken by the Second Infantry to 
keep the parade clear of grass. Every blade was remorse- 
lessly hunted out from between the gravel-stones of the 
surface by the prisoners, armed with knives, old bayonets, 
and shears, till there was nothing left; but a glaring ban en 
jilain, upon which the footsteps of the men at drill gave out 
that peculiar gritty trtitnp. tramp, tramp, so grateful to 
the ear of a stiff-necked drill-master. 

"On May 9, 1834, Lt.-Col. A. Cummings, with his 
adjutant, Gallagher, returned and established the head- 
quarters of the Second Infantry at the barracks, where it 
remained undisturbed till June, 1837, when the troubles 
on the northern frontier, finiiliarly known as the Patriot 
War, caused the withdrawal of the troops, and the place 
again was left in charge of Ordnance-Sergeant Gaines till 
June, 1838, when it was reoccupied by a detachment of 
the Second Infantry, under the command of Lt.-Col. A. 
Cummings. August 28, 1838, Col. W. J. Worth, Eighth 
U. S. Infantry, assumed command of the barracks, and 
commenced the organization of the Eighth Infantry, author- 
ized by Act of Congress, July 5, 1838, and the detachment 
under Lt.-Col. A. Cummings took its departure for the 
west. This closed the service of the Second Infantry at 
this place. 

" During the summer of 1838 the steamer Telegraph 
was fitted out at the barracks, and manned with one com- 
pany of the Eighth Infantry, and was kept crui.'^ing about 
the Thousand Islands, in concert with a force of British, in 
search of the noted Bill Johnston, who commenced his buc- 
caneering course on the river by leading the partj' of des- 
peradoes, dressed as Indians, that burned the steamer Sir 
liol/eit Prd at Ogden.sburgh, on the night of May 29, 
1838, from the consequences of which, however, he kept at 
a safe distance in a small boat. In the fall the steamer 
Oneida joined the Telegraph, with another company 
of the Eighth Infantry on board, all under Col. Worth, 
who laid off Wiiid-Mill point, during the battle at that 
place, November 13, 1838. The same day Col. Worth 
captured the steamer United Slatex, tlie steam ferry-boat 
Paul Pry, and the schooners Charlulte of Osiceyo and 
Gharlotic of Toronto. The .schooners were loaded with 
luunitious of war for the patriots, and were taken to Sackct's 
Harbor, where they were sold at auction, with their 
cargoes, by the U. S. marshal. Their cirgoes consisted of 
almost a useless lot of old flint-lock guns and pistols, rusty 
swords, and half-rotted belts and cartridge-boxes, gatherid 



414 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



up along the northern line, where man}- of them had been 
since 1770, or liad seen service in 1812. The hunt for 
Johnston was fruitless. He always managed to escape, 
though often nearly within the gra.sp of his pursuers." 

THE " QUEEN OF THE THOUSAND ISL.\NDS.'' 

" During Johnston's adventures on the St. Lawrence he 
had a coneealed den on Grindstone i.sland, where his daugh- 
ter Kate, a lass about seventeen years old, was said to have 
kept him supplied with necessaries by stealthy trips at night 
from the mainland in a little skiff, which Colonel Worth 
captured at Ogdensburgh on his return from Wind-Mill 
point, above mentioned ; but, as it was of no value, and as 
she was quite a favorite, it was put off at French creek, 
where .she lived; and as this young woman was well known 
to the army on the northern line in her day, it may be men- 
tioned that her night explots among the Thousand Islands, 
in aid of her father and his skulking crew, were dramatized 
with all the effect of an e.Ktravagant romance, and played 
at Albany and other large cities. She visited her father at 
Albany while he was undergoing trial there, after his cap- 
ture in November, 1838,* and, on account of the sympathy 
felt by some of the citizens for the cause of the ' Patriots,' 
as well as for her adventures in their behalf, she was treated 
with trreat consideration, and entertained bv a ball and other 
civilities. In 1870 she was living at French Creek, married 
and settled down to domestic life, but the name and deeds 
of the " Queen of the Thousand Islands" will live wpon the 
historic page. 

" As Rill Johnston was closely associated with the history 
of this place for a long time, it may not be altogether out 
of place to mention .something further about him, with the 
view particularly to correct the erroneous notions .some 
writers have entertained about his character for personal 
bravery. lie was born at Three Itivers, L. C.,Feb., 1782. 
He joined the Canadian militia in 1S12, and while under- 
going punishment in jail for insubordinatiDii. he escaped to 
the United States, and served as a s]iy against his own 
countrymen, and, on account of his familiarity with the 
scene of the operations of the Americans in Canada, he was 
of consideraVjle value in obtaining intelligence. The fellow 
was inspired with an inij)lacable hatred against the British 
authorities for some imagined persecutinn at their hands, 
and no .service was too hard for him to undertake if it 
promised him a chance to injure them. Rut the tales of 
his heroism and bravery that have made their way into 
print appear to bo all idle chaff; for those who have been 
familiar with his whole career since 1812 pronounce him 
tj be a braggadocio and a pretender, — a man who endeav- 
ored to inspire the belief that he was a dangerous character, 
and whose cowardly, blustering course of life while in the 
United States was uin-elieved by a single act of true bravery. 
He had a robust frame, i)erfect health, and a restless dispo- 
sition, and, had he possessed his pretended courage, he 
might have realized his ideal l>y becoming a ]iirate. 

" About the time Colonel Worth took command of the 
barracks there was some prospect of trouble with Great 
Britain, and, in consequence of authority invested in him. 



he added the buildings necessary to complete the garrison, 
and put all the others in good repair. The buildings put 
up at this time were the commissary and quartermaster's 
store-house, and the hospital, guard-house, and ordnance 
buildings. The total outlay was about §150,U00.'"f 

Numerous distinguished men paid visits to the place in 
1888, being attracted to the northern frontier by the atti- 
tude of affairs with England. Among them were ^lajor- 
General Macomb, commander-in-chief of the arm}', Gen. 
Winfield Scott, Gov. Marcy, Gov. Wm. H. Seward, Mr. 
Poinsett, Secretary of War, and President Vau Buren, accom- 
panied by his son Martin. These gentlemen were all appro- 
priately received by the officers of the barracks, with salutes 
and honors. One of these occasions of ceremony nearly 
proved a source of .sorrow. Colonel Worth's men were 
very accurate and precise in drill, and he was justly proud 
of them, and when the President was here brought his men 
out and put them through the customary evolutions. To 
give a rounding-oft touch to the exercises he ordered them 
to load and fire. The reviewing party stood near the sally- 
jiort, on a line with the flank of the command, and. at the 
discharge, a ramrod from one of the muskets flew like an 
arrow and struck into the ground between the President 
and Colonel Worth, who were conversing together. 

The organization of the 8th Infantry was completed in 
1840, and nine companies and the band occupied the bar- 
racks. Owing to excessive crowding much sickness resulted, 
and in the fall of 1839 there were reported by Dr. Thomas 
Henderson, U.S.A., UO cases of death by remittent fever. 

Colonel Worth was followed in command of the barracks 
by the following-named officers of his (8th) regiment : 

('a|itain G. Wright, Aug. 2S, 1S36, to April U, IS.'ia. 
Cii|i(ain F. Stnnirord, April H to June 26, 133!). 
Licut.-Culonel N. S. Clark, June 2G to October, 1839. 
Colonel W. J. Worth, October to December, 1839. 
Lieut.-Colonel N. S. Clark, December, 1839, to Jnunarv 20, IS40. 
Captain ti. Wright, January 20 to February 2, 1S4U. 
Lieut. -Colonel N. S. Clark, February 2 to April 22, 1840. 
Colonel W. J. AVorth, April 22 to May 2, 18+0. 
I,icut. J. K. Smith, May 2 to September 22, 1S40. 

The 8th Infantry was soon after this hist date ordered to 
Florida, and Lieut. Smith was relieved by Major M. M. 
Payne, of the 2d Artillery, with two companies of his 
regiment. He remained in command at the barracks from 
Sept. 22 to Oct. 4, 1840, and was succeeded by 

I.icut.-Colonel J. B. Crane, 2(1 Artillery, Oct. 4 to Nov. 12, 1S40. 
Major M. M. I'ayne, 2.1 Arlilkry, Nov. 12, 1S40, to Aug. 13, 1841. 
Major F. S. Belton, 4lh Artillery, Aug. 13, 1S41, to June 24, 1842. 

The Artillery was relieved by Major J. Plymton, 2d In- 
fantry, with three companies of his regiment. Major Plym- 
ton assumed command June 24, 1S42, and was relieved 
Dec. 4, 1844, by Cajitain J. J. B. Kingsbury, of the same 
regiment. Major Plympton again took command Jan. 30, 
1845, and stayed till Aug. 13, 1840, when the troops were 
sent to the Mexican border, and the barracks lefl in charge 
of Ordnance-Sergeant Gaines from that time until Nov. 13, 
1848. 

In the fall nf 18 U a theatre was established in the lower 
end (if the eastern row of men's quarters, by Lieut. Alfred 



* November 17, ISHS. 



f From .Medical llitilory of the I'ost. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



415 



Sully, of the 2d Infantry, and several young men of the 
village, and the drama was patronized to a considerable ex- 
tent. The scenery and decorations were the work of Lieut. 
Sully, who possessed considerable j;enius in that line. 

November 13, 1848, the barracks were occupied by Ma- 
jor T. Lee, of the 4th Infiintry, with two companies of his 
regiment. He was followed Sept. 7, 1840, by Lieut.-Col. 
B. L. E. Biinnevillc, of the same regiment. AIUt him the 
post-coniniandcr was the colonel of this regiment, Colonel 
William Whistler, in charge from June 27, 1851, to June 
18, 1852, at wIiIlIi latter date the post was loft in charge 
of Ordnance-Sergeant (jaines, and wa-s unoccupied for nearly 
nine years, or until the breaking out of the Rebellion in 
18(11. The buildings and fences became badly dila]iidated, 
and certain parties living in the neighborhuiHl plundered 
more or less of value from the premises. While the 94th 
Regiment was <|uartered here, with Colonel W. B. Camp in 
command of the barracks by virtue of his rank on the 
Governor's staft", First-Lieut. George Ryan, 7th U. S. In- 
fantry, with Company 15 of his regiment, paroled prisoners 
from the Indian country, joined the barracks Dec. 22, 1861. 

" Lieut. Ryan, on his arrival with his small company of 
jiarolcd, dispirited men, found themselves quite swallowed 
u|) by the new regiment of young, eager, undisciplined, raw 
recruits under Colonel Camp, who.se position as u nominal 
officer on the Governor's staff invited controversy and 
trouble, and it was not long before it came, in the shape of a 
dispute for the command of the post. Lieut. Ryan put tlie 
(juestion to the test by arresting Colonel Camp's guard, and 
by substituting his own instead. The difficulty was settled 
by the War department confining Lieut. Ryan's author- 
ity to the limits of the (juartenuaster's and commis.sary's 
store-house till the 94th left."* 

The 94th and Lt. Ryan's Co. (B)'of the 7th were crowded 
into the men s (piarters, and as there were nearly a thousand 
of them, and the ventilation was either bad or totally 
wanting, th&se causes, combined with a wrong mode of 
living, produced many eases of fever among the men, at- 
tended with considerable mortality. Lt. Ryan was relieved 
April 29, 18G2, by Capt. M. R. Stevenson, of the 7th In- 
fantry, also a jiaroled prisoner from the Indian country. 
Steven.son died while in command, Oct. 8, 18G2. In 1SG4, 
afler the ISGtIi N. Y. Vols, had left, the barracks had be- 
come sadly out of repair by general misuse, and Capt. 
Elislia Camp, A. Q. JI., U.S.A., was ordered ou from 
Washington, with a force of skilled carpenters, to put it 
in a good state of repair. He expended some §13,000, 
and placed everything once more in good shape. 

From November 8, 18G4, to February, 18G5, 1st Lt. 
Waltir Clifford occupied the barracks with a detachment 
of the IGth U. S. Infantry. "From March 5, 18G5, to 
May 10, 18G5, Capt. I'liny Moore, with one company of 
frontier cavalry, occupied the place with the above detach- 
ment of the IGth Infantry, aud Capt. H. F. Turner, with 
the same command, held the place from May 10 to June 
25, 18G5. This frontier cavalry was employed in protecting 
the northern frontier from such raiding-parties as that 
wliii.li plundered St. Alban's, Vt., in 18G4, and for watching 

*Mf(IicnI History of Post. 



the suspicious sympathizers of the rebels going to and from 
Canada. The company of this organization stationed at 
this place guarded the line from Cape A'ineent to Henderson 
Bay.'t 

From June 20, 18G5, to March 29, 18GC, Col. C. C. 
Sibley, of the ICth Infantry, commanded the barracks, 
then occupied by portions of the 1st and 2d battalions of 
his regiment and one company of the 4th Infantry. Lt.- 
Col. A. J. Sleuimer, of the latter regiment, and during 
the war in command of Fort Pickens, on Santa Ro.sii island, 
near Peiisacola, Florida, had charge of the post from March 
29 to Sept. 29, ISGG, being relieved at the latter date by 
Capt. AVilliam II. Powell, also of the 4th Infantry, who 
remained in command till March 25, 18ti7. From June 
20, 18G5, to April 30, 18G7, the headijuarters of the IGtIi 
Infantry was established here. March 25, 1SG7, the de- 
tachments of the 4th and IGth Infiintry were relieved by 
2d Lt. A. C. Bayne, 42d U. S. Infantry (Veteran Reserve 
Corps). Brevet Major Tully McCrea, captain of Co. C of 
this regiment, commanded the post from April 15 to April 
29, 18G7, and was succeeded by Bvt. Maj.-(jen. J. B. 
Mcintosh, who transferred the head(|uartersof the regiment 
from Plattsburg Barracks to this place, where it remained 
till April 13, 18G9, when tiie regiment took its departure 
for Fort Gibson, C. T., to be consolidated with the Gth 
U. S. Infantry. While Gen. Mcintosh was in command, 
about §25,000 worth of repairs and painting was put upon 
the barracks. 

The following officers of the 42d Regiment, \ . R. C., 
had command of the barracks succeeding Gen. Mcintosh: 

M:ij. T. F. Roilcrlj.iugli, from Dec. 12, 1807, to May 2fi, 1808. 

Uvt. Major 0. T. Urccno, from May 20 to .luiic 3, 180S. 

Maj. T. F. Roilcrbaugh, from .luiie 7 to .August 20, 1SC8. 

]!vt. Major C. T. Greene, from Aug. 20 to Oct. 5, IROS. 

Miij. T. V. Koderbaugh, from Oct. .■;, l.'*C8, to Feb. IB, 1809. 

Bvt. Maj. C. T. Greene, from Feb. 10 to March b, 180!l. 

Bvt. Brig.-Gen. T. F. Uuilerbaugh, from -March 5 to .\|iril I.l, 1809. 

On the latter date, 1st Lt. A, Miltemore, 1st U. S. Ar- 
tillery, with a small detachment of Battery F, arrived at 
the post, and on the 14th Bvt. Lt.-Col. R. C. Duryea arrived 
with the remainder of the battery, and assumed command, 
which he held until May 2G, 1870, when the troops were 
removed to Ogdensburgh. The next person we find in 
command is Jlajor C. L. Best, of the 1st Artillery. The 
troops in garriscm during October, 1870, were those of 
Battery F, 1st Artillery, and Company B, 1st U. S. In- 
fantry. 

October 31, 1870, ^Irs. Eliza C. Harrington, wife of 
William M. Harrington, present hospital steward, was ap- 
pointed hospital matron, which position she has since filled. 
Mr, Harrington has been on duty at this post since the 
month of August, 1870. 

November 1, 1872, Major Best left with Battery F, and 
turned over the command to 1st Lt. John L. Wordeii, Jr., 
of Co. B, 1st Infantry. December 7, Battery I), 3d Artil- 
lery, arrived, and its captain, John G. Trumbull, assumed 
command of the post bj' virtue of his rank. Lt. Worden 
was a son of Commodore Worden, U.S.N., commander of 



+ Ibid. 



41G 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



the Monitor at tlic time of her engagement with the Mcr- 
riinac in Ilaniploii Kuads, in March, 1SG2. He was much 
esteemed by all who knew him, but was most unfortunately 
much given to drinking. The habit became so .strong, and 
preyed ou his mind to such an extent, that he finally com- 
mitted suicide, to the universal regret of his friends and 
acfjuaintanees. 

Lt.-Clol. R. B. Ayres, of the 3d U. S. Artillery, assumed 
command of the post Dee. 10, 1872. After his departure 
Lt. Abbott commanded for a short time, but the next 
regular commander after Col. Ayres was Major and Bvt. 
Brig.-Gon. Jame.s M. Robertson, also of the 3d U. S. Artil- 
lery, who is now in charge. The garrison at present (Sep- 
tember, 1877) is small, consisting of only five or six men. 
Two companies were stationed here until the spring of 
1877, when one of them was sent to Furt Schuyler, in 
New York Harbor, and the other to the eastern coal-mining 
region of Pennsylvania, to suppress strikers. General Rob- 
ertson is a fine gardener, and having little else to do since 
his arrival at the barracks, has spent much time in perfects 
ing the garden. lie is a native of New Hampshire, and 
entered the United States service in 1838. In 1848, after 
serving in the Mexican war as private, he was commissioned 
2d Lieut, in the 2d U. S. Artillery. 

DUELS. 

Among the duels which have taken place here the most 
noted was one which occurred on- the 13th of June, 1818. 
The following account of it was published in the S(.ic/:el's 
llarhor Gazette and Advertiser of Tuesday, June 16, 1818 : 

" Melnnchrittf Occitrrflncc. — On S.alurdiij' last two ]>rorai8iiig young 
men, by the nunics of .Jjiincs llany nncl Mataclii P. Varian, lioth cor- 
porals in the 2(1 Ucginunl, U. S. Infantry, .at Mailison Barracks, 
mutually agreed to fight e.ach other with muskets. Their muskets 
were loaded, and between 5 and 6 o'clock p.m. they walked side by 
side, apparently in good humor, to the bank of the lake, adjoining the 
barracks, then turned back to back, mai'ched 5 or G paces each, and, 
at the word ' ready,* wheeled, and Ilany discharged his jiieec, loaded 
with powder and ball, the contents of which passed through the heart 
of Varian, who fell ami instantly expired. A coroner's inquest was 
called, and, after investigating the subject, returned a verdict tliat the 
said Varian came to his deatli by the unlawful discharge of a musket 
loaded as aforesaid by Sergeant John Loper, and discharged at the 
word 'fire,' given by Sergeant Francis I'owlcy. The three persons 
implicated were immediately arrested, and committed to AVatertown 
jail to await their trial at the Court of Oyer and Terminer, to bo 
holdcn on the 2!)th inst." 

At the trial of these men, held July 2, 1818, at Water- 
town, Hany was found guilty of manslaughter, and sen- 
tenenced to ten years in the Stale prison. The others 
were discharged. The facts afterward came out that this 
duel was caused through the jealousy of Sergeant Loper, 
who made himself conspicuous as a tale-bearer. Yarian, 
the man killed, was said to have been a man of culture and 
talent, and a cousin of Governnr Daniel D. Tnmpkins. His 
gun was afterward found not to have been loaded with ball. 
The same year (1818) a duel was fought between Major 
Smith and Lieut. Palmer uf tlu^ 2d Infantry, — weapons, 
pistols. Smith w;ts wounded in the right arm. 

I'ROMINK.NT .Mll.rr.VltV MEN. 

,\inniig the nieinbei-s (if the army who were at one time 
sla(i(iin:il here, and have since di>tiiiL:ui.'-heil themselves in 



military or civil life, the first name to be mentioned is that 
of General U. S. Grant, later the occupant of the highest 
position in the land. He was stationed with his regiment, 
the 4th U. S. Infantry, of which he was then Lieutenant 
and Quartermaster, iroin some time in 1849 until 1S52. 
The commander of the post. Col. AVilliam Whistler, was 
the father of a gay daughter, who every night had the band 
out playing for her especial benefit. AVith this custom 
Grant lost patience, and would nearly every evening go 
down to the village for some pleasure more to his liking. 
He was an intimate acquaintance and friend of Daniel 
SlcCulloch, then collector of customs, and these two made 
a portion of a party at whist, which was a favorite game of 
Lieut. Grant's and one in which he was a proficient. He 
was always (|uiet and gentlemanly, and left jileasant recol- 
lections behind him when he departed fi)r other .scenes. 
Mr. McCulloch speaks of meeting him afterwards at St. 
Louis, during his residence there, and renewing the old 
acfjuaintauce, since which time he has seen him but once, 
and that on the occasion of a presidential trip through this 
part of the country. When the 4th Regiment left the 
barracks Mr. McCulloch furni.shed them money from funds 
in his possession. 

General Nathaniel Lyon, who was killed at Wilson's 
Creek, near Springfield, Missouri, during the Rebellion, was 
stationed here before the war, then with the rank of 
lieutenant. 

The rebel General S. B. Buckner, of Fort Donelson 
fame, was also stationed here previous to the war, then a 
lieutenant. 

Lieut. Alfred Sully, who was here at the same time with 
Lieut, (afterward General) Lyon, in 1844, and rendered 
himself famous in a theatrical line, is. now General Sully, 
of Indian fighting notoriety, at present on the western 
border. 

The associations, both pleasant and otherwise, connected 
with Madison Barracks through so long a term of years, 
will cling tenaciously to the vicinity for many years to come, 
and thiiugh they who have thus far been iiiniiliar with 
them personally shall pass away, each succeeding genera- 
tion will have a pride in the locality and its history, ren- 
dered imjiortant by the part their ancestors jilayed in its 
infancy. Though the barracks at last shall cnimble away, 
the old stockade rot to ]>ieces, and the old earthwork be 
leveled, yet will a certain military feeling spring up at 
thought of the scenes enacted here, and an air of military 
aristocracy, the prestige of the old rigime, be connected 
with the jdaec and its inhabitants for " lo ! these many 
years." 

Acknowledgments are due to the following persons for 
favors received in the way of information : For the town, 
Rev. Lebbeus Field and son, Mrs. Lucy Blin (of Sacket's 
Harbor), Leonard Allen and son, Wm. Warren, and otliers; 
for Sacket's Harbor and vicinity, Ca]itain Daniel Read, 
Walter B. Camp, Leonard Denison, Henry Metcalf and 
son, Hon. T. Canfield, the officers of Madison Barracks, I. 
W. Inglehart, D. 0. De Wolf B. Eveleigh, Noah E. Bacon, 
the jiastors uf the churches. David Millingtnn, Jcihn Wall- 
ing. (!. Iv IJudcifield, I'aniel .MeCullcich, and many others. 




RcsiD£NCE OF SYLVESTE.R BENJAMIN,,HmisnnD,.j£fFiRsoii CoM 



s 



.^,,r 



■^ 



> 



V 




HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



417 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 




Andrew Smith was born Oct. 17, 1816. in " Field's Set- 
tlement," in the town of Hounsfield, Jefferson Co. He 
was the eldest in a family of si.x children. His father, 
Richard Smith, was a native of Woodstock, Conn., and 
came to Watertown about the year 1811, and shortly after- 
ward was enrolled as an " Artificer, ' and served duriiii; the 
war. After its close he purchased 50 acres of land lyin^ 
contii;uous to the farm now owned by his grandson, F. R. 
Smith, and where he lived until his death, which occurred 
April 6, 18GS. He was a man of sterling ([ualities, and 
largely identified with the early history of this section of 
the township. The only educational advantages afforded 
in those days were the country common schools; these our 
subject attended in the winter, working upon his father's 
farm in the summer. He, however, acijuired a good practi- 
cal education. Industry, ccontmy, and integrity were the 
first and hist les.sons of his boyhood. They were the guide 
of his life, which is attested by the succe.ss he met with in 
business, and the high respect and love of his neighbors. 
Although Mr. Smith took a proper interest in political mat- 
ters, the whole ambition of his life and motive sprin'.; of 
every effort was to be a good farmer. When twonty-sLx 
years of age he mariied Miss Esther W. Collins, daughter 
of John and Catherine (Potter) Collins, who were among 
the early settlers of Watertiiwn. They were natives of 
Rhode Island, and emigrated to Jefferson County in the 
year 1811. Mrs. Smith was born Oct. 18, 1819, and sur- 
27 



vives her husband, and her ruddy face and bright eye be- 
speak health and a Icjng life, and is all that is expressed in 
the terms amiable and intelligent. After their marriage 
Mr. Smith rented his father's farm, which he carried on for 
several years. Being successful, he purcha.sed land, and 
soon became the proprietor of one of the finest farms in the 
townshi]), and one of the leading fiirmers, and a man of rare 
business ability. Thoroughly appreciated by his fellow- 
townsmen, he was elected to the ofiice of supervisor, which 
position he filleil with credit to him.sclf and his con.stituents, 
and as an acknowledgment of his ability, sterling worth, 
and high social qualities, he was nominated for two success- 
ive terms for the As,sembly ; but his party being largely in 
the minority, he was defeated. Mr. Smith Wiis pre-emi- 
nently a self-made man. Beginning life when the country 
was now, with only his natural resources for his cajiital, he 
worked himself up to a high position, socially and other- 
wise. With a grasp of perception and a masterly manage- 
ment of all, he conquered success in every movement of 
his life, which is an illustrious example to young men of the 
capabilities of character and manhood. He died July 8, 
1870, leaving his widow and three children to mourn his 
loss. 

His children were all born upon the old farm. Uretta 
E., wife of Henry O. Kenyon, Esq., of Adams; Frank R., 
born Oct. 25, 184!l; Alice, born June 80, 1860. Two 
children, Viola and Irwin R., preceded their father. 



418 



HISTOKY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 




MERRICK M. BATES. 



It is a great tiling to live ; it is a greater to live to a 
purpose. It has been the lot of the deserving, modest, 
and una.ssuming to be passed in silence. The benefit is 
enjoyed while its producer is disregarded. To preserve the 
memory of the wortliy is to act justly. Merrick M. Bates 
was born in the town of Britnfield, Mass., July 10, 1801, 
and was the second in a family of two sons and two daugh- 
ters. In the spring of 1801 his father, Samuel Bates, in 
company with Aaron Blodgett, came from Massachusetts 
and j)urchased two hundred and eighty-five acres of land in 
the southeast corner of the town of Hounsfield. Erecting a 
log house and ujakiiig some slight iniprovciuents, he re- 
turned to Massachusetts in the fall, and in December of 
1802 returned with his family. Upon the breaking out of 
the War of 1812 he enlisted in Captain Camp's artillery 
company, and wa.s one of the crew who worked the thirty- 
two-pound gun so effectively that the British fleet were 
unable to obtain an entrance to Sacket's Harbor. He 
assisted in the construction of the barracks, where he con- 
tracted a fit of sickness which terminated his life Feb. 13, 
1818. The death of his father threw many responsibilities 
upon young Merrick, he being the eldest son and the main 
dependence of his widowed mother, and his early life was 
one of toil and privation, and owing to the limited means 
of the family but slight aid was received from the district 
school, but whatever of ability was possessed obtained 
• strength by improved opportunity. In military matters 
Mr. Bates has bicn fpiitc pmmincnt. He was colonel of 
the Twenty-first Regiment of New York Light Artillery, and 
was regarded as a strict disciplinarian and an able officer. 



In IHlti he married Miss Abigail Stowell, daughter of 
Osline Stowell, by whom he had ten children, eight of 
whom are now living. Mrs. Bates was all that is expressed 
in the terms amiable and intelligent. The attachment be- 
tween husband and wife but strengthened with time; they 
lived in harmony and labored in unison, and when she 
closed her eyes upon this world, in July, 184G, it was in a 
full faith in a higher existence. 

Mr. Bates is still living upon the old farm, and although 
in his seventy-sixth year still retains much of his former 
energy and vigor. lie has always been a careful and sviccess- 
ful farmer, and by a long and active life has shown himself 
a man of character and a useful member of society. Be- 
neath his ob.servation, in a grand life-panorama, Jefferson 
County has been organized and developed into one of the 
fairest and foremost agricultural regions in northern New 
York. It is in kee])iiig with the self-abnegation of such 
men that they have retired to the background and cjuietly 
look on as the great and varied interests of which they have 
laid the foundation arc seen to rise and extend in promi- 
nence and utility. It is (juestioned what resource is left to 
the aged when no longer able to pursue an accustomed 
round of labor. Jlerrick M. Bates is qualified to reply. He 
has marked out and pursued a line of action whose good 
has proved a satisfaction. He has enjoyed the (piiet of 
homo, the retirement of the farm, and attention to matters 
of personal concern, and his long life affords a marked 
contrast to the brief existence of the votaries of jileasure 
and the prematurely exhausted members of the stock-ex- 
change. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



41!> 




=5? ~''K 




^0^ ^ f 



IRA HALL. 



IRA HALL. 



In the year 1798, Samuel Hall, father of the subject of 
this sketch, came from Connecticut, with his family, to 
Mailison Co., N. Y., and purchased a small farm, being a 
mau of very limited means. Upon this Airm he resided 
until his death, which occurred in 1841. Ira lived with 
his father until he was twenty-seven years of age. Al- 
thougli his parent.s were poor, he received the advantages 
of an academical education, which he made practically use- 
ful to himself and others by teaching, which occupation he 
followed for ten years. He was married April 3, 1827, to 
Miss Sophia Fort, and thinking it advisable to secure a 
home, he loaded his goods upon wagons and started for 
Ilounsfield, where he purchased 100 acres of new land, 
which is a part of his present farm, and which is at this 
date one of the best in the town. Mr. Hall has been a 
successful farmer, and to his first purchase has added 
nearly 100 acres. By a long life of honesty, integrity, 
and well-doing, he has secured the love and esteem of his 
fellow-townsmen. In evidence, it is only necessary to say 
that he has filled the office of justice of the peace for 
twelve years ; that of postmaster for twenty-eight years, 
and that of assessor for three years. • 

In 1831 his wife died, and in the spring of 1832 he 
married Maudina Swift, of St. Lawrence county. I?y his 
first wife he had two children : one died in infancy, and a 
sou, Joel, now living near Watertown. By his second 
wife he has had eight children, si.\ of whom are living. 
Ira, an attorney, is a resident of M. 0. ; Edwin W., presi- 
dent of Chaddock College, at Quincy, III. ; Sophia A. re- 
sides with her father; Winfield Scott Hall is completing 
his course at Chaddock College. 



CORNELIUS AV. INGLEHART. 



Cornelius W. Inglehart was born May 11, 1811, in the 
town of Oswegatchie, St. Lawrence Co. In the fall of 1812 
his parents moved to the town of Pliiladelpliia, then called 
Quaker Settlement. The town was at this time nearly a 
wilderness, and many incidents of pioneer life are still fresh 
in his memory, and our readers will be interested in reading 
in the history of the town of Pliiladelpliia the details of an 
exciting race wbicli liis father had with a bear, and which, 
)ierhaps, was the most remarkable one ever wilnessed in Jef- 
fer.'^on (,'ouiity. In the winter or spring of 1814 his parents 
moved to Watertown, and were residing in the town when 
the battle of Sacket's Harbor was fought, on the 2!tth of 
May, 1814. The next fall or winter his parents moved to 
Houn.sfield, and purchased a small farm of Elisha Camp, fiir 
which he paid five dollars per acre. Since this time Mr. 
Inglehart has been a resident of Ilounsfield, with the ex- 
ception, perhaps, of two or three years. His advantages 
for education were of course limited to the common .schools 
of that day ; but there are probably but few men that are 
posses.scd of more general knowledge tliaii he, as he has al- 
ways been an inveterate reader, his authors few and well 
chosen. In his library history, poetry, and science predom- 
inate, while fiction has no place. He has been prominently 
identified with llie political history of his town and county ; 
was a Democrat until that party passed under the rule of 
the slave oligarchy of the South, when he joined the free- 
soil movement. In conjunction with O. W. Baker, he 
helped organize the Republican party in his town, and was 
delegate to the first Republican county convention, as dele- 
gate from Houiisfield, and was also delegate to the State 
convention in the fall of 1854, and took the stump as inde- 



420 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



pendent candidate for the Assembly. Tliis divided the 
Domocratic vote and elected the Whig candidate. Mr. 
In^lchart may be classed as a radical in temperance, reli- 
gion, and politics; has never drank a drop of liquor or used 
tobacco in any form. He has hold several national, town, 
and municipal offices, took an active part in procuring the 
construction of the railroad from Sackot's Harbor to Water- 
town, and was apjxjiiited one of the railroad commissioners. 
Was one of the original founders of the National Union 



Bank of Watertown, and was for years a director in the 
Agricultural Insurance Co. He has been married four 
times, and has had eight children, five of whom are living. 
Mr. Ingleliart has always been an industrious man, and by 
economy and good management lias acquired a competency, 
which he is enjoying, with just sufficient labor to benefit 
both body and mind. Honesty, punctuality, and prompt- 
ness were the first and last lessons of his boyhood. All in 
all, he is an exemplar of a life well spent. 



LE RAY. 



This township lies nearly in the form of an equilateral 
triangle, of which the western boundary is a north and 
south line, against the towns of Orleans and Pamelia ; the 
northeast side joining Theresa and Philadelphia, and the 
southeast border being formed partially by Wiina, but prin- 
cipally by the Black rivtsr, which is its main water-course. 
The ne.xt stream in size is Indian river, which enters from 
]'hilad(;lphia, flows in a soiithwestcrly couv.se to within one 
mile of Evans' Mills, then turns shai-ply towards the north 
and returns to Philadelphia, after a meander of nearly five 
miles in Le Hay. Pleasant creek, rising in the southeast, 
turns the mill-wheels at Le Ray ville, Slocumville, Churchill's, 
Ifc'nry's, and Evans' Mills, then, having received the waters 
of West creek, passes on towards Indian river, which it 
joins at the point where the latter turns its course north- 
ward. Gardner's creek falls into the Indian from the east- 
ward, above the bend. Several very small streams take 
their rise in the northwest, and flow thence through 
Pamelia into Perch lake. 

A small part of Le Ray was included in the Chassanis 
tract, it.s north line running from Great Bend, N. 87° W., 
and being also the south line of Le Ray's purchase, which 
embraced four-fifths of the present town, and gave it it.s 
name. The desire of Mr. Le Ray was of course to induce 
rapid settlements upon these lands. He offered them at 
prices from 81 to S3 per acre, according to quality and lo- 
cation, and gave 7 years' time in which to complete the pay- 
ments. The purchaser was to clear, annually, 4 acres out 
of every 100 acres purchased, and to erect a log dwelling of 
a certain size within a spe<ified time. 

The jiroprietur advertised extensively at Albany and other 
central points, announcing the favorable terms on which he 
proposed to .sell, setting forth the advantages of climate and 
location, and describing his tract as being of great fertility, 
requiring only the axe and the plow of the settler to trans- 
form the wilderness into productive farms. 

THE KARLIEST SETTLERS. 

Into this wilderness the first comer was Benjamin Brown, 
brother of General Jacob Brown. He c.xpluied the coun- 



try in the autumn of 1801, chose a spot on the banks of 
Pleasant creek, where Le Raysville now is, and commenced 
to clear the ground and to make pre{)arations for the con- 
struction of a dam across the stream. The closing in of 
winter suspended the work, and he and his party of laborers 
retired to Brownsville to await the opening of spring. In 
the following April he returned to his purchase, setting out 
from Hrownville on the 17th of that month, under the lead 
of his brother Jacob, who preceded with compass, to lay 
their course, Benjamin and his party following, and cutting 
a track as they went. Short as the journey was, it brought 
some hardship, for their provision-train, which had been ex- 
pected to follow them closely, encountered so many obstacles 
.-ind delays that it did not overtake them until the second 
day, when they had reached their destination, not a little 
exhausted from their prolonged season of fasting. 

A log house was erected for the workmen, and, although 
Benjamin was then a bachelor, he made further prepara- 
tions for the reception of a prospective Mrs. Brown. She 
arrived in July, a newly-made wife, and the first white 
woman who set foot in the present town of Le Ray. Mean- 
while good progress had been made in the construction of a 
saw-mill upon the creek, an enterprise which had chiefly in- 
duced Brown's settlement at this pliice. It is related that 
at the " raising" of the frame men came from a long dis- 
tance, not more to help on the work than to participate in 
the festivities of the occasion, for not only did they feast 
on a remarkable fine carcass of venison well roasted, but 
they liberally moistened the viand with deep draughts of 
spirituous sustenance. In those days they would as soon 
have thought^of constructing a building without a frame as 

i of rearing the frame without ardent spirits ! As it was, all 
went off propitiously, and before winter came the mill was 

j completed. 

Several new settlers came in 1803, and more in 1804. 
Among those who arrived in the first-named year were 
Joseph ('hild, with his three sons, Daniel, Samuel, and 
Moses, from Pennsylvania, Thomas Ward, Daniel Coffecn, 
John Petty, and Robert Sixbury. The Childs settled in the 
neighborhood which still bcara their name, southwest from 




RtsiacHctor MATTHEW POOR. 

BLACK Fil\/[R, JCrrrRSON CO N Y. 



RcsioENcEor p. V. POOR. 




"LOCKFORT mills, WARREN'i-t'lN&RAHAM.rRom-.BLACKRiiER.JernRsou Cojl./. 




ntiilUlNLL Ul H.iNGRAHAM, AlAoa /wvth, JI:r^£/^jti 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



421 



Le Raysville, and Ward located where Joseph Bichet now 
lives, between Le Raysville and Evans' Mills. In the fol- 
lowing year he, with Samuel Child, workiiij; in the employ 
of Cadwaliader Child, made the first clearing in the present 
town of Philadelphia. Coffeen settled where B. Stein- 
hijber's farm now is, a mile southea.st of Evaii.s' Mills, but 
removed the next year to a place near Sterlingville. Six- 
bury was one of the surveying party who, in 1804, accom- 
panied Cadwaliader Child to Alexandria Bay, and thence 
back to Great Bend. In the same year he, with John 
Hoover, from Herkimer county, purchased the improve- 
ment of D. CoflFeen, when the latter moved to Philadelphia. 
From this place he (Sixbury) afterwards moved to a farm 
two miles north of Evans' Mills, upon which he spent a 
good portion of his long life. He became widely known 
and famed as a skilled and succe.ssful hunter, for which his 
irou constitution and great powers of endurance eminently 
fitted him. He died in Le Ray in the fall of 1875, having 
passed the age of 112 years. John Petty removed, in the 
fiill of 1804, to Philadelphia, being one of the first settlers 
in that town. 

Guillaurae Coupart, better known in Le Ray as William 
Cooper, or " French Cooper, " was one of the comers in 

1803. He was born in Normandy, France, June 24, 1773, 
and about twenty years later fled from his native country 
to escape conscription. He went to Newfoundland, was 
there taken prisoner, and carried to Halifax, whence he 
escaped, went to the State of Connecticut, where he re- 
mained for some time. He eanie to the Black River 
country in 1798, and located in Panielia. In 1803, as 
mentioned, he came to Le Ray, and settled west of Le Rays- 
ville, and south of Ingerson's Corners. He became a very 
large land-owner in the town, and died here January 19, 
1851. His son, Victor Cooper, now resides at Sandford's 
Corners station. 

Roswell Woodruff, father of Norris M. Woodruff, late 
of Watortown, settled in 1804 at the place later called 
Jewett's Corners, from Captain Ezekiel Jewett, to whom 
Mr. WoodrufiF afterwards sold the property, and removed 
to New Hartford, Oneida county, where he passed the re- 
mainder of his life. Benjamin Kirkbride came also in 

1804, settling about one mile southeasterly from Evans' 
Mills, on the tract afterwards owned by Ezekiel Stein- 
hilber. 

Among the earliest pioneers in Le Ray were also Michael 
Coffeen, Ruel Kimball, James Anthony, Captain Richard- 
son Avery, William Barber, S. BrownoU, Alfred Comins, 
Eli Davis, Sylvanus Evans, Amos Braughton, David Bur- 
hans, Perley Fuller, Oliver Fuller, Wm. H. Granger, Peter 
Hoover, Thomas Huston, John Huston (a weaver), Wm. 
Huston, I.Siiac Ingerson, Ezra Ingerson, Silas Ward, Lee 
Woodward, Francis Trevaller, Joseph Taggart, Reuben 
Treat, Elisha Steele, Abiel Shurtliff, Eiisha Scofield, Alvah 
Scofield, Aniaziah Parker, Solomon Parker, Barnhart Min- 
ick, Elias Minick, Arnold Miller, Alanson Lyon, Thomas 
Hurlbut, Joel W. Hurlbut, Lyman Holbrook, and Ivah 
Holbrook. Others among the list of early settlers in the 
town were Alvin Clark, David ^I. Caldwell, Dr. Horatio 
Orvis (Le Ray's first phj-sician), Willard Barrett, Fred. 
H. Bellinger, Adam P. Bellinger, Peter Bellinger, Levi 



Butterfield, Asa Barnes, David M. Caldwell, Jotham Good- 
ale, Alfred Vebber, Alvin Herrick, Fayette Herrick, Solo- 
mon Hawkins, John Ingerson, Ansel Win.slow, Gilbert 
Taylor, Stephen D. Sloan, Edwin Ilungerford, Peter Slack, 
Jesse Smith, Samuel Stewart, John V. and Patrick S. Stew- 
art, Levi Reed, William Palmer, Isaac Palmer, Jos. J. Petrie, 
Oliver Pierce, Abraham Jewett, Ezekiel Jewett, James 
J. Murphy, Heraan Millard, John Macomber, Stephen 
Macomber, Chauncey Morse, Samuel C. Kanady, Sylvester 
Kelsey, Beni Henry, Elom Henry, Stephen and Nathan 
Ingerson, Andrew Roberts, and Olsey Roberts. 

ERECTION OF THE TOWN — SUCCEEDING OFFICERS. 

The town of Le Ray was erected Feb. 17, 1806, cm- 
bracing all that part of Brownville lying east of the e;ist line 
of Penet Sc|uare, prolonged to the Black river. Its limits 
then included the present towns of Antwerp and Philadel- 
phia, and a part of Wilna and Alexandria. A further ac- 
cession of territory was received from the town of Leyden, 
by an act bearing date April 4, 1806. Its area w:is dimin- 
ished by the erection of Antwerp, April 5, 1810, of Wilna, 
April 2, 1813, and of Alexandria and Philadelphia, April 
3, 1821, which reduced it to the present limits. 

The first town-meeting (March 3, 1807 j w;is held at the 
house of Abiel Shurtliff, and the following ofiicers were 
elected : James Shurtliff, supervisor ; Thonuts Ward, town 
clerk ; Ruel Kimball, John B. Bossuet, and Richardson 
Avery, assessors ; Daniel Child, Daniel Sterling, and Ly- 
man Holbrook, cimimi.ssioners of highways; and Thomas 
Thurston, constable and collector. From that time until 
the present the oflSce of supervisor has been filled by the 
following persons, viz. : James Shurtliff, 1807 to 1815, in- 
clusive; Ruel Kimball, 1816; Etlini Evans, 1817; Alvin 
Herrick, 1818; Dr. Horatio Orvis, 1819 to 1825, inclusive; 
William Palmer, 1826 ; John Macomber, 1827-28-29, and 
1831; Stephen D. Sloan, 1830, '32, and 1837; Lybeus 
Hastings, 1833-34, and 1835, and again in 1843; Ira A. 
Smith, 1836; Daniel D. Sloan, 1838; Joel Haworth, 
1839-40; Elisha Potter, 1841-42; Hezekiah L. Granger, 
1844-45; Alfred Vebber, 1846-47; Joseph Boyer, 1848- 
49, and 1851 ; Wm. G. Comstock, 1S50; Alouzo M. Van 
Ostrand, 1852-53; Joseph Wager, 1854-55; William S. 
Phelps, 1856-57-58; Octave Blanc, 1859 (here three 
years of the record is destroj-edj ; Samuel G. Slocum, 1862; 
Cleanthus P. Granger, 1863-64; Emmor K. Gardner, 
1865 to 1868, inclu.sive; Frederic Waddingham, 1869 to 
and including 1876; and F. E. Crois.sant, in 1877. Other 
town officers for the present year are W. S. Cooper, clerk ; 
justices, C. P. Granger, G. C. Hazleton, E. Snell, and F. 
D. Planck ; collector, Elbert Ilungerford ; a.s.se.ssor, Curtis 
Cory ; commissioner of highways, Jeremiah Walrath. 

EVANS' MILLS. 

This village is situated at the confluence of West and 
Pleasant creeks, one mile .south of the point where their 
united waters fall into Indian river. It is also a station on 
the R., W. & 0. railroad, distant from Watertown 11 
miles. It received its name from Ethni Evans, from Hins- 
dale, N. H., who came to Jefferson County in 1802, and 



422 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



enfiraged in the employ of Jacob Rrown, at Brownville. 
He became acriuaitited with tlie water-power on Pleasant 
creek at this point, and, being himself a millwright, he pur- 
chased a tract of land on both sides of the stream for the 
purpose of erecting mills upon it. For' this tract, which 
contained 192 acres, and embraced the present site of the 
village, lie paid three dollars per acre ; the date of the pur- 
chase being July 9, 1804. No blow of axe had then been 
struck upon this tract, but he at once made a clearing, built 
a log house, and commenced the construction of a dam across 
the creek. Among those whom he employed in this work 
and in the preparation of timber for the mills were Robert 
Sixbury and Solomon Parker, who came to him after their 
engagement with Cadwallader Child, in surveying the road 
route from Alexandria Bay to Great Bend. The saw-mill 
and grist-mill were built and completed during the years 
1805 and 1806. The grist-mill stood a little northeast of 
the present site of Mr. Casse's paint-shop. The saw-mill 
occupied the spot where its successor stands to-day. In 
1807 or 1808 a store and a public-house were opened by 
Jenison Clark, in a frame building, which stood where 
the brick hotel now is, at the corner of Main and Noble 
streets. 

Upon the opening of the War of 1812, the inhabitants 
of the vicinity became alarmed in view of the possibility of 
Indian incursion and massacre ; several of the settlers 
having come from the valley of the Mohawk, where the 
remembrance of savage atrocities was still fresh in the 
minds of the people. In this state of apprehension, a 
strong block-house was commenced, to serve as a general 
shelter and defense against the attacks which they thought 
probable. This strong work wiis located on the westerly 
side of West creek, near the present residence of Mr. Madi- 
son Cooper. It was, however, never used nor even com- 
pleted, as the intensity of the first alarm .soon wore off. 

Eighteen years after its first commencement, Evans' 
Mills had grown to be a place of considerable importance. 
Its business in the year 1822 was as follows. The mills 
built by J^vans were in successful operation, the saw-mill 
running night and day, the sawyers in charge being Pierce 
Macomber and Omrod Evans, son of the proprietor; and 

the grist-mill, also constantly at work, with Stearns 

(father of Rev. John G. Stearns) as miller. A fulling-mill 
and cluthiery stood adjoining the grist-mill, and was then 
operated by George Oaks. This w;ts jirohably built in 
1810 or 'U. A small tannery, built and carried on liy 
John Macomber, .stood on the spot now occupied by the 
stone house of Edwin Chambc'riain. A ])otashery, owned 
by John Hoover ( started probably about fifteen years be- 
fore), stood where E. llungerford's dwelling-house now 
is, and another establishment of the .same kind, owned by 
William Palmer, Wiis just south of the site of the railroad 
station. Upon tiic spot now occupied by W. S. Cooper's 
store stood Ziba Henry's distillery, built some years earlier 
by Jesse Smith. Another distillery was located by a little 
stream at the south end of the village. This had been 
built, and was then owned and operated, by Wm. II. Gran- 
g(^r and Capt. Sanderson. It Wiis afterwards sold to Millard 
& Palmer. Sackett C'om.stock had a lilack.smith-sliop on 
ground now the yard of tlie brick hotel. Nearly on the 



site of the Railroad House Sewell Hill carried on the 
business of blacksmithing, and the manufacture of hoes, 
axes, and other steel tools. Farrington Stiles manufactured 
spinning-wheels (both small and large), looms, warping-bars, 
and all equipment for the home manufacture of cloth, but 
the location of his shop cannot be definitely given. A 
wagon shop by Harry Weed and a cabinet-shop by Joseph 
Pryor (a Quaker) were also among the business enterprises 
of the village. The store of the place was then kept by 
William Palmer, in the building which had been the tav- 
ern of Jenison Clark, on the spot where Capt. Hoover, six 
years later, built the brick hotel. Another establishment, 
which perhaps might be called a .store, thoughwhisky was 
the principal article dealt in, was kept by Heman Millard 
and Hiram Becker where the furniture store now is, at the 
northwest corner of Noble and Main streets. 

Of public-houses, Evans' Mills at that time had two ; the 
older being the stone tavern across West creek, built about 
1816, by Adam and Peter Bellinger, and the other was 
the stone tavern then just completed and occupied by Capt. 
John Hoover. This was the same building now occupied 
by the .store of A. M. Cook, and the harness- and saddlery- 
shop of F. Waddingham. Its erection was commenced in 
1821, the stone being quarried princijially on the farm 
afterwards owned by H. N. Eddy, but a few being brought 
from the vicinity of Os Bow. The stone-mason was Josiah 
Fuller, and the carpenter and joiner William Delaware. 
Among the landlords who occupied it after Hoover, during 
its existence as a public-house, were Daniel Thomas, George 
Oaks, Parker RulLson, Elisha Root, Alexander Lappon, 
Nelson Clarke, and Benjamin Jackman. The Bellinger 
tavern too has ceased to exist as a public-house, though 
still standing, and as solid and perfect as it was fifty years 
ago. During its long term of service it was kept by many 
different landlords after Bellinger, among whom may be 
mentioned Elias Hulbrook, David Kilburn, Oliver Pierce, 
Edwin Hungerford, Henry Lawton, and Jacob Davis. Of 
the first public-house at the Mills, opened by Jenison 
Clark, we are able to give the names of only two other 
landlords, viz., William H. Granger and John Hoover. 

The first physician of the village was Dr. Ira A. Smith. 
He was here in 1822, and remained here in practice and in 
great popularity for many years afterwards. At various 
times during his practice here he had other ]ihysicians in 
partncr.'ilii]i with him. Dr. Wm. G. Comstock was the last 
of these. Dr. Henry Munson, who died in Texas, was a 
student and partner of Dr. Smith, and another of his 
students is Dr. Isaac Munson, of Watertown. 

From the list which we have given of the bu.siness of 
Evans' Mills in 1S22, it would seem that very little pro- 
gress in that direction has been made from that time until 
the present. 

About 1823, Peter II. Ryther came to the Mills, com- 
menced blacksmithing, and erected a stcuie blacksmith- 
shop on the corner of Church and Le Ray streets, and a 
dwelling-house where Mr. Clifford now lives. Later 
(about 1826-27) he started a scythe, axe, and hoe manu- 
factory, with trip-hammer worked by water-power, in a 
two-story stone building just below the dam and on the 
south side of the creek. This was afterwards destroyed by 




lULNct (jf inOS. DUNTEN , SANroms Cornlrs , Hm Yorh . 





[ HA/^T, PHOToeifAPHi/f.WATiftiJvi.i. 



fhiNtAS Hardy. 



l^lfS.PHINrASHAIfDY. 



' :V-'ij--p!i!J;^J4^;jM«.^^iVfei^'J^*^;a^ 




RtsiDLNCi: or PHINEAS HARDY. 



HISTORY OP JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



423 



fire. Also, about 1825, Samuel Ryther started a wagon- 
shop on Church street, nearly opposite the Prasbytorian 
church, and about 1827 removed the business to the sliop 
wliich he had erected on the creek. This being the same 
building now standing in the rear of W. S. Cooper's store, 
and occupied by Mr. Zimmerman as a horse-raice manu- 
factory. 

The saw-mill was rebuilt by Judge Evans in 1822-23, 
and is still in operation, by Charles Holbrook, a grandson of 
Ivah Holbrook. The present grist-mill was also commenced 
by Evans, in 1822, and went into operation in 1824. The 
plan of locating it on its present site, at a considerable dis- 
tance below the dam and road, was the subject of miich 
adverse criticism at the time, but the owner was confident 
of the correctness of his plan, and losolutely executed it. 
The old mill had been equipped with two run of stones, 
wliich were manufactured at the Parker ledge, in Antwcr]), 
but the new one wa.s fitted with burrs, of which it Iia.s four 
run. This, as well as the saw-mill, is owned and run by 
Mr. Holbrook. 

The brick hotel, still standing at the corner of JIain and 
Noble streets, Wiis commenced by Capt. John Hoover, in 
1827. The bricks were manufactured and laid by Benja- 
min Barnes, of Theresa, at the price of $5 per thousand in 
the wall. The place where Barnes e.stablished his kiln fur 
the purpose was to the northeast of the village, on the op- 
posite side of Pleasant creek. The carpenter and joiner 
work was done by Alfred Vebber. The house was finished 
and opened by Reuben Wilmot and John Hoover about 
Nov. 1, 1827, within a few days of the election which 
resulted in the elevation of Andrew Jackson to the presi- 
dency. On the front of the building there were placed, 
and still remain, the letters " J. H.," very large, and made 
of iron. These were fashioned by P. H. Ryther, a hot anti- 
Jackson man. When applied to to forge out these letters, 
his suspicions were instantly aroused that it was a device of 
the enemy, and that they were intended to signify " Jack- 
son Hotel," whereupon ho refused point-blank to furnish 
them ; and it was only after much persuasion, and the posi- 
tive assurance that they had no more sinister signification 
than the proprietor's name, John Hoover, that he was in- 
duced to make them. Since Wilmot & Hoover this house 
has known many different hosts, a few only of whom can 
be recalled to mind. Among these have been R. H. Tozer, 
Thomas Bones, Henry R. Morey, Thomas Benjamin, John 
Morris, S. J. Bingham, Benjamin Jackman, Willard Spal- 
ding, L. Biddlecom, William Brown, Fayette Granger, 
Roland S. Lawton, Jacob Davis, N. J. Mackey, S. & J. 
Burtis, J. D. Burtis, E. Vebber, and William Forbes, 
1877. 

About 1827 a public-hou.sc was also opened by Benja- 
min Collins, at the place where Henry Walradt now resides. 
The house had been built as a private dwelling, and only 
continued to be kept as an inn for about two years. The 
Railroad Hotel was opened by A. Beebe, in the dwelling- 
house of Sewell Hill. It has been added to and remodeled, 
and ha-s had several diflfereut landlords. Its present pro- 
prietor is Parker. 

The establishment of the post-office of Evans' Mills was 
about the j'ear 1824. The first postmaster was William 



Palmer, who held the position for many years. He first 
kept the office at his .store in the old tavern building of 
JenLson Clark. Afterwards he built the store now occupied 
by E. 0. Hungerford, and removed the office thither. In 
184G the name of the office was changed to Evansville, but 
five years later the original name w;is restored. The pr&sent 
postmaster is Wesley Rulison. The receipts of the office 
during the past year have been about §1000 ; money-orders 
sold, about $r),")00 ; money-orders paid, about §3000. 

The Watertown and Potsdam railroad (now the Rome, 
Watertown and Ogden.sburgh ) was completed and opened 
to Evans' Mills in the autumn of 1854. The first station 
buildings were the same now used for wood and water, on 
the .south side of the track. Next was built the freight- 
house portion of the present buildings on the north side, 
and in 1865 the passenger-rooms and offices were added. 
The valuation of the railroad property in Le Ray is, in 
round numbers, §105,000. The fjllowing figures show, 
appro.\iniately, the business of the road at this station for 
tlu! past financial year: Freight received, $3()00. Freight 
forwarded, SD500. Tickets .sold, §4000. The first agent 
of the company at Evans' Mills was Lewis W. Sanderfurth, 
who was succeeded in September, 1863, by George Ivers, 
who has held the agency until the present time. 

On I'lca.sant creek, a .short distance above Evans' Mills, 
but near enough to be considered a part of the village, are 
the saw-mill and cheese-box factory of James M. Henry. 
The commencement at this place was the erection of a saw- 
mill by Asa Hall, about 1821, upon a site purchased by 
him of Sylvanus Evans. Hall's successor was George Oaks, 
who about 1830 rebuilt the dam farther up the creek, 
bringing the water down by canal ; also rebuilt the saw-mill, 
and added clothiery works. He was succeeded by Albert 
Granger and Stutley iMiller, under whom the works were 
destroyed by fire. Miller withdrew, and Granger rebuilt 
the saw-mill, after which the property came to the hands of 
the present owner, by whom the cheese-box factory was 
added. 

Clifibrd's brewery, on Le Ray street, at the eastern side 
of the village, was commenced many years since by Martin 
Boos. It is now carried on by Carleton Cliffijrd. 

Evans' Mills became an incorporated village in 1874, the 
incorporation being ratified by a vote of 54 to 49, at a legal 
meeting held September 7 in that year. The territory em- 
braced in the surveyed boundaries was 120*^^ acres. A. 
M. Cook Wiis elected president of the corporation, and Geo. 
Ivers, B. M. Strong, and Bowen Root, trustees. The last 
named declined to serve, and William M. Ree,«e was ap- 
pointed in this place. But notwithstanding that the incor- 
poration was legally accomplished, and the officers properly 
elected and qualified, the organization never went into 
effiict. An adverse feeling sprung up, a new meeting was 
called at which the vote of ratification was rescinded, the 
village was .shorn of the dignity of incorporation, and still 
remains in statu quo. Its population is now 450, and it 
contains, besides the mills and manufactories above men- 
tioned, 4 church edifices, 2 school-houses, the post-office, 2 
hotels, 4 general stores, 5 groceries, 3 drug-stores, 1 har- 
ness- and saddlery-shop, 4 blacksmith -shops, 2 wagon-shops, 
and 1 cheese-factory. 



424 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



LE RAYSVILLE. 

AVhon Benjamin Brown selected tlie site for liis mill and 
dwelling, he proluibl^' had au eye to utility alone ; but if he 
had been 8eekin<» expressly for a location of natural beauty, 
he could hardly have found it elsewhere in greater degree 
than at the spot which he chose, on the hanks of Pleasant 
creek. And although Le Raysville is now but an obscure 
hamlet, with its former importance. only a memory, its 
grand manor-house in decay, and the hospitable owner and 
his distinguished guests in their graves, yet the attractions 
which nature lavished on the place are still there, and will 
remain. 

Four years after Brown settled at the place where the 
village now is. Dr. Baudry, a Frenchman, who had been 
sent by Le Ray to choose a location for his residence and 
land-office, arrived at this place, and after having made 
thorough examination of other eligible points to which his 
attention had been invited in different parts of the purcha.se 
made his selection here, and at once commenced prepara- 
tions for the erection of the proprietor's house. 

The felling of timber was commenced in the fall of 1806, 
and the sawinu; was done at Brown's mill in the succeeding 
winter and spring. Early in 1807 the frame was made ready 
and raised under the superintendence of Ethni Evans, who, 
probably, was also the master-carpenter of the whole work. 
The house was not entirely fini-shed when the proprietor came 
to occupy it in 1808 ; but he took possession as it was, 
amid the smoke of the burning log-heaps uj)on the clear- 
ing. The site was upon a commanding eminence, half a 
mile southwest from Brown's, and near the head of his 
mill-pond. It was covered with a heavy growth of de- 
ciduous trees, principally maple and elm. In thinning the 
grove, discrimination was made against the elms in many 
cases, and, while they were marked for destruction, the 
maples and beeches were left. A broad opening was cut 
from the main entrance of the house, along the plateau, to 
the brow of the hill overlooking the pond, and from thence 
an unrivaled prospect was had, down the valley of Pleas- 
ant creek, over the roofs of the incipient village. " The 
heir-apparent to the princely palaces and garden of Passy" 
had abundant reason to be pleased with his new home in 
the wilderness ! 

The first agent in charge of the land-office at Le Ray.s- 
ville was Moss Kent, a brother of the chancellor. When 
M. Le Ray returned teniiiorarily to France in ISIO, leav- 
ing his .son Vincent in charge of his affairs, Kent re- 
mained to assist in their management. His residence was 
in the hou.sehold of his patron. In 1816 ho retired from 
the agency, and was succeeded in that position by Samuel 
C. Kanady, who held it until his death in 1835. In 1816, 
Le Ray returned from France, bringing with him his 
daugliter Theresa and her husband, the Marquis dc Gou- 
velio. They were then just married, and their visit to Le 
Raysville was prolonged to about a year. Le Ray remained 
for many years, making his home, most of the time, at his 
villa. During these years he was constantly busy with his 
improvements; building mills, promoting settlements, and 
endeavoring in every way to advance the interests of those 
who had located on his lands. 



The post-office of Le Raysville was established in the 
spring of 1818, upon the first opening of the mail-route 
from Denmark to Wilna, by waj' of this village. Prior 
to this, the mail for the land-office and for the people of 
Le Raysville and vicinity had come via Champion, being 
usually Isrought from thence by Mr. Le Ray himself, who 
was never weary of obliging the people of the town. The 
first postmaster at Le Raysville was Samuel C. Kanady, 
who resided in the village, though employed in the land- 
office at the villa. He held tlie office until his death in 

1836. His successors have been Whipple, William 

Phelps, Ennis Mo.sher, Horace Grover, Albert Mosher, 
and William S. Phelps. The first physician of the village 
was Dr. Horatio Orvis, who had at first located with his 
father, where J. J. Kinney now lives, but soon after came to 
Le Raysville. He continued in practice for a great num- 
ber of years. 

The first public-house, called the Le Raysville hotel, 
was opened about 1810. One of its early proprietors was 
Amasa Barber. It has been recently closed, and the village 
has now no public-house. Another hotel was started on 
the east side of the creek, by Curtis Mann, and was after- 
wards kept bj' several proprietors, among whom were Mar- 
vin Kingsbury and Stephen Macomber. It is now a dwell- 
ing house. The first and only store in the village was 
owned by Mr. Le Ray, and was for some time carried on 
in charge of a clerk named Devereaus ; afterwards (about 
1820), by Martin Hubbard, then by S. C. Kanady. It is 
still in existence, owned by W. S. Phelps. 

Mills and manufacturing industries have been very few in 
Le Raysville. The saw-mill of Benjamin Brown passed to 
the hands of Curtis Mann, then to S. C. Kanady, and later 
to Wm. Phelps. It has been several times rebuilt, or, more 
correctly, several mills have occupied the site, the last hav- 
ing been erected by Wm. S. Phelps in 1856, of which 
nothing now remains but the foundation and some rusty 
iron-work. 

A very considerable business in cabinet-making was done 
for many years by William Phelps, who came to Le Rays- 
ville in 1814, and opened his trade in a shop which he built 
the following year, on the east side of the main street. Af- 
terwards he built the stone shop on the west side, which may 
still be seen there, but it has years ago ceased to be u.scd in 
the business for which it was erected. Upon a small trib- 
utary entering the creek upon the east side a .saw-mill was 
built many years .since by Curtis Mann, and afterwards sold 
to Wm. I'helps. An axe-helve factory was added by Leon- 
ard Fortune, and is now owned by Charles Mosher. The 
saw-mill is the property of Homan Wafel. At one time a 
box-factory was there, but has been discontinued. 

In 1825 the work of demolition of the Le Ray residence 
was comniencod, ti> make room for the erection of a more 
elegant and luxurious one. It was built of stone, and 
smoothly plastered upon the outside. The main building 
was built with about 60 feet front, and nearly or quite the 
same depth. Attached to this was a wing, large enough 
for a mansion in itself A lofly portico on the southerly 
front was supported by four massive columns. Internally, 
the finish was of the best. In those days there were no 
planing and moulding machines to turn out fair-looking but 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



425 



trashy work ; all was done by the slow hand-process, and in 
this case, at least, there was no slight or sham. Alfred 
Vebbcr, who now lives about two miles from Evans' Mills, 
was busy for months in making the doors, of cherry-wood 
paneled with choicest maple. All was of the best material 
and workmanship. The mansion was completed in 1827; 
and was at that time said to be the most splendid establish- 
ment west of the Hudson. In this mansion Le Kay lived 
and dispensed an elegant hospitality for a period of about 5 
years before his return to France, which occurred in 1882. 
Once more he came to America, and spent a few months 
at Le Raysville, in the year 183G, tiien made a final return 
to France, where he died, on the last day of the year 1840, 
at the good age of eighty years. 

During his life, Monsieur Le Ray de Chaumont was 
respected and beloved by the people of the county of .iff- 
ferson. and since his death he is only menlioncJ in terms 
of affection and eulogy. He was extremely liberal in the 
encouragement which he gave to public improvements and 
to the promotion of education and religion, giving sites for 
school-houses and churches, and often supplementing tlie.se 
gifts by donations of material and money. To such as 
were indebted to him by reason of land-purcha.ses, he was 
more than indulgent. Those who settled on his tract he 
seemed to regard as under his especial protection, to be de- 
fended against distress or destitution from whatever cause. 
In his household a majority of the servants were natives of 
La Belle France, but a few were colored Americans, and 
among the latter was a negress named Rachel, of great age, 
and consequently of great assumed importance, who was not 
too old to be extremely desirous of gaining recognition and 
respect from her French fellow-servants, and who, as a means 
to that end, treated those of her own color with scarcely dis- 
guised contempt. There are those still living in Le Rav 
who renuMuber how in their childhood they went timidly 
to the mansion with blackberries for sale, and how they 
were met and repulsed by Aunt Rachel with the sharp re- 
mark, " No ! don't want no blackb'rys ; got a heap too much 
hlnck round dis yere liou.se now" (with a look of disdain 
at her colored co-servitors). But when the children had 
turned away with heavy hearts, a light tap was heard at the 
window, and they saw the kindly master of the house 
beckoning them to him. Perhaps at that moment he was 
entertaining a marquis or a marshal of France, but, if so, 
he excused himself to his guests, that he might gladden the 
little ones' hearts by purchasing their wares which he did 
not need. Such acts showed that innate benevolence which 
made him universally popular and esteemed. 

The land-office remained at the Le Ray manor until 
about 1836, when it was finally removed to Carthage. The 
last agent here was Patrick Somerville Stewart, who suc- 
ceeded Mr. Kanady at the death of the latter. Jules R. 
Payen, a French gentleman, became the purchaser of a 
tract of 2000 acres of the Le Ray lands, embracing the 
manor-house, where he made his residence, and where he 
died July 26, 1862. His daughter, Mrs. Wm. S. Phelps, 
of Le Raysville, is the present owner of the mansion and 
lands surrounding it. 

The stately house, the office once so busy, the conserva- 
tory, and all things that the hand of man placed there, are 



desolate and decaying, but the beech and maple groves are 
as grand, their .shade as deep, and their foliage as gorgeous 
as ever, and the little stream flows as merrily through the 
grounds, with waters as copious and as marvelously clear 
as on the day when all this beauty first charmed the eyes 
of Le Ray de Chaumont. 

SLOCUMVILLE. 

This place, located one mile below Le Raysville, on 
Pleasant creek, consists of a saw-mill, grist-mill, store, and 
woolen-factory, owned and operated by Caleb Slocum, son 
of Samuel G. Slocum, from whom the place received its 
name. 

The commencement here, made in 1813, under the 
patronage of Mr. Le Ray, was the (erection of a powder- 
mill by a young Frenchman, named D&sjardines, whom the 
proprietor had sent hither from France for the purpose. 
He was a pupil of the Polytechnic School of Paris, and 
was supposed to have discovered a new process of manufac- 
turing the explosive. But if the process was new it was 
certiiinly not an improved one, for the powder produced 
was of the most inferior quality, though it was utilized to 
some extent for blasting purposes. The experiment proved 
a failure, and was soon abandoned. At the collapse a large 
quantity of alder wood, prepared for charcoaling, was left 
on hand, as also about 1000 kegs, intended for powder, but 
afterwards put in use by the people of the vicinity as sap- 
buckets. The grist-mill, built about the same time, con- 
tained the first burr-stones in Le Ray, they having been 
sent from France for this especial purpose. The flour it 
made was excellent, and its custom was consequently very 
large. The first miller was a Frenchman, named Bidrot, 
imported expressly for this service. A brick house was 
erected, and is said by some to have been the first dwelling- 
house of that material built in Jefferson County ; but this 
is not clearly authenticated. The powder-mill was con- 
verted into a manufactory of potato-starch, which never 
proved more than moderately successful. The property 
afterwards went into the possession of S. G. Slocum, as 
mentioned, and from him descended to the present owner. 
The factory, the only establishment of the kind in Le Ray, 
manufactures coarse woolens, and is operated with success. 
It is the successor of an old-time clothiery-mill, put in 
operation there many years ago. 

BLACK RIVER VILLAGE 

is located in the towns of Le Ray and Rutland, being 
divided by the Black river, which at this point is spanned 
by a fine iron bridge, built in 1875, a previous bridge of 
the same material having been carried away by flood. An 
account of that part of the village which lies in Rutland 
will be found with the history of that town. 

The site of the Le Ray portion of the village, lying on 
the north bank of the river and about 2} iiiiles southea.st 
from Sanford's Corners, was embraced in a tract of 150 
acres, purchased in about 1828 by Christopher Poor, from 
Alexander Le Ray, as agent for the Chassanis tract ; this 
purchase, of course, covering all the water-power of the 
north side, which was Mr. Poor's chief inducement in 
making the selection of this spot. He had been an early 



426 



HISTORY OF JEFFER50N COUNTY. NEW YORK. 



settler in Ratland, from whence he removed to his new 
purchafe in Le Ray on Chri^stmas day, 1S29. The house 
which he had erected to receive his family was where J. T. 
Davenport now lives. During the preceding summer he 
had, with some assistance from other residents of the 
vicinity, built and completed the first bridge across the 
river, at the point where it is crossed by the present iron 
bridge. That, and several succeeding bridges in the same 
place, have been carried away by freshets. 

The first grist-mUl was built by A. Horton, about 1S36, 
on the river-bank, a little distance above the bridge. This 
mill afterwards became the property of Christopher and 
Peter Poor, and during their proprietorship it was destroyed 
by fire about 1S42— 43. The present flour-mill, known as 
the Lockport mill, and standing at the northerly end of the 
iron bridge, was commenced, about 1S45, by Oliver A. Fer- 
guson. He, however, advanced no further in its construc- 
tion than the building of the wheel-pit and preparation of 
timber for the superstructure. It was afterwards taken by 
Matthew Poor. R. G. Vaughn, and Henry Chapman, who 
completed it in 1S49. From these proprietors the mill 
passed to A. H. Herrick, then to Jewett Bros., and from 
them, through various hands, to the present owners, Messrs. 
Warren k Ingraham. It is equipped with four run of 
burrs, and does excellent work. 

The fir^t saw-mill was built at the time of the construc- 
tion of the dam, in 1S31, jointly by Christopher Poor and 
Cobum & Hubbard. The mill was erected solely by the 
firm. They carried it on for some years, then sold it to 
Wm. K, Butterfield and his brothers. This was burnt at 
the same time that Poor's grist-mill was destroyed. It has 
never been rebuilt. The second saw-mill, occupving a site 
on the river-bank below the Cobum <i Hubbard mill, was 
built by Wm. K. Butterfield, and was destroyed also by fire 
with the grist-mill, to which it was adjacent. It was rebuilt 
by Joseph Fuller, and afterwards carried away by the flood 
which destroyed the first iron bridge. It has never been 
rebuilt since that time, A planing-mill and wood-working 
machine-shop was built by Peter Poor, about 1S4S. After 
a time it passed to the possession of Andrew Poor, the 
present owner, who at one time used it as a chair-factory. 
It is now used as a bos-faetory. and for other wood working 
purposes. It has thus far escaped destruction by flood or 
fire. 

The wood-working shop and box-factory of D. H. Scott 
& Son. standing on the river below Poor's, was built by 
Hinman k Middleton, about 1S60. It was afterwards 
purchased by D. Dexter & Son, of Rutland, and by them 
used for a time in their business of chair-manufacturine. 
It was for two years tiscd as a place of worship by the 
Free Methodists of Black River. From Dexter & Son it 
passed to the present owners. 

On the river-bank, upon the lower side of the iron bridge, 
at its head, is 9 building which was erected fur a machine- 
shop I iron-working ) by Isaac and Joseph Howe, who car- 
ried on that btisiness for some years, then sold to Thomas 
Matthews, who used it as a joiner's shop. It is now owned 
by the Lockport Mill proprietore, and used by them for 
storage. 

The first to commence merchandising in the Le Ray sec- 



tion of the village was Robert H. Van Shoick, who in 1832 
or '33 built and opened his .store on the westerly side of the 
main street, a short distance above the head of the bridge. 
It passed to the hands of the present owner, Mr. P. Thurs- 
ton, who, about 1S4S, transformed it into a hotel, the first and 
only public-house of the village. This has been abandoned, 
and the store-tavern is now a private dwelling. The second 
store was opened by S, L, Mott, about 1852, It stood be- 
tween the hotel and the he-.id of the bridge. Matthew 
Poor became its proprietor in November, 1866, and continues 
such until the present time. 

Besides the establishments above mentioned, the village 
of Black River, in Le Ray, comprises a school-house, a 
church (the Free Methodist ), a wagon-shop, two blacksmith- 
shops, and about 250 inhabitants. 

SANFORDS CORNERS, 

It is a fre<]uent remark by the old inhabitants of Le 
Ray. that this cross-roads cluster of buildings instead of 
being called Sanford's should have been named Woodruff's 
corners, firom Roswell Woodruff, its first settler, who came 
in 1804. Later on it was for some years known generally 
as '• Jewett's Comers," " Jewett's School-House," and 
" Capt. Jewett's," from Ezckiel Jewett, who purchased the 
farm of Mr, Woodruff, and became, in that particular, his 
successor. ■ 

Mr. Sanford, from whom the Comers were named, erected 
there a stone building, with the intention of opening a 
store, but this was never done. The brick hotel, which is 
still standing west of the railroad track, and is now, or has 
recently been, used as a Limburger cheese-factory, was built 
and opened by Oliver Pierce aboout 1825 The post- 
office was established in 1828, and was kept in the brick 
tavern, Mr. Pierce being the first who was appointed to the 
office of postmaster. The present postmaster is Harlan 
Dunn, who is also the station-agent. The first school-house 
in Le Ray was built at Sanford's Corners. The Union 
church edifice, built in 1853, will be found noticed else- 
where in this volume. 

At the opening of the Watertown and Potsdam, now the 
R., W. and 0., railroad, in 1854, the station was, for some 
cause not easily explained, established more than half a mile 
to the southwest of the settlement of Sanford's Cornere, 
and received its name. The business of the place is repre- 
sented by a hotel and small store at the station. 

JOACHIM. 

This was the name given to a projected village by Lu- 
cien Murat, in honor of his father. Joachim Murat, king 
of Naples and marshal of the empire under Napoleon, who 
said of hira, " He is the right arm of my defense : a Pala- 
din in the field , the best cavalry officer in the world." He 
bore aloft the imperial eagles on a hundred fields of victory ; 
and it has ofUin been said that, had his plume waved and 
his sabre flashed amid the dun smoke of Waterloo, Wel- 
lington might have spared his famous invocation, for nei- 
ther Blucher nor night could have saved him. And now 
this chieftains name had descended upon a country saw- 
mill and tract of land surrounding it in the quiet agricul- 
tural town of Le Ray ! The location was upon the Indian 




HOMfsrfAD or RANDALL BARNiS'^V RiSiDCNCi or H.yi.BARHiS, Evahs UuLS,JLrriRson Co.M .Y. 




Residence or A.F. MARSHALL, Black River, JEmRSON Co N Y. 

InyEHTOR or IMPROVCMINT in MA:n:h,E2 FOR BCnDINQWOOD. ' ' 




DH.3C01T &.SON,I^ANui>.ciu>iiiis ij, fACKiNG tioxis or all kinds, Also Amcrican Clothis Dryers.BlachRiver, JcrrcRSOH Co.H. Y. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



427 



river, below the bend, and within a short half-mile of the 
town-line of Philadelphia. At thi.s point a saw-mill had 
been built in 1822, by Arnold Miller, from whose pos.sc.ssion 
it had pas.sed to that of Samuel Makepeace. From him it 
was purchased, with the land beloniriii'^ to it, by Murat, 
who in 1834 rebuilt the mill, as the tir.-it step towards the 
establishment of a village. The next was the erection of a 
grist-mill, which for a time was used for dancing parties 
and other merry-makings of a more (juestionable character. 
A large hotel was commenced, but never brought to com- 
pletion. 

A number of small frame dwellings were put up, and 
with such rapidity as to cause the remark among the towns- 
people that Joachim was growing at the rate of a house 
every day. A residence was built for Murat s own use, at 
which, during the periods of his occupancy, he held a sort 
of protracted carnival. A capacious .store was also among 
his enterprises, and he filled it with a very large stock of 
goods, purchased on credit in New York. In this an ex- 
tensive trade was carried on and continued for a consider- 
able length of time ; but at la.st the inevitable end came. 
The matter of-fact creditors from the city seized on remain- 
ing goods, store, and whatever else they could find uncov- 
ered, and the prospects of the village of Joachim were 
obscured in permatient eclipse. From the inception to the 
final collapse of the enterprise was a period of nearly three 
years. The machinery of the flour-mill was sold, and re- 
moved to Salmon river. The hotel project was abandoned, 
and its cellar has been filled up. The unsubstantial dwell- 
ings, so rapidly built, have all disappeared. The store has 
been remodeled as a dwelling-house, and is now occupied by 
Isaac Si.xbury. Another store languished there for a time, 
under proprietorship of Mr. Shattuck, but this was soon 
abandoned. The saw-mill alone remains. It has been 
repaired since the days of Lucien Jlurat, and is now owned 
and operated by Robert Sixbury, a grandson of the cen- 
tenarian of the same name. 

INGERSONS CORNERS. 

This name is applied to a neighborhood and cross-roads 
located about two miles southeast of Evans' Mills. It is 
so called from Mr. I.saac Ingorson, the first .settlor at this 
point. Near him was settled Mr. Elisha Schofield. In the 
very early days it was supposed that this would become the 
site of a village. A wagon-shop and blacksmithy was 
started here by Aaron Rose, and a considerable business in 
that line was done. One of the" apprentices of Rose was 
Harry Weed, who afterwards established business at Evans' 
Mills, and Rose himself aLso removed there at a later time. 
A small tributary of West creek passes this place, and on 
this small stream a saw-mill was built about 1822, by Job 
Anthony and Alvin Clark. It was, however, one of the 
kind known as " dry mills," and was of short continuance. 
For some unknown cause this neighborhood has received 
the name of " Bedlam," and is so most generally designated. 
Its village aspirations have long since faded away. 

OTHER MILLS, HOTELS, ETC. 

On the north side of the Black river, opposite the vil- 
lage of Great Bend in Champion, is a hotel, built about 



1833, by King Potter, and for some years kept by Henry 
G. Potter, who also started a distillery at the .same place. 
A store was opened here as early as 1824 by Daniel Potter, 
and continued for several years. The store and the distil- 
lery have cea-sed to exist, but the hotel is still kept open 
under the proprietorship of J. & G. Freeman. 

On the north side of Black river, opposite Felt's Mills, 
there is no settlement. The island in the river at this 
point was formerly a part of Le Ray, but was set off to 
Rutland about 1835. Upon this island was a tannery and 
some other improvements, owned by John Felt. 

A store was opened at an early day by Thomas Ward, 
near the present residence of Joseph Bichet, on the road 
from Evans' IMills to Le Raysville. This was continued for 
many years, with apparent prosperity. 

At the " Five Corners," a mile southeast of Sanford's, a 
hotel was opened by Benjamin Butterfield, in the hou.se 
now the residence of Alvin Scofield. 

Churchill's saw-mill, on Pleasant creek, below Slocum- 
ville, was erected by H. C. Churchill. It is not among the 
oldest of the mills in the town. A mill was built half a 
century ago by Alvin Clark, en Gardner's creek, near where 
it enters Indian river. This is among the things of the 
past. On West creek, a mile north of Sanford's Corners, 
a grist-mill was built by Abraham Jewett, about 1830. It 
was afterwards used as a plaster-mill, and a manufactory of 
water-lime was established there, but none of these are now 
in operation. Upon a small stream near the residence of 
M. Walts, in the west part of the town, was a very old 

grist-mill, built by Taylor ; also a saw-mill, at the 

same place, probably built later ; and on a small stream 
which flows into Indian river, below the bend, Benjamin 
Bentley, in 1823, built a saw-mill, which was kept in opera- 
tion for years, and was finally worn out and abandoned. 



CHURCHES. 



LE RAY PRESBYTERIAN. 



On January 13, 1814, a meeting was held at the hou.se 
of Elisha Scofield, at Ingerson's Corners, for the purpose of 
organizing a Congregational church society. This was the 
first attempt made for the organization of any religious 
society in the town of Le Ray. The meeting was presided 
over by Rev. Nathaniel Button, of Champion. The fol- 
lowing-named persons were then organized into a visible 
church: Elisha Scofield, Abigail, his wife, Ruel Kimball, 
Hannah, his wife, Gersham Mattoon, Nancy, his wife, Ezra 
Sayer, Elizabeth S., his wife. Widow Mattoon, Mrs. Cheese- 
man, afterwards the wife of Joseph Tuttlc, Abner Cheese- 
man, and Hannah Parker. Ruel Kimball was elected to 
the deaconate, and was chosen standing moderator and clerk. 

Up to 1820 there had been no stated minister in charge. 
Regular meetings were conducted by Deacon Kimball, with 
exhortation and prayer. Occasionally, Rev. Mr. Dutton 
would attend, and administer the Lord's Supper. The place 
of meeting was some time at Ingerson's Corners, but when 
a frame school-house was built at Evans' Mills the church 
was removed to this building. 

One day while Deacon Kimball was in the harvest-field, 
and while his wife was busily engaged with her household 



428 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



duties, a little three-year old boy suddenly disappeared. 
Search was made for him far and near, without succes.s, till 
upon approaching an uncovered well, Mr. Kimball di.scovered 
the lifeless form of his little boy lying in the water. Not- 
withstanding the intensity of his grief he descended into 
the well and brought the body to the surface. Soon after 
this sad event he began studying for the ministry. He 
gave as his reason for this step that while in the well, with 
the body of his child in his arms, " The Spirit" said to him, 
" Preach the gospel," — a call almost as startling as that of 
St. Paul's. In the year 1820 he became the first pastor 
or regular mini.ster of the church, and continued in charge 
for nearly four years, when failing health compelled him to 
resign. 

Since 1820 the church has been presided over by the 
following-named clergymen : Revs. Ruel Kimball, 1820 to 
1824; C. G. Finney, 1824 to 1825 ; J. Sessions, 1831 to 
1832; R. Pcttibone, 1832 to 1839; T. C. Hill, 1839 to 
1840; John Eastman, 1840 to 1844; Thomas Bellamy, 
1844 to 1846; M. Smith, 1846 to 1847; J. A. Russell, 
1847 to 1854; R. T. Conant, 1855 to 1858 ; R. G. Keyes, 
1860 to 1861 ; E. Wood, 1861 to 1864 ; J. H. Beckwith, 
1865 to 1868; R. G. Keyes, 1868 to 1869; A. Douglass, 
1869 to 1871; H. H. Kellogg, 1871 to 1874; N. F. 
Nickerson, 1875 to 1877. The church is now without a 
pastor. 

During the ministry of Rev. Ruel Kimball the place of 
worship was changed from the old frame to the new stone 
school-house, then just completed, on the spot where the 
school-house at Evans' Mills now stands. Soon after the 
coming of Mr. Finney a great season of revival commenced, 
and protracted preachings were held by him for several 
weeks, after which, upon one occasion, finding that the de- 
sired result had not been attained, he put a test to his 
audience in the following words : " You who have made 
up your minds to become Christians, and will give your 
pledge to make your peace with God immediately, rise vp! 
but those of you who are resolved you will not become 
Christians, and who wish me to so understand it, and wish 
Christ 80 to understand it, keep your seats!" Certainly the 
test was not adroitly applied ! Had he commanded the 
obdurate ones to rise and face his reproving glance, per- 
mitting the godly-iuindcd to remain inactive and unobserved 
ill their seat.s, the result would doubtless have been very 
different; as it was, none rose to the call, though perhaps 
there were .scores waiting only the e.vample of a bold leader 
to do so. The Rev. Charles G. Finney cast his eye over 
the abashed congregation for a few moments and .said, 
" Then you arc committed ! You have taken your stand, and 
have rejected Christ and his gospel !" First the people 
were cowed ; then they grew angry, and rose en masse to 
leave the school-house. As they pas.sed out, he said, in 
tones that were audible through the room, "I am sorry for 
you,' I pity you, and I will preach to you yet once more ; 
to-morrow night, the Lord willing," The wrath of Mr. 
Finney's auditory was hot against him, and all through the 
succeeding day threats of personal violence, of tar cuibel- 
lislu'd with feathers, were freely maih^ against the reverend 
gentleman, who, it is said, was, during those exciting hours, 
engaged in prayer, in an adjoining grove, with Deacon Ma- 



comber, of the Baptist church. In the evening, " at early 
candle-light," the stone school-house was filled. Soon Mr. 
Finney appeared, and announced his text : " Say ye to the 
righteous it shall be well with him, for they shall eat the 
fruit of their doings. Woe to the wicked ! it shall be ill 
with him, for the reward of his hands .shall be given him." 
The extempore discourse which followed was so vividly, so 
startlingly drawn, that conversions immediately followed ; 
the revival continued for mouths, and many were the souls 
which were gathered to the fold of Christ. 

From the close of Mr. Finney's pastorate until 1831 the 
church was ministered to by special supplies, and during 
this interval (in 1826j a handsome and commodious stone 
house of worship was erected on a lot donated by Judge 
Evans, the same on which the present church stands. The 
cost of the edifice was $2600. Elisha Scofield, David 
Burhaus, Sylvester Kelsey, Samuel C. Kanady, Sylvanus 
Evans, Mr. Le Ray, and several others were very active 
and energetic in the erection of this edifice, giving liberally 
in money and labor to accomplish it. The contribution of 
Mr. Le Ray was $200. The dedication was conducted by 
Rev. Dr. Boardman. 

The new church on Church street, Evans' Mills, the 
present place of worship, was erected during the pastorate 
of Rev. R. G, Keyes, and dedicated in June, 1869, The 
dedicatory sermon was preached by Rev. J. J. Porter, and 
the other exercises were conducted by Revs. R, G. Keyes, 
E, Wood, and E. Pratt. The membership of the church 
at present (November 1, 1877) is sixty-nine. 

THE BAPTIST CHURCH OF LE RAV 

was organized by Elder Maltby in 1814, two miles south of 
Evans' Mills, and was removed to that village in 1818. A 
corporate society was formed in November, 1823, with 
Ethni Evans, Asa Hall, Levi Read, John Macomber, 
Stephen D. Sloan, and Chauncey Morse as trustees. A 
stone church edifice was commenced and brought near 
completion, when it was partially destroyed by fire. The 
walls, however, remained but little injured, and were used 
in the rebuilding, in which the society was materially as- 
sisted by donations, the chief of which was from Mr. Le 
Ray. The building then erected was the jiresent house of 
worship of the society. It is located in the south part of 
the village, on Main street, and is now also used by the 
Episcopalians. The pa.stors of this Baptist church have 
been as follows : Revs. Matthew Wilkio, John Blodget, 
Martin E. Cook, Sardis Lyttle, John F. Bishop, Thomas 
A. Warner, Sylvester Davis, Lewis T. Ford, Henry Ward, 
Wm. P. Decker, Jacob Gardner, Daniel D. Reed, Preston 
K. Sheldon, Loren G. Brown, and Henry Ward, the 
present pastor. 

THE friends' meeting. 

The Le Ray Monthly Meeting of Friends was organized 
in 1816, The Pleasant Creek Preparative Meeting had 
been formed at an earlier date, and, in conjunction with 
the Preparative Meetings of Indian river, Lee, and Low- 
ville, formed the Monthly Meeting of Le Ray. Their 
meeting-house, a solid but plain and un])retending stone 
structure, was built in 1816, and having since that time 
received at least one new roof, with a modest projection and 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



429 



cornice, stands, as good as when first completed, about a mile 
northwest from Le Raysville, on the road to Evans' Mills. 

In 1828 the Hicksite sfhi.-m divided tlic eonf^regatioii 
here, a.s elsewhere; but both wings worshiped in the old 
church, and in time afterwards healed their differences. 
Recently, however, a more serious disagreement has arisen 
on the cjuestion of vocal music at the meetings, and this 
difference of views seems to have proved irreconcilable, for 
the Orthodox portion withdrew, and, in 1870, erected a 
new frame house of worship in the Quaker style at Le 
Raysville ; while the innovating wing, or Progressive 
Quakers, as they are styled, meet in the old house of 1816. 

In this, as in other Quaker communities, the rising 
generation show a disinclination to conform to the ancient 
usages of the sect, and as a result the numerical strength 
of the peculiar people is slowly but steadily diminishing. 

THE M. E. CHURCH AT EVANS' MILLS. 

The organization of this church dates liack to Nov. 20, 
1824, the first trustees being Henry Churchill, Parker 
Chase, John Y. Stewart, Daniel Smith, P. S. Stuart, James 
Ward, Wilson Pennock, Elijah Smith, and William Tag- 
gart. 

Their first house of worship was a small stone building, 
which stood about two miles from Evans' Mills on the road 
to Le Raysville, and near the present residence of Henry 
Bryant. Some time after, being superseded by the new 
edifice, this was sold to the Methodists of Philadelphia. 
The present edifice at Evans' Jlills was erected, at a cost of 
about $3000, on a lot donated by Judge Evans. It was 
commenced in 1832, and advanced so that meetings were 
held in the basement in the fall of that year. It was dedi- 
cated in the summer of 1833, the services on that occasion 
being conducted by Rev. John Dempster, assisted by the 
pastor. Rev. Lewis Whiteomb, of Le Raysville, since whose 
pastorate the following ministers have served the church, 
very nearly in the following order: Reverends D. W. Bris- 
tol, Enoch Barnes, Ross Clark, 1835 ; James Ervin and 
Wm. D. Moore, 1835-36; Arza J. Phelps, 1837; H. E. 
Chapin, 1838-39; Nathan R. Peck, 1840-41 ; John Alley, 

1842; John W. Armstrong, 1843; Dr. Fenton, 

1844; Lorenzo D. Stebbins, 1845-47; Isaac S. Bingham, 
1848; 0. C. Cole, 1849; Joseph Lamb, 1850; M. D. 
Gillett, 1851 ; 0. C. Lathrop, 1852 ; Cyrus Phillips, 1853 
-54; W. W. Hunt, 1854-55; Enos Kellogg, 1856; 
Hiram M. Church, 1857; Darius Simonds, 1858-59; 
Elisha Wheeler, 1800; H. M. Dan forth, 1861-62 (entered 
the U. S. army as a line ofiieer in the War of the Rebellion). 
From 1862 to 1877 the following: S. M. Ward, Daniel 

Fulford, C. Mansou, Trevaler, D. W. Aylsworth, W. 

S. Nichols, William S. Holbrook ; and Rev.M. M. Rice 
since April, 1877. 

The church has a Sabbath-school, with an average at- 
tendance of about 60, under George Vanderwalker, super- 
intendent. A class of about 25 members, belonging to this 
charge, worship in the school-house at Le Raysville. 

THE M. E. CHURCH AT SANFORD's CORNERS. 

A Methodist class has existed at this place for more than 
half a century ; Sanford's Corners having been one of the 



oldest preaching places on Le Ray circuit, and the location 
of its first parsonage. In 1847 and 1849 efforts were made 
to remove the location of the parsonage to Black River 
village; that place having given name to the circuit and 
become its geographical centre, but several years elapsed 
before this object was accomplished. The removal took 
place in 1876. 

The church at Sanford's now numbers 49 full members 
and 30 probationers. The present minister in charge is 
Rev. W. M. Holbrook. Their place of worship is the 
Union church edifice at the Corners. In the early days, be- 
fore this was erected, the wonshipci-s met in the Jewett 
school-hou.se. This church has a flourishing Sabbath-school, 
under the superinteiidency of Charles Ryder. Its numbers 
are given in the hi.story of the Black River circuit, with 
the town of Rutland. 

THE UNION CHURCH EDIFICE AT SANFORn's CORNERS 

was erected by a union composed of the UniversalLst, 
Methodist, and Christian societies, each owning a quarter 
interest, and certain liberal-spirited citizens of the vicinity, 
who furnished the remainder of the necessary funds, and 
held the other one-fourth interest. The edifice was dedi- 
cated in 1853, jointly by the three denominations, in order 

as follows : First, at 10 a.m., sermon by Rev. Austin, 

of the Universalisis ; second, at 1 p.m., sermon by Rev. I. 
S. Bingham, for the Methodi.sts ; and at 4 p.m., by Rev. 
Mr. Tucker, of the Christian church. The house has 
since been used by the above-named congregations as a 
place of worship. 

THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH IN LE RAY 

was organized March 12, 1823. Among its earliest mem- 
bers are found the names of Elder Eli Denio, Edmund 
Allen, Eli.sha Allen, Ebenezer Dunten, Fayette Herrick, 
James Rogers, and others, well known in this part of the 
county. The church is now in a prosperous condition. Its 
place of worship is the Union church at Sanford's Corners, 
and the present pastor is Rev. H. W. Pierce. 

GERMAN REFORMED CHURCH. 

A church of this denomination was formed July 13, 
1822, with Alexander H. Van Brnekelin, Peter Hoover, 
Richard Hoover, and John C. Walradt as deacons and 
elders. For many years an aged preacher from the Mo- 
hawk, familiarly known as " Parson Devoe," came among 
them semi-annually to administer the rites of the church. 
They have now no pastor, and have never had a house of 
worship. Their meetings are held in the school-house 
near the northern corner of the town. 

ST. Michael's (catholic) church. 

Services were held in dwellings at Evans' Mills and 
vicinity, by Rev. Father Guth and other priests of the 
Catholic church, soon after 1840. The present church 
building at Evans' Mills was erected in 1847 on a lot of a 
quarter of an acre, purchased of Joseph Boyer for S80. 
It is a stone structure about 40 bj' 60 feet in dimension, 
and cost about $2500. The trustees at that time were 
James Kinnej-, Francis Bichet, and Augustus Grappot. 



430 



HISTOIIY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



The worshipers included about thirty fUmilies, under 
charge of Rev. Father McFailand, whose successors have 
been Fathers Powers, La Pic (who remained in charge for 
fourteen years), Turgeon, La Rose, Plunkett, Chappel, and 
Hogan ; the last named assuming charge October 1, 1877. 
He officiates also at Watertown. 

EPI.SCOPAL CHURCH, EVANs' MILLS. 

The first Episcopal service at Evans' Mills was held in 
the spring of 1871, in the Presbyterian church, by Rev. 
Dr. Theodore Babcock, of Watertown. At that time there 
were but three communicants, namely, Mr. R. E. Granger, 
Mrs. L. E. Jones, and Mrs. William S. Cooper. 

During the following summer services were held fort- 
nightly by Rev. H. V. Gardner, rector at Antwerp. In 
the winter of 1871-2, Rev. Leigh Brown, rector of Trinity 
church, Watertown, established here a mission, assisted by 
Rev. Mr. Bonham, an evangelist. Since that time, Rev. 
Hugh Bailey, rector of St. Paul's church, at Antwerp, 
has also officiated here as rector. The church now num- 
bers 45 communicants, and a chapel is soon to be erected. 
At present they worship in the Baptist church at Evans' 
Mills. 

FREE METHODIST CHURCH OP BLACK RIVER. 

This organization was effected Dec. 11, 1871, with 
Josiah John.son and wife, David Dexter, Martha Taylor, 
and Lydia Mix as constituent members. The Rev. Charles 
Southworth, of Fulton, was their first pastor. He was 
succeeded by Rev. L. H. Robinson, after whom came Rev. 
D. Denijisey. After Mr. Dempsey the charge was assumed 
by Rev. J. C. Kennedy, who continued two years, and in 
October, 1876, was followed by Rev. Zenas Osborn, the 
present pastor. 

Their first place of worship was the building now occu- 
pied by D. H. Scott & Son, as a box-factory. Here they 
held their meetings until 1873, when they erected their 
present church edifice on land donated by Matthew Poor, 
at Black River village. It is a good frame structure, of 
which the cost was $1400, and was dedicated Oct. 25, 
1873. Connected with this church is a Sabbath-school, 
with an average attendance of about 30, under the super- 
iutendcncy of the pastor. 

CEMETERIES. 

The old burial-ground at Evans' Mills, which Wiis formerly 
at the southern end of the village, was given to the public 
by Ethni Evans, the founder of the place, and was the 
interment-place of the first settlers in this vicinity, though 
none now living know the date or names of its first inter- 
ments. Judge Evans, after long and earnest but vain 
endeavors to have it substantially inclosed at the public 
expense, at last put a fence with strong cedar-posts around 
his own lots, near the centre of the ground, and this re- 
mained for many years. The present Main street of the 
village, when laid out, cut the old grave-yard in two, and 
tlu^ remains from the suuthcasti'rn part were removed to 
the opposite side. All have since been transferred to the 
Evans' Mills Cemetery. 



THE QUAKER BURIAL-GROUND. 

The first place of interment used by the society of Friends 
in Le Ray w:us in the lot adjacent to their meeting-house, 
and here members of the Child family and others of the 
earliest Quaker settlers were interred. This, however, ha.s 
ceased to be used, another cemetery-ground having been 
established by the society on land taken from the farm of 
Stephen Roberts, a short distance southwest from Le Rays- 
ville, on the road to Black River village. 

EVANs' MILLS CE.METERT. 

On May 19, 1840, Aaron Root and Betsey, his wife, 
conveyed by deed to S. D. Sloan, William Palmer, Lybeus 
Hastings, and Elisha Steele, Jr., as trustees, a fraction over 
two acres of land for use as a public burial-ground. This 
was a part of his farm on the west side of the village. The 
price paid was $40 per acre, but Mr. Root allowed $34 for 
three burial-lots reserved for his own use. The first inter- 
ment in this ground was that of a child of Philander 
Miller, who died by drowning ; the second was that of Mr. 
Root himself 

This was the commencement of the present cemetery. 
The ground was enlarged by the addition of some 60 square 
rods of land in October, 1866, by Joseph D. Grinnell and 
others. 

On June 29, 1869, a meeting was held at Evans' Mills for 
the purpose of forming a cemetery association, which was 
done, and Adolphus M. Cook, Samuel S. Potter, Alexander 
Kanady, Rezot Tozor, Randall Barnes, and Wayne Stewart 
were elected its trustees ; and it was at the same time " re- 
solved that the trustees of the old burying-ground be re- 
quested to convey their right to the trustees of this associa- 
tion," in accordance with which resolution Messrs. Sloan, 
Palmer, Hastings, and Steele, the old trustees, did on the fol- 
lowing day convey the ground laid out in 1840 to the trustees 
of the association. On the 13th of July following De Witt 
C. Grinnell and Jo.seph D. Grinnell conveyed to the same 
trustees a piece of land (area not st;ited) on the northeast 
end of the cemetery, for the purpose of enlargement, and 
they also quit-claimed the tract added in 1866. The asso- 
ciation was incorporated under the general law, and consisted 
of Anthony Peck, C. P. Granger, S. S. Potter, James A. 
Pierce, James D. Grinnell, Wolcott Steele, Randall Barnes, 
Alexander Kanady, and fourteen other original members. 
The j)resent trustees are the same who were first elected to 
the office. 

THE HOOVER BURIAL-UROUND 

is located about two miles north of Evans' Mills, and was 
originally a part of the farm of Pett^r Hoover. The fir.-<t burial 
Wiis that of J. Adam Walradt, who died February 27, 1831. 
While living he had expres.sod a strong desire that he might 
be interred in that vicinity rather than at Evans' mills, 
and, aftor his death, this spot was selected by friends as being 
the most ajiprojiriate. Mr. Hoover's ]iermi.ssioii was easily 
obtained, and after a few more burials had been made there 
he sold the spot — a quarter-acre — to Alfred Vebber, Isaac 
Walradt, and Alexander 11. Van Brockelin, as trustees, for 
a public burial-place. In this ground there have been 
about eighty burials ; among them being that of Peter 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



431 



Hoover's son, Simon P. Hoover, who was cruelly murdered 
on March 4, 1876, near the house of Alfred Vebber, by 
Francis Grappot, who, after conviction of the crime, took 
his own life in the jail at Watertown. 

THE CASWELL GRAVE-YARD 

is near the extreme north corner of the town, and was taken 
from the farm of Mr. Caswell, an early settler, who after- 
wards removed to Felt's mills. Its commencement was at 
a more recent date than that of the Hoover ground. 

THE CATHOLIC CEMETERY, 

belonginp; to the congregation of St. Michael's church at 
Evans' Mills, is located If miles southwest of that village, on 
the Watertown road. It is a ground of about two acres, pur- 
chased by the society from I.saac Keller for $200. It was 
laid out in 1857, and the first burial within it was that of 
Mrs. Champaign. It is a good and convenient ground, 
well inclosed and cared for. 

sanford's corners burial-ground. 

This cemetery site, a plat of about four acres, was do- 
nated by Le Ray de Chauniont to school di.strict No. 1 , about 
the year 1812. The first interments in it are believed to 
have been those of Mr. and Mrs. Woodruff, grandparents 
of the late N. M. WoodruflF, of Watertown. Adjoining 
this another cemetery plat was laid out a few years since by 
Isaac T. Fuller, on land purchased by him from the farm of 
Charles Ryder. This was a private enterprise ; but burial- 
lots were sold by the proprietor to such as desired to be- 
come purchasers. These two cemeteries are divided by a 
partition-fence. The location is adjacent to the Union 
church at Saiifords Corners. 

THE PINE PLAINS GRAVE-Y.\RD, 

although used by the people of Le Raysville and vicinity, 
was never deeded to the public by Mr. Le Ray, and still 
remains a portion of the Payon estate. It was probably 
the proprietor's intention that it should be and remain a 
public burial-place, and this intention has been, and will 
without doubt continue to be, respected. This inclosure, 
containing 3 acres, is located on the edge of the pine plains, 
a short mile southeast of Le Raysville, on the road to Great 
Bend. 

schools. 

No authentic account has been obtained of schools in 
Le Ray before 1815, though there is no doubt that teaching 
commenced in the town several years earlier. At that time 
a school was taught in a small, hip-roofed frame building, 
which stood on the site of the present residence of C. P. 
Granger, Esq., on Le Ray street. Evans' Mills. In 181(5 
or 1817 the teacher of that .school Wiis Mi-s. Treat, widow 
of Reuben Treat, one of the early settlers of the town. 

Another of its teachers, of a little later date, was Hol- 

brook, who also taught in the low stone edifice which was 
built not long after, nearly, if not exactly, on the spot where 
the fine new school-house of district No. 3 (Evans' Mills) 
now stands. In that old stone house, too, John J. Elwood 

taught ; and White, Lyman Wilson, Gray (who 

saw troublous times during his administration), and Hon. 



Levi Miller, now a resident of Antwerp, also taught in 
the Jewett school-house. There are but few of the 
j)Upils remaining who attended under those teachers, but 
among those few may be mentioned Mrs. Eddy, who re- 
members it distinctly, and C. P. Granger, Esq., who, since 
those days, h:is him.self wielded the teacher's baton for many 
a year in Le Ray and Antwerp, at salaries ranging from 
SI5 to $30 per month, and which at the last-named figure 
were considered large. The books in use in the time of 
Holbrook, I'lwood, and Wilson were of course the English 
Reader, Webster's spelling-book, Adams' and Daboll's 
arithmetics, with the Columbian Orator and American Se- 
lections, from which the pupils "spoke pieces" on the 
exciting occasion of a school " exhibition. " The first school 
district established w;i.s that embracing the Jewett neigh- 
borhood, first settled by Roswell Woodruff; the second 
district was at Elder Matthew Wilkie's, in the west part of 
the town ; the third, Evans' Mills; fourth, Ingerson Cor- 
ners ; fifth, Le Raysville. 

From the statement of the school superintendent of Le 
Ray for the year which ended Oct. 31, 1850, it is found 
that the number of children between the ages of 5 and 
10 years was 1069; that the whole number of children 
taught was 118G ; that the average length of time taught 
in the year, by approved teachers, was 7 months and 10 
days ; that the amount of money received from the State 
for teachers' wages was §583.54, and for library purposes 
$162.69 ; that the total amount raised by the districts for 
teachers' wages was $1103.81, and for library purposes 
$171.09; total amount, $2021.13; which was apportioned 
among the 26 districts then existing, namely, 15 entire, 
2 joint with Philadelphia, 3 with Pamelia, 3 with Theresa, 
1 with Rutland, 1 with Champion, and one with Theresa 
and Philadelphia. 

For the year ending Sept. 30, 1877, the apportionment 
is based on a total number of 831 children (a decrease of 
238 since 1850, notwithstanding that the present figures 
include all from 5 to 21, while those of the former year 
embraced only those from 5 to 16 years), and an average 
daily attendance of 360.871. The State money apportioned 
to the town is, according to number of children, $538.86 ; 
according to average attendance, $565.54 ; district quotas, 
$965.20 ; library money, $27.40 ; total, $2097. The num- 
ber of districts is 18; number of schools 19; there being 
both a primary and a higher school in district No. 3 (Evans' 
Mills). Male teachers are quite generally employed in 
winter, and females for the summer term. In district No. 3 
a salary of $85 per month was at one time paid to male 
teachers, but from that figure the remuneration fell to $60, 
then to $50, and now ranges from $40 to $50. Females 
in that district receive about $20 per school month of 20 
days. In the other districts male teachers receive $25 to 
$35 per month ; females about $2.50 per week and their 
board among the various families. The school-house at 
Evans' Mills, a good and convenient building, was erected in 
1875, at a total cost of about $2300. The house in district 
7, embracing a part of Evans' Mills village, is valued at about 
$1000. The value of the school buildings in the other 
districts ranges from these figures downwards to less than 
$100. 



432 



HISTORY OP JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



AGRICULTURAL. 

If the town of Le Ray lay in Illinois or Wisconsin, it 
would be termed a rolling prairie, unusually well watered, 
and interspersed with belts of timber. It is not broken 
into abrupt hills, like portions of Theresa, Philadelphia, 
and Antwerp, and it is comparatively free from rocky 
wastes and ledges. Leaving out of con.sideration the un- 
productive pine plains upon its soulheastern side, it is a 
township of excellent and fertile land, especially adapted, 
like the greater part of Jefferson County, to purposes of 
grazing, and is, like its sister towns, devoted by its farmers 
to the production of butter and cheese, but more especially 
and extensively the latter, in which the product of more 
than 3000 milch cows is consumed. Home-made cheese 
is not yet entirely unknown, but more than nine-tenths of 
that article of food is made in factories. Of these there 
are six, four of which are owned and operated by Madison 
Cooper, viz. : one at the village of Evans' Mills, working 
the milk of 900 cows ; one at Sanford's Corners, 450 cows ; 
a third on the Watertown road, one mile southwest of In- 
gerson's Corners, supplied by 250 cows ; and the fourth at 
" Gould's," in the north part of the town, furnished by 450 
cows. Besides these are the factories of John Stratton, in the 
northern corner of the town, supplied by 500 cows, and of 
Edward Converse, northeast from Le Raysvillc, with 200 
cows. The above all manufacture what is known as Ameri- 
can cheese, and there are, in addition to these, five factories 
engaged in the production of " Liniburger" cheese. These 
are smaller establishments, averaging about 75 cows each. 
-\ large amount of butter is made in Le Ray, — all by the 
hand ]irocess, without the aid of factories. The Patrons of 
Ilu.sbaiiilry have no grange established in this town. 

The agriculturists of Le Ray have reason to be proud of 
their town, as having been the residence of and named for 
Monsieur Le Ray de Chaumont, the first president of the 
New York State Agricultural Society, the first president of 
the Jefferson County Agricultural Society, and also one of 
the most prominent niover.< in the formation of the Otsego 
County Agricultural Society, the first county organiziition 
of the kind in the State, that of Jeffer.son being the second. 
Vincent Le Ray de Chaumont, Roswell Woodruff, and 
other residents of the tnwn were also ]irominently identified 
with the early organizations for the promotion of the inter- 
ests of agriculture in northern New York. 

M.\S()NIC. 

"PisoAIl Lodge, No. 720," was chartered June 13, 
1872, with 24 charter members. The first officers were 
Wesley Rulison, W. M. ; E. H. Cobb, S. W. ; IL S. 
Morris, J. W. ; C. G. Schuyler, S. D. ; W. N. Priest, J. D. ; 
S. T. Potter, Treasurer; J. E. Boyer, Secretary; H. D. 
Merritt, Tyler. 

The present membership of the lodge is 48. The officers 
for 1877 are Wesley Rulison, W. M. ; F. E. Croissant, 
S. W. ; A. H. Tucker, J. W. ; W. J. Laroch, S. D. ; C. E. 
Paul, J. D. ; Charles Briant, Treasurer ; F. Waildingham, 
Secretary. The lodge meetings are held at their hall in 
the village at Evans' Mills. 

More than fifty years ago (1826) the " llermon Lodge" 
was instituted, with William Palmer Worshipful Master. 



The lodge went down and the charter was surrendered 
during the period of anti-Ma.sonic excitement. 

POPULATION. 

In 1810, four years after its erection, the town of Le Ray 
contained 1150 inhabitants. In 1814 (Wilna and An- 
twerp off) it contained 1120; in 1820, 2944; in 1825 
(Alexandria and Philadelphia off), 2556 ; in 1830, 3430 ; 
in 1835, 3068; in 1840, 3721 ; in 1845, 3853; in 1850, 
3654; in 1855, 3203; in 1860, 3159; in 1865, 2986; 
in 1870, 2862 ; and in 1875, 2733. 

The thanks of the writer are due to citizens of Le Ray 
who have furnished information and data pertaining to the 
history of their town ; and among these he desires especially 
to mention the following gentlemen : Revs. N. F. Nicker- 
son, W. M. Holbrook, M. M. Rice, and Henry Ward; 
Dr. L. E. Jones, C. P. Granger, Esq. ; Messrs. Alexander 
Kanady, A. M. Cook, George Ivers, Alfred Vebber, Peter 
Hoover, Matthew Poor, William S. Phelps, A. Peck, F. 
Waddingham, Henry Walradt, Madison Cooper, and Wes- 
ley Rulison. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



JAMES DONATIEN LE RAY DE CHAUMONT 

was born November 13, 1760, at Chaumont, on the Loire, 
between Blois and Tours. He was educated partly in his 
family by a preceptress, and partly at the celebrated college 
of Juilly, near Paris. When he left this, he found himself 
in the circles of Paris, and of the court, which the birth 
and official places of his father gave him a right to enter. 
He was seduced by neither ; and his views were early bent 
towards serious subjects by the course which his father 
pursued with regard to American affairs. The commis- 
sioners .sent by the united colonies could not be received 
openly by the French court. M. de Chaumont, Sr., es- 
pou.sing warmly the cause of American Independence, de- 
termined to abandon public life (although at that moment 
his friend and neighbor in the country, the Due de Choiseul, 
offered him a seat in the ministry which he was about form- 
ing), in order, as a private individual, to serve as interme- 
diary between the government and the commissioners. He 
lent to them a house situated in his park at Passy, and 
Franklin particularly occupied it several years. From that 
hou.se were written all his letters dated Pa.s.sy. This created 
a great and agreeable intimacy between the American phil- 
osopher and M. de Chaumont's family. Young M. de 
ChaiiniDiit improved this to learn English and ac(|uaint him- 
self with American affairs. His father gave more substan- 
tial aid to the Americans. He sent a cargo of powder to 
Boston to the care of the French consul-general, Mr. 
Holker, to whom he wrote to claim nothing, if the Ameri- 
cans were not successful. He afterwards sent large equip- 
ments to La Fayette's army, and in various ways con.secrated 
a great part of his large fortune to the American cause. He 
equipped ships to join Paul Jones' squadron, and was ap- 




r</tu^/.(le^^ 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



433 



pointed by the Fienoli and American governments to su- 
perintend tlie ctjuipment and management of the combined 
fleet. His son went with him to L'Orient on that business, 
and seconded liim throuirhout the expedition. 

But these liijrh advances re([uircd the settlement of ac- 
counts, which the dirterent currencies of the States, the 
depreciation of the paper money, etc., rendered difficult and 
complicated. M. de Ciiauuiont, then (178.5) only 2') years 
of age, saw that this business re(juired personal attontion. 
He obtained, with great difficulty from his father, leave to 
go to America. He tore himself fnmi the seductions of 
the most elegant court of Europe, and even from the pros- 
pect of a brilliant marriage, and sailed for America. Frank- 
lin, whose friendship and esteem lie had gained in a high 
degree, gave him warm letters. All his energy and early- 
displayed talents, however, could not ma.ster so many im- 
pediments. Year after year he was detained by new diffi- 
culties. Franklin heljied him with all his power. It was 
not, however, until ITDO that he could obtain a settlement, 
and he arrived in France just in time to save his father 
from the most painful consequences of these long delays. 

During this stay in America, M. de Chaumont became 
acquainted with the first men there, and particularly witli 
two, who had a great influence upon his subsequent course. 
One was Count do la Forest, consul-gi'iierul of France; the 
other, Gouverueur Morris. They both spoke to him with 
great warmth of the great speculations which might be made 
in wild land.s in the State of New York. He bought, with 
the former, a .small tract in Otsego count}', where he built the 
first saw-mill, and where he sent, as his agent, the celebrated 
Judge Cooper, father of the groat writer. With Gouv- 
erneur Morris, lie made large purchases in the State of New 
York. In 1790, having lately married a daughter of 
Charles Coxe, Pjsq., of New Jersey, he returned to France 
with his wife. Ho had previously been naturalized. After 
having been most painfully engaged in endeavoring to ar- 
range the difficulties in which his father had been drawn, 
he was appointed to go to Algiers,* to negotiate a treaty of 
peace and commerce with the dey ; but having learned in 
Switzerland that the life of his father was threatened, he 
returned, post haste, to I'aris. He proceeded without stop- 
]iing to the sitting of the committee, and there, by his 
firmness, and even by a bold threat to the president, he 
obtained on the instant the liberty of his father, whom they 
had put in jail as an fouV/jt, although he had never quitted 
his chateau. In 17119, M. de Chaumont accompanied his 
wife to Hamburgh, who returned to America, on account 
of her health, with her two youngest children, in company 
of Gouverueur Morris, late ambiussador. The curt of Chau- 
mont was of the party ; he had refused the oath prescribed 
by the revolutionists, and M. de Chauniuiit, in order to save 
him, and to provide for his sujtport, had appointed him to 
an agency in America. He remained there several years, 
and became the object of the veneration and love of the 
numerous persons with whom he had relations. 

In 1802, M. do Chaumont sailed from Havre for Amer- 
ica, in company with William Short, late minister to France. 
He went upon his lands in Jefierson County, where settle- 

* Sparks' Life of Gouvc:ncar Morris, ii. 402. 

28 



ments were begun by the agency of Jacob Brown, who so 
highly distinguished himself afterwards. He returned in 
180-1, and left Fiance again in May, 1807, with his oldest 
son, who, from that time, assisted him in the management 
of his business. He had, the year before, sent a French 
doctor of considerable ability and experience, whom he had 
engaged for several years to reside with him on his lands, 
and had confided to him the choice of the particular spot. 
This was very difficult and delicate, from the large range 
open to him, and from the conflicting interests and inter- 
ference of the different persons residing on various parts of 
the tract. He acquitted himself, however, of this trust 
with wonderful foresight and skill, and chose a retired spot 
in the town of Le Ray. 

M. de Chaumont went, in 1808, to make a final settlement 
in the house built by the doctor, and entered it before it 
was finished, and with the logs of the clearing yet burning 
at his door. There he spent the greater part of the time 
till the spring of 1810, when he left for France with his 
family, leaving only his oldest son to manage his affairs 
with an agent. Moss Kent, brother of the chancellor. In 
France he busied himself with the settlement of his lands. 
He sent French gentlemen of talents to establish various 
factories. The events of 1815 caused him to sell a large 
tract of laud to Josejih Bonaparte, with whom he had long 
been acquainted, and smaller ones to Count Real, the due 
de Vincencc, Marshal Grouchy, etc. During his stay in 
France he had the misfortune of losing his wife, whose 
health had always been poor, and had been kept up only by 
the indefatigable care and attentions of M. de Chaumont.f 

In 1812 the board of internal navigation — Gouverueur 
Morris and De Witt Clinton president and vicepresidont — 
appointed M. Le Ray de Chaumont to negotiate in Europe 
a loan of six millions of dollars for the contemplated Eric 
canal. Sir. Le Ray went to Switzerland, where the decla- 
ration of war by the United States against England deterred 
the capitalists. He then sent, to feel the Belgian bankers, 
his friend, Mr. J. B. de Launay, whom the commi.ssioners 
had sent out to assist Mr. Le Ray, and also to procure in 
England the .services of the eminent engineer Weston. The 
report having been favorable, Mr. Le Ray went to Belgium. 
The hopes of peace, however, were vanishing. The re-elec- 
tion of Mr. Madison made the continuance of the war 
certain, and the bankers gave a definite refusal. 

In ISIG he married his daughter to a French gentleman 
of great distinction, the Marquis de Gouvello, and they both 
came with him to America, wlure they s]ient a year, and 
returned to France. M. de Chaumont now resided mostly 
on his lands, spending a part of the year in New York. He 
went on with increased force with the .settlement of his 
lands and the improvement of the country, building saw- 
mills, making roads, carrying on his iron works, etc. 

In 1832, M. de Chaumont returned to France, leaving to 
settle his business his son, who joined him the next yejir. 
He made a last voyage to America in 1S3G, spending the 
summer there, and returned to France, where be was called 
by his daughter settled there, and by two sistere who had no 



f Vincent, the son of M. Le Ray, was married Feb. 9, 1839, to 
Mudum La Itaroune de (ierdy, at Paris, France. 



4:ji 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



cliildren. Surrounded and cherished by his familj-, he spent 
his time partly in Paris, partly in the country, or in traveling, 
his mind still bent tuwarils America, and seizing every oppor- 
tunity of being useful to his adopted country. At the age 
of 80, full of health and vigor, his mind unimpaired, he was 
suddenly taken with an inflammation i>n the chest, which 
caused his death in five days, — December 31, 1840. 

M. Le Ray de Chaumont had a strong mind, a sound 
judgment, great penetration of men and things, a warm and 
aflectiouite heart, a noble soul. He was guided through 
life by those high and chivalrous feelings of integrity which 
were so shrewdly discovered in him by Robert Jlimis, wlien, 
at the age of twenty-five, he was chosen by him asumjiire be- 
tween himself and M. de Chaumont, Sr., in a contested busi- 
ness. He never meddled actively in politics, which, added to 
the other traits of his character, made him respected and bo- 
loved by men of all parties, both in France and in America. 
He received warm proofs of these feelings at various times, 
and particularly from the citizens of Jefferson County during 
the List years of his stay among them. The counties of Jefl^er- 
son and Lewis owe much of their prosperity to his liberal 
and enlightened management. 

He greatly imjiroved the breed of sheep by brin'nng 
Merinos from his flock in France, which was picked in the 
celebrated sheep-fold of Rambouillet, where the original 
Spanish breed had been greatly meliorated. 

He also paid great attention to improving the breed of 
horses, and labored to diff"use a taste for the rearing of orna- 
mental plants, to promote the culture of the vine in gardens, 
and of hemp and the mulberry. The care which he be- 
stowed in the .selection and adorning of his villa at Le 
Raysville, which for many years was the seat of a refined 
hospitality, bespeaking the atWuentand accomplished French 
gentleman, prove him to have possessed on these matters a 
ju<licious and correct taste. His household, including asrents 
clerks, surveyors, and employees, formed of itself a small 
community. 

He will long be gratefully remembered by the citizens of 
Jeflerson County for his ]iublic-spirited impiovements, his 
dignified and courteous manner, and the sympathy he never 
failed to express in whatever concerned the public welfare. 



THOMAS DUNTEN. 

Comparatively littli? is known of the early ancestry of the 
subject iif this sketch. However, sufticient knowledge is 
given through tradition that the descendants are of English 
extraction, and lineal descendants of one of three brothers 
who emigrated from England with the I'uritaiis and settled 
respectively in Massachusetts, Vermont, and the West Li- 
dics. Thomas Puiiten, the earliest ancestor of which any 
datu is accessible, was born in Stiirhridge, Worcester Co., 
Mass., in the year 1752. He shared, in common with our 
forefathers, the dangers and privations of the armv during 
the Revolutionary War, and sub.sequeiitly settled in ISenn- 
ington, A'^ermunt. He married Joanna Howard, born in 
the province of Nova Scotia in the year 1749. The de- 
scendants by this union consisted of five children, three 

sons and two daughters, — all ol' wlioni became adults and 



settled in Jefferson County, viz. : Ebenczer, Lucy, Persis, 
Ephraim, and Thomas. The family emigrated to Jeflerson 
County, and first .settled in the town of Watertown in the 
year 1800. Jlr. and Mrs. Dunten subsequently moved and 
settled at Sanford's Corners, in tlie town of Le'Ray, where 
lie died May 27, 1832, his wife pn-ceding him Jan. 4, 1826. 
Tiio.M.vs DuNTE.N was born in the town of Watertown, 
April 11, 1811. He was a son of Ebenczer Dunten and 
Clarissa Adkins, daughter of John Adkins, of Guilford, New 
Haven Co., Conn., who settled in the town in the year 18(10, 
when the town and county were a trackless wilderness, and 
are justly regarded among the first pioneers of the now pros- 
perous town and city of Watertown. His father was born 
in Vermont, Feb. 2, 1777. He married Clarissa Adkins, 
Aug. 21, 1800, and with his father emigrated to Jefferson 
County the same year. Their family consisted of nine chil- 
dren, all of whom reached maturity, namely : 

1. Amos M., born in the town of Watertown, Juno G, 
ISOl ; married Miss Harriet Hurlbcrt, of Pamclia, Jefler- 
son County, N. Y., Feb. 18, 1827; a physician by profes- 
sion, and for many years practiced medicine at Plessis, in the 
town of Alexandria. From there went to Oswego, N. Y., 
thence to Plover, and then to Beaver Dam, Wis., where he 
died April 24, 1867. 

2. John G., born in Watertown, Feb. 3, 1803 ; married 
Persis Austin, of Le Ray, Sept. 18, 1834; was an arti.st, 
famed as one of the best portrait-painters of his day. He 
studied his profession in Boston, Mass., and first painted 
in Portsmouth, N. 11. Afterwards removed to his native 
town, where he painted some of the best portraits of .several 
prominent citizens of the town and county ever before 
produced in Watertown. He died in Le Ray, June 28, 
183'J ; Wiis a Christian gentleman and an intelligent citizen, 
esteemed by all who knew him. 

3. Robert B. was born in the town of Watertown, Dec. 
28, 1804; married Miss Cynthia A. Price, of Hammond, 
St. Lawrence Co., N. Y. ; Wiis a gunsmith by trade in early 
life ; later and for many years a daguerrean artist ; died at 
his residence in Plover, Portage Co., Wis., Sept. 7, 1874. 
He was for many years a resident of Port Huron, Mich. 

4. Daniel M. was born in Le Ray, March 25, 1807; 
married Miss Agnes McKee, of Cleveland, Ohio ; a distiller 
in early life ; later, and under the appointment from the 
State of Ohio, served the last fifteen years of his life as 
canal collector in Cleveland, Ohio ; died at his residence in 
the above city, Oct. 2, 1867. 

5. Caroline was born in Watertown, March 16, 1809; 
married Silas Fairbanks, of Rutland ; residence, Jamestown, 
Wi.sconsin. 

6. Thomas, the especial subject of this biography — born 
as above. 

7. Louisa was born in Watertown, April 13, 1813 ; mar- 
ried Stephen Mix, of Le Ray, Nov. 27, 1842, deceased 
Oct. 21, 1849; re-married John Lamphear. of Carthago; 
residence, Sanford's Corners. 

8. Marcia was born in Watertown. April 10, 1815 ; mar- 
ried Gilbert Allen, of Hermon, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., 
July 9, 1833; settled in Wisconsin ; Mr. Allen died Aug. 
16, 1868 ; re-nnu-ricd Thomas 15rittingliam, of Rock 
Island, Illinois, May 25, 1871. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



4:^5 



9. William was born at Sanford's Corners, May 13, 1817 ; 
married Miss Diana A. Wright, of Rochester, Wis., May 
1, 1843; by trade a joiner and bridge contractor; died at 
his residence in Stevens' Point, Wi.s., Nov. 23, 1856. 

The father of Thomas was a brick-maker by occupation, 
and first made brick where Win.slow's block is now located, 
being the pioneer in the brick-making business in Jefferson 
County. This business the father carried on in connection 
with his farming interests. In the year 1817 he bought a 
farm of 140 acres of Mr. Le Ray in the town bearing his 
name, and paid for the same largely by making brick. The 
father, in common with all the early settlers, struggled with 
poverty and the obstiiclos coincident with the early settle- 
ment of the county, and was unable to give his children but 
little opportunity for procuring an education away from 
home ; so they had to content themselves with the limited 
advantages of the common schools, which they attended 
winter seasons. These were days of a cord of wood per 
scholar and a pro rata ta.\ for tuition-fee. 

lie was numbered among tlu' influential men of his day; 
was originally a Deniocrat, but united with the lu'publican 
party upon its formation ; was an abolitionist and an advo- 
cate of teuiperance. Ebcnezcr Duiitcn brought to bear all 
that acumen and native talent, ijuite common in his day, 
upon the early training of his children, and, with the assist- 
ance of his wife, brought them up learned in all that per- 
tains to true manhood and womaidiood. He died Feb. 27, 
1858, having been preceded to the grave by his wife about 
si.\ years. Thomas worked with his father in the brick-yard 
and on the farm until he w;is of age, and when twenty-two 
years old bought a farm of 50 acres in the town of Alexandria. 
In 1834 he married Miss Sally Kingsbury, daughter of 
Clark Kingsbury, a native of M;issachusetts, and grand- 
daughter of Tilla Kingsbury, whose ancestors were of Eng- 
lish birth. She was born June 3, 1811, in the town of 
Broadalline, Montgomery (now Fulton) Co., N. Y. To Mr. 
and Mi-s. Duiiten were born two children, viz. : Milton C. 
and Melvin A., both of whom reside at home. Mr. Dun- 
ten with his family returned to the town of Le Ray in 1839, 
and after a year settled in Antwerp ; but in about three 
years purchased the old homestead in Le Ray, upon wliich 
he has since resided ; and an illustration of which, with its 
buildings, under the portraits of Jlr. and Mrs. Dunlen, will 
be found on another jiage in this work. The farm has been 
in the family since its first occupation in 1817. He united 
with the Ciiristian church some fifty years ago, his wife join- 
ing the same church when .she was but nineteen years old. 
He has been prominently identified with his church during 
his membership, and li;us contributed liberally to both church 
and school. In politics Mr. Dunten is a Republican, hav- 
ing been a Democrat previous to the formation of the 
Republican party. Mr. Dunten and wife stand among the 
representative citizens of the town, and in their declining 
years now reside with sons. 



CHRISTOPHER POOR. 

Perhaps the most jileasurable duty of the historian is to 
record the lives of good and useful men ; of those hardy 
pioneers who by their industry and perseverance wrought 



the wondrous changes that we observe around us ; of those 
who redeemed the trackless wilderness and erected the 
pleiusant homes that so plenteously abound in the rural 
districts and the (piiet villages of this county. Pre-emi- 
nently among this class of men are those of whom we here 
write. 

Christopher Poor was born in the State of Maine about 
the year 17S0. His father was Peter Poor, and his 
mother Mrs. Elizabeth Parkinson, who died in Rutland, 
June 22, 1842, at the advanced age of eighty-four years. 
She was a native of New Hampshire, having married, for 
her first husband, Mr. Peter Poor, as above stated, and 
with him moved to the town of Bethel, situated near the 
•source of the Andnxseoggin river, in the State of Maine. 
Here she was residing with her husband and two children 
(of whom Christopher w;is one) in the year 1781 ; in the 
autumn of which year the .savages came down upon that 
recent and defenseless settlement to seek for scalps and 
plunder. These savages were instigated to marauding and 
murderous expeditions by the bounty offered by the British 
for scalps. They entered the hou.se of Jlrs. Poor with two 
of her neighbors already captured and bound, and made in- 
(juiry for her hu.sband, who was fortunately absent at the 
time. After having ate, plundered, and rioted as they 
pleased, they went in quest of Mr. Poor, and without her 
knowledge found him, and on his refusing to become their 
prisoner, shot him and took his scalp in their sacks. Mrs. 
Poor fled from her house with her children, and waded the 
Androscoggin at as great a depth as she dared, in order to 
avoid being traced b}' the Indians, and at night lodged in 
the forest. Meanwhile, her husband had been discovered 
and taken up, and in the first house she dared approach 
she beheld his mutilated and bloody corpse. This was a. 
heart-rending scene, and yet it was met with Christian 
fortitude. She was soon composed, and sat down to her 
Bible, which she had not forgotten to take along with her, 
aM<l opened the XLVIlh P.salm, and when she came to the 
lUth verse she responded in her heart, " I will be still." 
She buried her husband ; then took her children with her 
upon a horse and started for her friends. The road was, at 
best, only a footpath, winding through a dense forest, over 
hills and across bridgeless streams. The journey was made 
as fast as possible by da}-, and through the night she com- 
posed herself as well as she could, being compelled to lodge 
upon the ground with no covering but the dense branches 
of the woods. There were beasts of prey to seek her life, 
and none to preserve and defend her but her Maker. She 
afterwards married Mr. William Parkinson, with whom she 
moved to Sharon, in this St;ite. They were indigent in 
circumstiinccs, and, as usual in new countries, Mrs. Parkin- 
son endured privation and labored hard to iiasist her hus- 
band in maintaining the family. She earned some money 
by weaving, and on Saturday of each week would travel ou 
foot five and eight miles with the articles she had woven, 
receive her pittance for her work, and return to her family. 
She afterwards removed to Rutland, where her hu.sband 
soon died, and where herself finally rests from her labors. 
Several of her descendants reside in that town. 

Christopher Poor removed to New York State about the 
year 1800. On the 7th of July, 1803, was united in mar- 



43G 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



riasrc with IMary Parkinson, by whom he had twelve chil- 
dren, namely, I'oter, Margaret, Bet.sy, Polly, Aaron, Moses, 
Hannah, Christopher S., Asa, Matthew, Andrew, and 
Nancy J. ; of these there are six living, all in Jefferson 
County except Jane, now the wife of S. L. Mott, of Mar- 
tiiisburg, Lewis county. In 1807, Mr. Poor removed to 
Rutland Hollow, where he resided at the breaking out of 
the \Var of 1812. He was one day plowing in the field, 
when a call was made for soldiers, and he unhitched one of 
his horses and. Putnam-like, rode to Sacket's Harbor, where 
he entered the service. On his return he removed down 
the river and erected a sawmill about half a mile from 
Felts' Mills. In 1829 he removed to the village of Black 
River, and there built the first bridge across the main 
stream. He also erected the first frame house on the Le 
Ray side of the river, and with others built the first dam 
on the north side of the island. He was prominently iden- 
tified with all public enterprises. He was a kind-hearted, 
genial man, of unblemished honor and un.swerving integrity. 
After a long and useful life he died at the residence of his 
son Feb. 11, 1854, aged seventy-four years. His estimable 
wife survived him until September 12, IStiO, when she too 
departed this life, to join him in the eternal hereafter, being 
upwards of eighty years of age. 

Matthew Poor was the sixth son and tenth child of 
the above gentleman, and was born in the town of Rutland 
A])ril 11, 1822. He removed to the village of Black River 
with his father when seven years old, and lived with and 
a.ssi.sted him in his business as long as the old gentleman 
was capable of working, and then assumed entire control of 
the business. June 19, 1844, he married Miss Jane P. 
Veber, daughter of Perin Veber, a respectable pioneer of 
Rutland. They have had born to them three children, 
namely, Perin V., George A., and Mary L. Mr. I'oor 
embarked in the mercantile business at Black River in the 
fall of 18C(J, which he still carries on in connection with 
liis elder son. He also manages the old homestead farm of 
150 acres, assisted in this by his younger son. In politics 
Mr. I'oor is a Rcpiiblican ; his father before him having 
been a Whig. Like his worthy parent, he is a .straightfor- 
ward, honest man, and a good citizen. 



D. II. SCOTT 



was born in Rutland, Sept. 23, 1828, and was reared a 
mechanic, and in early life, and for a period of upwards of 
twenty years, was employed by tin; firm of David Dexter & 
Son, one of the oldest chair-manufacturing firms in the 
State. Mr. Scott ha.s been twice married, and by his first 
wife, Lodcma Snow, of Watcrtown, he had two children, 
Byron N. and Nellie E. Byron is engaged in business 
with his father in the manufacture of packing-boxes. He 
was married, in 1877, to Miss Sarah Waitc, a daughter of 
Doctor Waite, of Gouverncur. The factory of Messrs. Scott 
& Son is located on the left bank of Rlack river, in ihc town 
of Le Ray. They have been successfully eng.'igcd in the 
busines.s for about seven years. An illustration of their 
works can be seen elsewhere in this history. 



A. F. MARSHALL 

was the first son of Henry C. Marshall, who emigrated 
from Herkimer county about the year 1822, and settled at 
Great Bend, on Black river, in the town of Champion. He 
was a merchant and hotel-keeper until his death in 1S:!9. 
At that time A. F. was only fourteen years old, and being 
thus thrown upon his own resources at so early an age, re- 
quired a good deal of enterprise to make a successful career. 
At the age of twenty-four he was joined in wedlock with 
Mariah, a daughter of O. B. Judd. This union resulted 
in three children, — namely, Ida J., B.Jay, and H. E., — of 
whom but one, the youngest, survives. He lives with his 
brother at Rochester, New York. In 1866, Mr. Marshall 
sustained the loss of his excellent wife, and was again mar- 
ried, this time to Hattie Webb, by whom he has had four 
children, as follows : Jessie W., Eugene L., Ona H., and Jay 
H., all living. Mr. Marshall has been engaged in business 
at Black river for the past twenty-seven years as a mechanic 
and inventor. On the 5th of September, 1871, he procured 
a patent on his invention for bending-machines, and has 
since been granted patents for further improvements on the 
same. It is a very ingenious device, and is considered by 
competent judges to be the best in use. Mr. Marshall de- 
votes most of his time to the manufacture of these machines, 
which have a world-wide reputation. He is a gentlcTnan of 
rare mechanical skill, and jiossesses an amount of inventive 
talent not often met with in one whose early advantages 
were so unj)ropitious. He is withal a capital bnsine.«s man, 
whose reputation is based upon priticiples of integrity and 
individual rectitude. 



RANDALL BARNES 

is the son of Asa Barnes, who emigrated to this counlrv in 
1833. The year following his fatlu'r's arrival Randall came, 
and settled in Le Ray. He worked four years in the fac- 
tory of his native town, in Oneida county, and by economy 
and thrift saved enough to purchase a firm, upon which he 
made his future home. He has been twice married ; his 
first wife was Mary Ann Woodrufl^, and his second wife 
Eliza Cox. He has now retired from active business life, 
and lives at the village of Evans' Mills, enjoying the fruits 
of years of industrious and prudent management of his in- 
terests. In polities he is a strong Republican, and in 1840 
was the only man in his town who voted for J. G. Barney, 
the temperance candidatefor the presidency. Harvey Barnes, 
his second son, now resides on the old homestead, about 
three miles from Evans' Mills. He was born in Le Ray, 
August 1, 184(i, and remained at home with his father 
until he was twenty-two years of age, assisting on the farm. 
On the 3d of December, 1868, he married Louisa, second 
daughter of Barney and Mary Stciidielber, both of German 
descent. They have had one son, Frederick W., born Oct. 
2, 1869. He has, since his marriage, carried on the olil 
farm, with the exception of two years, one year spent in 
the manufacture ofchee.se at Ogden.sburgh, and one j'car as 
turnkey in the Jefferson Counly jail. lie filled this jiosi- 
tion with general satisfaction. On another page can be 
seen an illustration of the old homestead, and ])ortraits of 
his honored parents. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



437 



W. S. WILCOX, 

second son of Hial Wilcox, was born in Canada, and settled 
in Rutland in 1849. At the aj^e of twenty -eight he was 
united in niarrias;e with Eveline Crane, of Rutland. To 
them have been born four children, — namely, Charles, 
Maria, Fred., and Chester, — all residing at home except 
Charles, who is livinj; at Theresa, where he is working at 
his trade, that of a cabinet-maker. Mr. Wilcox has been 
in active business, as a manufacturer of furniture and un- 
dertaking, for the past twenty-seven years, and by close at- 
tention to business, strict integrity, and honorable and fair 
dealing, has won the confidi'ncc and securt'd the patronage 
of his fellow-townsmen and others. An illu.stration of his 
cabinet warerooius and factory am be seen elsewhere in this 
work. 



PHINEAS HARDY 

was burn in the town of Dublin, Cheshire Co., N. 11., Jan. 
23, I7D5. He was the son of Thomas Hardy, who was 
born in the town of lloUis, N. II., in the niontli of June, 
175G. He married a Mis.< Lucy Colbuni, a native of New 
Hampshire, and of ETiglish descent. He was one of the 
early settler.s, and may justly be considered among the early 
pioneers of the town of Dulilin, liaving settled there in the 
year 1782. lie served his country in the dark days and 
struggles of the Revolution, having served three years as a 
non-commissioned officer under General Stark's command, 
and participated in the memorable battles of Bunker Hill, 
]?enningtun, and Trenton. 

To Thomas Hardy and Lucy Colburn were born nine 
children, six sons and three daughters, of whom but three 
survive, — Phincas and two daughters : Lucy, who married 
Amos Sargent, and Elizabeth, wife of Sila.s Knowllon. 

Phincas resided with his father until the age of nineteen, 
working upon the farm during the summer and gleaning 
from their limited schools in winter that knowledge that 
was to carry him through life's journey. Thus, at the age 
of nineteen, thrown upon his own resources with a limited 
education and a capital of two years' time, which his father 
had given him, he concluded to go west to seek his fortune 
in the wilds of Jefiferson Co., N. Y., which at this date, 
1814, was considered the far west. Unaided and alone he 
wended his way to the now thriving city of Watertown, 
where he hired out as a larm-laborer and served four years. 
With the earnings of the four years of toil and labor in 
company with his brother he purcha.sed a farm of 112 acres 
in the town of Rutland, upon which his nephew, Charles C. 
Hardy, now resides. Being desirous of dissolving this part- 
nership, and entering upon another more pleasant and profit- 
able, he sold out to his brother, and on the 24th day of 



March, 1822, entered in partnership by marrying Sarah 
Rowland, of Rutland township, a daughter of Richmond 
Howland. She was born in Saratoga Co., N. Y., April 1, 
1797. The result of this partnership was tlie birth of five 
children, viz., David, Elias, Mariah, Lucy, and Phincas; 
all of whom are now living except Lucy, who died at the 
early age of eight years and five months. 

Soon after his marriage he engaged in the milling busi- 
ness on the Black river, about one mile below the village bear- 
ing the same name. After one year he purchased a farm 
of 50 acres in the town of Rutland, where he lived nine 
years, and then removing to Lorraine township, purch;ised 
a tract of 200 acres. Remaining here but one year, he sold 
out at a fair advance, and moved to the town of Le Ray 
and purchased the farm known as the County-house farm, 
containing 157 acres, to which he added 7G acres more by 
purchase. Upon this farm he devoted thirty-two years of 
life to toil and labor. 

In politics Mr. Hardy is a stanch Republican, and in 
early life belonged to the old Whig party, and during the 
thirty-two years .spent in the town of Ijc Ray he has had 
the confidence and esteem of all who knew him by his 
honorable dealing, strict integrity, and untiring energy. 
He luis been called to fill various town and eouuty offices 
during his stay in the town. He was elected one of the 
county superintendents of the poor for Jeflferson County ; 
served his town three terms of four years e;ieh as justice of 
the peace ; three years as assessor ; two years as overseer of 
the poor ; and served the government four years as post- 
master at Sanford's Corners. He was also the first to cn- 
ffli'ie in the manufacture of chee.se, which has become so 
popular throughout the county as its chief product. Phineas 
Hardy through public and private life has manifested gre:it 
interest in all matters connected with the cause of education 
and religious interests, having been an active member in the 
cause of Christianity since 1833; his wife soon after fol- 
lowing in his footsteps. They are now both members of 
the Stone Street church, in the city of Watertown, a fine 
city that they have lived to witness grow up out of the 
once trackless wilderness. Some twelve years since Mr. 
Hardy retired from active business life, and has purchased 
himself a neat and comfortable home in the village of Black 
River, a sketch of which will be found in this work under 
their portraits. 

Phineas Hardy has already passed the allotted time of 
threescore ye;irs and ten, and in his eighty-third year pos- 
sesses much of the youthful vigor of life, and his wife is 
still .spared to smooth his journey down the hill of life. 
They celebrated their golden wedding in 1872, and are both 
held in high esteem by the community in which they 
'reside. 



LORRAINE. 



Erected originally as Malta from Mexico, by an act 
passed March 24, 1804, this town received its present name 
on account of thsre being another Malta in the State, in 
Saratoga county, April 6, 18t)8. When first incorporated, 
it included besides its present limits the town of Worth, or 
townships 1 and 2 of the Boylston tract. This relation was 
j)reserved until Worth was set off in 1848. The IJoyl.ston 
tract was a part of the Jlaconib purcliase, a full account of 
which appears in the general history of Jefferson County, 
and was conveyed by William Constable to Samuel Ward, 
Dec. 18, 1702, who two days later .sold it to Thomas Boyls- 
ton, of Boston, for §20,000. The town is about six miles 
square, and has for its southern boundary Oswego county ; 
on its north, east, and west are the towns of Adams, Rod- 
man, Worth, and Ellisburg, in the order named from the 
northwest. 

The surface of Lorraine is elevated, and very much 
broken by hills and gorges. The soil is underlaid by shales 
80 finely developed that the term Lorraine shales has been 
applied to the formation. The layers of this rock are alter- 
njitcly soft and hard, so that they yield with great facility 
to the disintegrating agencies of frost, atmospheric action, 
and running water of the streams which traverse the town. 
Deep and immense gulfs or channels have been worn 
wliorcver the.se means of natural drainage exi.st. These 
cluLsms are in most j)laces impassable, and have caused the 
town much inconvenience and great expense in the location 
of roads and the building of bridges, while some of them are 
invested with tragic interest. Numerous accidents have 
happened to persons who have attempted to cross some of 
the deeper ones, and the loss of animals from fdling over 
the steep and treacherous banks is frequently reported. 
Yet these gulfs afford attractions, in their ever-changing 
beauty and ([uiet grandeur, that will repay the lab<ir of a 
visit. 

All the streams of the town have romantic gorges, but 
the gulf on the south branch of Sandy creek is particularly 
impre.-sive, and will convey a fair idea of the nature and 
proportions of the many others in the town. " Its depth 
varies from one to two hundred feet, and its breadth from 
four to ten rods. The bottom, and in many place the sides, 
arc overgrown with tindjer, and the stream wanders alter- 
nately from right to left, aft'ordiiig, wherever it washes the 
base, a cliff nearly vertical and of imposing grandeur. As 
the visitor follows tlie sinuous channel which the stream 
through a long lapse of ages lias ((uietly wrought deep into 
the bowels of the earth, the scenery constantly changes, 
affording an endless succession of beauties. Were it not 
for the gentle murmur of the brook and the occasional trick- 
ling of the tiny stream down the nios.sy precipice to break 
438 



the stillness of the scene, the beautiful stanza of Beattie 
would be admirably appropriate ;* 

"Thy shades, tliy silence now be mine, 
Thy charms uiy only theme, 
My haunt the hollow elifl", whose pine 
Waves o'er the gloomy stream, 
Whence the scared owl, with jiinions gray, 
Breaks from the rustling; boughs, 
And down tlie lone vale sails away, 
To more jirotbund repose." 

The south branch of the Big Sandy creek traverses the 
northern part of the town, having a western course, and 
with its tributaries affords good drainage and .some water- 
power, although the steepness of their banks generally pre- 
vents this from being fully utilized. In the central and 
southern portions of the town are Hull and Deer creeks, 
streams of moderate size, and flowing in a northwesterly 
direction ; while farther south arc large brooks whose water- 
power has been more or less improved. The soil generally 
is fertile, but is better adapted to grazing than tlie culture 
of tlie small grains. In the northwest corner of the town 
the .surface is nearly level, and here and along Sandy ercok 
are some productive farms, on whiih mixed industry pre- 
vails. 

EARLY LAND INTERESTS AND SETTLEMENTS. 

Lorraine was settled under the agency ol' Benjamin 
Wright and some others. The unsettled interests were for 
a long time controlled by the Hon. Wni. C. Picrrepont. of 
Pierrepont Manor. As early as Sept. G, ISOG, there were 
128 settlers in the town, who had either titles for their land 
or long terms in which to pay for them. The ]iraetice of 
issuing certificates ]irevailed, and there was a tendency to 
speculation in these papers which was strongly reprobated 
by the original owners, who desired actual settlement. 
From a journal kept by James Constable, bearing date 
August 10, 1805, Ave learn his views ujioii this matter: 

" Town No. 1 13 settling very fast, and, indeed, all that part watered 
by Sandy creek bus a name that brings settlers in great numbers. 
The practice of giving certificates to the people, and allowing them a 
certain time after exploring to go for their familes before they toko 
contracts for their lots, has been productive of speculation, and must 
not be continued. A Mr. Salislmry, who bad fonuerly taken a con- 
tract, sold it to another, and bought, or procured, one of these certifi- 
cates, came to us, apparently to ask indulgLiice as to the time of pay- 
ment, but really with a view to ascertain what our intentions were in 
respect to such instruments : when we explained to him that they were 
given to assist the first ri-al settlers, and by no means to bo transfer- 
able to second or third parties, as that led to speculation upon the 
persons who ought to have indulgence, not to the speculators, who 
profited to the disadvantage of both the proprietors and actual settlers. 



Ilr. llou;h. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



4:;9 



Wo, of oourso, would oppose all such attempts, and as be has seen fit 
to change his situatiun IVoni lioliltng a contract under us to speculating 
in certificates, which he must know were intended only as an acconi- 
modatton to the first parties, we could not treat with him, since the 
indulgence intended for them could not be transferred. Upon con- 
versation with Mr. Wright, we found th:it the certificates had already 
occasioned some miscliior, and we discovered from others that some 
of the holders of them had caused it to bo believed that all the best 
part of the town was taken up, so that new-comers were obligeil to 
apply to them or go to some other town. Mr. Wright had no books 
or accounts here, but supposed that one-half of tlio town was sold, 
cither by contract or by conditional iig:*eemcnt, anil would average 
$.'t, though the sales were begun, and a good deal sold, at $2. The 
lo>yest price was now $;i, and it might at oni-c be raised to $t for the 
whole, from the great immigration to this (juartcr. He gave it as 
his opinion that it would n it be for our interest to hurry sales, as this 
town would speedily settle, and the jirice might be raised." 

The fiiTst .sottliMiicnt iti tlii.s towti was iiiailit in NovL'iiilicr, 

1802, by James Mt-Keo and I'^lijali FdX, wliii weie lirotlicrs- 
iii-law, anil the latter untuanied. Tliey were natives of 
Vorniimt, but did not come from there directly. They 
erected a loj^ house on a fifty-acre lot, on the State road 
south of the present village of Lorraine. Here they passed 
the winter, and Fox, having sold his interest in the first lot 
to McKec, returned to what is now Oneida county and 
married, coming back in the spring to improve a tract of 
land he had purchased, and which is now the Fox home- 
stead. Here he soon after built a house, a portion of the 
frame of which yet remains in the residence of Geo. A. 
Fox, a son of Elijah, who was born here in 1814, and 
who has since that time lived continuously under the old 
roof-tree. Elijah Fox died in 18(52, after a life of great 
usefulno.-;s. Of his family of ten eiiilJrcn, lieorge A. is 
the only survivor. McKee lived in Lorraine a number of 
years, rearing a large I'aniily, with wlioni ho removed to 
Canada. 

In the winter and spring of 1803 a number of families, 
natives of New England, but who had lived in Herkimer 
county for soma years, came and settled along the Slate 
road from Rome to Brownville, in the neighborhood of 
McKee and Fox. Among the best known of these were 
Comfort Stancliff. Seth Cutler, Benjamin Gates, and John 
Alger. The latter built a house on the site of Lorraine, in 
the summer of 18U3, which was the first building in that 
locality. Some of these removed after a few years' resi- 
dence in the town. Several months later the same year, 

1803, Clark Allen, a native of Connecticut, took up his 
abode in the northwestern part of the town on Sandy creek. 
Here ho lived until his cieath in l^i.")'), the father of five 
sons and two daughters, one of wlimn, Elisha, now occupies 
the old homestead. Alexander, another .son, is also a citi- 
zen of the town. Clark Alleti, or General Allen, as he was 
generally called, from his service in the war of 1812, was a 
man of more than ordinary ability, and distinguished him- 
self in the .service of his adopted town, holding the office 
of supervisor for nearly twenty years. 

A year later the Lanfears, \\'illiam and Isaac, came to 
Lorraine from Columbia county. The latter reared u large 
family, of which Lafayette, well known in the town, is a 
representative. The consort of Isaac Ltinfear, now nearly a 
hucdred years old, also resides in Lorraine. The Browns, 
Asa and Aaron, but not related to each other, were added 
to the settlers about this time. The former served its the 



first supervisor, but removed from the town several years 
after. Aaron Brown was a native of Connecticut, but had 
come to Lorraine, from Washington county, a single man, 
and soon after married Miss Bet.sey Burbee, who had come 
to the town as a school-teacher. Willi her he lived more 
than sixty years, having three sons, Moses, Levi H., and 
Henry M., who became well known in Jefferson County. 
Aaron Brown died in May, 1870, leaving Mrs. Brown still 
alive, having pa.ssed her fourscore years. Moses Brown, 
who became a prominent citizen, died in 1853. A son, 
Philo M., is yet a resident of the town. 

The tide of immigration along the old State road was now 
so great, and the settlers so numerous, thai a list of names 
only of some oftho.se coming to Lorraine prior to 1808-10 
can be given in the limited space allotted to this history. 
William Hoslbrd, Oriuond Butler, William Hunter, As;i 
Sweet, John Griswold, Calvin Cliftord, James Perry, Eliia- 
than Doane, Ebenezer Brown, Ozias Barton, Michael Ris- 
ley, Thomas Stancliff, Allen Hills, Oliver Miller, Henry 
Voners, David Stcadman, Nathan Gould, Charles Tlicimson, 
Hubbard Randal, John Cowlcs, Lsaac Weston, Abncr Baker, 
Timothy Heath, Geoi^ Samp.son, John Brewer, Joseph 
Studley, and William Adams. Most of these made sub- 
stiuitial impriiveiiients, and identified themselves perman- 
ently with the town by clearing farms and building mills. 
One of the first frame barns w;us erected by Isaac Lanfear, 
the work being done by Riifiis l^arkins, perhaps in 1814. 
This still remains as built, with the exception of having 
been once re-shingled. 

riONKEtt TAVERNS. 

The first to offer entertainment to the traveler and land- 
hunter were McKee and Fox, in 1802, although they did 
it more as a matter of accommodation than from a desire 
to engage in tlie business. John Alger was the first to 
open a regular inn, in a house which stood on the .site sub^ 
setpiently u.sed for hotel purposes, in the village, at the 
forks of the roads. He began about 1803, and continued 
a number of years. A short time after, Michael Risley 
and Allen I'itkiti, brothers-in-law, started a tavern on the 
old State road, at the place now occupied by A. Caulkins, 
which they conducted a few years. 

Dr. Isaac Weston built a public-house, below Alger's, 
about 1SU7. For tho.se times it was a large structure, 
being two full stories high. It was a popular place, and 
many parties and dances were held there, where mirth pre- 
vailed and enjoyment was unrestrained. The doctor him- 
self was of an eccentric turn of mind and of discursive 
habits, so that his place was much fre(|uentcd by those who 
delighted in his oddities. It is further remembered that 
some of the rollicking youngsters frequently taxed the old 
gentleman's good nature to excess by making him the sub- 
ject of cruel practical jokes. The building, painted red, 
stood many years after the doctor had removed to Water- 
town, and was demolished, in 1850, by Daniel Caulkins. 

Another old-time tavern was kept, about 1816, by David 
Webb, on the State road, two and a half miles south of 
the village. The place fell into poor repute, and Webb 
him.self fell into the fire of his hearth, burning himself so 
severely that he lost some of his limbs. 



440 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSOX COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



At the crossinj; on Sandy creek, Elislia Allen, Sr., kept 
a place fur nearly forty years, where man and beast fuund 
cheer, comfort, and rest. A sign, made of pine boards, 
with the words, " Alle.n's Inn," was long a familiar 
landmark in that section. 

MILLS AND FACTORIES. 

A Mr. Frost was the first to erect a saw-mill in Lorraine. 
About 1804 he built a dam across Sandy creek at Allen- 
dale, and put up a small mill, but a freshet carried both 
away before he had realized anything from his labors. Not 
having a title to his land, he could not sell the property for 
several years, and as he was unable to rebuild, nothing 
more was done here until 1810, when Mabb and Aldrich 
erected a. mill which soon after became the property of 
Claik Allen. It was destroyed by fire during the war 
which soon followed, but was rebuilt by Gen. Allen, and 
operated by him until about 1820, when he sold the pro- 
perty to Jared and Asa Gleason. In a few years ihey 
built a grist-mill on the same .spot, — a two-story frame, with 
two run of stone, — which was a great accommodation for 
the settlers. The mill has been repaired since then, but, 
in most respects, remains unchanged. The saw-mill was 
not used lately, and was taken away in 187G. Lafayette 
Caulkins is the present owner of the property. 

The first grist-mill was built by Seth Cutler on Hull 
creek, on lot 45, about 1805, to which the settlers used to 
carry their grists on their backs. It was abandoned in the 
course of ten years. 

Thomas Stancliff built a saw-mill on the same .stream, 
perliaps in 1805. He was killed a year or two thereafter 
by thi> falling of a tree. The mill then became the prop- 
erty of Comfort Stancliff, who operated it until it was given 
up. 

John Alger erected a saw-mill at an early day on lot 31, 
which passed into the hands of C. P. Totman, by which 
name it was known, and was carried away by a freshet. 

On the lower Deer creek, on lots 42 and 53, were small 
grist- and saw-mills known as Gillnian's, which have passed 
away; (jn lot 54 is a small mill built by H. Lyman, and at 
j)resent owned by Henry Bartlett ; and on lot 98, on the 
same stream, are two more mills, built about twenty-five 
years ago by Nelson Cox and J. O'Niel, and at present 
operated by the latter and William Standi.sh. 

On the upper Deer creek, at Waterville, is a small mill 
formerly known as Lepper's, but at present owned by C. 
H. Lyman. A chair-factory was operated at the same place 
by S. Warner. A small mill erected by Nathan Gardner 
on lot 03 was deserted years ago. 

On the brook, in the southern jiart of the town, Henry 
Brigham had a cheese-box factory on lot 81, where he met 
his death by falling upon the saw, and the factory was soon 
after discontinued. Just below, a small corn-mill was 
erected at an early period, which soon gave place to a grist- 
mill, which was destroyed by fire. At present there is a 
siiw-niill, with a cheese-box factory attached, at this point, 
operated by John Brigham. 

In the northern part of the town David Smith built 
a saw-mill on Abijali creek, which for th(> last Iwcntv 
year.s iias been operated by Eli Moore. Farther to the 



west on Sandy creek and the stream flowing into it from 
the north, Sylvanus Lockwood built a ,saw-niill, which is 
now known as Tole's. Daniel Wheeler built a mill which 
is operated by Newman Hawley ; and a Mr. Chafin built 
another which was discontinued for lack of water. The 
mills and factories at Lorraine village will be noticed in 
that connection. 

As the timber supply decreased and saw-mills were discon- 
tinued, there was a demand for another branch of niaim- 
facturing indu-stry. This has been supplied in the many 

CHEESE-FACTORIES 

'which now exi.st. The first in the town in the order of 
time was the " Maple Grove Factory," erected by a stock 
company in 18C3. It was operated in their interests about 
four years, when the bulk of the stock passed into the 
hands of Andrew Gillet and Montgomery Adams, who are 
the present proprietors and manufacturers. 

" The Lorraine Central Factory" was built in 18GS, by 
Ira Page. It was destroyed by fire in 1S75, and has not 
been rebuilt. 

" The G. A. Fox Factory" was erected in 1870. It has 
a good patronage, using the milk of 175 cows. 

"The Pitkin Factory" was built in 1805, by A. Webb 
and I. Pitkin. It has a good situation, and uses the milk 
of 200 cows. E. Pitkin is the present proprietor. 

" The Jjxcelsior Factory" is the most extensive in tlie 
town. It was built in 1870, by Fred Barga and William 
Searls. In 1872, H. A. Gardner bought the property, and 
at present operates the fiictory. The milk from 400 to 
500 cows is used. 

•'The A. J. Bettinger Factory" was built about 18G3, 
by Bongford, Bettinger & Allen. In 1872 the present 
proprietor assumed charge. 250 cows supply the milk used. 

"The Tifft Factory," erected in 18G0 by Tifft, Wilcox 
& Bailey, was destroyed by fire in February, 18G9. In 
1873 another factory was built near the old site, by John 
Wilcox, which now belongs to Poole & Graves, and is 
operated by Elgin McTaggart. 

ROADS. 

The State road from Rome to Brownville was located 
through this town in 1804. It has from the beginning 
been an important thoroughfare, and was a potent agent in 
the ra]iid scttlenicnl of ]>orrainc. Other roads were early 
located, and liberal aid w;us voted by the town lo put lluiu 
in good condition. In 1810 S250 were appropriated for 
roads and bridges; in 1841 $75(1, and in 1877 a single 
iron bridge was built, costing $12(K). In 1805 there were 
6 districts formed, with James McKee, William Maynard, 
Stanton Brown, Nathan Cliever, Warren Flower, and Joseph 
Case as overseers. In 1807 the districts had increased to 
18, and in 1877, with only half the area, there were 47 
districts This distribution of labor has been promotive of 
good results, .so that the roads of the town are, in spite of 
their irregular courses owing to the broken condition of the 
surface, in fair order. 

THE CEMETERIES. 

\\ iili one exception, the cemeteries of the town are eon- 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



441 



trolled by the offiti:il boaiJ, and aic cared for by means 
of appropriations voted at town-iueetings. 

" The Rural Cemetery Association" was formed Jan. 8, 
1852, by John Boyden, Aaron Brown, John Bentley, 
Eben Brown, Knapp Maeoniber, Joseph Grini-shaw, Allen 
Pitkin, Lorenzo Reed, John Hancock, Moses Brown, Eliliu 
Gillet, Sardis Abbey, Augustus Jj. Baker, Peter Hanson, 
Leonard A. Parker, Joel Buel, Lutlicr Lanfear, and Parley 
Brown. The control of the cemetery at Lorraine village 
was secured, an addition to its area made, and the whole 
was projierly inclosed. It now contains 1;! acres. The 
association is managed by a board of nine trustees, these 
being elected annually. The present board are Latham 
Lanfear, John W. Brown, Philo ^\. Brown, David (jillet, 
Almond Harrington, Ransom R. Corbin, Henry M. Brown, 
Joseph Grimshaw, and Elihu Gilict. It is said that Eliza- 
beth, the wife of Josiah Brown, was the first interred in 
the Rural (Jcmotery. Probably the first death in town was 
a Mr. Child, whose earthly days were shortened by a tree 
falling upon him while he was engaged in chopping. 

SCHOOLS. 

As near as can be determined Miss Betsey Burbee taught 
the first school, in the summer of 1807. There was a log 
house erected for this purpose near where the Baptist 
church now stands in Lorraine village. She also taught 
there the following year. In 1813 there is a record of 18 
districts, of which 3 at least were in Worth. The town 
has at present 12 districts, and is fairly supplied with school 
building.s. The appropriations made for the support of the 
schools are generally ecjual to those made by the State, and 
the average term taught numbers about thirty weeks. 

JI1LIT.\RY RECORD. 

Lorraine received its share of the heroes of our struggle for 
independence, who came to find a home and who lived there 
until their death. The list includes the names of Elijah 
Fox, Sr., Jacob Weaver, Benjamin Fletcher, Caleb TifFt, 
Martin Rice, and John Wiswell. The last claimed to have 
been one of the Boston tea party of 1773. 

The War of 1812 called out a full quota of the citizens, 
who hastened with great alacrity to the defense of Jacket's 
Harbor and other threatened points in the county. Among 
those who rendered distinguished service was Gen. Clark 
Allen. He participated in the engagement at Sacket's 
Harbor, and was in command of the first body of men to 
occupy Cape Vincent. Besides the response from men 
subject to military duty, there was a company of " Silver 
Grays" and soon after the declaration of war the following 
document was forwarded to General Brown : 

" LoiiUAiXE, July 21, 1S12. 
"Dkar Silt. — \'ic»ing our country in diingcr, nnd feelinii: a will- 
ingness to defend tbe same, si.xty men assembled in this place and 
made choice of Joseph Wilco.\ as cuptuhi ; .James Perry, livuteiiant / 
Ebenezer Brown, Jr., cH*y», This is therefore to desire your honor 
to furnish us with arms and ammunition, while you may have tho 
assurance we shall be ready on any invasion within tbe county of 
Jefferson, at a moment's warning, to defend the same. Tho above 
men met at the house of John .-Viger, on the 16th insl., and may bo 
considered as Siti-ei- <ir<ttf>*, that is men who are exempted by law from 



military duty. We wish you, sir, to forward the arms to this place 

as so(m as possible, and bo assured we are, with respect, your humble 

servants. 

"JosKIM! Wll.ro.X, Captain, 
" Jamks Pkruv, Lieutenant. 
" K. lino W.N, EiiHiijii." 

This company frequently met for review and exercise, 
and on the occasion of the attack upon Sacket's Harbor 
marched for the scene of the engagement, but not in time 
to take ]iart in it. 

The late Rebellion, also, found Lorraine prepared to aid 
in its suppression. A ready response was given to the first 
demand for troops, and when, in 1802, the call was made 
for 300.0(MJ additional volunteers, a sjiecial town-meeting 
was held to hasten the response. The record of this meet- 
ing shows the state of the public mind. The minutes are 
headed by the words, " WAR ! WAR ! " and inform 
us that it was voted that a bounty of S50 a man, over and 
above the amounts of State and county bounties, be raised, 
and, as a further inducement, S.") a man additional was 
voted to all who would enlist that day, May 13, 18152. 

CIVIL ORG.VNIZATION. 

The act of incorporation directed the first town-meeting 
of Lorraine to be held at the house of John Alger, March 
5, 1805. The election resulted in the choice of the follow- 
ing officers : Supervisor, A.sa Brown ; Clerk, William Hos- 
ford ; Assessors, Clark Allen, Ormond Butler, Warner 
Flowers; Collector, 0. Butler; Poor-masters, William 
Hunter, C.Allen; Constable, O. Butler; Com. of High- 
ways, William Ilosford, Michael Frost, Asa Sweet; Fence- 
viewers, William Lanfear, Joseph Case, Elijah Fox ; 
Pound-masters, James McKee, John Griswold ; Sealer of 
Weights, Seth Cutler. 

Since the organization of the town the following have 
served as Supervisors : 



1805- 


-6. Asa Brown. 


1852. 


.lames Gilford. 


1807- 


■13. Clark Allen. 


1853- 


54. John E. Robinson. 


1814. 


Elihu Gillet. 


1855. 


Elisha Allen. 


1815- 


■24. Clark Allen. 


1856- 


8. Parley Brown. 


1825- 


-29. John Boyden. 


1859. 


Elisha Allen. 


1830- 


-31. Jarcd Gleason. 


1860. 


Edmund G. Remington. 


1832- 


■35. John Boyden. 


1861- 


62. Philo JI. Brown. 


1836- 


-37. Loren Busbnell. 


1863- 


64. Edmund (t. Remington 


1838. 


John Boyden. 


1805- 


66. Samuel T. Tifft. 


183!) 


Elisha Allen. 


1867. 


Spencer Woodward. 


1840. 


Loren IJus^inell. 


1868 


Philo JI. Brown. 


1841. 


E. Allen. 


1869. 


Alonzo \V. Grow. 


1842- 


■43. James (lifford. 


1870. 


Philo M. Brown. 


1841. 


John Boyden. 


1871- 


72. Alonzo W. Grow. 


1845. 


E. Allen. 


1873- 


75. Carlton C. Moore. 


1816. 


John Boyden. 


1876. 


Orville C. Tucker. 


1817. 


David J. Kcdway. 


1877. 


Carlton C. Jloore. 


1848- 


51. Moses Brown. 







From the records of the town many interesting facts are 
gletmed. At the State election held in April, 1807, 85 
votes were polled, of which Morgan Lewis received 47 and 
Daniel Tompkins 38. The pojiulation had so much in- 
creased three years later, 1810, that 162 votes were polled. 

In 1806, " Voted, there be a pair of stocks erected in 
tbe town of Malta. Voted, that the stocks be set at the 
crotch of the road, near John Algiers." It is thought 
that the.se resolutions were passed in order to convince a 



44:i 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



desperate character, then Uviug iu the town, that this salu- 
tary instrument would bo used, if necessary, to reform him. 
The unwortliy citizen to(ik tlie liint, '■ skipped' the country, 
and the stocks were never erected. At this mcctin'r, also, 
an embryotic legislator offered the following effective 
" nieans-to-the-cnd" resolution: "That swine be well 
yoked, and ringed, and shut up in a good pen.' 

In 1812, "Voted, that if cattle are found within thirty 
rods of a public inn, from December 15 until April 15, 
that the owner pay $1.00 for every such offense; one half 
to be given to the complainant, and one half to the poor." 

On February 6, 1810, a special meeting was held, to 
divide the town, at the house of Benjamin Gates. Elihu 
Gillet was appointed moderator. "Voted, to go around 
and each man give his vote verbally." " That the town 
be divided according to the division line between No. 1 
and No. 2." Not one person dissented, but owing to vari- 
ous causes the separation did not take place until 1848. 

In 1811 the members of the Griffin fan)ily, — Samuel, 
aged thirteen ; James, .seven, and 3Iary, nine years, — who 
were left in destitute circumstances, were legally indentured 
to Joseph Odell, Elihu Gillet, and Timothy Risley, re- 
spectively. The boys to be instructed " in the art and min- 
istry of farming ;" Mary " in the art and ministry of house- 
keeping." And in consideration of the faithful service 
which the boys were to render, each was to receive, on at- 
taining his freedom, " one new Bible, durable wearing ap- 
parel of all kinds, one suit of which shall be new, likewise 
sixty dollars in neat cattle, stock to be a])praised at cash 
prices." Mary was to receive, besides the Bible, "one 
good cow, one good feather-bed, with bolsters and pillows, 
to be of geese feathers." 

Deer and other game were comuion in the town, as well 
as beasts of prey, which led to the offering of bounties for 
the destruction of the latter. Wolf bounties of §10 were 
offered in 1806, and Sj from ISlll) to 1820; also panther 
bounties, in 1810, '11, '17, 'It), and "20, of $5 and $10, and 
abounty of $0.50 for every fox killed in the town. Iu 1822 
there was a bounty of $0.25 on poor Reynard's scalp. The 
Wording of the bounty act of 1820 is remarkable for its 
originality : " That a bounty of $5 be paid for every wolf 
or panther killed in the town ; one-half to be paid for the 
u.se of the poor, the other half to the complainer. " 

In 1822 " that the scaler of public weights keep the 
same for public and not for private use." In 1839 " notice 
w;v< given that an application would be made to the Senate 
and Assembly to attach a part of Lorraine to Adams," but 
nothiiig resulted from this move. In 1847, at a special 
election held for this jmrpose. whether the town grant 
licen.-'e or not, lOG voted for and 108 voted against license. 
There were appropriated $250 for llii> sujiport of the poor 
the same year. 

In 1S55 S. Lyman made a propusitiun to the town, at 
its annual meeting, to conviv the did Congregational church 
to tiie town for a hall, to be opened to all meetings, (^ivil 
and religious, if the town would repair the hall in a suitable 
manner. This was done, and the house has since been 
used, and is known as the Town Hall. 

In 1S()4 the office of supervisor was tied between I'hilo 
M. Brown and Elisha Allen, < aeh having received 157 votes. 



As neither accepted the office, the county board selected 
Edmund G. Remington to fill the vacancy. 

WATERVILLE, 

in the eastern part of the town, on Hull creek, is a small 
hamlet of a dozen houses. A chair-factory was formerly 
carried on here by S. Warner. At ]iresent its manufactur- 
ing interests are limited to the saw-mills mentioned else- 
where. 

ALLENDALE, 

so called in honor of Gen. Clark Allen, is a pleasant little 
hamlet in the western part of the town, on Sandy creek. 
Its settlement is nearly as early as that of tlie town, but as 
it is only two miles south of Adams it has not improved as 
fast as it would under iiinre fav(iral)le eircuinstances. There 
is a grist-mill, by L. Caulkins; a cabinet-shop, by A. E. 
Baker; a cider-mill and a blacksmith-shop, by George Rip- 
ley; and a small store, by Grove Heath. In the last is the 
post-office, which was established in 1871, under the name 
of Caulkins' Jl ill, but which was changed in 187.S to Allen- 
dale. Lorenzo Reed is the postmaster. The mail service 
is daily, from Adams to Lorraine and points beyond. 

Among the early mechanics at this ])oint were Elisha 
Allen and Lyman Heath, blacksmiths, and L. Heath, shoe- 
maker. About 1830, Martin Rice built a small factory at 
this place, for the spinning and weaving of flax. After oper- 
ating it seven or eight years, it was abandoned as unprofit- 
able. A distillery was also carried on for several years by 
Alexander Allen and Loren Bushnell. The building was 
converted into a horse-barn by E. Allen. 

The school-house at Allendale is the finest in the town, 
and was erected in 1876 by Martin and Ira Tole, at a cost 
of SIOOO. It is a couiniodious frame, with a tower and 
bell, and is sujiplied with nindern furniture. The house is 
also used for religious meetings by the Mormons and other 
sects. 

LORRAINE VILLAGE 

is a place of about 125 inhabitants, five and a half miles 
southeast of Adams, at the confluence of Deer and Hull 
creeks. The location is romantic, being cosily nestled 
among the hills, and the place has a quiet, pastoral beauty, 
which has endeared it to the inhabitants. John Alger 
erected the first house in 1803. A number more were 
built iu a few years, and the settlement ac(|uired the name 
of " Jjorraine Huddle," or the "Huddle," which yet at- 
taches to it to some extent. It has alwa3's been the princi- 
pal point in the town, and the history of its mills, stores, 
and taverns is common pro])erty. 

Besides the public-house of J olin Alger and Dr. Weston, 
several other hotels existed in the village. Alger was 
sueceedi'd by I'ardon Peck, and h:\ in turn, by Lemuel 
Hunt, who kejit the house until his death, about 18G5. 
The house has since that time been n.scd for a dwelling, 
exce])t a portion occupied for a (j range hail. In 1S41, C. 
Gilluian purchased a small him.se of i^oren Bushnell, which 
he enlarged for a tavern. It was known as "(iillman's 
Inn," and had a good patronage. In 1862, D. B. Lock- 
wood became the proprietor, ami yet further enlarged the 
house. 0. C. Tucker and C. J. Snow, also, had control of 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSOX COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



443 



tbe place, each for .several years. Horace Strcetcr, the 
present landlord, took charge in 1875, and it is at present 
the only hotel in the place. 

STORES. 

About 1809, Aaron Brown built a .«mall store-room, 
where he opened a stock of goods soon after, and as.sociatetl 
Joel Hrown with him. The house stood on the site occu- 
pied by Elijah Bellinger's residence. About six years.later, 
John Caulkins and Alanson Rus.sell opened, in another 
building, where Albert Streeter's house now stands, a store 
which was consumed by fire in 1825. The liou.se was re- 
built, and Lorcn Bushnell and Luther Lainpson put in a 
stock of goods. They continued in trade until 184(1, when 
they were succeeded by Baker & Gillet. Elihu Gillet took 
the interest alone, and sold out to Caulkins & Brown, the 
last in trade in the old building. It was demolished in 
1870. 

Ill 1840, Moses Brown and Luther Lam.soii erected the 
building now occu])ied by the post-office, where they were 
in trade seven years, when I5rowii had the store alone until 
his death, in 1853. Philo M. Brown succeeded, and re- 
mained in trade until 18G7. Ne.xt followed A. W. Grow, 
Brown & Moore, and Philo Brown. C. D. Grimshaw at 
present occupies the place for a grocery-store. 

In 1857 Elihu Gillet erected a store-room, in which 
Philo Brown carried on trade several years. In Sept., 
1870, C. C. Moore began business there, and still continues. 

Aaron Brown built a saw-mill at Lorraine in 1807, 
where the present saw-mill stiinds. This has been re- 
modeled a number of times, and, the water failing, Eli 
Maltby added an engine in 18G0. Abel "Wagoner, the 
pre.sent owner, also manufactures cheese-boxes. 

About 1808, Aaron Brown erected a grist-mill upon the 
site of the present structure. It was a two-story building, 
with two run of stone. A part of the frame remains in the 
pre.sent mill, and in many re.sjiects it is yet the old mill. It 
was known for many years as Brown's mill, though having 
had a uumlicr of different owners. Joseph B. Wilcox 
became the pniprietor in 1870, and is the present miller. 

SIIOPS AND FACTORIES. 

. The fii-st blaeksmithing done in Lorraine was by Ward 
Fox. William Carruth had a shop for many years. Elihu 
Gillet worked at the trade thirteen years in a shop on the 
site of Moon's store. In 184G, Joel Buel put up another 
shop, acro.ss the creek, where Elijah Bi^llinger's shop now 
stands. Tiie old shop was destroyed by lire, July 4, 1877 ; 
the present one was erected in its stead. In 1858, H. B. 
Hari'ington erected a large shop on the south side of Hull 
creek, which furnishes ]iower for his machinery. On the 
south side of the village, on the State road, AInion Har- 
rington built a shop in 1874, where he carries on the trade. 
A man named Curry was the first wheelwright in the 
town. He carried on the trade in a shop in the rear of 
Gillet's blaeksmith-shop. Thomas White also worked there 
a number of years. Asa Co[)eland built a good shop about 
1840, on the site now occupied by Elijah Bellinger. He 
also manufactured household furniture. Bellinger pur- 
chased this shop in 1872. 



A fulling-mill was erected by John Boyden in the gulf 
below the old Fox blacksmith-shop. The business increased 
so much that it required a larger building, and a new factory 
was erected on Hull creek. Boyden was succeeded by Sar- 
dis Abbey, who worked the factory several years. While 
the property of L. L. Bateman, the building was turned 
into a lumber-manufaeturiiig establishment. A saw-mill 
and a planer were attached, and it is at pre.sent used as a 
general wood-working factory. 

About 1808 Aaron Brown built a distillery on Deer 
creek, which received the name of " Still creek'' from this 
circumstance. The business was continued only six or 
seven years ; but the old building remained for a long time. 

A POST-OFFICE 

was established in Lorraine about LSdtj. The mail-route 
was from Rome to points north. Simeon Parkhurst was the 
carrier, and Benjamin Gates the postmaster. William 
Carruth was al.so one of the early postmasters, and, as 
letters frequently came with the postage unpaid, the .settlers 
bartered their ma]il(^siigar at four cents a pound to raise 
the postage. O. W. (irow is the jirescnt postmaster; and 
there is a daily niail from Adams to Wortliville vln this 
place. 

Egg-packing, by a new process, was begun here in 1867, 
by A. W. Grow. From a small beginning a large business 
has sprung. The process consists in immersing the eggs in 
a chemical solution, which enables them to keep fresh for 
years. W. R. Grow and L. F. Caulkins are the present 
proprietors. Nearly 55,000 dozen eggs were put up in 
1877. 

PHYSICIANS. 

Dr. Isaac Weston was the first to permanently locate in 
Lorraine. He was an old-time practitioner in many re- 
spects, and it is related that when his services were sought 
on a certain occasion by a man who had cut himself chop- 
ping wond, the good old doctor prescribed blood-letting and 
calomel as the ]iroper remedies for the case. Other jirac- 
titioners were Drs. French, Bagg, Tuttle, Hathaway, and 
NuKent. Drs. /. K. Babeock an<l M. L. Overton are the 
present physicians, both of the allopathic school. 

ATTORNEYS. 

No regularly admitted members of the bar ever lived in 
Lorraine, although there were those who practiced in 
justices' courts. Among these were John Earl, John 
Bently, and Parley Brown. 

A risiime of the business of Lorraine shows the following 
business firms: general merchandise, C. C. Moore; gro- 
ceries, C. I). Grimshaw ; egg-packers, Caulkins & Grow ; 
hotel, Horace Strceter ; harness-maker, H. Wilson ; shoe- 
makers, Elihu Gillet and W. R. Steele; joiner, John W. 
Brown ; miller, Josejih B. Wilcox ; saw-mill, Abel Wago- 
ner ; planing-mill, L. L. Bateman ; wagon-maker. Elijah 
Bellinger ; cooper, A. Streeter ; blacksmiths. H. B. Har- 
rington, Alinou Harrington, and Elijah Bellinger; physi- 

I cians, Z. K. Babeock and M. L. Overton ; and postmaster, 

i 0. W. Grow. 



444 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

Nearly all tho religious interests of the town are centred 
in the soeietics worshiping at Lorraine village. There are a 
number of Adventists in the southern part of the town, con- 
nected with the church at Mannsville ; and other creeds have 
their adherents, though without any regular organization. 

TUE BAPTIST CHURCH OF LORRAINE 

was formed in 1S06, with a membership of thirteen, and 
had the Rev. Amos Lamson as pa.stor, who was ordained 
October 7, 1806, and who was succeeded, in 1815, by Sol- 
omon John.son. Rev. Benjaniin W. Capron was employed 
in 1819, and in May, 1824, Parley Brown was ordained, 
and labored until 1831), when he was succeeded by John F. 
Bishop, who served one year. Charles B. Taylor was next 
called to the pastorate for three years; and in 1837 Henry 
Ward commenced a three years' connection. In 1840, 
Eiisha Bobbins was employed, and, in one year, Luther 
Humphrey, who, in July, 1842, was ordained, and con- 
tinued three years. He wa.s succeeded, in 1845, by 0. L. 
Crittenden, who remained one year. The church was with- 
out a pastor until 1850, when J. F. Bishop was called. He 
remained one year, and was succeeded by Philander Per- 
sons, whose pastorate was continued several years. In 1859, 
L. P. Day was called, and remained with the church two or 
three years. Then followed an interval when the church 
was without a pa.stor until 18G4, when L. G. Brown came 
and remained three years. W. H. Taylor became pastor in 
1870, and in 1871 E. G. Blount followed him, remaining 
fifteen months There was no regular paistor until 1875, 
when E. H. Lovett came, and remained with the church 
two years. At present (1877) the church is without a 
pastor. The fre(|uent ])astoral changes have not been favor- 
able to the interests of the church. The membership has 
been greatly diminished, until at present it numbers only 42. 

Until 1829 the church did not have its own house of 
worship. On December 23 of that year a society was 
formed, with Aaron Brown, Jr., John Fassct, Benjamin 
Fletcher, Jr., and James Gifford, Jr., trustees. A church 
was erected, in 1830, at a cost of §1200. It is a plain 
frame of respectable size, and was repaired in 18(JS. 

In 1854 the society was reorganized and incorporated, 
under the laws of the State, as " The First Baptist Church 
ajid Society of Lorraine," and, August 22 of that year, J. 
F. Robinson, Jude Lamson, M. F. Cole, A. S. Gillet, Aaron 
Brown, and L. D. Reed elected trustees. The present 
board consi.sts of Gilbert Perdy, Samuel Gardner, A. S. 
Gillet, H. B. Brown, Wui. II. Steele, and P. M. Brown, 
trustees, and .1. 15. Wileo.x, clerk. 

THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OP LORRAINE 

had its origin at an early day. About 1807 Elder Bli.ss 
settled in the town, and held occasional service, which a few 
years later was changed to regular preaching by hinisclf. 
Elder Spear, and others. But no .society wa.s formed until 
Dec. 3, 1829, when a meeting was held for this purpose, 
and Silas layman, William Carruth, and Alfred Webb were 
elected trustees of the society which was fcirmod. In 1830 
' a small frame church was erected in llie sduthcni part of 
the village, which was used by the society a.s long as it had 



an existence. The church having become so feeble, owing 
to the removal of many of its members, services were dis- 
continued about 1850, and in 1858 the building was con- 
veyed to the town for a public hall, but with a provision 
that it might be used for religious meetings. Among those 
who had the pastoral care of the church were Reverends 
Higley, Moreton, and Tremaine, while among the most 
prominent oflBcial members were Deacons Lyman, Pitkin, 
and others, none of whom remain in the town. 

METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. 

There were members of this faith in the town from its 
first settlement, and soon after had so much increased in 
numbers that religious meetings were held by them in the 
school-houses and other suitable places. For many years 
the classes were connected with Adams and other circuits; 
but about 1853 the classes at Lorraine and Worth became a 
.separate charge, called Lurraiiie circuit, Isaac Hall, pa.stor. 
A board of trustees, consisting of Joseph Grimshaw, James 
Gifford, Daniel Caulkins, Sardis Abbey, Daniel Wise, Elijah 
R. Fox, and John Fasset, was selected, and measures were 
taken to build a church. In 185t) Joseph Grimshaw, Sar- 
dis Abbey, and Daniel Caulkins were appointed a building 
committee, and proceeded to erect a neat frame church, sur- 
mounted by a spire, in the northern part of the village. 
The house was formally dedicated in Jan., 1858. The 
present trustees are J. M. Fox, B. A. Caulkins, A. Caulkin.s, 
Daniel Wise, L. C. Tabor, and Joseph Grimshaw. The fol- 
lowing have been pastors since 1855 : 1850-7, I. L. Hunt; 
1858-9, William B. Joice; 1860-1, Gideon P. Jones; 
1862-3, Samuel M. Warne ; 1804-6, S. C. Goodell ; 
1867, A. McLaren ; 1868, W. W. Hunt; 1809-70, A. S. 
Barter; 1871-2, M. T. Hill; 1873-4, James Stowell ; 
1875-6, N. E. Bush ; 1877, Daniel Fulford. The member- 
ship is 65, and Lafayette Caulkins is the class-leader. 

A Sabbath-.school, which was reorganized in May, 1877, 
is connected with the church. It has seventy-five members, 
and sustains a small library. John Pitkin is the superin- 
tendent. 

SECRET ORDERS. 

" Lorraine Lodge, No. 206, I. O. of 0. F.," was char- 
tered Aug. 10, 1868, with the following members: L. Lan- 
fear, E. Gillet, E. Moore, H. L. Grimshaw, S. A. Wise, D. 
B. Wise, C. C. Moore. The lodge has a pleasant and 
neatly-furnished hall, and now nuraber.s twenty-eight mem- 
bers. The present officers are C. C. Sloore, N. G. ; L. 
Laufear, V. G. ; S. A. Wise, Sec'y ; and E. Gillet, Trea.s. 

" Living Vine Grange, No. 147, P. of H.," was organized 
in the southern part of the town, in 1874, with eighteen 
charter members. It had a very flourishing career, reach- 
ing a membership of seventy. This has been diminished 
to thirty. The meetings are held at the grange liall, for- 
merly the old Union sehool-hou.se. The officers are Geo. 
H. Hull, iMa.ster, and John Williams, Secretary. 

"Lorraine Grange, No. 117, P. of H.," was chartered 
February 25, 1874, with thirty members aud the following 
officers: L. H. IJi.shop, Master, and Z. J. Scribens, Secre- 
tary. Tho grange meets in a neat hall iu Lorraine village, 
and has at present seventy-nine members. Z. J. Scribens 
is Master, and L. 8. Pitkin, Secretary. 




ffES. OF DANIEL WISE.Loi^i^Am,jErrc:RsoNCo.N.Y. 



HENEY W. JEWETT, M.D., 
was born in the town of Itoiuo, Oucida 
county, New York, on March 24, 
182:5. His father was a farmer, and 
Henry woriced at home until he reached 
his sixteenth year. His educational 
acijuirements up to that time were 
such as the district school afforded. 
He attended private school two years, 
preparatory to enterini^ college. He 
couimenced the study of medicine with 
Drs. H. H. and S. W. Pope, in the 
village of Rome, and gi-aduated from 
the Geneva Medical College in Febru- 
ary 1845. He commenced the active 
practice of medicine at Depauville, 
and remained there seven years. From 
there he removed to Chaumont, where 
he has remained since 1857, following 
his profession, liy close and unre- 
mitting application he has succeeded 
in working up quite an exten.sive prac- 
tice. Being carefid in his diagnosis, 
and diligent in the treatment of his 
patients, he has been generally very 
successful. 




Di^.H.W.Jewett. 



He has affiliated with the Republi- 
cans since the organization of that 
party, though not taking an active 
part in politics farther than to use 
his vote and influence for proper can- 
didates, to the maintenance of Repub- 
lican principles. He has attended the 
services of the Presbyterian church, 
in which he has occupied the same 
pew since he first settled in the village. 
He is now a member of that church 
in good standing. His ancestors were 
from Scotland, — the home of Prcsby- 
terianism, — and located in Connecticut 
and Rhode Island at a very early day. 

Dr. Jewett is a gentleman widely 
known and very generally respected. 
His influence in the community is 
founded on principles of professional 
and business integrity ; and his charac- 
ter, after a residence of twenty years, 
is permanently established. He en- 
joys the confidence of the people gen- 
erally, not only as a physician, but 
as a citizen and neighbor. 




i^LS. OF O.S. Vt'iLCO><, Chaumont, jLrnRsoNCo.,H.Y 



LYME. 



BIany years before the settlement of northern New York, 
all the water within Stony island and Point Peninsula was 
called by the Indians " Naionro," by the French liaH Je 
Niveriwis, and by the English Hungry bay. There are 
records of visits made to the shore of these waters more 
than two hundred and fifty years ago. As early as the 
middle of September, 1015, was the landing of Champlain, 
with his savage troops, in an e.vpedition against the Iro- 
quois. The army consisted of nearly two thousand red 
warriors, and less than twenty Frenchmen. Their canoes 
wore left in a sheltered cove, while they pushed across the 
country on foot to make the attack. 

About seventy yeans la'er, August, 1684, Marquis de la 
Barre encamped, with eighteen or twenty hundred meti, a 
majority of whom were French soldicre, probably on Bull 
lie NiL'cnwis, at a place which he designated in his journal 
as L(t Fa})u')ir.. The expedition was against the same Iro- 
quois nations; but he lost nearly all his army by hunger and 
sickness, whereupon he consummated a treaty with a part 
of the hofitiie Indians, and returned at once to New France 
(Canada). 

In less than another generation. Father Charlevoix, a 
Jesuit priest, visited the French colonies in North America, 
under the sanction and order of the King of France, and 
wrote a letter from the Bay of Famine, dated May !(!, 
1721. He wrote of the " prodigious" eagles, the numerous 
fish, the '' painted"' Indians, and the trees that " reached 
almost to the clouds." 

In 1793, Simon Dcsjardines and Pierre Pharoux were 
sent out by the Castorland company, of France, to explore 
the sis hundred and twenty-five thousand acres of land in 
northern New York, which had come into its possession. 
At New York they were joined by M. I. Brunei, the cele- 
brated engineer. These three men and their assistants took 
a bateau at Oswego and started in search of Black river. 
They seem to have had some trouble in finding it, and were 
several days about the shores of Ilondei'son and Chaumont 
bays. A full account of this exploring party will be found 
elsewhere. 

The larger portion of the waters between Stony island and 
Point Peninsula washes the shores of the town of Lyme. 
It was erected from Brownville on March C, 181, S, and 
named from old Lyme, in Connecticut. It then included 
all of its present territory, the town of Cape Vincent, and 
that portion of Penet's Square which lay we.st of Clayton. 
Cape Vincent was .set off thirty-one years later. The first 
public meeting of Lyme township was held in March, 1818, 
when Eichard M. Ksselstyn was chosen supervisor, and 
John l>ayan clerk ; J. B. Es.sclstyn, Luther Brittin, and 
Benjamin Estes were made assessors ; Elnathan Judd, John 



Dayan, and Joseph Rider became commis-sioners of high- 
ways ; John M. Trenipor, Tliaddcus Smith, and Kbcr Kel- 
sey were elected pound-masters and fence-viewers. The 
following is a complete list of the supervisors of the town 
up to the present date: Richard M. Es,selstyn, 1818-22; 
John B. Esselstyn, 1S2:'.; Willard Ainsworth, 1824; at a 
special meeting in September, 1824, J. B. E.s.selstyn ; Wil- 
lard Ainsworth, 1825-152; Otis P. Starkey, 18H3; Jere. 
Carrier, 1834-35; Minot Ingalls, 183G ; Isaac Wells, 
1837; Philip P. Gaige, 1838; Roswell T. Lee, 1839; P. 
P. Gaige, 1840 ; Timothy Dewey, 1841 ; William Carlisle, 
1842; Alexander Copley, 1843; AV. O. Howard, 1844; 
Theophilus Peugnet, 1845; Isaac Wells, 1846-47; Alex. 
Copley, 1848; P. P. Gaige, 1849. Cape Vincent was 
erected from this township early in this year; Henry 
Cline, 1850; Alexander Copley, 1851; David Ryder, 
1852; William Carlisle, 1853-54; Jacob Putnam, 1855; 
Nelson Burdick, 1856; William Dewey, 1857; Jacob 
Putnam, 1858-60; Francis C. Cline, 18G1 ; Remos Wells, 
1862-65; William II. Main, 1866-67; Andrew J. Dewey, 
1868-73; Charles M. Eitipie, 1874-76. Adelbert A. 
Getman is the present supervisor, and John Combs the 
town clerk ; the ju.stices of the peace are (1877) George W. 
Rickett, Jacob Snell, Ira Inman, and Daniel C. Holbrook. 
The members of assembly from this assembly district, who 
have lived in Lyme, were John B. Esselstyn, 1822-25 ; 
Otis P. Starkey, 1836 ; Joshua Main, 1854 ; Isaac Wells, 
1855; R. Francis Austin, 1856; William Dewey, 1861- 
63, and also 1852 ; W. W. Enos, 1871. 

EARLY REGULATIONS. 

At the first town-meeting it was voted to divide the 
town into eight road districts, to give $100 to the poor, 
and to forbid hogs to run at large without yokes around 
their necks and rings in their noses ; if this last regulation 
was violated, the owner of the swine was to pay a penalty 
of fifty cents. Regulations were also made regarding horses 
and horned cattle; and the second year (1819) 840 was 
voted to build two pounds, one at Cape Vincent, and the 
other at Chaumont. It would appear, from the records, 
that the hog law was frequently evaded, for, in 1821, it 
was voted that all the porkers running at large should have 
"a siijficioil yoke around his or her neck;" and that the 
fines collected for each violation should be paid over to the 
commissioners of schools. Bounties were ofltered for wolves 
and their whelps; taxes for roads were often levied; and 
the poor-tax was common, §350 being voted in 1847 at a 
special meeting. 

FIRST SETTLERS. 

The first settlement was started in 1801, on the north 

445 



4t0 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



shore of Chaumoiit river, and a little more than two miles 
above tiie villaj;e wliicli bears the same name. It is now 
designated as Old Town. The part}- came by the way of 
Oswego and the lake, and among them were Jonas Smith 
and Henry A. Delamater, from Ulster eounty, Kiehard M. Es- 
seltyn from Clavarack, then in Albany county, David Soper, 
T. Wheeler, James Soper, Peter Pratt, and Timothy Soper, 
who.se names are positively known. There were some others. 
During the summer a small clearing was made, and two or 
three buildings erected ; but the location was an unhealthy 
one, and the next spring it was abandoned. The winter of 
1801 and 1802 w;is spent by the settlers in the respective 
homes from which they had emigrated, having returned 
thdre in the fall, after their summer's clearing and building. 
In 1802, Mr. Delamater cleared the first land on Point 
Salubrious. In 1SU3 a part of the colony settled on the 
site of Chaumont village, built a saw-mill and a warehouse, 
and put in operation a log tavern ; several other families 
from Ulster county increased their number ; there were also 
a few unmarried young men, and an occasional immigrant 
from Canada. 

In 1805, James Horton moved the families of Daniel 
and John Trempcr to the Chaumont settlement, and came 
with his own family the next year. The Trempers were 
tanners. A small vessel was begun this year, but never 
6iiished. Henry Thomas was keeping a store, and .several 
mechanics were in business. 

A DISHE.VRTENINQ YE.\R. 

Smith and Delamater, the leading spirits of the enter- 
prise, failed in 180G; others were discouraged by sickness; 
several had died from the malarial fever that had before 
afflicted the settlers ; and a majority of the people decided 
to start once more anew. It may be remarked here that 
malignant fevers prevailed very fatally in 1828, and typhoid 
pneumonia and diphtheria in 1875. During the space of 
fifteen months fifty deaths occurred within the limits of the 
corporation of Chaumont village at the time of the hist 
(1875) prevalent sickness. With these exceptions, the 
region has been considered healthy. 

Point Salubrious was selected as the next permanent 
stopping-place. James I. Horton went there in 1800, and 
was the first settler. A Mr. Mills was probably the second. 
Joseph Rider, Silas Taft, Stephi'u Fisher, and David Rider 
came not far from 1807. Harry Horton and many others 
were here in 1810. No village was established, however, 
and Chaumont continued to retain its position in this 
respect. 

ILMJSTRATIVE INCIDENTS. 

The hardships of these pioneers were illustrated by such 
incidents :is the following : In the fall of 1807 a company 
of Point Salubrious settlers went to Sacket's Harbor to ob- 
tain a sn])ply of flour for use during the winter; they 
probably carried the grain of their own raising. On the 
return trip they were wind-bound a week at the south 
shore! of Pillar Point, with only a single day's provision. 
After this was exhausted they lived upon berries growing 
near by, and upon cakes made of flour and water, and 
baked on flat stones. Nothing was reported about their 



beds, which were generally of secondary consideration in 
those days of di.scomfurt. 

On another occa.sion, Mr. Horton and Jlr. Williams went 
to Brownville with two bags of grain on the back of a 
horse. The miller could not grind the grist until the next 
morning, and lest it might be delayed beyond that time by 
others crowding in ahead, Mr. Williams decided to remain 
over night. It seems to have been necessary that onp of 
them should return home immediately with the horse. Mr. 
Horton returned. The next day he started back with the 
horse at an early hour, and reaching the neighborhood of 
Limerick, found Mr. W. with the two bags of flour. The 
grain had been ground quicker than either of them had an- 
ticipated, and had been brought by Mr. Williams ou his 
back four or five miles. He would carry one a short dis- 
tance, set it down, and go back after the other. In this 
way he kept them both in sight, until met by his friend 
and neighbor. It was a very welcome meeting in that 
wild and unbroken forest. 

Another fact is related concerning Mrs. James Horton, 
who had great ditfieulty one week in obtaining a fire. This 
was the .second year of their settlement, and when Mr. 
Mills was the only near neighbor. Both Mr. Horton and 
Mr. Mills had been away from home several days, and there 
Wiis no fire at either log cabin ; neither was there any flint 
or tinder, and matches had not been invented. What to do 
she did not know. At last she thought of an old clearing, 
and went thither with her little boy in the hope of finding 
a smouldering ember. Their search was unavailing until 
the little fellow crawled under a half burnt log that lay a 
little distance up from the ground, and shouted to his 
mother, " Fire ! I have found it ! Ain't you glad ?" 

THE QUAKER FAMILIES. 

When the War of 1812 was declared there were not 
fifteen families in the settlement, counting all tho.se who lived 
at Chaumont village and on Point Salubrious. It should 
be stated that the name Salubrious was given by Mr. Le 
Ray, because of its healthful and pleasant location. From 
this point to the St. Lawrence the wilderness w:is unbroken. 
In 1818 Mr. Musgrove Evans brought a colony of Quakers 
from Philadelphia and its neighborhood. During the next 
two years occasional additions were made from the same 
locality. The journey, of course, was overland, and in 
some instances la.sted more than thirty days. For a little 
time new activity was manifested, but the sickness already 
referred to destroyed the ambition of the Quakers, and 
they soon after sold out and moved away. Mr. Evans him- 
self went to the State of Michigan in 1823, and founded 
the town of Tecum.sch. He was a surveyor, and an agent 
of Mr. Lc Ray, in this region. 

OTHER .SETTLERS. 

An attempt was made in 1812, by two or three men, to 
settle Point Peninsula, — one of these wits named Robbins. 
But the war interfered with the project, and it was soon 
abandoned. Six years later, Sebra Howard, William Wil- 
cox, Oliver Wilcox, and John Wilcox, with tiicir families, 
made a permanent settlement. These men were .soon fol- 
lowed by Brittle Minor, Asidiel Ilosiiigton, Asa Collins, 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



447 



John Combs, and others. Jonathan Selter was on the 
north sliore. No one was livin-; at Thrcc-Milo Ba\', in 
1823, except a man whose iiauie is not ikiw ronicniljorcd, 
who stopped in a lo^ shanty just bej-ond tlic creek, at the 
east of the village ; here was al.so a toll-gate. 

Point Peninsula was nearly all taken up before the Ray 
was pennant'iitly occupied ; and so late as 1835, otdy John 
Reed, Charles Leonard, and Benjamin Estes were residing 
there. Daniel Borden lived about half a mile to the west 
of the village site, and within a distance of two miles eight 
families subsequently located by the name of Wells. Daniel 
J. Schuyler settled at Three-Mile Bay in 1835, and w:is 
the first merchant; he built eighteen or twenty of the 
village houses. About the same time, Asa Wilcox identi- 
fied himself with the place, and during the forty ycare of 
his residence built no less than forty-eight vessels, besides 
many .smaller boats and fishing craft. The Star, Wave, 
Banner, and other club-boats repeatedly won prizes at 
regattas. 

TIIK .\SIII,.\NI) FAIl.M. 

When William Dewey was a civil engineer, subsequently 
in the employ of the Rome, Watcrtown, and Cape Vincent 
Railroad Companies, he purcha.sed a thousand acres of 
unbroken land of Vincent Le Ray de Cluuinnint, and took 
possession with his father, Timothy Dewey ; this was in 
1833. The farm is not far from Three-Mile Bay, is nearly 
level, and one of the most fertile in Jetl'erson County. 
Forty-five years ago it was very forbidding, much of it 
being under water a portion of the sea.son ; it sooti acf|uired 
the name of Dewey's Swamp. The timber was chiefly ash, 
.soft maple, elm, and oak. But Mr. Dewey gave his personal 
attention to the hard-looking farm, employed a large force 
of laborers, expended a great amount of money in drainage, 
and thus brought the soil to its present rich condition. 
Mr. George Ricketts was Mr. Dewey's foreman for the last 
thirteen yeare of his life. The Ashland farm has recently 
been sold to John P. and N. E. Douglass, of New York 
City. 

A LAKGE PURCHASE. 
For many years Alexander Copley w.is the largest land- 
holder in all this region of country. He came to Jefferson 
County in 1833, and had been here nearly fifty years when 
he died. On June 7, 1833, he purcha.sed two thousand 
five hundred and sixty-two acres of Vincent Le Ray de 
Chaumont, and three years later — October 5, 183G — the 
large tract of sixteen thousand nine hundred and sixty-one 
acres from Gouverneur Morris. These lands lay in the 
towns of Clayton, Brownville, and Lyme. Afterwards he 
added ten thousand acres more to his estate, the land being 
situated in the town of Antwerp, thus owning nearly thirty 
thousand acres in all. Mr. Copley made Chaumont his 
home, although business often called him elsewhere ; he 
dealt largely in stone and grain, owned a grist-mill, em- 
ployed vos.sels, was a director of the Union bank from the 
year of its organization till his death, February, 1871, and 
was also a merchant. 

ANOTHER INCIDENT. 

Before leaving the.se statements concerning the hardy 
pioneers of Lyme, a sad story may be related, the substance 



of which is given in Dr. Hough's sketch of Clayton. In 
1817, Simon and Jared White came from the vicinity of 
Depauville to Three-Mile Point, with the intention, proba- 
bly, of making a settlement. After remaining here a 
short time they decided to go west; they had been tres- 
passers in the township of Clayton, and may not have been 
cordially received here. The westwaid-bouiid ]iarty con- 
sisted of eleven persons, — the two fathers, their wives, 
mother, and children. The first night they put up a mile 
or two beyond Sacket's Harbor. They were never seen 
alive after leaving this spot. The men had several hundred 
dollare in money, and it is suppo.sed that the di.ssolute 
sailors and soldiers lounging about the neighborhood robbed 
and murdered the whole parly. The boat wxs found empty 
of household goods, and the bodies of ihe brothers showed 
unmistakable marks of violence. Search was made for the 
women, but they were never discovered. The children 
were found dead under the water. 

MILITARY INTERESTS. 

The first celebration of our national independence, in all 
this region of country, was held at Chaumont in 1802. 
The tunnber in attendance was certainly more than a hun- 
dred persons. From Clwunpion and Ilounsfield, Watcrtown 
and Brownville, Sacket's ilaibor and Cape Vincent, and 
other points of settlement, the forefathers and foremothers 
came to do homage to the old flag and the land of the 
brave. Several were Revolutionary soldiers. Food and 
drink were plenty. Indians and squaws must also have 
joined the festivities. Rum and maple-sugar, shooting at a 
mark and wrestling, stories and songs, and fife and drum, 
could hardly have been wanting on this occasion, although 
there is no published report of the proceedings to guide us 
in making out the history of that Fourth of July. 

Considerable alarm was felt at Chaumont in 1812 lest 
the British should come, pillage their homes and burn 
them ; nor did they know but hostile Indians might take 
advantage of the war to pounce upon them and carry off 
their scalps. General Brown therefore advised the building 
of a block-house for defense, and this was erected the same 
year, on the north shore of the bay. Not long after, a S(|uad 
of English soldiers visited the place, and promised not to 
destroy any property if the inhabitants would take down 
the block-hou.se. This was done, and the material after- 
wards used on Point Salubrious, in the erection of a build- 
ing for .school and religious purposes. The artillery of this 
block-hou.se, or fiirt, consist<xl of an iron gun which Jonas 
Smith had purchased some time before for two gallons of 
rum. It was found on the isthmus of Point Peninsula. 
Afterwards this gun was taken to Sacket's Harbor, and 
from thence it went to Ogdensburgh, where it was captured 
by the enemy. The following Revolutionary pensioners 
were living in the town of Lyme in 1840; the ages of 
each are also annexed: Samuel J. Mills, aged eighty-one; 
Jacob H. Oves, eighty-three; Nicholas Smith, eighty-five; 
Prudence Hodges, seventy-three ; Lucretia Marsh, eighty- 
four; and Felix Powell, seventy-seven. 

THE GREAT AMERICAN REBELLION. 

A full list of the names of the patriotic soldiers who 



448 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



went from this town in dofense of the nation against slavery 
is given in thi; niilit;ay chapter of the county. Lyme was 
l(iy;il. Tlie citizens held public meetings from time to time 
during those an.xious years, on Point Peninsula, Three-Mile 
Bay, and Chauraont, for the purpose of encouraging en- 
listments and raising money for her soldiers. In response 
to the several calls of the Government for troops, every 
quota was filled. A town-meeting was held in 1SG3, at 
which it was voted to borrow eight thousand two hun- 
dred dollars (§8200) for the purpose of paying one hundred 
dollars apiece to those volunteers who had enlisted from the 
town of Lyme since July 2, 18G2. This was a just recog- 
nition of those men who would have served without it, and 
who had already smelt the powder of battle. At a special 
meeting of the town.ship, held on the 15th of January, 
1864, it was voted to pay each volunteer who had enlisted 
since October 17, 186^i, tiie sum of three hundred and 
twenty-five dollars ( $o25 ). As in many other towns, some 
of the boys were maimed for life, some never saw home 
again, and others were never heard of after their last battle. 

FERRIES AND BRIDOES. 

The old State road which was extended from Brownville 
to Port Putnam, on the St. Lawrence, in 1803, crossed 
Chauinont river at Chaumont village. This was also true 
of the turnpike which Mr. James Le Ray was authorized, 
in 1815, to construct to Cape Vincent. (In 1831 this 
turnpike was surrendered to the public and laid out into 
road districts.) The crossing of the river during the early 
years of the town was by means of row-boats and scows ; 
poling across was not an unusual method of navigation ; 
afterwards a rope fi-rry wils used ; and in 1823 (March 12) 
Vincent Le Ray obtained the right to build a toll-bridge, 
with a draw for the pa.ssage of vessels, which should be not 
less than sixteen feet in width. It was also stated in the 
act of legislation that the proprietors should not prevent a 
crossing of the stream in the winter over the ice within five 
rods of the bridge. The bridge was to be completed before 
December, 1824. Several years after, the property fell into 
the hands of the State, because the parties had not complied 
with certain provisions of the law of authorization ; and in 
1849 it w;us impassable. Then legal power was given the i 
Lyme commissioners of highways to borrow a sum of money, 
which should not exceed §5000, for the jiurpose of rebuild- 
ing the bridge; and to jiay this loan the supervisors were 
instructed to levy a tax on the town in five animal instal- 
ments. The comptroller added to this five thousand dollars 
the sum of six thousand, and the commissioners of the land 
office released whatever interest the State had in the right 
of way, or in the old bridge, then ju.st ready to fall into 
pieces. With the means thus secured a substantial stone 
bridge was at once erected, whose solid piers remain good 
at this writing, and look as if the town would never have 
occasion tt) bridge the stream again. There is also a draw 
for the pas.sagc of vessels as in the old structure. 

THE FISHERIES. 

Fishing in the waters bordering the town of Lyme has 
been a business of prime importance from its first settlcnient. 
Indeed, a year before any inhabitants permanently located, 



a law was pas.sed protecting all the people of this region 
against the seine-tishing of the Canadians ; no Canadian 
was allowed to obstruct the rivers or streams with seines 
at the east end of Lake Ontario, under a penalty of twenty-' 
five dollars. In 1808, fishing with sc(Joj)-nets was intro- 
duced. This method is not eittirdy abandoned at the present 
time. A post is set firmly in the ground, at the edge of 
the water, and a strong pole poised on its top like an old 
well-sweep; crossing each other at right angles, and fastened 
to the end of the pole over the water, are two strong bows ; to 
the four extremities of the bows is attached the scoop-net, 
about twelve feet square, and looking very much like a huge 
bag sieve. The fishing is done by letting the net down into 
the water, and suddenly raising it as the finny travelers 
attempt to pass over. Scores of fish have been caught in 
this way at a single haul. 

Seines were introduced about the same time, perhaps a 
little earlier than ISOS. These nets vary in size from 
a hundred and sixty feet in length to twenty in breadth, 
and from sixteen hundred in length to a hundred in breadth, 
being wider in the middle than at the ends. Along the 
edge of the net, which is designed to be kept at the surface 
of the water, are attached floats, and along the lower edge 
are fastened sinkers, which carry the seine down into the 
water; a rope several feet in length is found at each end. 
In fishing, the seine is taken into a -boat, with the rope at- 
tached to one end fastened on .shore. At once the boat is 
pu.shed oft". When a few rods out the fishermen begin to let 
off the net, taking a wide circuit in their course ; then they 
come ashore, fasten both ends of the rope to a windla.ss, and 
slowly draw in the net with leaping and struggling fish, unless 
it happens that none are caught, which is sometimes the case ; 
but when five thousand are brought ashore at one time, the 
scene is an exciting and hilarious one. A horse is frequently 
used in turning the windlass, and two or three hours arc 
required to haul the largest seines. This method of fishing 
is now given up. 

In 1845 the gill-nets were brought info use, and are 
still employed. They are uniform in width, are sunk to 
the bottom or very near it, and tlunr position is indicated 
by buoys at the surface of the water. The fish are caught 
in the meshes by the gills, which fact has given this net its 
peculiar name, and are invariably found dead ; for this reason 
they arc inferior as a market fish, being more liable to spoil. 
But the most successful fishing in Ciiaumont bay has been 
with the pound-net. This method of fishing was introduced 
in 1850. In the spring of that year Frederick Kirkland 
and Ralph Rogers set a jiound-net off the shore of Point 
Peninsula, and about the middle of October another was 
set by 0. II. Kirtland, Lucius P. Ingham, and I). W. Clark, 
who came on from Saybrook, Connecticut, for the purpose. 
The yields were enormous for the next two or three years, 
and it was sometimes impossible to care for the fish which 
were caught. 

The average size of the.pound-net is thirty feet .square, 
and it is usually set in about thirty feet of water. This is 
securely Aistencd to four stakes driven firmly into the 
bottom, with the upper ends two or three feet out of water. 
From this pound or receiver, towards the shore, is a large 
heart-shaped net, with the apex terminating in the pound. 




Jerry F. Smulcr. 



Mrs.JlKRY f.SHULlR. 




HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



449 



From the base of the heart is a leader, running back to the 
shore, and fastened to staices a liundred feet apart ; the 
average length of the leader is thirteen hundred feet, and 
the stalces, as in the other instance, are firmly driven into 
the bottom of the bay. The fisii meet tliis long line of 
netting, follow it down into the heart, and work towards 
the apex, because of its peculiar shape. At the apex is a 
large funnel, in other words, a hoop-net, with a largo i-irde 
for a passage out of the heart, and a small circle at the 
other end, which terminates in the pound or receiver. 
After the fi.sh have once passed through the funnel into 
the large s(|uare pound, — reaching from the surface of the 
veater to the bottom of the bay, — the chances of escape arc 
very small. From a net of this kind a liundred barrels of 
fi.sh have been taken at one time. Tliey are now very ex- 
tensively used. 

The fi.sh caught in the spring are chiefly pike, while the 
fall fish are lake lieiring (ei.scoes) and white fish. The 
seasons vary in production ; and, for this reason, and for 
others that at once suggest themselves to tlie reader, it is 
impossible to give an accurate statement of the quantily of 
fish taken from those waters. It has been safely estimated, 
however, that for thirty years, beginning with 181.5 or 
1816, ten thousand barrels of ciscoes and white fish were 
annually obtained. For ten years past the bu.sincss has 
been lighter ; aud at Chaumont Station, for this time, the 
shipment has been about five thousand barrels each twelve 
uionths^three thousand barrels of salt fish and two thou- 
sand barrels of fresh. It is a business of thirty thousand 
dollars a year. The old inspection laws were abolished in 
18^6, niueh to the gratification of the fishermen, with 
whom they were never popular ; in fact, they were never 
of much value. 

Near the village of Chaumont are extensive stone quarries, 
which have furnished the finest of building-stone. A quarry 
was also opened at Three-Mile Bay a short time ago ; there 
are six in all. The average business for the last ten years 
has been twenty-five thousand dollars annually. While 
there are months when very little is done in this line of 
labor, during the flush of business as many as two hundred 
men are employed. The stone lies in immense layers, 
evenly bedded, and is broken into long pillars by driving 
wedges into holes drilled about six inches apart, on a given 
line marked for the purpose. Powder is rarely used. A 
pillar was once broken off from a solid bed-stone, one hun- 
dred and twenty-seven feet long. These stones are dressed 
on the ground, and shipped upon vessels for their tlostina- 
tion. Oswego has received a vast quantity for her piers, 
canal locks, and railroad bridges ; loads have been taken 
to Charlotte. The light-house at the head of L.ake Ontario 
was constructed from Chaumont stone, and some of the 
hand.some pillare in the market building in the city of 
Kingston, Ontario, were once in those (|uarrics. 

SHIP-BUILDING. 

This has been an important branch of business at Chau- 
mont and Three-Mile Hay, especially at the latter place. 
From the Chaumont ship-yard have been launched the fol- 
lowing vessels: Slrpken Girurd, GO tons, built in 1S;52 by 
William Clark; Allegkan, 100 tons, built in 1835 by 
29 



Robert Masters; R. C- Smead, 75 tons, 18.S9, by S. and 
A. Davis; Copley and Main built, in 1847, Rip Van 
Winkle, 235 tons; in 1848, Ox/ord, 244 tons, and the 
Palmyra, 180 tons; in 1851, A. L. Bazleton, 230 tons; 
in September, 1873, ^f(t>■y Ccplfi/, 275 tons, owned by H. 
Copley, A. Wilcox, and J. Uilmore; in June, 1874, Water- 
town, owned by 11. Copley, Folger Brothers, and W. W. 
Enos, of 30i) tons burden ; in October, 1874, A. J. Dewey, 
owned by II. Copley, A. J. Dewey, and W. W. Enos, 270 
tons, Captain W. 0. Vincent; in June, 1874, was also 
launched the small steamer Edith Sewcll, built and owned 
by I'luche Brothers. 

Since 1835 the following vessels have been launched at 
Tliree-Mile Bay, the larger proportion having been built 
by Asa Wilcox ; the aggregate tonnage of the vessels con- 
structed by Mr. Wilcox, between 1835 and 1852, amounted 
to 6410 tons, the largest having a measurement of 395 
tons. In 1835, the Florida and Elon Brotisoii ; 1836, 
Pennsylvania and Kentucky ; 1837, Missouri; 1838, Pa- 
triot; 1841, visa Wilcox and Havana; 1842, D. D. Cal- 
vin and Rocky Mountains; 1843, Camhridge (brig). Em- 
pire, and Neptune; 1844, Cuba, Oregon, and (brig) 
Ontario; in 1845, Milan and (brig) Hampton; 1846, 
(propeller) Clifton, Champion (brig), Iroquois, and Rio 
Grande; 1847, Palmetto, Seminole, Portland, Acadia, 
and (brig) H. R. Seymour; 1848 (brigs) Saxton and 
Ocean; 1849, D. J. Scuyler ; 1852, Melrose; 1853 (three- 
master) Hungarian; Mr. Wilcox also built many club 
boats and fishing boats. A few of the list of the vessels 
built by him since 1853 have not been obtained; he con- 
structed forty-eight vessels — at Three-Mile Bay, and other 
places — during his life-time ; in 183G he built the Congress, 
on Pillar Point. In 1843 Scuyler and Powers launched 
the Col. Powers, at Three-Mile Bay, of 80 tons burden ; in 
the same year William Combs built the Bogart, having the 
same capacity. In 1845 E. Cline completed The Rush, of 
52 tons, and Peter Estes the Breeze, of 100 tons. In 1832 
S. Howard built the New York, of 80 tons, on Point 
Peninsula. In 1834 G. C. Rand built the William Ruck- 
ley, 112 tons; in 1836 the Bancroft, and in 1837 the G. 
C. Rand, each of the same tonnage, and at the same place. 

SCHOOLS. 

The first school was started by Nancy Smith, in 1805, 
four years after the settlement of the town. This cultiva- 
tion of ideas was carried forward on the south side of the 
bay. 3Iention is also made of a school which was held in 
the reconstructed block-house, erected on Point Salubrious, 
— the block-house or fort taken down by the inhabitants in 
1812, at the demand of British soldiers. The first com- 
missioners of schools were chosen in 1818, at the first town- 
meeting ; the names of the commissioners were James M. 
Cran, II. M. Esselstyn, and Benjamin T. Bliss. Seven 
years later, James M. Cran and R. T. Lee were authorized 
to determine the boundaries of the school districts. (It 
will be remembered that these statements apply to the ter- 
ritory of Cape Vincent, as well as that of Lyme, until 
1849.) Between the years 1824 and 1849, with two ex- 
ceptions, the town annually voted to collect by tax double 
the sum of money appropriated by the State for school privi- 



450 



HISTORY OF JEFFEESON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



leges ; in 1 830 and 1 831 the school tax only equaled the 
State appropriation. At a meeting of the present town of 
Lyme, held in February, 1857, a resolution was passed 
recommending the giving of $.tO,()00 by the legislature of 
New York to tlie St. Lawrence University. Select schools 
have been maintained from time to time, some of which 
have been taught by men from college. At Three-Mile 
Bay a very handsome building has ju.st been completed, at 
a cost of 83000. There are sixteen school districts in the 
town. 

TEMPERANCE INTERESTS. 

The first temperance organization was formed in a school- 
house on Tlnee-Mile Point, about 1833. Jo.shua Lawton 
was chosen president, and Zenas Ellis secretary ; William 
Mcpherson, Sylvester Lawton, and a Mr. Johnson were other 
persons wiio are remembered as especially interested in its 
success. More than two liuiidrod persons were induced to 
sign the pledge. Aft«r two or three yeare the organization 
held its meetings in Chaumont. The first jilcdge was very 
easy in its requirements, demanding an abstinence only from 
distilled liquors ; all malt liquors, wines and ciders, new or 
old, could be used at each member's desire. But tiiis ac- 
complisiied little or nothing for the good of temperance, 
and the pledge was finally put upon the true basis of a 
total refraining from all strong drinks. In 1844 the scs- 
.sion of the Presbyteriiui churcti unanimously passed a reso- 
lution, that all persons presenting themselves for membership 
should be required to sign a pledge of entire abstinence from 
all intoxicating liquors as a beverage ; the session also voted 
to submit this resolution to the church for its approval. 

In 1850 the Sons of Temperance had a lodge at Point 
Peninsula, called the " Polar Star," and numbered 545 ; at 
Tlirce-Mile Bay was the " Northern Star," number 90, 
organized December 20, 1850 ; there was another named 
" Chaumont"' at that village, with the number of 547. 
These gave place to the Good Templars, who organized a 
lodge on the 20th of December, 1866, and the nineteenth 
in the order of numbers. The Reform Club movement 
enlisted the community last spring ( 1877), with Chaumont 
and Tlirec-Mile J5ay as the centres of meeting ; the club at 
the bay is especially in a flourishing condition. These 
societies have had their ebbings, like all others of the 
country, but each movement has marked a decided gain for 
both body and soul. 

RELIGIOUS. 

The first Sunday-school was opened on Point Salubrious 
at an early date, but given up after a short experience. In 
1835 there was no regular Sabbath worship at Chaumont, 
and the Lord's day — to use the language of one who has 
written concerning the fact — was " signalized more by 
muscular Christianity, — a development of the muscles by 
athletic games, — than by the worship of God." This 
is more or less tnie of all new communities. There were 
three taverns at the village. In this state of things, Mr. 
Solon l^Ia.ssey moved to the place, and soon after started a 
Sabbath-school. Out of these Christian efforts grew the 
Presbyterian and Methodist churches ; at least, the first im- 
pulse was here. The Baptist organization was holding 
services chiefly in the western part of the town. And this 



leads us to speak of the Baptist churches, one of which 
has been orgauized over sixty years. 

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 

In 1816 the Rev. Joseph Maltby, of Rodman, preached 
two or three months on Point Salubrious, and baptized 
eighteen persons. On August 12, of that j'car, a council 
of sister churches convened and recognized twenty-five con- 
stituent members as a Baptist church. Elder Elisha Mor- 
gan delivered the sermon. Among the original members 
were Stephen Fislier, Henry Horton, Abigail Ilorton, Amos 
Richards, Benjamin Bliss, George Coon, Nancy Coon, James 
Horton, and Nathan M. Kendall. Nathan Kendall, Stephen 
Fisher, and Eliphalet Peck were the first deacons, and were 
ordained May 2, 1822. Elder Thomas Morgan was the 
finst pastor, but how long he served the people does not 
appear on the records. 

On July 24, 1824, a branch society was formed on Point 
Peninsula, and meetings were held at the two above-named 
places, and at Chaumont, Pillar Point, North Shore, and 
Three-Mile Bay. Aslina Lawton was settled as pastor in 
1832, and continued until November, 1837. In April, 
1 833, the name of the church was changed to the United 
church of Lyme. In 1834, eighteen members were dis- 
missed to the branch on I'oint Peninsula, and that became 
an independent organization. In the fall of this year (1834) 
six other members withdrew from the mother church, — 
Nathan M. Kendall, Nathaniel Wells, Martha Woodruff, Ada 
Shaw, Anna Pratt, and Ahitabel Shaw, — and on the 11th 
of the following February were recognized by a council as 
the Second Baptist church of Lyme. This was done in 
order to better accommodate the members at Three-Mile 
Baj- and the North Shore. The new organization started 
with twenty-six constituent members ; and on February 
10, 1838, the old church on Point Salubrious disbanded, 
and tiie new church took the name of the First Baptist 
church of Lyme, which it now bears. 

John S. Whitman succeeded Elder Lawton in May, 
1838 ; more than a htmdred were added during his miui.s- 
try of a little more than five years. The first house of 
worship was erected in the village of Three- Jlile Bay, in 
1840, at a cost of two thousand five hundred dollars, and 
dedicated December 24, 1840. In November, 1843, R. T. 
Smith, of Pulaski, was settled as pastor, and served the 
church until March, 1846; during his pastorate thirty- 
five were received by baptism. The parsonage was built 
in 1844, and was subsequently enlarged and improved. 
Elder Lorenzo Rice was called May 1, 184G, and continued 
as pastor for five years. In March, 1849, he was a.ssisted 
in a series of meetings by Rev. John F. Bishop, of Belle- 
ville, and one hundred and twenty-four additions were 
made to the church as a result of these revival labors. The 
membership was then two hundred and ninety-three, larger 
than it has been at any other time during its history. B. C. 
Crandall was the next pastor for two years, closing his labors 
June 1, 1853. In October, 1854, E. G. Blount served 
the congregation for six months, and was succeeded in 
May, 1855, by Daniel Dye; he remained fiiur years, and 
twenty-five were baptized. After Mr. Dye came G. N. 
Harmon, who preached until April, 18C4. J. S. Blandou 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



451 



was ordained pastor in October, 18G4, and closed his 
labors in February, 18G8. Then A. G. Dansford supplied 
the desk for five months, and was succeeded by ]). C. 
Haynes, from May, 1869, to the following September. 
J. M. Beeman was next settled as pastor, in April, 1870 ; 
he died suddenly, Sept. 24, 1875, lamented by the com- 
munity. The present pastor is Rev. E. F. Maine, who 
was called from Adams Centre, and settled March 1, 187(>. 
Up to the present date, — October, 1877, — twenty-three 
persons have united with the cliurch under Mr. Maine. 
During the summer of .1874 the house of worship was 
rebuilt and enlarged, at an expense of two thousand eight 
hundred dollars. Daniel J. Scuyler has been clerk of the 
church since 1859. Adrian Van Woert, Duuiel Herrick, 
Daniel J. Borden, and Zenas Elli.s arc the present deacons. 
The number of pei-sons received into the church since the 
original organization, in 1816, has been 747; the amount 
of money expended for religious purposes has been about 
g!30,000. 

FREE-WILL B.A.PTISTS. 

Not far from 1827, Elder Araasa Dodge formed a Free 
Comnmnion Baptist church at Three-Mile Bay ; this was 
succeeded by tlie Free-will organization on July 6, 1841, 
under the direction of Mr. Dodge and with the greater 
portion of the members of the free-communion body. At 
a meeting held in the house of William Northop, Dec. 18, 

1843, a society was formed, with Charles Leonard, R. H. 
Bartlett, Henry Leonard, William Northop, and Charles 
Caswell, as trustees. A church building wxs erected in 

1844. Succeeding Mr. Dodge, as pastors, were Elders 
Overocker, McKoon, Samuel Padding, Hart, Griffith, Ab- 
bey Staples, and Hitchcock. Regular services have not 
been maintained for .several of the later years, the pastor at 
Depauville making occasional visits and preaching. April 
13, 1867, the society elected the following trustees to serve 
one year, or until their succes.sors should be chosen : L. D. 
Aekerman, William Northop, A. J. Cooley, A. Hamilton, 
and James Reed. M. Hamilton is also clerk of the soci- 
ety, and these pereons still hold (1877) their office. 

THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 

During the summer of 1831, Rev. Dexter Clary, John 
Hall, a licentiate, and a Mr. Wicks, who had the ministry 
in view, visited Chaumont, and went from house to hou.sc, 
talking and praying with the people concerning the great 
f|ursti()n of personal religioti. Sincere in their efforts, the 
inhabitants received them with respect, a revival followed, 
and the Presbyterian church was at once organized. Two 
or three revival meetings each day were held for a little 
time, some in the school-hou.se and the larger ones in a 
barn that is still standing on the north side of the bay. 
It was on September 22, 1831, that George S. Boardmaii 
and John Sessions met a number of the iiihabitanf.s in the 
school-house of the village, and organized the First Presby- 
terian church of Chaumont; these ministers were a com- 
mittee sent out by the Presbytery of Watertown for the 
purpo.se, if they should find the way clear. The member- 
ship consisted of eighteen persons, fourteen of whom were 
women ; eleven of the eighteen persons bore the name of 
McPherson, but wore from three diffisrent families. The 



names of the original members were as follows : William 
McPherson, Mrs. Batliiah Williams, Hugh McPherson, 
James Horton, Adolia McPherson, Ellis Hill, Betsey Mc- 
Pherson, Fanny Hills, Jane McPherson, Sally McPherson, 
Lucy Hubbard, Lucinda McPherson, Nancy A. Mills, 
Mary McPherson, Bet.sey Trumbul, Hannah McPherson, 
Sarah McPherson, and May McPhei-son. 

At this meeting of organization, Wm. McPherson was 
chosen a ruling elder. In November, 1835, Rev. George 
S. Boardman presided at a church meeting where Solon 
Massey was elected the second ruling elder, and when six 
persons made profession of their faith in Christ. This 
church struggled on for several years, with occasional 
preaching and tlie reading of sermons by Mr. Msussey, to- 
gether with remarks and prayer by the brethren. The first 
death was that of Fanny Hill.", in 1831. Seven years aft«r 
the formation of the church, on Sept. 25, 1838, a meeting 
wiis held of the male members and perhaps of some others, 
at the dwelling-house of Solon Ma.s.-;ey, when a resolution, 
j)li'dging themselves, as individuals and as a church, to raise 
$100 for the support of such Presbyterian minister as can 
be obtained, for one-half the time, for one year to come, 
was unanimously adopted. 

This was signed by Solon Massey, Hugh McPherson, 
David Burnett, Philip Beasora, and William McPherson. 
In the following year the scrvic&s of Samuel Leonard were 
secured one-half of the time, and William Chittenden 
preached a part of 1841. In 1842 J. A. Canfield, then a 
licentiate, lived at Dexter, and divided his services between 
the two congregations. In 1843 he moved to Chaumont, 
and made the wider division of his strength and labors be- 
tween Chaumont, Three-Mile Bay, La Fargeville, and the 
neighboring school-houses ; and afterwards at Depauville. 
Under these circumstances, it is not surprising that .some of 
the people called him the " Presbyterian bishop of all north 
of Black river." 

Meetings were held in the stone school-house until the 
erection of a church building, which was begun in 1843 ; 
it was dedicated Sept. 17, 1845. At this dedicatiory ser- 
vice Mr. Canfield was ordained and installed over the flock. 
The first trustees of the society, which was formed March 
20, 1844, were Philip Bea.som, Ozias Bander, and Jeremiah 
Bonnet. It is probable that a house of worship would not 
have been built, at the time above named, but for the per- 
severance of Robert McPherson. After the people had 
done themselves credit on the sub.scription book, only half 
enough money was pledged to meet the estimated expense. 
He decided, however, to go forward ; framed the building 
himself; had the lumber sawed in his own saw-mill ; and 
finally mortgaged his farm in order to obtiiin funds for the 
purchase of such material as paint, glass, and nails. When 
the church was done, the people willingly divided the debt 
with him, giving him their notes, to be paid in one year 
without interest. 

Mr. Canfield preached in Chaumont twenty-one years, 
and was succeeded by William Campbell, who came in 
18G4; W. M. Hoyt in 1867; and E. G. Bickford in 
1870. A large revival blessed the church under the Rev. 
Mr. Bickford; and in 1872, a fine parsonage was built. 
He left his charge in 1874, in order to become a foreign 



452 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



missionary, and is now stationed at Marnsli, Turkey, as a 
theological professor. The present pastor is Rev. P. Bar- 
bour, who entered upon his work in the spring of 1874. 
The present prosperity and number of the nicnibersbip has 
not been exceeded in the past. The elders of the church are 
William McPherson, Abram Van Doren, Morris J. Gary, 
John Diii^nian, and Charles M. Knapp; the trustees of the 
society are Peter Van Doren, Iliram Copley, and Daniel 
Fish. 

METHODIST CHORCHES. 

There are three churches of this denomination in the 
town of Lyme, the first beinj; organized in 1834, on Point 
Peninsula. Hiram Shepherd and Freeman H. Stanton, 
then on the Cajie Vincent charge, were appointed by the 
conference for this purpose; these ministers formed the 
class in the aforesaid year, with James Cooley as class- 
leader. This station was supplied for several years with 
preaching from the Cape Vincent pastors, but was subse- 
quently made an independent charge. The society has 
never owned a house of worship, but good accommodations 
for religious services have been provided. The following 
are the names of the preachers who have cultivated this 
field ; only the year when they entered upon their labors 
is given: Lyman Ackerman, 1835; Hiram Shepherd, 
1837; 0. Squires, 1838; Sylvester Bishop, 1839; La 
Corbin, 1841; Leonard Deckiiis, 1842; Silas Slater, 1844; 
George Plank, 1845; Thomas B. Brown and John R. 
Lewis, 1846; Thomas Brown, 1847; John B. Cocaigne, 
1848; L. D. Ferguson, 1850; Josiah Zimmerman, 1852; 
Browning Nichols, 1854; Cyrus Phillips, 1856; Father 
Pennock, 1857 ; Peter G. Kenney, 1858; A. Fradenburgh, 
1860; Ross 0. Houghton, 1861; George W. Calkins, 
1862; Chauncy Simmons, 1863; W. S. Lewis, 1804; 
Chauncy Simmons, 1865; 3Ir. Abbey, 1866; Chamberlain 
Phelps, 1867; W. W. Totheroh, 18GU; Peter Bullis, 
1870; Eugene Waugb, 1871; C. N. Higby, 1872; D. 
W. Aylesworth, 1873; U. S. Hubbell, 1S74; D. W. 
Aylesworth, 1875. The present pastor is Peter La Clair, 
who entered upon his labors in 1876. The present officers 
of the church are Nelson L, Enders, leader ; A. B. Dingman, 
Timothy Fox, James IL Wiggins, Abram Roof, Anson 
Hewitt, James W. Enders, D. C. Holbrouk, and Aaron 
Brougham, stewards; N. L. Enders is recording steward. 

The territory now embraced in " The Thrce-Mile 
Bay charge" was formerly included in the Cape Vincent 
circuit. The first cla.ss was formed at the bay in 1839, 
composed of the following-named per.sons : David iMcCom- 
ber, Eliza McComber, Benjamin Manning, Abigail Man- 
ning, and Prudence Caswell, all of whom are now dead, 
except Mrs. Mc-Comber. Reverends William Tripp and 

Corbin were on the circuit when the class was formed. 

In 1846 the Three-Mile Bay circuit was formed, embracing 
Point Peninsula, North Shore, Fo-\ Creek, Burnt Rock, 
Chaumont, and Three-Mile Bay. Reverends J. R. Lewis 
and Thomas Brown were the preachers in charge. They 
were followed by Rev. Wm. Tripp, who remained one year 
Under his pastorate the parsonage commenced by the so- 
ciety was finished. Succeeding him was Rev. Mr. Cocaigne, 
who remainc'd two years. During bis pastorate an arrange- 
ment was made with the Free-will Baptist society, by 



which the use of their church was obtained one-half the 
time for the Methodists. Mr. Cocaigne was followed by 
Rev. L. D. Ferguson, who also remained two years, when 
Rev. J. Zimmerman succeeded him, and likewise remained 
two years. During his time of service the society changed 
the place of meetings from the Baptist church to Union 
Hall, which had formerly been the ball-room of a hotel. 
Rev. B. Nichols came next, and had charge of the society 
for two years. Under his administration the society erected 
the church which it now occupies. Following Mr. Nichols 

were Rev. Cyrus Phillips, two years; Rev. Castle, 

two years; Rev. E. Wheeler, one year; Rev. S. Griffin, 
who died before his term ex]iired ; and Rev. Chauncy Sim- 
monds, a local preacher, who filled Mr. Griffin's unex- 
pired term. Succeeding him were Rev. G. D. Greenleaf, 
two years; Rev. Ross C. Houghton, two years; Rev. 
Chamberlain Phelps, two years ; and Rev. Isaac Turncy, 
who resigned his charge before his term had expired, and 
was succeeded by Rev. Chauncy Simmonds, who remained 
three years. During his term he commenced raising funds 
to build a church at Chaumont, which was erected by his 
successor. Rev. D. W. Aylesworth, who also remained three 
yeare, and was followed by Rev. L. B. Noulton, the present 
pastor. The charge has been reduced from time to time 
by the formation of new charges from its membei-ship at 
Point Peninsula and St. Lawrence (formerly Crane's Cor- 
ners). The present charge embraces Three-Mile Bay and 
Chaumont, and occupies a very respectable position among 
the various charges of the conference. Tlie present trustees 
are Geo. McPherson, Le Roy Reed, Peter Bellinger, B. F. 
Lucas, Johnson Simmonds, and C. D. Hayes. The present 
class-leaders are C. H^ Hamilton and Stephen Curtis. 

On December 13, 1839, a Slethodist class was formed at 
Chaumont wilh nineteen members. For many years meet- 
ings were held in the school-liou.se, and the station was con- 
nected with the Depauville charge; afterwards, until 1874, 
services were conducted in the town hall by the preacher 
from the bay. On August 26, 1872, the church and congre- 
gation met in their accustomed place of worship and de- 
cided to enter upon the work of building a church. A society 
was formed at this meeting, with the following trustees: G. 
W. Pennock, Stephen Jaquay, Joshua Main, Jacob R.Horton, 
and Chester O'Connor. Stephen Jaquay was chosen sec- 
retary, and has held the office to the present date; the 
present stewards (1877) arc 11. E. Horton, G. W. Pennock, 
Chester O'Connor, and Charles Atwood ; the class-leaders, 
Stephen Jaquay and Samuel Watrcjus. During the sum- 
mer of 1874 the church building was erected, and on the 
9th of September, with very interesting services, dedicated 
to the worship of Almighty God. It is valued at six thou- 
sand dollar.-;, and, as already stated, the congregation is sup- 
plied each Sabbath with one preaching service by the resi- 
dent pastor at Three-Slile Bay. The pre.'sent trustees are as 
follows: G. W. Pennock, Riley Horton, R, W, Iliggins, 
S, Jaquay, and Addison Van de Walker. 

UNIVERSALIST. 
The first Universalist society was organized on the 8th 
of Sepleiidjer, 1850. David Bownuui, Elijah Graves, and 
Andrew Inniau were made trustees. Preaching has been 



HISTORY OF JEFFP]RSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



453 



irrejiular. There is no church building, and at the present 
date there are no services of any kind. 

CEMETERIES. 

Tile first burial-ground near Three-Mile Bay was on a 
point of land east of the village and near the water. The 
present grounds are west of the village. There is also a 
burying-ground on Point Peninsula. At Chauniont the 
old burial-place is on the north side of the bay and several 
rods buck from the turnpike. On June 14, 1S73, at a 
meeting in the office of Hiram Copley, the Cedar Grove 
Cemetery Association was formed, with the following trus- 
tees : Ira Inman, A. J. Dowey, De Witt Copley, George 
Swind, O. C. Taft, Abram Van Doron, William Dillcnbeck, 
J. C. Pluche, and Dr. E. B. Pratt. The grounds contain 
about two acres, and are ple;isantly situated a little .south of 
the village, overlooking the water of the bay. The first 
president was De Witt Copley. Dr. H. W. Jowett is the 
president at this date, and William Dillenbeck is sec- 
retary and sexton. 

POINT SALUBRIOUS MINER.\L SPRINGS. 

About two years ago (in 1S75) Mr. Alvah W. Warner 
discovered mineral water while drilling a well to obtiiin 
water for u.se in his family. Reaching a depth of .seventy- 
four feet he obtained an abundant supply, but found it 
useless for cooking purposes. There was likewise a strong 
mineral smell and taste to the water. Its color also in- 
dicated its character. Many persons drank of it, and be- 
lieved they were benefited by its medicinal properties. 
After about two years, the well seeming to be ino.xhau.stible, 
Mr. Warner had Theodore Decke, special pathologist of 
the New York State Lunatic Asylum, at Utica, make a 
thorough chemical analysis of the water, in March, 1877, 
and the following result was reached (Mr. Deeke having 
visited tlie well in person) : 

"The mineral water is of excellent quality, as the chemical an- 
alysis shows, and belongs to the s.aline sulphur water. From the 
large amount of chloride of sodium, chloride of magnesium, sulphate 
of soda, and sulphuretted hydrogen, and the small amount of sulphate 
of lime, its action upon the system, when taken in proper quantity, 
will be cathartic. The internal use of the water will be of v.alue iu 
the treatment of gout and chronic rheumatism, an<l in cases of en- 
gorgement of the liver. . . . Used both internally and externally, it 
will prove a trustworthy remedy in diseases of the skin. Tempera- 
ture, 44° Fahrenheit." 

The location of the springs is two miles from the village 
of Chaumont, on the shore of the bay, and in the neigh- 
borhood of good fi.shing. It may yet become an extensive 
summer resort. Mr. Warner has already made arrange- 
ments to put up a large house, ready for visitors and 
boarders next summer. 

VILLAGES. 

Wik'nxviUe is situated on Point Peninsula (the latter 
name being the post-office address), and contains mechanic- 
shops, a store, a hotel, and about fifteen dwelling-houses. 
The peninsula itself contains nearly 7000 acres of excellent 
farming soil, and is cimnected with the mainland by a neck 
120 rods long. A portion of this isthmus is very narrow, 
and high water has boon known to wash over it. Wilcox 
villc is thirteen miles from Tliiee-Mile Bay by land, and 
about six miles bv water. 



Three-Mile Bay is three miles from Chaumont and seven 
from Cape Vincent. There are now 2 groceries, 4 stores, a 
steam-mill, a hotel, 3 churches, 3 physici ans, — Chas. Parker, 
C. B. Walrad, and Dr. Loucks, — warehouses, wharves, and 
about 75 dwellings. It is a mile south of the railroad depot. 
The " Dominion Telegra])h Company" opened an office at the 
village, Feb. 3, 1873, with John Combs as operator; the 
" Montreal Telegraph Company" opened their office at the 
railroad depot, about July 1, 1873, C. M. Van Woert, 
operator. 

Cliaumonf contains 100 dwellings, 5 stores, shops, one 
hotel, excellent steam-mills, a warehouse and wharf, and 
the usual places of mechanical business found in villages of 
this size. On May 16, 1874, Chaumont was incorporated 
by a vote of 53 to 8, and covers a little less than 450 acres. 
The charter election was held in the following month, and 
resulted in electing J. E. Phelps, president ; A. J. Dewey, 
W. W. Enos, and Daniel Fish, trustees ; William Dillcn- 
beck, treasurer; William Shall, collector; 0. S. Wilcox, 
clerk; John W. Horton, commissioner ; S. M. Byam and 
Thomas Dulmage, police constables; W. H. Main, police 
justice, and V. Gctman, pound lUiistcr. In 1875, a tax of 
$350 was raised for the improvement of the village streets. 
The present officers are A. J. Dewey, president; W. 
Crumb, E. Dennison, and R. E. Horton, trustees ; 0. S. 
Wilcox, clerk ; D.iniel Fish, treasurer, and Childs JlcPher- 
son, collector. The presidents of the village up to date have 
been J. E. Phelps, 1874; R. E. Horton, 1875; Hiram 
Copley, 187G, and A. J. Dewey, 1877. The "Montreal 
Telegraph Company" opened an office here in December, 
1868, — Daniel Fish, operator. The " Dominion" line 
opened an office April 14, 1870, — Charles McPherson, 
operator. 

MASONIC 

Lodge, No. 172, F. & A. M., w:is instituted Jan. 30, 1850, 
with eleven charter members. The present officers are W. 
H. Main, W. M. ; James Herrick, S. W. ; G. W. Lucas, J. 
M'.; G. W. Pennock, treasurer; F. C. Dewey, secretary ; 
Levi Perry, S. D. ; John Combs, J. D. ; James Yoran, 
Tyler ; Barney Graves and B. F. Lucas, Stewards ; Rev. C. 
Simmons, Chaplain ; S. M. Byam, Marshal ; 0. V. Hewett, 
0. C. Taft, and A. J. Dewey, Trustees. The Masters of the 
lodge from the date of organization have been as follows, 
the first year of election only being given : Frederick Bell, 
1850; P. P. Gaige, 1851 ; Frederick Bell, 1852; G. W. 
Pennock, 1855 ; P. P. Gaige, 1856 ; Frederick Bell. 1S57 ; 
James Yoran, 1858; Joshua Main, 1860; G. W. Pen- 
nock, 1863; Joshua Main, 1864; S. M. Byam, 1865; J. 
E. Phelps, 1866 ; George W. Pennock, 1867 ; J. E. Phelps, 
1868; Joshua Main, 1869; James Yoran, 1870; J. L. 
Rogers, 1871; W. 0. Thompson, 1872; W. H. Main, 
1874; S. M. Byam, 1875, and W. H. Main, 1876. The 
lodge now numbers about one hundred members, and their 
room is fitted up over the town hall. 

POPULATION. 

In 1820 the town of Lyme had a population of 1724 
persons ; in 1830, 2882 ; in 1845, 6018 ; in 1850, the next 
year after the erection of Cape Vincent, the population was 
2925, and in 1875 it was 2244. E. H. P. 



O K L E A ^ S. 



Improvements coimuenced in this town about 1806 by 
persons who came on, without acquiring title, and took up 
hinds; there being no resident agent, and a partial and im- 
jwrfect history of the title having gained currency, the be- 
lief became general that there was no legal owner of the 
tract, which, for several years after the War, led great num- 
bers, chiefly of the poorer classes, to select land and make 
locations. In this they were governed by nothing but 
their own choice, selecting some spring or stream of water 
for the vicinity of their dwellings, and appropriating such 
lands to their own use as they might choose to claim. 
These squatters, who had adopted a kind of regulation 
among themselves in relation to lands, were accustomed to 
make " possession lines" by lopping down bushes, and bought 
and sold " claims," giving quit-claim deeds for the same. 
Few permanent improvements were made, the settlers mostly 
living in log huts, and engaged in getting out oak staves 
and square timber, making potash, or in cultivating the soil 
in a most slovenly and careless manner. As a natural con- 
sequence, tliis unprincipled course invited thither crowds of 
adventurers from various quarters, — many from the Mohawk 
country ; rough, hardy, and enterprising, with nothing to 
lose and everything to gain, accustomed to rough fare and 
rude accommodations, yet in many respects just the class to 
reduce a wilderness. Schools were established, and religious 
societies organized, a few years after settlement. 

In 1807, John Wilkes, one of the proprietors, visited 
the tract, and is believed to have been the first of the 
owners who traversed it. Being unaccustomed to the 
fatigue of traveling in the forest, he returned home dis- 
gusted with it, and for several years there was no legalized 
agent in the county. In 1817 (October 17) the following 
settlers took contracts on lots numbers 6G, 75, 86, 87, and 
95, near Stone Mills, in which vicinity A. M. Prevost held 
lands, and had appointed Elisha Camp, of Sacket's Harbor, 
as his agent: A.sa Hall, Richard Taylor, Frederick Avery, 
Benjamin and John Taylor, Wm. Collins, Samuel Linnel, 
Solomon Stowell, Lester White, lloderick C. Fraser, Wm. 
Collins, Jr., Leonard and Blake Baldwin, Isaac Mitchell, 
John B. Collins, John Smith, Ebenczer Eddy, Shepherd 
Lee, Thomas Lee, Thomas Lee, Jr., Ebcnezer Scovil, Wm. 
Guile, Wm. Larrabe, Warren Hall, Henry Arnold, Am- 
brose Adams, and John Page. The contracts ran for 
seven years, and the lands were rated at $5 per acre. 

In 1821, certain of the eettlere, not being sure of the 
validity of Penet's title, petitioned the legislature to author- 
ize the attorney-general to examine the title. We subjoin 
the attorney-general's report : 

"Tlio nttoriicv-gcntrul, to whom was rcffrrcd Ihc petition of n 
number uf tlic iuliabilants ol' tlint part ol thv town of Uruwnville, in 

454 



the county of Jefferson, called Penet'a Squnre, reppectfully repre- 
Bcnts: 

" That the petitioners state that the tract of land called Penet'a 
Square is situate in great lot No. IV,, of Macomb's Purchase, and 
contains 64,000 acres. That the title to these lands is * to the puVdic 
generally, and to the petitioners in particular, altogether uncertain;' 
and that there are on the said tract about 320 families, or those ' who 
have been induced to take contracts of the pretended agents of pre- 
tended proprietors :' nnd that great improvements have been made 
on the same tract of land, and that the inhabitants of the same tract 
are very solicitous to ascertain the real title to the same. The peti- 
tioners therefore pray, first, that some resolution or law may be 
passed that shall force those who hiy claim to said tract of land, to 
put the evidence of their title on the records of the county of Jeffer- 
son ; and, second, that the surveyor-general, or the commissioners of 
the land uffice, may be directed to report * such information as they 
may possess relative to the title of the said lands.' As to the first 
request of the petitioners, it is presumed that it is not expected of (he 
attorney-general that he should give any opinion as to the propriety 
or expediency of granting it; but, as to the second, the attorney- 
general has no mesins of ascertaining the true title to the land in 
question, any further than what may be derived from an examination 
of all records in the office of the secretary of state. The attorney- 
general finds in such examination that the said tract called Penet's 
Square is not, as the petitioners express, a part of Macomb's Pur- 
chase, but a separate tract, granted by the State to Peter Pcnet by 
letters patent, dated the 19th of November, 17S9, and the wh<»le of 
said tract, except 21,000, appears to have been conveyed by the said 
Pcnet to one John Duncan, formerly of Schenectady. How the title 
to the above lands have been subsequently conveyed, or whether the 
same remains with the said Duncan or his heirs, the attorney -general 
has no means of ascertaining. 

"All of which is respectfully submitted. 

"TnoMAS C. Oaki.ey, Attorney-General." 

A considerable portion of Penet's S(|uare had become 
the property of John La Farge, who had been cngnged in 
the firm of Russell & La Farge, as a merchant in Havre, 
and in the course of his business had purchased a portion 
of these lands. He subsequently resided several years in 
New Orleans, and about 1824 came on to assert his title 
to this tract, but the settlers had, from the previous confu- 
sion of claims, at first but little confidence in his title. In 
1824 a meeting was held at Stone Mills, at which a com- 
mittee was appointed to investigate the tjuestion, in order to 
decide what reliance might be placed in his claims, which 
resulted in little good. In 182(), two or three persons 
claiming title under llyppolite Pcnet, brother of Peter Penet, 
the original patentee, appeared at La Fargeville, called a 
meeting of citizens, and stated their claims, but with no 
further cfl^eet than to impair the confidence of some in 
the pretensions of others. After considerable more litiga- 
tion, the lands again reverted to La Farge, who finally re- 
moved to New York, appointing Dr. John Binsse, of Water- 
town, his agent, and has since been engaged in heavy 
financial operations. After the dethronement of Louis 
Pluiippe he was made the agent of that unfortunate prince 




.^..OENCE &■ Dairy 




MARCUS W. N £lL/o, ij/TLt,»i/\j, jifftnoun ou.,A. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



455 



for investiDg funds in American stocks. The surface of 
the town is level or slightly rolling; soil, clay and loam. 
Outcroppiiigs of stone are found in some parts of the town ; 
in spots the barren rock is exposed to view, although in 
most places covered with soil, which is generally fertile 
and productive. 

THE EARLY SETTLEMENT, 

as stated above, was commenced in Orleans as early as 
180G, but no records exist whereby wo can determine who 
made permanent and legal locations prior to 1817. In that 
year Jonas Everett and his son Brainard, the present super- 
visor, came in and settled on the farm now occupied jointly 
by hLs son Brainard and his son-in-law, Judson Marshall. 
The same year Isaac Niles arrived and took up his residence 
on the farm now occupied by George Wilder and Michael 
J. Hughes, and known as the old La Fargo place. James 
Gloj'd also came in about this time, and after remaining 
some years removed to the town of Lyme. Also Ebenezcr 
Eddy, who came from Connecticut, and settled on the farm 
now owned by Thomas Lee ; and Leonard Baldwin, who 
settled on the place upon which he still resides. 

In 1819 Peter Rhinos came in, and was elected the first 
town clerk. lie also held several other town oflSces. He 
was the grandfather of Foster Rhines, of Watertown. The 
same year, Stephen Scovil came in and settled on the farm 
he now occupies, located two miles southeast of La Farge- 
ville. His brothers, Ebenezer and Hamilton Scovil, also 
came at the same time. In 1820, Joseph L. Buskirk, ac- 
companied by his wife and four sons, came in and settled 
on the farm now owned by Andrew Baltz and occupied by 
Singer H. Marsh. A. Buskirk, one of his sons, is now a 
resident of the town of Clayton. He has now lived in 
Jefferson County fiftj'-seven years. John W. BIcNett, 
Esq , agent for La Farge, arrived this year, accompanied by 
his brother, James C, who was the first elder of the 
Presbyterian church at La Fargeville. They located at 
Risford's Corners, which was, at that time, tlic village. 

A prominent pioneer, and one of the oldest in point of 
settlement, is Josiah L. Nash, who came in 1820 with his 
father, Henry S. Nash, and settled on the farm he now 
occupies, within sight of La Fargeville. 

R. T. Jerome came in from Rutland, this county, where his 
father settled in the year 1800. He located, in 1823, on the 
farm now owned by John A. Snell. He now resides in La 
Fargeville.* Among other early settlers were M. S. Tan- 
ner, Henry Heyl, John Tallman, William Whaley, Peter 
P. Folts, Lyman Brittin and his sons, George S. and Otis 
N. Brittin, Thomas and Abner H. Evans, Merchant Carter, 
father of Taylor, Hiram, Byron, and John Carter, Nathan 
Halloway, David Gregg, Josejih li/uxides, Ado/phiis Pickard, 

John Monk, Moses Li/maii, Rix/ord, Nicholas Smith, 

Barrett, Caleb Willis, M. Contreman, William Collins. 



The names in italics are those of persons who served in 
the War of 1776. We have been unable to glean infor- 
mation of any of them except William Collins, who was 
born in Stonington, Conn., in the year 1758. He en- 
tered the American service in 1774, being then 16 years 

* See also list of laud purchasers — Ante. 



of age. In 1806 he removed to Brownville, this county, 
and from thence in 1837 to Orleans, where he remained 
till his decease, which occurred in September, 1850, at the 
good old age of 92 years. Many of his relations are resi- 
dents of this town ; among them Mrs. A. Baxter, of La 
Fargeville, and several grandchildren in the vicinity of 
Stone Mills. 

CIVIL ORGANIZATION. 

This town was erected from Brownville, April 3, 1821,'|- 
embracing Penet's Square and all north of this and west of 
a continuation of the line between lots Nos. G and 7 of 
Penet's Square to the St. Lawrence. The first town-meet^ 
ing was directed to be held at the house of Harvey Bout- 
well. Much difliculty and strife had existed for several 
years, with regard to the location of the town-meetings in 
Brownville, that led to the erection of Orleans, which name 
was suggested by the celebrity which New Orleans had ac- 
quired at the close of the war. By an act of February 6, 
1840, all that part of Clayton north of Orleans and cast of 
the north and south division line between Clayton and Or- 
leans, extending from the northwest corner of Orleans to 
the St. Lawrence, was attached to the latter town, together 
with a part of Wellesley island and all the smaller islands 
which would be embraced by a line running from the ter- 
mination of the aforesaid division line between Clayton and 
Orleans; thence through- Eel bay, around the head of 
Well's island,^ to the Canada line. All that part of Alex- 
andria west of a line running N. 42° W. from the corner 
of Orleans was also annexed to the latter town. This last 
was restored to Alexandria, April 12, 1842. 

The early records of the town having been destroyed, we 
are unable to give the first town-officers. The subjoined 
list contains the names of the supervisors, with exception 
of four years, — from 1828 to 1832, — which were unobtain- 
able: 1822-23, Amos Reed; 1824-26, Wm. H. Angel; 
1827, Woodbridge C. George; 1828, Jesse S. AVoodward ; 
1833, Chesterfield Persons (at a special meeting) ; 1834, 
William Martin ; 1835, Peter Dillenback ; 1836, Chester- 
field Persons; 1837, Daniel C. Rouse; 1838-39, John B. 
Collins; 1840, C. Persons ; 1841, Peter P. Fults; 1842, 
James Green; 1843, Edmund M. Eldridge ; 1844, Abram 
J. Smith ; 1845, Loren Bushnell ; 1846, A. J. Smith ; 
1847, D. C. Rouse; 1848-49, John N. Rottiers ; 1850- 
55, Hiram Dewey ; 1856-58, Luther Samson ; 1859-60, 
John Tallman; 1861, Hiram Dewey; 1862-63, Jerome 
Bushnell; 1864, Pliny Newton; 1865, Russell B. Biddle- 
com ; 1866, Jerome Bushnell (Sept. 24, R. B. Biddlecom, 
remainder of term by appointment) ; 1867-69, R. B. Bid- 
dl.xiom ; 1870, Pliny Newton; 1871, Maylaud F. Ford; 
1872, Pliny Newton; 1873, Timothy D. Flansburgh ; 
1874-76, Pliny Newton ; 1877, Brainard Everett. 

The present town-ofiicers are : Brainard Everett, super- 
visor ; Rufus S. Linginfelter, clerk ; E. Beckwith, William 
Rodgers, Jason Zimmerman, and Abram Smith, justices 
of the peace; John W. Caris, assessor; Michael J. Hughe, 
commissioner of highways; George Tucker, Eli:is Coon, 



t Alexandria and Philadelphia were formed by the same act. 
J Known also as Wclleslej island. 



456 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Lucian Jerome, auditors; William Dean, Daniel Smith, 
Merrick Rouse, inspectors of election, Dist. No. 1 ; John 
Rents, William C. Beckwith, Singer Nash, inspectors, 
Dist. No. 2 ; I\Iichael Fults, Samuel Sawj'or, Reuben Zim- 
merman, inspectors, Dist. No. 3 ; Bradley J. Green, John 
Keech, Edgar A. Dewey, inspectors, Dist. No. 4 ; George 
P. >Iarsh, Nelson Bauter, John Bents, Edwin A. Gorner, 
and William Garlock, constables; Anson J. Kring, game 
constable ; and Leonard Dean, commissioner of excise. 

THE BURNING OF THE " SIR ROBERT PEEL." 

On the night between the 29th and 30th of May, 1838, 
the British steamship Sir Robert Peel was plundered and 
burned at the upper end of Wellesley island, while taking in 
wood, by a party of twenty-two self-styled " patriots," led 
by one Bill Johnston. After driving the passengers ashore 
and plundering the boat, the brigands cast her oif from the 
shore and set her on fire. Large rewards were oifered for 
the apprehension of any of those engaged in the nefarious 
undertaking, and although several of the parties were ar- 
rested, none of them were at the time convicted. A con- 
siderable amount of international inquiry was instituted, 
and one man was subsequently executed at Kingston for the 
incendiarism. 

ROCK ISLAND LIGHT, 

opposite the mouth of Mullet creek, was erected as one of 
the three beacons authorized in the St. Lawrence by the 
act of March 3, 1853. Bill Johnston was appointed keeper 
of this light, which shines near the spot where the Sir 
Robert Feel was burned. 

LA FARGEVILLE. 

The point first selected as the site of a village in Orleans 
was llixford's Corners, which is situated two miles south 
of the present village. It was named after Sabin Rixford, 
who settled there in 1817. A store was erected at the 
" Corners" in 1818 by one Morton, and a distillery and an 
ashery were establi.shad there prior to 1820. In 1825 the 
store was burned, and the town records were likewise 
destroyed. The early town-meetings were held at this 
store, and the general business of the inhabitants of the 
town was transacted there. But now the .smiling grain 
grows and ripens where once the embryo village stood, and 
the activity that at one time cliaracteriised the spot is 
known there no more. 

The first settlemjnt at Li Fargevillc was made without 
title by Dr. Reuben Andrus, of Vermont, who in 1819 
erected a log will on Catfish creek, within the present limits 
of the village. From this the place acquired the name of 
" Log Mills," which it long retained. On the occasion of a 
Fourth of July celebration in 1823, a resolution was passed 
giving the place its present name of La Fargeville, in honor 
of John La Farge, the proprietor of the site. 

THE FIRST LOG HOUSE 

in the village was erected by Dr. Andrus, in 1819, and was 
quite a primitive affair. The first frame house was built by 
Horace Cook, in 1823. The first store was kept by Wood- 
bridge C. George, in 1820, and business gradually centered 
at this point. The same year that the store was opened 



Alvah Goodwin erected a plain log tavern, which did good 
service for a number of years. 

THE FIRST GRIST-MILL 

that can rightly be considered as such was erected for 
La Farge, by William Lirrabe, about 1825. It is still 
standing, and is a venerable landmirk of " ye olden time." 
It has two run of stone (as at first), and is now owned by 
R. T. Jerome, Jr. 

The next important feature in the development of the 
place was the 

FIRST SCHOOL-HOUSE, 

which was erected in 1821. Among those now remem- 
bered who attended this primitive " temple of learning ' 
were Emory N;ish, three of Peter Cook's children, three of 
Dr. Andrus', and some of the Townsends. In 1837 the 

FIRST CHURCH EDIFICE 

was erected, by Colonel Wright, of Depauville, for the Bap- 
tist society, which still stands, a monument to the dura- 
bility and antiquated architecture of the past. 

The village has improved gradually. In 1850 it contained, 
according to the census of Mr. Rottiers, fifty dwellings, 
sixty-one families, and 312 inhabitants. It now contains 
two general stores, kept respectively by Russell B. Biddle- 
com and D. J. Diwey ; two drug- and grocery-stores, by 
Lucius and Byron Stow and G. Marshall ; a tavern, billiard- 
saloon, tailor-shop, three blacksmithies, one wagon-shop, one 
grist- and one saw-mill. It has four churches, namely, 
Baptist, Methodist Episcopal, Protestant Methodist, and 
Catholic, and an Episcopalian society, which contemplates 
the erection of a house of worship the ensuing year (1878). 
There are two resident physicians, two lawyers, and three 
ministers. 

La Fargeville is on the Utica and Black River railroad, 
18 miles from Watertown, and 17 from Clayton. It has a 
depot, express- and telegraph-ofiices, is a post-village, and 
has a population fairly estimated at 375. 

Attempts, attended with but indifferent success, have 
been made at La Fargeville to estjiblish educational institu- 
tions other than the common schools, notably the 

ORLEANS ACADEMY. 

The project of establishing an academy first began to be 
discu.ssed in August, 1850, on the 12th of which month a 
meeting was convened at the Baptist church in La Farge- 
ville, sever.al plans were proposed, and a room was tcmjio- 
rarily fitted up for a school, Mr. Burton B. Townsend being 
the first teacher. In the .summer of 1851 a wooden build- 
ing, 50 by 70 feet, and two stories high, was commenced 
and partly fini.shed, when, on July IG, 1851, it was blown 
dciwn in a gale, but rebuilt the same season. It stands on 
a lot of one acre, and is now used by the Methodists as a 
house of worship. It cost about S2500 in subscriptions of 
810 each. 

An application to the regents was made Jan. 27, 1852, 
and on Feb. 5 a charter was granted, alhiwing the school to 
share in the literature fund upon freeing itself from debt 
and acquiring an estate of not less than §25(10. The trus- 
tees first named were Lewis T. Ford, Loren Buslincll, John 



Wf '>?^ ^! 




^^'j^^^'ffght i:ltj^ tt *<w* ■^ n >^rA^^i 





Gf^Al// BAf^N OP 










nflA'NH BY M- e W«(TMAN 



PRESENT RZSIDZNCE. 



Property of WILLIAM WHi 




Y,ORUANS,JEFf[RS0N Co.. N Y 




* "1 /^ 




MRS.&IDLQN BUDLONG. 



&;OC0N BUDLONC. 




FARM-RZSIDINCE or GIDEON BUDLON&.ORiUNsjiFnusoH CoJ.Y 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



457 



N. Rottiers, Elisha Sawyer, John Tallman, Hirani Dewey, 
Brainaid Everett, John Foot, Ilirain iMitchcll, I'^ldridgc G. 
Merrick, Luther Sauison, Edgar W. Beedle, Daricl Rich- 
ardson, David J. Dewey, Ilirani P. Dillonback, John Hill, 
Henry Erwin, Russell B. Biddlecom, Nathan Elmer, Ash- 
ley Tanner, James Green, Rufus Smith, Parley Brown, and 
David Joy. The trustees never reported, we believe, or 
became entitled to a share of the literature fund. The 
academy, after a long struggle to free itself from debt, and 
owing to the meagre support extended to it, passed into 
private hands by sale on execution ; and, finally, it was pur- 
chased by the Mctluidist Ej)iseopal society, and converted 
into a house of worship, and is now owned and used by 
them as such. No school was held iu the building subse- 
quent to 1855. 

THE LA FARGE MANSION. 

In 1838 the mansion and farm of Mr. La Farge, one 1 
mile south of La Fargevillo, was purchased by Bishop Du- ' 
bois, and a Catholic seminary, named " St. Vincent de Paul," \ 
wan opened under Rev. Francis Guth and several assistants. 
It Wiis designed to combine in this a theological seminary 
for the education of priests, and a classical boarding-school, 
— the more advanced candidates for holy orders serving as 
teachers during part of the time. Most of the boarders 
came from New York, and very few only being from the 
vicinity ; but, after a trial of two and a half years, it was 
found that its location was too remote, and Bishop Hughes, 
who succeeded Dubois, removed it to the vicinity of Nc^w 
York, where St. John's College (Fordham) was founded 
soon after. The greatest number of scholars at La Farge- 
ville was fifteen, and that of persons more or less employed 
in teaching nearh' as many. The old mansion is now occu- 
pied by Michael J. Hughes, a nephew of the bishop, a.s a 
farm-house. 

LA FAROEVILLE LODGE, NO. 171, F. & A. M., 

was chartered June 21, 1850, -with the following officers: 
John C. Young, W. M. ; James Green, S. W. ; Allen 
Dean, J. W. It was at first known as " Stone Mills Lodge," 
and was located at that village until February, 1867, when 
it was moved to La Fargeville, and the name changed by 
the Grand Lodge, as above. The present ofiicers of the 
lodge are: B. J. Strough, W. M. ; R. Soucks, S. W. ; 
W. C. Hill, J. W. The present membership is G7. The 
hall in which the lodge meets is owned by B. J. and L. S. 
Strough. 

OMAR 

is pleasantly situated on Mullet creek, one and a half miles 
from its mouth. It was formerly named from the stream, 
afterwards " kludge's Mills," and since the establishment of 
a post-office in 1842, by its present name, Oniar, being 
taken, it is said, from the personage of Dr. Johnson's alle- 
gorical tale in the English Reader. The first settlement in 
the vicinity was by William Tanner, about 1818, and in 
1820 William and Treat Mudge erected the first grist- and 
saw-mill, a j)riniitivo affair, but sufficient for the require- 
ments of the time. For several years the place contained 
nothing else, and in 1837 embraced but six buildings. The 
first store was opened under thecupartnershipofTrucsdell .V 



Stackhouse, in 1841. They also erected an ashery the same 
year. The present grist-mill was erected by Samuel Newton. 
It is now owned and operated by Dewey & Rood. On the 
present site of the saw-mill erected by the Mudges in 1820 
stands a saw-mill built by Samuel Stackhouse and Samuel 
Newton. This is operated by Dewey & Rood. In 1841, 
Messrs. Samuel N. Stackhouse and Samuel P. Newton erected 
the lower saw-mill, and later Samuel Stackhouse built the 
one on the east side of the creek. 

Among the oldest inhabitants now residing in and near 
the village are Ralph Gurnee, Esq., Timothy R. Stackhouse, 
Samuel P. Newton, John W. Collins, Otis N. Brittin, and 
others. 

THE POST-OFFICE 

was established May 17, 1840, and T. R. Stackhouse ap- 
pointed the first postmaster. The present incumbent is 
James C. Lee, who, besides being the only merchant in the 
place, officiates also as the telegraph-operator. 

The first district school was taught by Miss Kate Stack- 
house. There are now six common schools taught within 
a radius of three miles of the village. The first and only 
church building was erected by Truesdell & Stackhouse, 
Samuel Newton, and Samuel Stackhouse, in 1841. 

Omar now contains one extensive general store, a tavern, 
one grist-mill, three saw-mills, two shingle-machines, two 
blacksmithies, two wagon-shops, one cabinet-shop, a tele- 
graph-office, post-office, a public school, and a Methodist 
Episcopal church. It has a population of 100. 

STONE MILLS 

is a small village, which was formerly called Collins' Mills, 
from the Collins family, that settled there at an early day. 
They are descendants of William Collins, who was a soldier 
in the war of 1776, of whom we shall write more fully in 
the military history of the county. Stone Mills is included 
iu Penet's Square, and settlements were made by squatters 
in its vicinity as early as 1806. The first of these was 
Roderick C. Frasier. In 1807 Peter Pratt made the sec- 
ond location, and soon after, Benajah and Merchant Carter, 
Samuel and David Ellis, Robert Bruncr, and others, some 
of wliom, during the war of 1812, removed to denser set- 
tlements. 

In 1813 a young man was taken up in the neighborhood 
on the suspicion that he was a spy, and on his attempting 
to escape was shot and mortally wounded, when he confessed 
that he was a deserter from Sacket's Harbor. About 1820 
a small stone grist-mill was built by J. B. (Collins and Peter 
Pratt, which suggested the present name of the place. A 
plat of one acre was here surveyed by De Rham to the town, 
for the site of public buildings, upon which, in 1838, a fine 
stone school house was erected (which still remains), and the 
year previous a Union church building, also of stone. 

Stone Mills now contains one general stoi'c, blacksmith- 
and wagon-shops, a saw-mill and a grist-mill, two churches 
(Lutheran and Protestant Methodist"), a public school and 
a select school, taught very successfully by JMiss Nellie F. 
Everest, a post-office, and about 75 inhabitants. 

ORLEANS FOUR CORNERS 

is a small hamlet nn the Utica and Black River railroad. 



458 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



containing a post-ofiSce, and a conglomerate of a few dwell- 
ings. 

RELIGIOUS. 

Quite a lively interest was manifested in religious matters 
at an early day, in Orleans. Several church organizations 
were formed which do not now exist, notably the " First 
Presbyterian Church," which was organized at La Fargeville 
in February, 1823, by the Rev. \Vm. Bliss. Worship was 
first had in the old school-house at what was then Risford's 
Corners. April 29, 1839, a society was formed, with John- 
son Mason, Abram I. Smith, Thomas E. Drake, Amasa 
Johnson, and Robert T. Jerome, as trustees. In 1840 a 
church edifice was erected, at a cost of about S3000. De- 
cember 30, 1848, the society adopted the accommodation 
plan, and became a united Congregational and Presbyterian 
body. In 18.54-55 a Union society was formed by Elders 
Gregg, Perrine, and Taft, and most of the members of the 
old Presbyterian church, with many of other denominations, 
joined that movement. This society ceased to exist about 
18G1, and the church building remained unoccupied until 
it passed into the possession of the Protestant Blethodists, 
by whom it is now occupied. 

THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF LA FAROEVILLE 

was formed at the house of Thomas Evans, Sept. 9, 1821, 
by Elder Sardis, assisted by Elders Timothy Brewster and 
Emory Osgood, who were casually present. The original 
members were Thomas Evans, Warren Wilson, Benjamin 
Ward, Thomas Barrett, Reuben Ilungerford, Benjamin 
Farmer, Phineas Osborn, Nathan Elmer, Daniel C. Hamley, 
Lucy Wilson, Ruth Ilungerford, Mercy Evans, Sophia 
Elmer, Patty Burtwell, Lucy Elmer, Deborah Burtwull, 
Betsy Childs, and Susannah Rhodes. The first deacons 

were B. B. Sheldon, Noyes, and Thomas Evans. 

The first regular jiastor was Elder Geary. 

The following, copied from the records, laj's down the 
rules and regulations of the church : 

*' New rulca wo do not mean to make, 
Tlio Bilile rules we mean to tnkc, 
Anil 80 hy these our * Scriptural' creed 
In Bible truths wo arc agreed." 

The pastors following Elder Geary have been Elder 
Stett.sou, a young man, the first minister ordained by the 
church, who preached acceptably, and had good success in 
a revival. lie afterwards returned to college, and, during 
a fit of temporary insanity, committed suicide. Elder 
Knapp, who subseiiuently developed into a great revivalist, 
was the next pastor over this church. Then Elders Brown, 
Ford, Warner, Clark, Reed, Sawyer, Dye, Ward, Weed, 
Wilder, Byrne, Bates, Blount, and the jiresent incumbent, 
D. S. Mulhern. 

The " First Bapti.st Society" was formed June 11, 183G, 
with Francis Eppes, Abijah Fisher, Charles Seston, Jo.scph 
Marshall, and Orlando W. Cushman, trustees. A church 
edifice was erected at La Fargeville, in 1837, during the 
pastorate of Elder Ford. The dedicatory sermon was 
preached by Elder Lamed, of Ilaniiltijn. It is of wood, 
and cost 83200. Its present value is §5000. That of the 
parsonage, $1000. The present membersiiip is 51 j dea- 



cons, Volney Barden and Malvin Tanner ; trustees, Levi 
Soucks, Robert Smith, and Lewis Vincent. The Sabbath- 
school has a membership of 80 scholars and 12 teachers. 
The superintendent is D. J. Dewey. Both church and 
Sabbath-school are in a prosperous condition. 

THE FRANKEAN EVANGELICAL LUTHERANS. 

In the year 1838, the .synod of the Frankean Evangeli- 
cal Lutheran church sent the Rev. Henry L. Dox as their 
missionary, to select any portion of Jefierson County as 
his field of labor as he might think most likely to yield 
the peaceful fruits of righteousness in return for his labors. 
Acting under this commission, he located at Perch River 
and Stone Mills. He was but a youth, and ruddy, 
but God wrought most astonishing changes through his 
ministry. Churches were soon organized at Perch River 
and Stone Mills. On May 15, 1840, a church was formed 
at Orleans Four Corners, and at about the .same time one at 
Stone Mills and Perch River. The two last named were 
blended into one, by mutual agreement. May 23, 1840, 
and 60 members were enrolled as constituting the church 
at Stone Mills. On Nov. 13, 1852, a church was organized 
at Perch River, consisting of 32 members, leaving 66 re- 
maining at Stone Mills. Mr. Dox also preached with 
great success at Shantyville (now Orleans Four Corners), 
and organized a church, as above stated, of 33 members. 

The list of pastors over these churches comprises the 
following names : Revs. Henry L. Dox, Geo. W. Hemperly, 
Geo. W. Porter, Geo. W. Hemperly (from 1844 to 1851, 
second time), Fayette Shepard, M. W. Empie, M. Graves, 
William H. Shellard, 0. D. S. Marcley, Nellis Klock. A 
church edifice of stone was erected at Stone Mills, on the 
union plan, and one at Perch River about the same time. 
And a church was also built at Orleans Four Corners, by 
the Lutherans exclusively, at a cost of 81 250. The present 
church officers of the Orleans Four Corners' church are 
Reuben Zimmerman, Grandison C. Zimmerman, and Geo. 
W. Vancoughant, deacons ; Benjamin D. Edmonds, Geo. 
House, and Alexander Ford, trustees. The present mem- 
bership is 87 ; teachers and scholars in the Sunday-school, 
30 ; superintendent, Reuben Zimmerman. The deacons of 
the Stone Mills church are Leonard Dean and Henry Lin- 
genfelter. Membership, 20 ; Sunday-school scholars, 25 ; 
superintendent, Sylvester Green. 

THE M. E. CHURCH OF LA FAROEVILLE. 

All that can be learned of the history of the Methodist 
Episcopal church of La Fargeville is contained in the sub- 
joined, which we obtain from the pastor. Rev. Daniel 
Marvin, Jr. : 

" The M. E. church remodeled its house of worship in 1872-7.% 
through the patient and laborious work of Kev. W. P. Hall, its pas- 
tor. Tlic societies at Omar and ' the Block' united with that at 
La Fargeville and formed a circuit. Since 1852 the pastors have 
been Uevs. G. W. Elwood, J. P. Jennings, H. M. Church, J. De 
Larnic, William Empey, W. Merrifield, W. Y. Smedley, F. Dewitt, 
E. E. Hall, 0. Witters, W. P. Hall, Josiah Fletcher, and Daniel Mar- 
vin, Jr., present incumbent. The church edifice, as remodeled, was 
rededicatcd in 1S73, Uev. D. D. Oore, D.D., of .Syracuse, preaching 
the sermon on the occasion." 

The present uiembenship of the circuit is 92 ; proba- 
tioners, 12; scholars in Suuday-schooi, La Fargeville, 60 ; 



:*!*->«£S?'i<'- 





f^f^SSANFOfO PET 1^1 E. 




i^ES.ANO UaIHY lARM OF SANFORD 







SANFOffD PETI^IE. 




OffUANS. jEFrCRSON CouNTY^ iV. Y . 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



459 



teachers, 6 ; pastor, superintendent ; scholars in balance of 
fircuit, 20 ; teachers, 4 ; value of church property in cir- 
cuit, 83800 ; condition of societies reported flourishing. 

THE FIRST METHODIST PROTESTANT CHURCH 

of Orleans was organized at La Fargeville in May, 1869. 
The names of the constituent members were Daniel Eddy, 
Mary Eddy, Gotleib Bents, II. Singer Nash, Helena Nash, 
Valvert Fox, Roby Fox, John Hunter, Malvina Fox, Nettie 
Fox, Daniel Miller, Jacob Getman, Jacob Snell, Jason Eddy, 
Maggie Eddy, Sophia E. Graham, Eleanor Graham, Ade- 
laide Nash, Kate Nash, Ebenezcr Gardner, Ella Sloat, and 
Frank Shaw. 

The society occupied the Union church, and their first 
pastor was Rev. Philip Swift ; tlien Lansing Snell, who was 
followed by George D. Ellis, T. B. Dodd, and then the 
present incumbent, Rev. Charles Kidrig. In 1872 the 
society purchased the Union church building, which is a 
good, substantial frame structure, 48 by 34 feet, with a 
bull, and worth about S2500. It will comfortably scat 
about 250 persons. A neat parsonage has been since 
erected, which was first occupied in 1875. It is valued at 
$1500, including the lot. The present membership of the 
church is about 40, and Mr. Daniel Eddy, one of its promi- 
nent members (to whom we are indebted for the above 
facts), reports the society in a generally flourishing condi- 
tion. 

"THE THOUSAND ISLANDS PARK." 

This name has been given to a tract of land at the upper 
end of Wellesley (or Wells) i.sland, in the St. Lawrence 
river, between the villages of Clayton and Alexandria Bay, 
and embracing about a thousand acres. Several hundred 
acres are regularly laid out in the form of a village, which 
has a post office and several public buildings and residences, 
though but few of them are occupied except in the sum- 
mer, when also hundreds of tents or temporary residences 
are erected for a summer watering-place. It is divided into 
several hundred lots, which are permanently leased, or sold to 
owners, subject to certain regulations specified in the leases, 
which are designed to secure co-operation and good order, 
so as to aflPord to the residents and visitors the advantages 
of spending the warm season in this salubrious and delight- 
ful climate. It is the custom also to hold in this place dur- 
ing every summer a series of meetings of a religious, scien- 
tific, and literary character, so as to blend instruction and 
recreation with the business that would naturally grow out 
of the assembling of a large population. Several institu- 
tions of a similar character exist in various parts of the 
country, the oldest of which is on Martha's Vineyard, un 
island on the coast of Massachusetts. 

The Thousand Islands Park is under the charge of an 
incorporated body, called '• The Thousand Islands Camp- 
meeting Association," who have made it a study to com- 
bine all the possible advantages of such an enterprise, and 
to avoid such mistakes as experience had exposed in some 
previous efforts of the kind. In 1874, Rev. J. F. Dayan, 
of Watertown, devoted much time and attention to the 
advancing of this enterprise, and in response to his urgent 
rcijuest a company of gentlemen formed themselves into an 



organization, and obtained incorporation as above men- 
tioned. The first board of trustees, elected in January, 
1875, consisted of the following persons: Rev. E. O. 
Haven, LL.D., of Syracuse, president; Hon. Willard Ives, 
of Watertown, vice-president ; Rev. J. P. Dayan, of Water- 
town, secreUiry ; J. F. Moflett, of Watertown, treasurer; 
E. Remington, of Ilion, Rev. D. D. Love, D.D., of Syra- 
cuse, Rev. E. C. Curtis, of Syracuse, Rev. M. D. Kinney, 
of Watertown, Hon. A. D. Shaw, of Toronto, Canada, and 
Hon. James Johnson, of Clayton. The board in 1877 con- 
sisted of the same persons, except that Rev. Fred. Wid- 
mer was elected in place of James Johnson, and that Rev. 
D. D. Love had decea-sed. 

After exploring the Thousand Islands region the spot 
which was unanimously preferred to all others was the mag- 
nificent plateau now called " The Thousand Islands Park." 
Elevated, well covered with trees, dry, and receiving directly 
from a wide sweep over the waters the prevailing west winds, 
it is cool and comfortable in the wannest weather, and from 
the greater part of the whole thousand acres a clear view 
of the river may be seen. In the rear of the park the land 
rises to an eminence of 150 feet above the water, in a beau- 
tiful hill which has received the appropriate name of Sun- 
rise Mountain. It is proposed to surmount this with a 
tower, from which altogether the best panoramic view of 
the Thousand Isles will be visible. The avenues and streets 
are broad ; none of the lots are less than 40 by 80 feet in 
dimensions. Deep water comes to the shore, so that the 
largest steamers can land at its wharf. One of the finest 
docks, with a convenient store-house, has been built, with a 
long line of boat-hou.ses, surmounted with a promenade 
roof, all making a picturesque appearance, and happily 
blending the beautiful with the useful. A large dining- 
hall, which is really a hotel, a smaller hall of the kind, a 
trustees' office, a general store, book -store, with various other 
buildings belonging to the association, give an air of solidity 
to the place, while scattered promiscuously over the broad 
territory are various cottages — some small and primitive, 
others large and ornamented — which, with the tabernacle, 
where the public meetings are held, presents in the summer 
season a picture not likely to be soon forgotten by any who 
see it. Many thousands of people visit the place every 
summer, and hundreds of families are there all the time 
from July to September. 

Much wisdom is recjuired to manage such an institution 
so as to secure the best results. It is of prime importance 
that the laws of health should be obeyed. This subject 
has received careful attention here. The grounds are natu- 
rally well drained. The water, whether from the St. Law- 
rence or from wells, is pure. Every precaution is taken to 
secure cleanliness and salubrity. The air is invigorating, 
and experience has demonstrated that it is one of the most 
healthful watering-places in the world. 

There are also many advantages in such a place over a 
residence in a city or a compact town, on the one hand, and 
over the complete solitude of being alone on a small island 
or in the forest, on the other hand. The post-office, the 
telegraph, police regulations, the pleasures of society, can 
be commanded ; while the dwellers in the cottages or tents 
have all the freedom from restraint, and the healthful in- 



460 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



fluences, that could be commanded in the forest. Steam- 
boats are landing and leaving at the wharf at all hours of 
the day. Indeed, the great majority of all the people who 
go up or down the far-fiimed St. Lawrence river in the 
summer call at lca.st once at the Thousand Islands Park. 

As a specimen of the meetings held in a single season, 
we may refer to those of the summer of 1877. From 
July 17 to the close of the month, a regular camp-meeting 
was held, under the direction of Chancellor Haven, presi- 
dent of the association. Several eminent preachers from 
various parts of Canada and the Uuited States took part in 
this meeting. This was followed by a series of meetings on 
temperance from August 1 to 7, over which Prof George 
E. Foster, of the University of New Brunswick, Nova 
Scotia, presided. The most celebrated promoters of tem- 
perance were there. From August 10 to 17, a series of 
meetings in the interest of science and art were held, ad- 
dressed by professors from some of the American and 
Canadian universities. A regular " Thousand Island Park 
Scientific and jEsthetic Associatiou" was organized, and 
similar meetings may be expected every summer. This was 
followed by a Sunday-school Parliament of ten days, under 
the supervision of Rev. W. F. Crofts, addressed by many 
of the best-known workers of the Sunday-school cause. 
Indeed, the proceedings of the Sundaj'-school Parliament 
held here in 1876, having been published in a volume en- 
titled " The Bible and the Sunday-school," by Rev. W. F. 
Crofts, the volume has passed through several editions, and 
been widely circulated in Canada and the United States. 

The influence of this park in bringing together leading 
men of influence from the United States and Canada is 
worthy of notice. It is probably doing more to promote 
the mutual acquaintance of the two peoples than any other 
one institution. The St. Lawrence is, indeed, not " a nar- 
now firth," nor do the "lands" on the opposite side "abhor 
each other;" still, it is noticeable that the streams of travel, 
and largely of social intermingling, follow the course of the 
sun, and there is proportionately but little movement north- 
ward and southward. The intercourse of the Canadians 
and New Yorkers and other Americans on opposite sides 
of this broad river aii<l these wonderful lakes, is exceedingly 
limited. The natural tendency is toward foolish prejudices, 
which intercourse would dissipate. Business intercourse 
is not enough. What is needed is the nlingling in social 
life. 

At this park several thousand people meet every summer. 
They are about equally divided among Canadians and 
Americans. The religious and iitc'rary meetings, scientific 
discussions, and .social intercourse tend to create friendship 
and harmony, and are on that especial account highly es- 
teemed by many. 

There are some dangers connected with such a place of 
temporary residence that need to be guarded against. The 
celebrity of the speakers engaged, and curiosity to see the 
place, would attract large crowds there on Sundays, which 
would tend to defeat the quiet and good order desired. 
Therefore, the associations shut their gates and forbid the 
landing of boats at their wharf on Sundays. 

This is jire-eniincntly an AnuiicaTi iiistiliition. Nothing 
like it is known in any other country. It remains to be 



seen into what it may be developed. Already there are 
some hundreds of cottages on the grounds, occupied oidy in 
the summer. During the bleak winters only one or two 
families remain to watch over the property. It may yet 
develop into a permanent village, with a thousand or more 
elegant cottages for summer residents. The literary and 
scientific and religious exercises may yet become systematized 
so as to afford the highest educational advantages. Certain 
it is that there is no more .salubrious region in the world in 
summer, and that " The Thousand Islands Park" is one of 
the greatest attractions in this region. 

We tender our acknowledgments for assistance to the 
following gcntlemon : Hon. Ru.ssell B. Biddlecom, Joshua 
L. Nash, R. T. Jerome, the Waltons, Timothy R. Stack- 
house, A. J. Snell, Daniel Pjddy, William Whaley, the 
Robinsons, William Rogers, Es(|., Rufus S. Lingenfelter, 
D. J. Dewey, and others. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



ADAM J. SNELL. 

The subject of this biography is the son of Joshua and 
Nancy Snell, of Manheim, Herkimer Co., N. Y. He 
was born Feb. 22, 1828, in the town and county above 
named. His lather is still living in Herkimer county, and 
is engaged in farming. He remained at home on the old 
farm until he was twenty-seven years of age, at which time 
he concluded to locate in Jefferson County, which he did 
by purchasing the farm upon which he now resides, con- 
sisting of 127 acres, and situated in the town of Orleans. 
He has added to the (U'igirial purchase until he now has 
227 acres, with good outbuildings, a view of which can be 
seen by reference to another page of this work. 

On Sept. 13, 1854, he united in marriage with Juliette 
Snell, of the same town, in Herkimer county, from whence 
he came. The result of this marriage was one da\ighter, 
Carrie, wife of Frederick Rcsh, now residing in the town 
of Orleans. Mrs. Snell died April 10, 1801. On March 
18, 1862, he was married to his present wife, Catharine 
M., daughter of Henry Heyl, who emigrated to this country 
from Germany in the year 1832, and settled in Orleans. 
They have one daughter, Emma E., aged thirteen years, 
who is quite an interesting child. 

Mr. Snell is in the ])riine of lite, one of the most active 
and intelligent practical farmers of his town, and among 
the best in the county. He is surrounded with all the 
comforts of life, and is apparently enjoying the fruits of his 
industry and tluilY. In politics he is a Democrat, having 
always acted with that party. Both he and his estimable 
wife are members of ch ;rch, and both take an active 
interest in the welfare of the community in which they 
reside. 



I 

Q 




5 

2 
C 

Cn 
Pi 





^RS.ADAM J.SNELL. 




,£NCE AND Dairy Farm of ADAM 



aswr 




'W 




^- - ' f'!:?>' M 



AOAM J. 5NE1.L 







HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



461 




HON. R. B. B1DI>LEC0M. 



MRS. MARTHA A. BIUDI.ECOM. 



HON. RUSSELL B. 131DDLEC0M, 



son of Cliailcs ami Rlioda Biddlccoui, was born in Deer- 
field, Oneida Co., N. Y., IMarch LS, 1822. At the age of 
tliirtceu he emigrated to Orleans, Jefferson County, where 
he lias since resided, except during the years 1S5'J-G1. 
He received a common scliool education, and for thirteen 
years taught school, commencing at the age of seventeen, 
during which time he acquired a knowledge of the higher 
branches (except the languages), without a master ; and 
sub.sc(|Uently taught in the high schools and academies. 
He has been one of the most successful educators of the 
county. In 1S42, as a recognition of his ((ualifications as 
an educator, he was chosen town superintendent of common 
schools of Orleans, which position he filled faithfully and 
well for eight years. 

September IS, 1845, he married ^lartlia Ann Richard- 
son. From 1851 to 1858 inclusive, he held the ofiice of 
justice of the peace, and few ca.ses tliat came before him 
were appealed, and those that were invariably resulted in 
an affirmation of his judgment. 

During the years 185'J-t)l, he held the office of clerk 
of Jefferson County, and in that position gave eminent 
and general satisfaction to the people. He resided in 
W'atortown during his teim of office, so the better to at- 
tend to the duties thereof In 1848 he became one of the 
founders of the Orleans Academy, and laboicd for ils suc- 
cess until its propertv finallv passed into private hands in 
1855. 

He was colonel during the organization and raising of the 
regiment or battalion of about 2300 men, during ttie months 
of August and September. 1SG2; and captain in the Tenth 
New York Artillery from the date of its organization, Sep- 
tember 2, 18G2, till the 31st day of July, 1863, when he 
was discharged on account of disability. 

In 1805, Mr. Biddlecom represented the Third Assembly 
District of Jefferson County in the State Legislature, and 
the Second Assembly District in the same body in 1866, 
acting as Chairman of the Committee on Claims the latter 



year. Was elected supervisor of the town of Orleans in 
1866, and re-elected to the same office the three succeeding 
years, during the last of which he .served as chairman of 
the Board. 

In 1871 Mr. Biddlecom became interested as one of 
the stockholders of the Clayton and Theresa railroad, 
and was prominently engaged in its construction for 
three years. He has held the office of secretary, treasurer, 
and general superintendent of the Clayton and Theresa 
Railroad Company since its organization, in 1871. He was 
iiisliumenlal in l)onding the town of Orleans as a means for 
building the road, meeting with great opposition, especially 
in the courts. The question of the validity of the bonds is 
now pending in the Supreme Court of the United States. 
In politics Mr. Biddlecom was a Whig until 1854, when 
he became a Bipublican, and assisted in organizing the 
Republican party in Jefferson County, and has since strenu- 
ously labored for that ]iarty and its best interests. In 1 868, 
186'J, and 1876 he acted as chairman of the Republican 
county committee, with general satisfaction. He was a firm 
supporter of the administration during the War of the Re- 
bellion, and assisted with his means. labor, and influence, to 
fill any quota called for by the President. 

Mr. Biddlecom is now engaged in the mercantile busi- 
ness at La Fargeville. He is a gentleman of sterling in- 
tegrity, and while he has many who differ with him 
politically, and who entertain a bitter animosity against 
iiim on account of his connection with the construction of 
the Clayton and Theresa railroad, yet we never heard a 
breath against his character for honesty. He thought, 
and, doubtless, correctly, too, that the construction of that 
road would be a public benefit, and believing this, worked 
for the success of the enterprise; and though there be 
some who view the matter from a different standpoint, — 
actuated, as he was, by a desire to promote the best in- 
terests of the town, — his conduct was, in the estimation 
of the writer, commendable. 



462 



HISTORY OP JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



WILLIAM WHALEY. 

Prominent among the self-made men of Orleans is the 
subject of this sketch, who is the son of John and Sophia 
Whaley, of Herkimer Co., N. Y., where he was born on 
the 21st of May, 1819. His father being a man of limited 
means, he was bound out when he was five years old to one 
Hiram Skiff, with whom it was purposed he should remain 
until he attained his majority. On account of the ill usage 
he received at the bands of the man Skiff, his mother objected 
to the completion of his servitude. When eleven years of 
age he went to live with John Tallman, who immediately 
removed to Jefferson County, and settled in the town of 
Orleans. His educational advantages were quite limited. 
At the age of eighteen he left Mr. Tallman, with no early 
capital but his health, industry, and a desire to succeed. He 
at once engaged to work for Caleb Willis, and remained in 
his employ for seven years, and for other parties for the same 
length of time. He purcha.sed his first land in 1845, being 
one hundred acres, nearly all in its natural state. This is 
now known as the old homestead farm, of which an illustra- 
tion is given elsewhere in this work, in connection with his 
present residence, the old farm being now occupied by a 
tenant. Mr. Whaley has added to his first purchase until 
he now owns 774 acres, being the largest landholder in the 
town. 

On the 23d of March, 1852, he united in marriage with 
Lovina Folts, of Orleans. She was the daughter of Peter 
P. and Betsey Folts, and was born in Herkimer Co., N. Y., 
April 2, 1821. Her father moved to Jefierson County in 
1834, and settled in the town of Orleans. At the age of 
twenty-nine she married Mr. Whaley, and has had two 
children, Arminda A., now living at home, and Armina 
A., wife of Jerome Snell, now residing in the town of 
Theresa. 

Mr. Whaley is now in his fifty-ninth year, as vigorous 
and active as ever, possessing a robust constitution, which, 
coupled with a clear conscience, is one of the best gifts of 
Providence. He is a man very generally respected by his 
fellows. A good neighbor, firm friend, and capital business 
man, he is well known throughout the county, and enjoys 
the confidence of the community as a man whose word is 
as good as his bond. By industry, prudence, and economy, 
he has accumulated a considerable fortune, owning as he 
does much valuable personal property, besides his extensive 
real estate. Jlr. Whaley is in every respect a model 
citizen. 



SIMON FOLTS. 
This gentleman, one of the most extensive and best prac- 
tical farmers of Jefierson County, was born in Herkimer 
Co., N. Y., in the year 1814. He emigrated to Jeflferson 
County in 1834, and settled in Orleans; worked for his 
father for almost ten years, until he attained his majority. 
In 1844 he married Jane, daughter of John C. Zimmerman, 
of the town of Pamelia, formerly from Herkimer county. 
Commenced business for him.self in 1845, receiving 60 
acres of land from his father, Peter P. Folts. The first 
purchase he made himself was 58 acres, from La Farge. 
By subsequent purchases he has accumulated about 600 
acres, all in one body. He is a man very generally respected 
by his fellow-townsmen, as an honest and upright business 
man, an accommodating neighbor, and a good citizen. (See 
illustration, etc.) 

NATHAN HOLLOWAY 

was born in the town of Hounsfield, Jefferson Co., N. Y., 
Dec. 20, 1817. His father, Samuel Holloway, was one of 
the pioneers of this county. He remained under the pa- 
ternal roof until he was twenty-one years of age. On Nov. 
24, 1839, he married Cynthia Lee, who died March 21, 
1847. This union was blessed with two children, of whom 
one, a daughter, Melissa S., survives. Jan. 13, 1848, he 
married Hannah Gifford, by whom he had a son, Harmon 
M., who is married and resides on a fiirm adjoining the 
old homestead, which his father deeded him. The daughter 
above mentioned is also married, and resides on a farm on 
one side of the home-place, which her father gave her. 
Mr. Holloway lost his second wife Sept. 30, 1875, and, on 
the 6th of the same month, in 1876, married Mrs. Cynthia 
(Spauldiiig) Steenburgh. 

He commenced life by working out by the month, and 
by industry and judicious management succeeded in getting 
a fine farm for himself and each of his children, and now 
enjoys all the comforts of an independent farmer. He has 
always evinced an interest in public affairs, and was instru- 
mental in building the Clayton and Philadelphia railroad, 
of which he is a director, and also a member of the finance 
committee of that corporation. He has held several town 
offices, and is one of the most enterprising citizens of 
Jefferson County, and one of the substantial men of the 
town of Orleans. An illustration of his farm, and portraits 
of himself and his two last wives, can be seen in the de- 
partment of illustrations of Orleans elsewhere in this work. 






MRS.A.fi i^UTtUrs 



A A HUGHES 




Fesidcnczs. Dairy Farm ¥ A.k.HuGHts. ORLEANS,jmEnsoN co.ny 




/^£S. «.DA//?V Ffl^r^M or GEC 









^ 



CK€FfT 



Miss Lydia Goodrich. 



M^ii 




P A M E L I A, 



The first attempt at settlement in the territory now 
constituting this town was made in 1799, the same year 
that Jacob Brown and his party located in Brownville. In 
that year two men, iiamod Boshart and Kitts, established 
themselves with their families about three miles northeast 
from Watertown, near where Le Bay street now runs, 
erected log houses, and began clearings. Their families, 
however, were dissatisfied, and on the approach of winter 
they all removed to Lewis county ; that is, they went to 
the territory now called Lewis county, for at that time both 
Lewis and Jefferson were a part of Oneida county. The 
present Pamelia, together with all the rest of Jefferson 
County north of Black river, was then embraced in the 
town of Leyden. 

In 1799 the south part of the territory afterwards called 
Pamelia was owned by Pierre Chassanis, a French gentle- 
man, it being a portion of what has been known as " Cas- 
torland," " the Chassanis Tract," or " The French Com- 
pany's Land." The central and northern portions were a 
part of " Great Tract No. Four" of Macomb's purchase, 
except the territory east and northeast of Perch lake, 
which was embraced iu Penet Square. Tract No. Four 
was then actually owned by the Antwerp Company, an 
association of Holland gentlemen residing in the city of 
Antwerp, though being foreigners the title was held by 
others for them. The origin and transfers of titles previous 
to the beginning of settlement have been sufiScicntly set 
forth in the general history of the county. 

In the year 1800 the southwest half of Tract No. Four 
(which included the Pamelia portion) was convej'ed in 
trust for the Antwerp Company to the celebrated James 
Donatien Le Hay de Chaumont. He was made the agent 
of the company for the sale of the territory thus conveyed, 
and ten years later he purchased all the unsold land in 
Tract No. Four. Le Ray soon acquired an interest in the 
Chassanis tract also, and made all the sales after 1801, 
either as principal or agent. Thus it will be seen that all 
land-titles in Pamelia (except in the small tract embraced 
in Penet Square) may be traced back to Le Hay de Chau- 
mont, acting either for himself or others. 

On the first day of April, 1802, the territory which is 
our present subject was transferred from Leyden to the new 
town of Brownville, of which it formed a part for seven- 
teen years. On the 28th of March, 1805, it became a part 
of the county of Jefierson, which was formed from Oneida 
on that day. 

The territory of Pamelia was a comparative!}' level tract, 
slightly rolling, entirely underlaid with limestone, which 
frequently came to the top of the ground. It was heavily 
timbered, the principal growths being elm and maple. 



with considerable beech, basswood, and oak, and occasional 
patches of black a.sh on the wet ground. Besides the lime- 
stone, which fref|uently cropped out in low ledges, there 
were a few large bowlders of granite scattered though the 
forest, which had apparently drifted from other regions. 

At the northern extremity of the yet unformed town lay 
Perch lake, a beautiful little body of water, nearly three 
miles long and three-fourths of a mile in width at the 
widest place, renowned for the fish whose name it bears. 
Along the southeastern and southwestern corners ran the 
turbulent Black river. This description, being confined to 
the territory which now constitutes Pamelia, excludes con- 
sideration of the tract bordering on Black river, which has 
lately been annexed to Watertown, and the history and 
description of which are given in the chapters devoted to 
that city. The territory of Pamelia was also drained by 
several small streams, of which Perch river (the outlet of 
Perch lake), Philomel creek, and Cowen's creek were the 
principal, all three running in a southwesterly direction, 
and all, previous to the clearing off of the forest, containing 
a considerable quantity of water. 

EARLY SETTLERS. 

Afler the feeble attempt of Boshart and Kitts we cannot 
learn exactly who were the first settlers within the present 
limits of Pamelia. All who located there during the first 
ten years of this century have died or moved away, in- 
cluding those who were children at that time. One of the 
very earliest was Mr. Makepeace, grandfather of Elliott 
Makepeace, Esq., who settled on the farm now occupied by 
Daniel Augsbury, in the north part of the present town. 
He built the first frame house within the present limits of 
Pamelia. 

As early as 1804 a few settlers located on the north shore 
of Black river, in what is now Watertown. In 1805, Jlr. 
Haven settled a mile from the river, just inside the present 
city limits, and it is fair to presume that as early as that 
year sonic emigrants located in the present Pamelia. Pos- 
sibly there were a few at a still earlier date. Previous to 
1812, some twenty or thirty families came into town. 
Among these were John Gould and J. M. Parish, who both 
settled in the northwest part of the present town, on farms 
still owned by their sons. Elijah Ainsworth, Philip Ains- 

worth. Brintnall, Caleb J. Bates, Isaac and Jacob Mea- 

cham, William Morse, and Jacob Lowell all settled in the 
northwest part of the town before 1812. Benjamin Cole, 
Obadiah Rhodes, and Stephen Farr settled during the same 
period, near Pamelia Four Corners, while Aaron Dresser, 
Curtis Goulding, Henry Becker, and Alvin Twing were 
the founders of that village itself 

463 



464 



HISTORY OF JP:FFERS0X COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



John Foils located in the southwest part of the town before 
1812, and probably Simeon Woodruff, Peter Acker, and 
David and Belshazzar Tillipaugh. Two families, named 
Bacon and Cooper, were among the earliest settlers in the 
southeast part of the present town. Smith Seovilie located 
himself previous to 1811, near the hotel now kept by his 
son, John Seovilie. Mr. John Seovilie was born in 1811, 
and is the oldest natiVe of the town, now residing in it, 
whom we have been able to discover.* 

In 1811, David Augsbury with his family settled in the 
northwest part of the town. Ho was followed, in 1812, by 
his father, John Augsbury, with his three youngest sons, 
Benjamin, Nicholas, and Daniel. Two other sons, John 
and Abraham, already men of family, did not come until 
after the war. Of ail these the youngest son. Daniel, then 
eleven years old, is now the only survivor. He is the only 
person we have been able to find who was a resident of 
Pamelia and old enough to recollect events previous to the 
War of 1812. It is to him we are principally indebted for 
the names of settlers earlier than himself His father pur- 
chased the farm of Mr. Makepeace, who, however, removed 
but a short disUince. The house was still the only frame 
one in town, and is yet standing on the same farm. Mr. 
Augsbury .says it appeared in 1812 to be seven or eight 
years old, by which we infer that Mr. Makepeace settled 
there as early as 1804 or 1805. 

The road from Browiiville running past Mr. Augsbury's, 
and thence northeastward on the east side of Perch lake, 
was then cut out and used on the same ground it now occu- 
pies. Another road, running northeast from Browuville, 
ran nearly, though not exactly, on the line of the present 
" Military road." Deer were very abundant, fre({uently 
showing themselves close to the houses of the settlers, but 
wolves do not appear to have been as troublesome as in 
many other new regions. Their warning voices were some- 
times heard, however, up till the War of 1812, but after 
that time the}' almost etnirely disappeared. Large num- 
bers of Indians fre(|uently visited Perch lake for the pur- 
pose of fishing, but they always behaved themselves peace- 
ably towards the settlcis. 

Otters were numerous about the lake. Mr. Augsbury 
mentions going thither shortly after he came into town, and 
seeing seven otter tugethor, swimming for life towards the 
mouth of a creek, in the bank of which they were seeking 
shelter. His dog plunged in and caught hold of one, but 
the animal, in his own element, was too strong for his 
canine assailant, and ipiickly broke loose and gained a place 
of s;ifety. 

In Pamelia, as elsewhere throughout the country, pota.sh 
was the principal article ])rodueed by the settlers which 
brought cash. The peo])le of Pamelia were favorably situ- 
ated for sending it to Canada, and many were the loads 
which, during the non-intercourse days previous to the 
War of 1812, fnuiid their way to the St. Lawrence by the 
secret road, cut through the forests of Browuville and Cape 
Vincent, and known only to the initiated. 



* Thomaa Brown, then twoDt;-one ;cars uld, moved from the ter- 
ritory of Brownville into that of Panieliu in 1812. lie survived until 
about a yciir ago. His was the first frame house in tliat part of tlie 
Iruct now forming Pamelia. 



. During that war the few residents of Pamelia were kept 
in a state of continuous alarm by the hostile operations 
along the border, and every man capable of bearing arms 
Was again and again called out to repel invasion. No foe- 
man, however, found his way thus far eastwaid, and at 
the conclusion of the war old settlers and new immigrants 
recommenced the task of felling the great elm forests of 
Pamelia. 

Theron Converse had put up a log hou.se in the winter 
of 1814—15, on what is now called Le Ray street, just north 
of the present city line. In the spring of 1815 he moved 
thither with his family from Watertown. His son, Hiram 
Converse, then thirteen, is now one of tlie earliest settlers 
of Pamelia, though at present residing just within the city 
line. He states that at that time it was all a dense wilder- 
ness eastward almost to Carthage. Deer were still numer- 
ous, and were often shot at a deer-lick only two or three 
miles north from the county-seat. 

William McGinnis settled in the southwest part of the 
town in 1815. He was then thirty years of age, with a 
wife and four children, yet he is still surviving, a resident 
of the same locality, at the venerable age of ninety-one 
years, though not appearing to be much over seventy. He 
thinks there were thirty or forty families in the present 
town of Pamelia when he came. 

Among those who located there before 1819 were the 
following, most of whom came after the war, though a few 
may have been there before : Elijah Wright, William Waf- 
ful, John Wafi'ul, Russel Weaver, Benjamin Still, John 
Stewart, Captain Joseph Mayo, Nichols, John Stew- 
art, Joel Ninis, James Wright, Isaac C. Pcttit. Daniel Pet- 
tit, Osmau Banister, Nehemiah Van Nest, John N. Gunn, 

Gardner, Conrad Wafful, Benjamin Pease, William 

Sixbury, John Si.xbury, Isaac Sixbury, Elias Wager, 

Combs, Chailes Brown, Thom.as Goodrich, and Abram 
Spalsbury. 

Soon after the war Aaron Dresser opened a tavern at 
Pamelia Four Corners, being the first in town. In 1810, 
John N. Gunn began keeping a small store in the western 
part of the town, north of the centre, being also the first 
establishment of its kind within the present territory of 
Pamelia. It was kept open oidy five or sis years. School- 
houses were also erected in various parts of the town, — one 
at Pamelia Four Corners, one in the Aug.sbury neighbnr- 
hood, one in the Brown neighborhood, and one near Elias 
Wager's, somewhat oast and south of the centre of the 
town. 

THE FIRST S.\W-MtI,L 

was built just after the war, on Philomel creek, at the cross- 
ing of the Clayton road, by Abbey, father of the 

Abbey brothers, who were noted as printers in the early 
days. The mill has long since passed away, and the creek 
itself is sadly diminished in volume. 

The increase of population and the consequent clearing 
away of tlje forest speedily drove away the wild game, and 
thenceforth it was only occasionally that a deer strayed into 
Pamelia from the woods still farther north. Pigeons, how- 
ever, were fora few years numerousalmost beyond concei)tiou. 
They had a great roosting-place near Perch river, whence 
they used to go forth every morning and return at night. 






JONATHAN TOVinSEhD. 




iRUKlAN B JO't.'NSlHD 



Mrs.Ti^uman B.To\iinSLND. 



:!4r^A'.^!'!Ji# ' >JMiy.t!»^-mi^M!tpg^^ 




HISTORY OF JEFFERSOX COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



4G5 



spreading over the surroundiiig country in clouds so thick 
as to shut out the sky for ten minutes at a time. Mr. 
Daniel Augsbury rclatos that hi.s oldest brother killed forty 
with one raking shot as they sat in lino ujioii a fence. 
Immense numbers of them were killed fur tlioir feathere. 
Mr. Elijah Ainsworth had a small net in wliit-h by succes- 
sive hauls he frui(uciitly caught over twelve hundred in a 
single day. No stool-pigeon was necessary; there were 
j)laces where they were in the habit of alighting, and a net 
spread there was sure to capture them. 

Joel Nims settled in the Thomas Brown neighborhood 
in 1818, buying the " betternient.s,'" as improvements were 
then commonly called, of William WalTul. His son Allen, 
then five years old, now resides in North Watertown, and 
we are indebted to him for many facts relative to the town 
and ]ioople in the pioneer days. There was a considerable 
increase in population that year, and thenceforth the num- 
bers were too great to peru)it us to give the names of 
individual settlers unconnected with anything of a public 
nature. 

Log hou-ses were still almost universal, but in ISIS a 
large number of frame barns were built, giving the country 
quite a civilized appearance, and the people began to think 
they were far enough advanced to have a town by them- 
selves. Petitions were accordingly sent to the legislature, 
and on the 12th of April, 1819, an act was jiassed forming 
the town of I'amelia. This name was derived from that of 
the wife of Jacob Brown, of Brownville, then a major- 
general in the United States army, and the foremost man 
in all this ])art of the country. It is worthy of note that 
this lady, although she had reached middle age when her 
name was thus conferred uj)on the town of Pamelia, is still 
living, having attained the age of nearly a century. 

THE FIRST TOW.V-MEETING 

was held at " the school-house near Elias Wager's," in the 
spring of 1S20, when the following town officers were 
elected: Supervisor, John Stewart; clerk, Henry Gotham; 
assessors, Russel Weaver, Benjamin Still, and Simeon 
"Woodruff; overseers of the poor, Simeon Woodruff and 
Benjamin Still ; commissioners of highways, Alfred Comins, 
Simeon Woodruff, and Benjamin Still; collector, Horace 
Mather; commissioners of schools, Osman Banister, Nehe- 
niiah Van Nest, and Joseph Mayo ; in.speetors of schools, 
Amos Eames, William Usher, Russel Weaver, John N. 
Gunn, Baker Mas.sey, and Charles Brown ; constables, 
Jacob J. Greene, Benjamin I'cxse, and Horace Mather. 

The southern boundary of the new town was the centre 
of Black river ; the northern was the south line of Penet 
Square. The eastern boundary began on the river at the 
intersection of the east line of range Twenty-seven, west of 
the Chassanis Tract, running north along that line to the 
south bounds of that tract, and thence onward in jirolonga- 
tion of that line to the southeast corner of Penet S<|uare ; 
the whole distance being a trifle over eight miles. The 
western boundary of the town ran north from the river 
along the west line of range Thirty-one, and thence in a 
similar prolongation to Penet Square; the entire length 
being about six and two-ihirds miles. The width of the 
new town was about four and a fourth n)iles. It will be 



seen that its limits were the same then as now, except that 
a small tract was afterwards added on the north and a still 
smaller one taken off on the south. 

The same year of the formation of the town (1819) the 
" Miliutry road" was built through to Plattsburg by the 
United States government. The labor was performed by 
successive detachments of soldiers sent out from Sacket's 
Harbor. One of these detachments was commanded by a 
young lieutenant known to fame forty years later as Major- 
Geneial Ivhviii \ . Sumner. 

By this time people began to find themselves in a posi- 
tion to replace their old log houses by something better. A 
few frame ones were erected, and in 1821, Simeon Woodruff 
built a substantial stone house, the date being engraved on 
the stone over the door, where it is still plainly to be seen. 
This was nearly, if not quite, the first stone hou.se in town. 
About the same time, however, Mr. Thomas Goodrich built 
another, and a little later Abram M. ilargcr erected the 
stone hotel at Pamelia Four Corners. Still later, Captain 
Mayo built the stone hotel in tin; southwestern part of the 
town, now oceuiiicd by .^Ir. John Scovill. 

Stone was so abundant that a building of that material 
was almost as cheap as one of wood. Between stone and 
frame the log houses were rapidly superseded, and b}' ISiiO 
they had mostly disappeared, at least on the main roads. 

Another improvement of considerable note in its day was 
the " Pamelia Farmers' Scientific Library, " which was in- 
corporated April 1, 1822, having for its first trustees John 
Stewart, Rus.sel Weaver, Joel Nims, Simeon Woodruff, 
Ansel Mills, Thomas Goodrich, and William Cole. There 
were about sixty shares, each costing two dollars and a half. 
Each man could draw books to the amount of his invest- 
ment. Every three months all books were re((uired to be 
returned, and a new draw was made. If two or more per- 
sons desired the .same book they had to bid for the privi- 
lege of drawing it. The library was always kept at Simeon 
Woodruft's, and sometimes quite a spirited scene ensued 
when two or three farmer bo^-s in pursuit of knowledge 
were struggling for a drink at the same fountain. 

" How much for this book ?" would be the inquiry of Li- 
brarian Woodruff. 

" I bid five cents," would probably be the reply of some 
youthful son of Pamelia, for the financial condition of the 
people was not such iis to gratify any extravagance. 

" Eight cents," would be the response of a rival. 

" Ten cents." 

" A shilling." 

These were high notches, and unless the volume was in 
great request, or the spirit of rivalry was very strong, it 
was " knocked down" on reaching the latter bid. Some- 
times, however, fifteen cents was bid, and in a few extraor- 
dinary eases the enormous sum of twenty cents was reached. 
Good, solid mental food, too, was afforded by the little li- 
brary, — Volncy's Ruins, the works of Josephus, and 
Stewart's Intellectual Philosophy being a portion of its 
coutcnts. But ere long district school libraries began to be 
formed, some of the stockholders moved to more distant lo- 
calities, the interest fell off, and about 1830 the Pamelia 
Farmers' Scientific Library was, by mutual consent, divided 
amon^ its owners. 



466 



UISTORY OF Jf]FFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



By an act passed April 1, 1824, a small part of Pcnet 
Square, east of Perch lake, was taken from Orleans and 
annexed to Pamelia. It was from one to two miles wide east 
and west, and three miles north and soutli, makinij; the total 
length of Pamelia a little over eleven miles. The same 
act directed the name of the town to be changed to " Lean- 
der" after the first of the following March, but this clause 
was repealed before it went into effect. 

There is little to record in the quiet life of a farming 
community after the hardships and dangers of pioneer life 
are passed. A few mills and factories were erected on 
Black river, opposite Watertown, where a small village 
gradually grew up, but this having lately been united to 
that city, its hi.story is necessarily given in the chapters 
devoted to the city. Within the present town the forest 
receded still more before the farmer's axe. In even the 
backwoods the log houses were superseded by frame or stone 
ones. It was soon ascertained that the soil was admirably 
adapted to the production of grass, and stock-raising and 
dairying consequently became the principal business of the 
inhabitants. 

POST-OFFICES 

were established both at Pamelia (in the present city dis- 
trict) and Pamelia Four Corners, as early as 1830. In 
1831 the postmaster at the latter place was S. Comstock. 
In 1837 it was Abram M. Harger. In 1840 the popula- 
tion of the town (including the })rosent city district) had 
risen to two thousand one hundred and four. The county 
poor-house was erected in this town, on the north bank of 
Black river, just below the present city line, in 1834. A 
full description of the various buildings erected there is 
given in the general history of the county. 

It was not until 1847 that thtre was any separate religious 
organization in the town, in which year a Methodist Jlpis- 
copal class was organized at Pamelia Four Corners. The 
next year a house of worship was erected at the Corners by 
that denomination, and another about two miles southwest, 
by the Univer.salists, Protestant Methodists, and " Christian 
Order." 

The Potsdam and Watertown railroad was finished 
in 1850, running for about two miles through the south- 
east corner of the present town of Pamelia. It after- 
wards became a part of the Rome, Watertown and Ogilens- 
burgh road. In April, 1852, the Cape Vincent branch of 
the latter road was completed, of which abimt a mile and a 
quarter is in the .southwest corner of Pamelia. 

In 1850 the population of the town, as then constituted, 
was 2204, and in 1860 it was 2554. In the war for the 
Union, Pamelia played her part as zealously as any of 
her stronger sisters, as will be seen b}' the many names 
of her gallant SODS to be found in the military record of the 
county. 

On the 8th of May, 1869, the city of Watertown was 
incorporated, including within its borders about 700 acres 
of the territory of Pamelia, over 120ft of its population, 
and all its principal business establishments. This re- 
duced the population of Pamelia so that in 1870 it was 
only 1292. In 1875, according to the State census, it was 
1055. 



Considering the especial adaptability of the town to dairy- 
ing, it was a matter of course that, on the introduction of 
cheese-factories into the country, they should soon become 
numerous in Pamelia. But what distinguishes this from 
the large majority of chee.se-making localities is the extent 
to which it is devoted to the manufacture of " Limburger" 
cheese. The milk of two thousand cows is used for the 
production of this peculiar article of diet, and a few years 
since there were no less than eleven Limburger cheese-fac- 
tories in town. There are now two or three less. This 
cheese, made by merely drawing off the whey, letting the 
curd dry in moulds about the size of a brick, and curing it 
by repeatedly rubbing salt on the outside, finds ready mar- 
ket wherever Germans reside, and great quantities of it are 
shipped from Pamelia to Now York, Philadelphia, and other 
large cities. When the traveler in that town meets a wagon 
headed towards AVatertown, laden with wooden boxes from 
which comes a powerful odor (very fragrant to those who 
like it), then he may know that another load of Pamelia's 
favorite product is on its way to gladden the hearts of our 
Teutonic fellow-citizens. 

There is also an English cheese-factory at Pamelia Four 
Corners, using the milk of about four hundred cows. This lit- 
tle village, the only one in the town, contains one small store, 
two wagon-shops, two blacksmith-shops, two shoe-shops, one 
cooper-shop, one harness-shop, a post-office, and about twenty- 
five houses. It is eight miles from Watertown, about four 
from the northern extremity of Pamelia, and adjoins the 
line of Le Ray, two or three of the easternmost houses being 
in the latter town. 

Although the most of Pamelia is used as meadow- or pas- 
ture-land, yet small quantities of wheat, barley, oats, corn, 
and potatoes are raised every year, and there are numerous 
orchards of a])pletrees in the town. Other fruit is not 
found adapted to the soil and climate. Butter and cheese, 
however, are usually remunerative products, and good build- 
ings on almost every farm, many of them of stone, denote 
the existence of a prosperous community. 

Sl'PERVISORS AND TOWN OFFICERS. 

The following is a list of the supervisors of Pamelia from 
its organization to the present time, with the years of their 
service: John Stewart, 1820 to 1826, inclusive; llussel 
Weaver, 1827 and '28 ; Gustavus A. Foster, 1820 and '30 ; 
Bernard Bagley, 1831 to '35, inclusive; Chiliingsworth 
Colwell, 1836; Bernard Bagley, 1837 to '41, inclusive; 
William Wilson, 1S42 ; Henderson Hawk, 1843, '44, and 
'45; Josiali Bonney, Jr., 184tj and '47 ; Bernard Bagley, 
1848 and '49 ; Abram M. Harger, 1850 ; Chas. D. Wright, 
1851 and '52; Josiah Bonney, 1853; Isaac McGinnis, 
1854 to '57, inclusive; Charles W. Burdick, 1858 and 
'59; James Jones, 1860; C. W. Burdick, 1861, '62, and 
'63; Elliott IMakepeacc. 1864; C. W. Burdick, 1865, '66, 
and '67 ; Dexter W. Haven, 1868 to '72, inclusive; Ja.son 
T. Millard, 1873; Ju.stus B. Leavitt, 1874, '75, and '76; 
George Henry Countryman, 1877. 

The present officers of the town arc as follows: Super- 
visor, George Henry Countryman ; Town Clerk, George M. 
Haven ; Justices of the Peace, Truman B. Townsend, 
William C. Gould, and Lorenzo Rogers ; Commissioner of 





— J L. PAFfFflSH — 



John PAf^f^isH.- 



■ f/lf\S.J.LPAf^FflsH. 




Rlsiolncc or J.L.PARRISH ,PAMLUA.JcrrERSon Co.,NY. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



467 



Highways, Reulien H. Fuller; Assessors, Geo. A. Fenner, 
Jerome HowlaiiJ, and Peter Nellis ; Collector, Daniel Fox; 
Auditors, Dexter W. Haven, William II. Miller, and Setli 
P. Cole ; Constables, Alonzo Hose, Jacob K. Folt.s, and 
Benjamiu Sixbury. 

THE FIRST METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH OP PAMELI.\. 

As before stated, a Methodist cla.ss was organized at Pa- 
melia Four Corners on Feb. 28, 1847. It consisted of seven 
members, among whom were Curtis Goulding, Rachel 
Goulding, Asa Barnes, anil Retsey Barnes. The class was 
at first connected in a circuit with another at Evans' Mills, 
in the town of Le Ray, but in I8-t9 it was organized into a 
separate church with the title given above. In Feb., 1848, 
a society was organized for the purpose of erecting and 
maintaining a house of worship, the first trustees being Jas. 
Jones, Charles G. Harger, Orvis Goulding, Curtis Gould- 
ing, Asa Barnes, Daniel Gould, Joseph Countryman, Abram 
Augsbury, and Jacob Ilarwick. In 1848 a church edifice 
was erected at Pamelia Four Corners, at a cost of sixteen 
hundred dollars. 

The following have been the pastoi-s, with their terms of 
service, so far as given by the church record : O. C. Cole, 
1848 ; Hiram AVoodruff, 184!) ; W. W. Hunt, 1850 ; H. 
O. Tilden, 1851-52; T. B. Brown, 1853; Samuel Papple, 
1854 (died in December) ; S. Slater, 1855 ; William Tripp, 

; G. C. Wood, ; Lewis Whitcomb, 1861 (died 

in December) ; Ross C. Houghton (the celebrated traveler 
in Asia), 1862; J. H. Burnett, 1863; G. W. Calkins, 
1864 (after six months' service enlisted in the Union 
army) ; William Empoy, 1865 atid '66 ; S. M. Warn, 1867 ; 
J. Turney, 1868 ; G. W. Gib.son, 18(;9 and '70 ; Lester 
Brown, 1871, '72, and '73; D. D. Parker, 1874, '75, and 
'70; Charles G. Matteson, 1877. 

The present stewards of the church are Madison Gould- 
ing, Orriu Barnes, Brayton Brown, D. II. Nellis, A. Wal- 
rath, A. Bowman, A. Vandewalker, H. Gould, and A. F. 
Gould. The present trustees are David Bass, A. F. Gould, 
0. Barnes, B. Brown, M. Goulding, G. W. Slack, and 
Elias Countryman. 

The little cla.ss of seven members in 1847 has increased, 
by a steady and healthy growth, to a church of sixty-six 
members, in full communion, and twenty probationers. 
There is also a flourishing Sabbath-school of about seventy- 
five )neuibers, of which Dr. William Burdick is superin- 
tendent. 

THE UNION CHIKCU SOCIETV. 

This society was organized November 16, 1847, with 
Reuben Lock, Jacob H. Zoller, and Peter M. Salisbury as 
trustees. Each of these gentlemen represented one of the 
three denominations which united for the purpose of erect- 
ing a house of worship, — the Protestant Methodists, the 
Universalists, and the Christian Order. A convenient 
church edifice was erected in 1848, on the Military road, 
two miles southwest of Pamelia Four Corners. At first 
all the denominations named held meetings in the new 
church. Rev. J. H. Stewart, a prominent Universalist 
minister of Watertown, preached there for several years. 



The increase of the Jlethodist churcli at Pamelia Four 
Corners, however, drew away the attendants at the Union 
meeting-house, the frequency of the services diminished, 
and when the Protestant Methodists built an edifice of 
their own near Perch lake the services at the Union 
house entirely stopped. It remained unoccupied for sev- 
eral years, but in 1874 a few members of the Christian 
Order procured the services of Rev. George Warren, who 
preached there once a fortnight for one year. Since then 
Rev. James Hayes has held services at similar intervals. 
The present trustees are Martin Armstrong, G. H. Country- 
man, and Peter Busier. 

THE PROTESTANT METHODI.ST CHURCH. 

For thirty-five or foity ycai-s there has been a small class 
of Protestant Methodists in this town. It was connected 
with Perch Lake circuit, the greater portion of whose 
members reside in Le Ray. Amimg the early preachers 
were N. R. SwitY, Simon B. Loomis, Michael Priudle, and 
Lorenzo Wheeler. In 1867 a neat and pleasant church 
edifice was erected about two miles and a half north of 
Pamelia Four Corners. Rev. Philip Swift was the pastor 
of the Perch Lake circuit at that time, and continued so 
until 1870. The pastors since then have been George 
Ellis, in 1871 ; N. R. Cook, in 1872; Michael Prindle, in 

1873; , in 1874; George Ellis, in 1875, and J. T. 

Willard in 1876 and 1877. The class is still small, and 
Peter Busier is the only steward in Pamelia. The present 
trustees are Peter Nellis, Peter Busier, and Hiram Walts. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SXETCHES. 



EBENEZER WILLIAMS. 

The Williams family is of Welsh descent, the great- 
grandfather, Jonathan W. Williams, having emigrated from 
Wales many years ago. The subject of this sketch is the 
youngest son of Ebenezer Williams, Peter 0. being the 
elder. He was born at Manlius, Onondaga Co., N. Y., 
May 5, 1823. He received a good common-school educa- 
tion. In 1831 his father settled on the farm upon which 
he now resides, in the town of Pamelia. An illustration of 
the old homestead can be seen elsewhere in this work. He 
married Miss Harriet M., daughter of Fabius and Catha- 
rine Lawton. This union was blessed with four children, 
namely, Ebenezer F., who died in infancy; Ilattie C, born 
May 16, 1857 ; Stedman, born Dec. 11, 1862 ; and George 
0., Ai>ril 5, 1S67. 

Mr. Williams is a Republican. He is a good, practical 
farmer ; a man of good, sound judgment, great industry, 
and indomitable energy. By his upright and honorable 
character he ha.s made many friends, and is very generally 
respected wherever known. 



468 



HISTORY 01- JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 





HENRY COUNTRYMAN. MUS. HENRY COUNTRYJI.\N. 

HENRY AND ELIZABETH COUNTRYMAN. 



Henry Countryman was born in the town of Danube, 
Ilerkiincr Co., N. Y., March 7, 1797. He wa.s the third 
child and first son in the family of George and Rahena 
Countryman, which con.sisted of four boys and seven girls. 
The Countryman family have always been firm believers 
in the adage, " The rolling stone gathers no moss," and 
two generations lia<l lived and died in Herkimer {)revious to 
the time our subject came to Jefferson County, — in 1823. 
George and Rahena were noble specimens of " ye olde 
folke," and the first and lat^t lessons taught their cliildren 
were honesty, economy, and integrity. Rahena was sister 
of the Hon. Robt. Spraker, who was at one time president 
of the New Y'ork Central railroad. Ilcnry remained a 
member of his father's family, contributing his earnings to 
its maintenance, until .May, 1823, when he came to Jeffer- 
son County, in tlie n)ean time receiving a limited common- 
school education, and learning the trade of caniage-making, 
which he followed during liis entire life. He came to this 
county in indigent circumstances, being compelled to borrow 
cooking utensils for the use of his family. Ho ])urchased 
one and three-fourths acres of land at Pamelia Four Cor- 
ners, where he first located ; and Irom this small beginning, 
by industry, energy, and careful, judicious management, he 
was able to give his children the advantages denied himself, 
and amassed a large property, — being the posses.sor, at his 
death, of GOO acres of land. He was not only a successful 
busine.ss man, l)nt a kind fatlier, an indulgent liusband, and 
highly esteemed by all who knew him. He died, June 16, 
1875, of asthma. 

On Oct. lit, 1810. Mr. Countryman was united in mar- 
riage to Elizal)elli Walralh, of bis native town. Mrs. 
Countryman was an excellent helpmeet, devotedly attiiehed 
to her busband and cliildren, and was all that is expressed 
in the terms amiable and intelligent. .She passed to a 



higher existence, deeply lamented. Mr. and Mrs. Country- 
man were blessed with a family of five boys and four girls, 
who were early taught the same lessons which had so 
largely contributed to their parents' success in life, and 
which has done much towards giving the children the 
honorable positions tliey enjoy in business and society. 
Alexander, tbe eldest, was born in Herkimer county, July 
9, 1820, and came to this county with his parents when 
three years of age. He has always resided at Pamelia 
Four Corners. He is associated with his brother, Geo. H., 
in the business of carriage-making, and is also one of the 
prominent farmers of the town. He married Miss Catherine 
Smith, daughter of Selah and Catherine Smith, one of the 
old families of Pamelia. He hits three children. Catherine 
was born March 22, 1823, is the wife of Samuel Zuller. of 
Pamelia; Geo. H. was born Jan. 1. 1826, and is connected 
with his brother, Alexander, in the business of carriage- 
making, and, like liim, is also a large and successful 
farmer. He is tbe present supervisor of the town. He 
married Louisa, daughter of Ansel and Ret.sey Mills, who 
w(^re among the fir.st settlers of the town. Sbe died in 
1858, and he married Miss Olive Eddy. Louisa was born 
Nov. 13, 1829, and is the wife of Abram Zuller, a piomi- 
nent farmer of St. Lawrence county. Ludentia was born 
Sept. 23, 1831. Lucy E. was born Aug. 21, 1831, and is 
the wife of Joseph Bauni, a prominent merchant of Pots- 
dam, N. Y. Amos B. was born April 3, 1838, and is in 
company with his brother-in-law, Joseph Baum. Wilson 
H. was born Aug. 15, 1840, and is one of the wide-awake 
farmers of the town. Oscar was born Sept. 7, 1843, — de- 
ceased. Thus concludes the history and genealogy of one 
of the old and respectable families of the town of Pamelia ; 
and from such sources the ])CO])le of to-day are indebted for 
what is of worth in the early history of this county. 



IirSTOKY OF JEFFERSON COUXTV, NEW YORK. 



4(J9 




OREN BARNES. 



The subject of this sketch was born in the town of 
Pamclia, July 15, 1S19. ITe was the eldest child in the 
family of Asa and Dolly (Croukhite) Barnes. The elder 
Barnes was a native of the town of Spriiij;fiold, Ot.seijo 
Co., N. Y., where he was born in the year 1705. In 1813 
he emigrated with his family to Panielia. ancj purcliased 80 
acres of land, where he lived until he died, at the advanced 
age of seventy-one j'cars. lie was widely known for his 
high social qualities, and sterling worth as a citizen. Promi- 
nently identified with the ^letlmdist E{)iscopal church, 
none did mure for its support, both fiiiaiicially and other- 
wise. 

Oren lived with his father until he was twenty-eight 
years of age, receiving what was considered at that day a 
good common-school education. At about this time he 
married Miss Maria Ij. Jewett, of Le Ray. He then pur- 
chased the farm on wiiich he now resides, and commenced 
life for himself, and iiis success is evidence of what can be 
done by industry, economy, and good management. About 
the year 1850 Mr. Barnes commenced his experiments in 
fruit-growing, which have been so eminently successful. 



Previous to 1850 it was the opinion of " fruit-men" that 
fruit could not bs grown successfully north of the Black 
river. Mr. Barnes held an opposite opinion, and commenced 
its demonstration. He went into the forest and studied the 
growth and character of forest-trees, and appliciition was 
made of the results obtained. He firet set out a small 
orchard of 50 trees. He has now of all varieties over 700 
thrifty, bearing trees, and is considered by all as the pioneer 
in the fruit interest, and one of the best pomologists of the 
count}'. 

He has written several very valuable articles on fruit- 
growing, which have been republished and extensively 
copied, and the Jefferson County Agricultural Society, in 
recognition of his services to the county as a fruit-grower, 
and the material aid rendered this important interest, have 
awarded him premiums on his fruit and orchards aggregat- 
ing over 8200. Mrs. Barnes died Aug. 28, 1865. She 
was an estimable woman, beloved by all who knew her. He 
subsequently married Miss Jennie Spicer, of Perch river, 
daughter of Silas Spicer, Esq., one of the pioneers of Brown- 
ville^ 



470 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUxNTY, NEW VOHK. 





'CK^<. 



<! 




r 




I'AUL ANTHONY, 



one of tlic pioneer citizens of Lc Ray, and subsequentlj' an 
early settler of Paniolia, was born in Rhode Island in 1782. 
He removed to New York when twenty-one years of age, 
making the journey by foot, coming by way of Boonevilie, 
at which place there was but one log shanty. He settled 
in Le Ray, about one mile and a half from Evans Jlills, on 
the old plank-road, and remained there until 1S;>7, when 
he removed to Pamclia and settled on the farm now occu- 
]iied by his son, Thomas H. Anthony. He bad no oppor- 
tunity for seeuiing an edueation, and was pre-einiMenlly a 
self-taught man, learning to rcMul, write, and eiplier after he 
was married. In early life he learned the stone-mason's 
trade, at which he worked considi^rably ibr .some years. 
Among the existing evidences of his handiwork we might 
mention the glass-works at Redwood, the large stone hotel 
at Hrownville, the Catholic church at Gravel Point, and 
other ]iublic and private buildings. 

Jlr. Anthony was united in marriage with Hannah 
Eddy, a native of Rutland, Vt., and daughter of Enoch 
Eddy, one of the first pioneers of the town of Rutland, this 
county. Tills union was bles.scd with six children, namely, 
Jerusha, Thomas H., Amy PI, Willard E., Phebe, and 
Helen !M. ; of these, two, Willard and Phebe, are deceased. 
i^Irs. Anthony was a kind-hearted, humane, and benevolent 
lady, always ready to assist the afflicted. Her services 
were in fre(nient re(|uisition as a nurse, in wliieh eajiaeity 



she was eminently successful. She was a true and loving 
wife and an affectionate mother. She died August?, 1873, 
beloved and respected by a large circle of friends and rela- 
tives. 

Mr. Anthony's entire life was characterized b}' remark- 
able industry. Brotight up amid scenes that recjuired hard 
work and indomitable energy, he early inculcated the (|uali- 
ties most needed in a new country. He retained his facul- 
ties to the last ; and a few years prior to his death, which 
occurred Feb. 4, 1873, at the age of ninety-one, he, in 
company with his son, Thomas II., erected the largest barn 
in the county, and one of the largest in the State. Its di- 
mensions are 2.50 feet long, 40 feet wide, and 51 feet deep, 
and it has a capacity for 750 tons of hay. Both Mr. and 
Mrs. Anthony were consistent members of the society of 
Friends. In business, Mr. Anthony was upright and hon- 
est, and it is said of him that in the whole course of his 
long business career he neither sued another, nor was him- 
self sued. Being faithful to every trust, loving and affable 
in his domestic relations, true and honest in all his dealings, 
he enjoyed the esteem of all who knew him, and the respect 
of all who ever heard his name. 

Portraits of this worthy coujile ami of their son, Thomas 
H., can be seen in this work, also an illustration of the 
old homestead, all caused to be inserted by their son Thomas 
H. as a token of alTectionate regard. 




^!S^'' 



:; ■•j:i:;r?^?-<'': 




I^RS EWILLIAMS 



£ WILLIAMS 



F>m 




HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



471 




^-X^^^/, 



/' 



The subject of this sketch was the olJest son of tlie hite 
Benjamin Wondiuff, a pioneer of Watertown, having pur- 
chased the farm upon which he lived and died in 17'J9. 
Tlic father, with two brothers, Simon and Frederick, 
accompanied by their parents, moved into this town iu the 
spring of 1800, and all located upon adjoining lands pur- 
chased the previous fall. Other settlers soon surrounded 
them, and the neigiiborhood soon became identitiod by the 
appropriate appellation of "The Woodruff Settlement." 
Here, in 1805, Col. Woodruff was born and received a 
good common-school education, which he made practically 
useful to himself and others by teaching. Educated a 
farmer, he spent several years teaching in the winter and 
farming during the summer. In both avocations he was 
eminently succes.sful. He, however, abandoned the pro- 
fession, and engaged in agricultural pureuits for a perma- 
nent business. In harmony with this decision, he purchased 
the farm in Pamelia upon which he lived and prospered the 
remainder of his life. In 1824 he enlisted in the "Water- 
town Rifle Company," then commanded by Capt. Albert S. 
3Ias.sey, a company in which his father served his time, 
rendering essential service at the battle of Sackets Harbor, 
in 1813, while commanded by the late Capt. Wni. Samp- 
son. The military acumen of Col. Woodruff soon nuide 
him a favorite with his company, and he was speedily pro- 
moted until he became c.iptain, irom which position he 
was elevated to the command of the regiment. He was a 
thorough tactician and strict disciplinarian, and had the 
love and esteem of his officers and fellow-soldiers. As a 
farmer ho took an active part in promoting progress in 
agriculture ; was an active member of the county agricul- 
tural society. As a man he was positive — acted upon re- 
flection — but Was decisive in his convictions when reached. 



Destitute of ostentation and vanity, he was of that class 
that must be known to be appreciated. He died Pec. 10, 
1872. In 1832 he was united in marriage to Mi.ss Julii 
Hale, of Rutland, who still survives him. One child was 
born to them — Frances J., wife of Reuben II. Fuller, Esq., 
of Famelia. Mrs. Fuller was born, Aug. 30, 1843, upon 
the old farm, where she now resides, with two sprightly 
boys to gladden the hearts of their parents, viz., Orlin W., 
born Oct., 18G5 ; Willie L., Sept., 18G8. 

With this slight tribute to the memory of this esteemed 
pioneer, we close this brief sketch. 



JOHN L. PARRISH. 

The Parrish family are of English extraction, the origi- 
nal ancestor having come from Kngland previous to the 
War of the Revolution. In 17&3 John Parrish, our sub- 
ject's grandfather, who was a Revolutionary .soldier, settled 
in Washington county. John Parrish, father of John L., 
was born in Columbia county, in June, 1777; he lived 
with his father, who was a farmer, until he was twenty- 
three years of age, at which time he married Miss Ruth 
Farr, who was a native of Massachu.setts, where she was 
born in July, 1783. In the spring of 1803 Mr. Parrish 
left his home in Fort Ann, Washington county, for Jeffer- 
son County, to locate upon his purchase previously made of 
60 acres, of big lot No. 4, in the town of Pamelia. He 
started with his family, which consisted of his wife and two 
children, his household goods and two yoke of oxen con- 
stituting his worldly effects. Fifteen days were occupied 
in making the journey. His location was a very fortunate 
one, as there is to-day no better farm in the town. Here his 
family were born excepting the two eldest, and here he lived 
and died. He was a successful farmer and a great hunter. 
He was a very active and zealous member of the Methodist 
Episcopal church, and his house was the rendezvous for 
all the itinerant Methodist ministers of the circuit. He was 
also a consistent member of the Masonic fraternity in the 
early days of that order. He was a thorough, energetic 
business man, and his name w;is a synonytu for honor and 
integrity wherever known. Genial, whole-.souled, no one 
loved a good joke better than he, and no one possessed to a 
greater extent the faculty of making every one about him 
happy. In December, 1842, his wife died, in her fifty-ninth 
year. She was an estimable woman, and ail that is ex- 
pressed in the terms amiable and intelligent. She wai 
the mother of ten children, two of whom died in infancy. 

John L. Parrish was born May 1, 1819. His boyhood 
days were spent upon his father's farm. In 1841 he mar- 
ried Mi.ss Eliza Ann, daughter of Ruel and Margaret R;in- 
dail, who were among the early settlers of the town of Rut- 
land, where she was born February 19, 1819. Mr. Parrish 
has succeeded his father in the possession of the old farm, 
which has grown under his good management to 183 acres. 
He is regarded as one of the most thorough and successfu, 
farmers of the town, and his farm (a view of which, in con- 
nection with the portraits of his father, his wife, and himself, 
can be seen in another part of this book) bears evidence 
of its careful and judicious management. He is also ex- 



471 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



tensivcly engaged in the manufacture of " Liniburger" 
cheese, and for the last twenty years has been extensively 
engaged in the cattle trade. Jlr. and ^Frs. Parrish have 
five children : Oscar F., the eldest, was born October 24, 
1843, and is a resident of Virginia City, Nevada ; Warren 
R. is with his brother, and was born July 19, 184(5 ; Diana 
B. is the wife of Scott W. Blodgett, of the town of Lyme, 
and was born March 6, 1848 ;' Albert W. was born March 
5, 18.")0 ; George B. was born January 22, 1852. All are 
living but the youngest, who died September 4, 1877. 



TRUMAN B. TOWNSEND. 

Jonathan Townsend, father of the subject of this sketch, 
was born in Columbia Co., N. Y., in the year 1765. In 
1803, in company with his brother Josiah, he came to 
Jefferson County and settled in the town of Champion. 
Here he jiurcha.sed a farm upon which he lived until 1812, 
when he sold it and removed to the town of Boonville, Oneida 
Co., where he purchased a farm, with some slight imjirove- 
nients. Upon this farm he remained about four years, in 
which time be built a house and barn and set out a large 
orchard ; but the laud not being adapted to grain-raising, 
and hearing glowing accounts of the " Genesee Country," 
which was at this time considered the Eldorado of western 
New York, he resolved to satisfy himself in regard to the 
fertility of the soil and the advantages offered to settlers. 
He accordingly sold it, and spent the summer of 1816 in 
looking for land ; but, like many others, he was disappointed, 
and returned to Jefferson County and purchased a small 
farm in the town of Le Ray. Shortly after the purchase 
he was offered $200 for his bargain. He accepted the offer, 
and bought the farm now owned by his grandson, George 
K. Town.send, which was known at the time as the " Mc- 
Oniber Job." Here he r&solvcd to make a homo. He had 
settled upon six new farms, and had cleared with his own 
hands 160 acres of land, and, although a hardy, robust man, 
toil and privation bad begun to tell upon him. In clearing 
these new farms, by the time he had begun to live com- 
fortably, the interest upon the purchase-money had so ac- 
cumulated that he was obliged to sell his " bettorment.s" and 
begin again ; but each .succeeding sale left him better off 
than before, and by dint of energy and perseverance he was 



able to hold this last purchase, which became one of the 
model farms, and was awarded two premiums by the county 
agricultural society. Upon this farm he resided until 1853, 
when he went to live with son Truman. The following 
year (1854) he passed to a higher existence, with full faith 
in a ble.ssed immortality. His worthy wife, who was all 
that is expressed in the terms amiable and intelligent, died 
in the forty -seventh year of her age. In 1820 he was 
again married, to Miss 3Iary Van Amber; she died in 
1833. 

Truman B., the subject of this sketch, was born in the 
town of Champion in 1806. His early life was spent upon 
his father's farm, receiving a limited education. After 
attaining his majority he purchased 35 acres of land, which 
is a part of the farm he owns, a view of which, in connec- 
tion with these portraits, can be seen elsewhere in this work. 
January 2, 1828, he married Miss Sarah, daughter of Elisha 
and Betsey (Edwards) Allen. Having now secured a wife 
and a home, he commenced life with that zeal and energy 
which he has since evinced in every undertaking of his 
life. Having a natural adaptation for the trade of a car- 
penter and jo ner, he carried on thi.s trade in connection 
with farming until about 1860. Having always been an 
examplar of the scriptural injunction of '■ whatsoever your 
hand findeth to do, do it with your might," he has been 
successful not only in business, but in obtaining an enviable 
position in society and in the esteem of his fellow-citizens. 
Having no desire for political preferment, he has avoided 
rather than sought office. He has, however, been called to 
fill several offices, and discharged his duties to the entire 
satisfaction of his con.stituents. Nov. 20, 1873, ]Mrs. Town- 
send died, in her sixty-sixth year. Sept. 23, 1875, he was 
again married, to Mrs. Margaret Copeland, of Milwaukee, 
Wis. Mr. and Mrs. Townsend were blessed with five chil- 
dren, — two boys and three girls : Pri.«cilla K., born Jan. 12, 
1831, and the wife of J. W. Smith ; George K., born Nov. 
28, 1832, and owns the old farm of his grandfather; Eras- 
tus E., born Aug. 17, 1834, and died Feb. 28, 1844; 
Florence A., born Ajiril C, 1845, and wife of A. W. Weeks ; 
INIary E., born July 28, IS4S, and wife of Fred. Belong. 

Thus concludes the history of one of the prominent fami- 
lies of Famelia, a brief sketch of which i.s entitled to its 
place in the history of Jefferson County. 



PHILADELPHIA. 



The territory embraced in this town — which, prior to 
February 17, 1806, formed a part of Brownville, and from 
that time until April 3, 1821, Wiis included with the town 
of Le Ray — ia rectangular in form ; it.s length — lying nearly 
northwest and .southeast — being about one-quarter greater 
than its breadth. On the .southwest it joins Le Ray, and 
on the other three sides arc Theresa, Antwerp, and Wilna. 



It comprehends fifty-four " great lots" of tract No. 4 of the 
Macomb purchase, being six ranges of nine lots each. In 
the southern and western ])ortions of the town the surface 
is rolling, and in the opposite parts, towards Antwerp and 
There.'a, it becomes rough and hilly. Its waters are the 
Indian river, entering from Antwerp and flowing nearly west 
across the town into Le Ray ; Black creek, entering near 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



•173 



the southern corner from Wilna, flowing in a general 
northern course, and joining the river above the village of 
Philadelphia ; several small streanis which fall into these 
from the cast, and Otter creek, which passes westwardly 
through the northern corner of the tuwn into Theresa. 

THE friends' purchase AND FIRST SETTLEMENTS. 

These lands being included in Le Ray's purchase of Jan- 
uary 4, 1800, that proprietor, on February IG, 1S04, entered 
into an agreement with a company, eouiposed of Abraham 
Stockton and Charles Ellis, of Burlington, N. J. (then Le 
Ray's place of residence), and Mordecai Taylor, Thomas 
Townsend, Jolin Townseud, Robert (,'omfort, Cadwallader 
Child, Moses Comfort, Israel Knight, Henjaniin Rowland, 
David Evans, John Jones, and Jason Merrick, of the counties 
of l'hilade]])hia, Montgomery, and Bucks, in Pennsylvania, 
— all of whom (save the last named ) were Quakers, — to 
.sell them sixteen lots (7(140 acres) at the rate of $:5 per 
acre, payable in five instalments, with six per cent, annual 
interest, and ten per cent, was to be discounted for ca.sh. In 
consideration of the sale they were also to receive, as a gift 
from Le Ray, a central lot (440 acres) " for the promotion 
of religion and learning; that is to .say, for the purpose of 
erecting thereon and supporting a meeting-house for the 
society of the people called Quakers, and a school or schools 
for the education of children in useful learning, to be under 
the care and direction of said society, and of a monthly 
meeting of said people, when such meeting shall be there 
established." It w;is stipulated that these lands should be 
of a quality equal to the four lots Nos. (529, G30, 031, and 
632, near Le Raysville, which had been purcha.sed the pre- 
vious year by Joseph Child, Sr., and Moses Comfort, whose 
favorable accounts of the advantages of the section in soil 
and climate had brought about the present purchase. In 
case these lands should not, in the opinion of Richard Coxe, 
Jacob Brown, and Jonas Smith, prove to be equal to those 
named, an additional quantity should be given to make good 
the deficiency. The seller al.so agreed to make a wagon- 
road from the St. Lawrence river, running through the 
conveyed tract to the post-road at Champion, before the 
firet of the following December. The purcha.sers were re- 
quired to agree on a division of the lots among them.selves 
before the 25th of the next April. This being done, the 
lands were conveyed to them by deed from Le Ray in Maj-, 
1804. 

The central lot, donated for religious and educational 
purposes, was No. Gil, embracing the present village of 
Philadelphia and all the water-power of the river at that 
point. The lots sold were Nos. 539, 540, 542, 543, 575, 
576, 578, 579, 613, 644, 646, 647, 674, 675, 677, and 
678. Eight lots were reserved by the proprietor, viz. : 
Nos. 541, 577, 609, 610, 612, 613, 645, and 676. All 
the above-named lots, twenty-five in number, together formed 
a rectangular tract five lof.s in length and the same number 
in width, of which tract lot Gil w;is the exact territorial 
centre; the conveyed lots lying in four blocks of four lots 
each, one in each of the four corners of the tract, while 
the reserved lots lay between these in the form of a cross. 

All that is now the town of Philadelphia w;is at that 
time a wilderness, in which no blow of white mini's axe had 



been struck, except by the surveying parties of Brodhead ; 
and it was to explore this and to examine their purchase 
that Cadwallader Child and Mordecai Taylor started north- 
ward in May, 1804. In their company came Samuel Evans, 
who had visited Le Raysville and vicinity in 1803. On 
leaving Albany they traveled on horscliack to Brownville 
for a conference with Jacob Brown in reference to projected 
roads, after which, early in June, Mr. Child, with Michael 
Cofieen, Solomon Parker, Robert Sixbury, the hunter, and 
another assistant, but without Mr. Taylor and !Mr. Evans, 
who remained at Brownville, set out from Le Raysville to 
follow Brodhead's marked lot-lines towards his objective 
point, lot No. 611. He struck it at the south corner, then 
followed down Black creek to its junction with Indian river, 
and down the latter to the falls, where his party made a 
halt, and built a rude cabin as a base of operations, near tlie 
spot where the Philadelphia flour mill now stands. From 
here he soon proceeded to explore and survey a route for a 
road to the St. Lawrence, which he reached at a point above 
Alexandria bay, and, passing down the river, noted the ad- 
vantages of that place as an eligible site for a settlement, 
and for the river terminus of the jjropo.sod road. On his 
way down he had passed a considerable distance to the 
southwest of the High Falls of Indian river, but on his re- 
turn he passed these falls, crossing the river where now is 
the lower bridge and dam in Theresa village. Here he ex- 
amined the immense water-power, marked it as a favoralile 
site for the establishment of mills and the building of a vil- 
lage, and so reported it to Mr. Le Ray. Returning to lot 
611, he proceeded thence to continue his road survey to the 
Great Bend of Black river, in accordance with the original 
plan agreed on between Le Ray and the thirteen purchasers. 
When this w;ls completed, the season being then well ad- 
vanced, he entered upon lot 644, which had been drawn* 
by him in the assii;nment of tracts, and here, with the as- 
sistance of Samuel Child (his nephew) and Thomas Ward 
(whose widow is still living, at Carthage), he made the first 
clearing and erected the first dwelling in the bounds of 
Philadelphia. This was but a small log cabin, and the 
clearing was about two acres, located about one and a half 
miles south of the present village, on the bank of the small 
creek now in the southern part of the farm of his son Oliver 
Child. Towards the end of the same year John Petty, who 
had settled in 1802 or 1803, in the present town of Le 
Ray, removed thence with his family to lot 672 in Phila- 
delphia, he thus being the first actual settler in the town, 
and the only one who remained through the winter of 
180-1-5. The land had been purchased by him in 1803, 
and was afterwards embraced in the fiirm of John T. Strick- 
land, at Strickland's Corners, near Sterlingville. Daniel 
Coft"een commenced improvements on a tract adjoining or 
near Potty's during the same fall, removing upon it early 
the following year. 

On the 1st of Februarj-, 1S05, a meeting of the persons 
who had been named a.s trustees of the central lot was held 
at the house of Israel Knight, in Pennsylvania, at which 
meeting it was agreed and directed " that a part of the said 



-■ In tbo division of the purchase, the lots hiiil been assigned to the 
.iffiTLnt iiiircha?ers hy baIlol.< drawn at random from a luit. 



474 



IIISTOKY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



tract be laid out in lots of tea acres each, and that any per- 
son or persons, on condition of settling or clearing tliu same, 
and building a log or irame house of 18 feet square on each 
of the lots within the term of four years, shall be entitled 
to the said lot for the term of ten years as a compensation 
for their improvements ; and it is likewise agreed that the 
whole transaction of the business relative to the aforemen- 
tioned tract be intrusted with Robert Comfort, Cadwallader 
Child, Thomas Townsend, John Townscnd, and Jason Mer- 
rick, who are to act for and on behalf of the whole." And 
it was especially agreed that Thomas and John Townsend 
should have the use for 20 years, rent free, of a tract of fif- 
teen or twenty acres, sufficient to cover the falls of the Indian 
river, and for the erection of the necessary buildings, upon 
the condition that they should erect thereon a mill for the 
general benefit of the prospective village and surrounding 
country. 

In the spring of 1805 the Townsends arrived upon the 
lot, prepared to commence operations. With them came 
Robert Comfort, Josiah Walton, Thomas Cose, Benjamin 
Gilbert, Thomas Gilbert, and Daniel Roberts. Walton and 
the two Gilberts were in the employ of the Townsends, as 
were also Warren Foster and his brother Andiew, who had 
arrived about the same time. With this force they .set to 
work, made a clearing at the site of the proposed mill, 
built a dwelling-house on this clearing, commenced work on 
the dam, and built a bridge across the river, some 20 rods 
below where it is now spanned by the new iron bridges. 
During the summer and fall they completed the saw-mill 
and grist-mill, — both being under the same roof, — and also 
built a log house for John Townsend, nearly where the 
Eagle Ilot^l now stands. The millwright employed in the 
construction of the mills was James Parker. The grist-mill 
had one run of stones, manufactured from stone quarried in 
the vicinity. 

Robert Comfort built a log house on the bank of Indian 
river near the easterly end of Townsends bridge, and this 
he opened as a house of entertainment, — the first public- 
house in the town, — which he kept until 1S07. Jo.siah 
Walton jiurcluLsed on the reserved lot No. 645, upon 
which he employed John Hoover and John Coffeen, of JjC 
Ray, to make a clearing at a point near the north corner of 
the Curtis farm, and u|]on this clearing CailwalludiM' Child 
sowed wheat the samj tall ( 1805). Another j)iccc of wheat 
Was put in by John Townsend, and it is not known which 
of these two were first sown, but Mr. Child's was the first 
Itiirvesled in town (July, 180U). Mr. Child, in addition to 
his fnur hundred and forty acres, took eight acres in the 
centre lot, upon the rise of ground embracing the sjiot 
where the ])ost-officc now stands. Upon this he caused a 
clearing to be made and a house of hewed legs to be erected 
in the spring and summer of 1S05, intending to make this 
liis residence; but his plan.s were soon after changed, and 
he sold the improvement to Silas Walton. The block- 
house which he (Child) had built was sold to Thomas 
Townsend, who removed and re-erected it upon a spot now 
directly in front of the residence of George E. Tucker, Esq. 
To this he niove<l his family early in the following year. 
Upon the improvement purchased from Mr. Child by Silas 
Walton the latter erected a small buildin,', from lumber cut 



by the Townsend mill. It was the first frame building in 
town, and stood near the spot now occupied by the store of 
Martin E. Aldrich. John Townsend moved his family in 
the same autumn, and these, with the family of Robert 
Comfort, Walton, Roberts, and the men in the employ of 
the Townsend brothers, were the only inhabitants of the 
centre lot during the winter of 1805-6. 

Jason Merrick came in 18UG, and located on his lot — 
No. 675 — at the westerly end, directly opposite the place 
to which Cadwallader Child removed, upon the easterly end 
of 644; this removal from his first clearing being on 
account of the laying out of the road running on lot-lines 
northeast from Strickland's Corners into Antwerp. The 
families of Benjamin Gilbert and Stephen Roberts also 
came in the spring of 1806. John Strickland, Jr., came 
in 1807, but did not bring his family until the next year. 
Robert Comfort removed from his inn on the centre lot to 
his farm in 1807, and in the summer of that year lost two 
young daughters by death from a prevailing fever. John, 
a son of Jason Merrick, died from the same cause, and 
these were the first deaths which occurred among the set- 
tlers of the town. 

The first births were those of John, son of John and 
A.senath Townsend, February 14, 1807, and on the IGth 
of the same month, Oliver, a son of Cadwallader and 
Elizabeth Child. 

Joseph Bolton came with his family in the fall of 1807, 
took the hou.se which had been built by Robert Comfort, 
and continued it as a place of public entertainment. In 
the spring of 1809, Ezra Comley settled on reserved lot 
645, his farm being that afterwards owned by Seth Strick- 
land. John Strickland, Sr., one of the wealthiest of the 
settlers, arrived and purchased the property of the Town- 
sends at the settlement, John Townsend removing thence to 
his farm, and Thomas purchasing lands a short distance 
south of the village, now the farm of Joshua Roberts. 
Mr. Strickland took possession of the mills, and made his 
residence in the block-house built by Thomas Townsend, to 
which, however, he was soon obliged to build an addition 
larger than the original house. This was the first frame 
dwelling-house in the settlement and town, though there 
were other buildings of that construction built earlier. Mr. 
Strickland had a family of eleven children, of whom but 
two are now living, though ten reached maturity and mar- 
ried. He becnme a very large land-owner, first exchanging 
with Le Ray his farm of 300 acres in Bucks county, Pa., 
for a much larger tract here, to which he adiled by pur- 
chase until he became the possessor of fully 5000 acres. 

MEETINO-HOUSE — CENTRE LOT — INCREASE. 

The first meeting-house of the society of Friends, a 
small frame structure, wsis erected in 1810. Its site (the 
same now occupied by the residence of Mr. John Allis) 
was cleared of timber and prepared for the building by Eli 
Kent in July, 1800. Robert Comfort became the first 
minister of the society, and continued in that relation till 
his departure for the west in 1822. The new meeting- 
house, now used as the school-house of district No. 3, was 
built on its present site in 1828. 

The settlements on the centre lot were not rapid under 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



475 



the system of leasing in subdivisions, and during the first 
ten years an avcrajje of less than 10 acres per year were 
taken up. The trustees became wearied or disheartened, 
and on the formal iuu of the Le Ray monthly meeting, in 
1815, they requested that body to relieve them of their 
trust, which could not, however, be effected without an act 
of incorporation, and for this the meeting would not peti- 
tion. On April 11, 1816, a committee, consisting of Daniel 
Child, Richard Halloci;, William Barber, Joseph Child, Jr., 
John Strickland, Jr., and Joel Haworth, were appointed by 
the meeting to confer with and assist the trustees in the 
management of the lot, which was, in reality, an assump- 
tion of the direction of its affairs by the meeting. Four 
of the trustees were reappointed, and the fifth, Jason Mer- 
rick, who was not a member of the Friends' society-, con- 
tinued to exercise the functions without reappointment. 
Encrgftie efforts were made to lease the remaining portions 
of the central lot, and tlie system of leases in j)erpetuity 
was adopted ; but, notwithstanding this, very little was 
accomplished, and it was fully thirty years from the adop- 
tion of the short-lease .system before the last of these sub- 
divisions was disposed of The lands outside the central 
lot, however, being open to absolute purchase, were settled 
with reasonable rapidity, and generally with a very excel- 
lent class of immigrants, who, at the end of seventeen years 
from the time of the first arrivals, had become read}', and 
sufficiently numerous, to assume the responsibilities of sepa- 
rate township organization. 

AN INCIDENT IN THE LIFE OF A PIONEER, 

as related by Cornelius W. Iiiglehart, of Saeket's Harbor: 
In the fall of 1813, 51r. Ingleliart's father, then residing 
about two miles from the so-called Quaker Settlement, now 
the village of Philadelphia, discovered that son)e animals, 
which he supposed were raccoons, were destroying his corn. 
Thereupon he set a steel trap near a brush fence on the 
back of the field separating the same from the forest. The 
house was on a rise of ground, and commanded a view of 
the entire field, and was distant from the trap some forty 
rods, between which points a highway, inclosed on either 
side by a new and high rail-fence, intervened. One crisp, 
cool night in October, shortly after setting the trap, Mr. 
Inglehart heard a series of screeches, yells, groans, and 
growls, commingled, issuing from that section of his corn- 
field where his trap was fixed, and which indications of 
distress and anger were kept up at intervals during the 
night. As soon as it was sufficiently light to discern ob- 
jects with distinctru'.ss, the senior Inglehart, taking his gun 
(an old mu.-^ket loaded with buckshot and several bullets), 
started out for an interview with the disturbers of his 
night's rest. Mrs. Inglehart also took the relator of this 
incident, then a boy of some two and a half years old, and 
followed her husband to the fence bordering the road, to 
observe the proceedings. The father, carefully creejiing to 
a sure shooting-distance, discovered a half-grown cub in the 
trap, and, taking deliberate aim at the head of the animal, 
fired; but the cub, being constantly in motion, received the 
contents of the musket in his shoulder. This served to 
increase instead of stopping the cries of the cub, and 
brought, at the same instant, another actor, or rather 



actress, on the scene, the same being the shaggy mother of 
the wounded cub, who had lain concealed just in the edge 
of the forest. The entrance of the enraged brute upon 
the scene was terrific, and, with a growl that set the corn- 
leaves a-quiver, she charged upoii the would-be slayer of 
her cub, struggling desperately tlirough tlie brush fence. 
Mr. Inglehart endeavored to reload his musket ; but it be- 
coming evident that before he was ready for the reception 
the ferocious animal would be in close quarters, and deem- 
ing tliat ju.st then, at least, " discretion was the better part 
of valor, " he prepared for retreat. And here, perhaps, 
occurred one of the most remarkable races ever witnessed 
in Jefferson County, — a race inspired by a desire for ven- 
geance on the one side, and for life on the other. Mr. 
Inglehart was a .slightly-formed man and a good runner, 
and had some five or six rods the advantage in starting, 
but had to make twenty-five rods more before reaching the 
fence at the road. The bear gained on the runner, as they 
sped through the cornfield and among the .shocks, so much 
that when the pursued rose from the ground to leap the 
fence the pursuer struck at him a savage blow, her claws 
just grazing the heel of his shoe. In the parlance of the 
cue, the bear made the " scratch," but the man " counted." 
The pursued cleared the fence at a bound, but the bear had 
her attention so intently fixed upon the object of her rage, 
she struck the fence with her full weight and impetus, and 
immediately performed some wonderful acrobatic feats, turn- 
ing several .somersaults and demolishing the fence. This 
ended the race, as, before the bear could recover herself, 
the man and his wife and boy were safe in tlic house, and 
discomfited Bruin retired from the field of her defeat, leav- 
ing her cub to the mercies of the pioneer. 

TUE ERECTION OF THE TOWN. 

The present domain of Philadelphia, which, until Ajiril 
3, 1821, had formed a part of Le Ray, was, at that date, 
detached, and erected a separate town. The name of Eliza- 
bethtown had been first selected, but as there was already 
one of that name in the State, it was abandoned, and the 
name Benezet was proposed in honor of Anthony Benezet, 
the distinguished Quaker; but this in turn was dropped, 
when the name Philadeljihia w:>s suggested by John Strick- 
land, and was easilj- agreed to by the inhabitants, verj- many 
of whom had come hither either from the city of Brotherly 
Love or its vicinity. 

The first annual town-meeting was held at the public- 
house of Harvey Ilanibliu, in Pliiladelphia village, March 
5, 182:i. The first officers elected were Alden Bueklin, 
supervisor; John Strickland, Jr., clerk; Thomas Bones, 
Alden Bueklin, and Abiel ShurtliflF, as-sessors; Wm. Bones, 
collector; Cudwallader Child, John Townsend, and Abiel 
Shurtliff, comiuLssioners of highways ; John Strickland, Jr., 
David Mosher, and James Bones, commissioners of schools ; 
James Bones, Cadwallader Child, and J. B. Taylor, inspec- 
tors of schools, and William Bones, constable. 

The list of persons elected to the office of supervisor in 
the succeeding years until the present time, is as follows : 
Harvey Ilamblin, 1823 to 1826, inclusive; John R. Tay- 
lor, 1827 ; Benjamin Jackman, 1829, '30, '31 ; Hiram 
Hinman, 1832; Henry W. Marshall, 1833; Jesse Smith, 



47G 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



1834, '35, '3fi, and 18H ; Miles Strickland, 1837, 1839, 
1842; William Skinner, 183S and 1851 ; George Walton, 
1840 ; John F. Latimer, 1843 ; Azel W. Danforth, 1844, 
'45, '46; Lyman Wilson, 1847 ; Smith Bockus, 1848-49 ; 
George Frazier, 1850 ; AlUen Adams, 1852-53 ; Seth 
Strickland, 1854 to 1858, inclusive, and also in 1866 ; 
John Allis, 1859, '60, '61; Lansing Becker, 1862-63; 
John S. Peck, 18G4-65 ; Loren Fuller, 1867 to 1872, in- 
clusive; and George E. Tucker, from 1873 continuously, 
until the present time. The other town officers for 1877 
are : A. C. Comstock, clerk ; Geo. E. Tucker, Wm. Whiting, 
Lansing Becker, and Luke Sherman, justices of the peace ; 
Russell Washburn, James Clark, and Arnon Comstock, as- 
sessors ; Robert M. Cooper, collector, and Silas Monroe, 
Commissioner of highways. 

Philadelphia having never erected a town-hall, the elec- 
tions and special meetings have been held in the public- 
houses. The places of holding the annual meetings have 
been as follows: At Harvey Hambiin's in 1822 and 1823; 
at house of Samuel C. Frey in 1824 and in the four suc- 
ceeding years; at John Cross' in 1829 and 1830; at 
Charles G. Bunnell's in 1831 ; at William Comstock's in 
1832; at William Mosher's in 1833; Daniel Rogers' in 
1834; William K. Butterfield's in 183.5-36; at Jacob R. 
Howard's in 1837 ; Levi Butterfield's, 1838 to 1847 inclu- 
sive, also in 1850 ; William A. Paul's in 1848-49 ; at 
James Kirkbride's in 1851, and from 1853 to 1856 inclu- 
sive; Seth Hatch's in 1852; Russell Wa.shburn's, 1857 
to 1864, also in 1866 and '67 ; S. G. Elliott's, 1864-65 ; 
George Washburn's in 1868; G. & H. Washburn's, 1869 
and 1870; Henry Washburn's, 1871; J. H. Wxshburn's 
in 1872 ; Eagle Hotel, 1873, '76, and 1877 ; and at F. N. 
Springsteen's, 1874-75 ; all being held in Philadelphia vil- 
lage e.\cept the meeting in 1852, at Seth Hatch's, in Ster- 
lingville. 

POPULATION. 

The population of Philadelphia at the end of each lus- 
trum since its erection has been as follows : In 1825, 826 ; 
1830, 1167; 1835, 1616; 1840, 1888; 1845, 1942; 
1850, 1915; 1855, 1743; 1860, 1790; 1865, 1715; 
1870, 1679; 1875, 1709. 

THE friends' settlement IN 1828. 

The increase in population at the " Quaker Settlement," 
as Philadelphia village was then called, was still very slow. 
In 1828, when nearly a quarter of a century old, its heads 
of families wore all embraced in the following list, namely: 
Edmund Tucker and Miles Strickland, proprietors of the 
fliiuring mill ; Piatt Human, their miller; Samuel C. Frey, 
and Cyrus Dodge, both inn-keepers ; Harvey Hamblin, John 
Cross, W. Mosher, shoemakers; James Cromwell, cabinet- 
maker; Stephen Robert*, Orrin Cloyse, Elijah Comstock, 
John Roat, Justin Gibbs, Edmund Hall, Robert Gray, 
merchant, and successor of Samuel Case, who opened the 
first store in Philadelphia, on corner of Antwerp and Main 
streets ; Seth Otis, the other storekeeper of the place, oppo- 
site the present post-office; Dr. AInion Pitcher, on Antwerp 
street, where Gardner Clarke afterwards lived ; and Horace 
Ball, who built and started the fii-st fulling-mill and cloth- 



iery, afterwards sold to Wm. Comstock, then to Milo Shat- 

tuck, still later to Houghton, and now the cabinet 

works of Mr. Potter. Jlr. Gray, the merchant mentioned 
above, was a son-in-law of John Strickland. He soon 
afterwards built a distillery (the onlj- one ever in Philadel- 
phia) on the west side of the river, at the settlement. 

HICKSITES AND ANTI-RENTERS. 

At this time (1828) there occurred a division in the 
Friends' socictj' in Philadelphia, a part becoming converts 
to the Ilicksite doctrine. Among the more influential of 
these were Edmund Tucker and the Stricklands, notwith- 
standing which the Orthodox wing, supported by the meet- 
ing, were the more powerful, and always retained the man- 
agement of the affiiirs of the centre lot until the final set- 
tlement by ((uit-claim. 

About 1835 symptoms began to be visible of a disposi- 
tion of tenants to resist the payment of rents, and this 
grew into a movement which, a few years later, caused the 
abandonment of the lease system. One of the chief 
causes which led to this was the fact that original leases 
had been subdivided, subleased to several parties, and again 
conveyed repeatedly; and these transfers not being legally 
known to the trustees, the latter claimed the right, and in 
one or two instances attempted, to distrain for rent the 
property of one of the tenants, to pay the arrears due on 
the lot of which he occupied hut u par/. This, in the view 
of the tenants, led to the dangerous principle that a 7)ians 
property icas liable to be seized /or his neighbor s debts, and 
was followed by a spirit of resistance in which nearly every 
tenant participated. 

In 1838 notices were posted in the village calling a public 
meeting to concert measures to do away with the system of 
leases. At this but little was actually done, but other 
meetings of a similar character followed, in which it was re- 
solved to resist at all hazards the payment of rents in the 
future. The confederated tenants pledged themselves to 
each other to sustain legal measures until a settlement 
should bo reached, and they boldly and publicly proclaimed 
that they would expend their whole properties in defense 
of the position they had taken. John F. Latimer. Samuel 
Rogers, and Jesse Smith were constituted a committee to 
represent them and to defend their interests. Sir. Rogei-s, 
though himself belonging to the society of Friends, Wiisone 
of the very foremost of the leaders of the anti-rent move- 
ment, having then just removed from his farm near Strick- 
land's Corners to the village, where he had purcbiused the 
mills and other imj)rovenieiits of Tucker and Strickland ; 
and believing that his own interests, as well as those of 
every other propcrty-boKler on the centre lot, would be ad- 
vanced by the abrogation of a .-iysteni which he and they re- 
garded as a clog on improvements and an obstacle in the 
way of rapid settlement. 

Upon the defiant declaration of these tenants that they 
would pay no more rents, suits were commenced against 
several of them, but these were afterwards withdrawn and 
abandoned, probably on account of the firm and unyielding 
attitude of the defendants, who doubtless foresaw this re- 
sult, well knowing that neither the general policy of the 
society of Friends nor the sentiment of its individual mem- 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



bers would sustain prolonj^cU litigation. The anti-renters 
had thus virtually carried their point; ami in March, 1844, 
the society pctitiuned for a law authoriziiif,' the tru-stces to 
sell the centre lot, which was referred by the senate to the 
attorney-general for an opinion, who decided "that it is not 
c(mi|)otcnt fur any cnurt, or even the Icfrislature itself, to 
add to or diminish f'nini the estate thereby created, or to 
change the nature of the trust, or to confer authority ujion 
the trustees to convey the legal estate discharged of this 
trust thus ainiexed to it." In consequence of this opinion 
the legislature declined acting, and so informed the peti- 
tioners. This, however, did not jirevent a settlement of 
the difficulty. The lessees were willing to pay certain 
amounts, which were agreed on, and to accept (juit-claira 
from the meeting, which that body, on January 9, 1845, 
directed the trustees to execute. About 25 of these deeds 
were given, the tenants receiving them, paying all arrears 
of rent up to April 1, 1844. Two or three, who were 
members of the meeting, declined to receive the quit-claims, 
preferring rather to hold their perpetuity leases at the ex- 
tremely low figure of $1 per acre, or less, annual rent. 
And this was the end of the long and vexatious controversy 
that in its course had engendered feelings of rancor which 
the lap.se of more than thirty years has scarcely obliterated. 

DISCOVERY AXn OPENI.NG OF ORE-BEDS. 

In the northerly corner of the town, on the line of 
Theresa, in lots Nos. 543 and 544, iron ore was discovered 
at about the time of the opening of the Sterling mines in 
Antwerp ; and these were opened on the farms of Alnion 
Fuller and Abiel Shurtliff, about 1836. It was worked to 
some extent in the furnaces at Sterlingville, Carthage, 
Antwerp, and Redwood; a royalty of 50 cents per ton being 
paid to the owners of the lands from wiiich it was taken. 
It was, however, a lean ore, and was not held in much favor, 
being used chiefly as a flux in the reduction of the Sterling 
and other rich ores, for which it answered exceedingly well, 
on account of the lime it contained. The requirements lor 
this purpose, however, were comparatively small, and, for 
many years, these beds were not extensively worked ; but, 
upon reaching greater dojith. the quality of the ore was 
found to be improving, until at the present time it ranks 
among the best ores of the region. The mines were pur- 
chased in 18tj7 by the Sterling Iron Ore Company, of 
S3'racuse, to which place, as well as to other jmints west, 
the ore is shipped for reduction. The point of sliipnient is 
Sliurtlitl statiun, on the line of the Black River and Mor- 
ristown railroad, between Philadelphia and Theresa. The 
excavations have been extended nearly to the limit of the 
conijiany's lands, and the adjoining owners believe their 
lands to be underlaid by the same vein in equal extent, 
depth, and richness. The representatives of the company, 
on the other hand, a,ssert that the beds are nearly exhausted. 
The future alone can show which is the correct theory. 

THE STERLINGVILLE FURNACE. 

The first furnace on Black creek, in Philadelphia, was 
commenced by James .Sterling in 1836, for the purpose of 
working the ores from the Sterling bed, in Antwer]i, which 
he had then ju.st ]nirchasrd fioin David Parrish. It was 



completed in the spring of 1837, and was put in blast in 
June of that year. This first blast was kept on for three 
months, and produced about 155 tons of iron, bog ore 
being used with that from the Sterling mine. The Shurt- 
liff & Fuller ores were used also in limited quantities as a 
flux. In the fall of that year, Mr. Sterling associated with 
him Messrs. Orville Ilungerford, George Walton, Caleb 
Essington, and George C. Sherman, and with them organ- 
ized, Oct. 31, 1837, under the general law, as the " Ster- 
ling Iron Company," with a capital of ?20,000, in 200 
equal shares. A second blast was put on and continued 
for five months, during which the daily production w;us not 
materially increased over that of the first blast. The third 
blast, using hot air (cold air having been used in the first 
two trials), was commenced on the 10th of September, 
1838, and continued for the (then) unusual period of fifty- 
four weeks and two days, at the end of which the company 
complimented it.s employees by a public dinner. 

In 1840 the Sterling Iron Co. went out of existence, 
and a new one was formed ujion the property under the 
name of " The Philadelphia Iron Company." This was 
composed of Ephraim Taylor, Fred. Van Ostrand, George 
Dickerson, William Skinner, and John Gates. The date of 
their incorporation under the general law was May IS), 1840. 
This company rebuilt the furnace, and, having operated it 
for some time without much success, eea.sed to exist, and 
was succeeded by Samuel G. Sterling, a brother of James 
Sterling, who was the father, and under all the different 
proprietorships continued to be the niastcr-sjiirit, of the en- 
terprise until 1SJ9, when he retired from active life, and 
died in 1863. 

The furnace was destroyed by fire in 1849, and rebuilt 
about two years later. From 1859 to 1869 it was carried 
on by A. P. Sterling, of Antwerp, then sold to the Jeffer- 
son Iron Company, Edwin B. Bulkley, president, whose 
office is at Antwerp village. This ctmipany owns also the 
Sterlingbush furnaces in Diana, Lewis county, which, when 
in operation, are run on the ore of the Sterling mine, of 
which the company is the proprietor. The Sterlingville 
furnace is now cold, and there is said to be little proba- 
bility that it will ever again be in blast. 

TUE ESSINGTON FORGE, 

at Sterlingville, was erected about 1839, by Caleb Essing- 
ton, for the manufacture of refined iron, in which it was 
worked more or less extensively at ditrercnt times for a 
number of years ; but is now in disuse, and will probably 
not be again put in operation. 

POST-OFFICES. 

The post-ofiice of Philadelphia was established in 1822, 
with Edmund Tucker as first postmaster, under whom the 
oflSec was located in his brick house at the north end of the 
settlement. He held the position until his death, Jan. 6, 
1836. His successor was John Cross, who held the office 
until 1842. The later postmasters have been as follows : 
William Strong, 1842-19; James B. Carpenter, 1849-53; 
Jerome B. Davison, 1853-57; George E. Tucker, 1857- 
61; Daniel II. Scofield, 1861-64; Asa E. Macomber, 
1864-6(1; Samuel B. Scofield, 1866-69; Martin E. Ai- 



478 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



drick, 1869 to the present time. The business of the office 
for the Tear ending October 1, 1877, amounted to 8443.51, 
yielding to the postmaster a remuneration of §356.35. The 
money-order department yielded $11.92 additional. 

The post-office at Sterlingviile was established in Feb- 
ruary, 1839, George Walton being the first postmaster. 
The business of this office b small. The present postmaster 
is E. P. Daily. 

In 1850 the post-office of Whitney's Comers was estab- 
lished in the neighborhood beyring the same name, on the 
old Evans" Mills and Ox Bow plank-road, in the west part 
of the town. The first postmaster was Carey Z. Eddy, 
who held the office for one year, and was succeeded by Wm. 
M. Whitney, who remained until 1856, when the office 
was discontinued. During the days when the mail-stages 
ran over the plank-road the office at Philadelphia village 
received its mail by way of Whitney's Comers ; but the 
opening of the railroad destroyed stage-line, mail-route, and 
post-office together. 

On the Antwerp and Sterlingviile plank-road, at the little 
hamlet of Pogeland, a post-office of the same name was 
established in 1852, with Daniel Smith postmaster. He 
died soon after, and the office was for a time discontinued, 
but re-established with Theodore Cross postmaster. It was 
finally discontinued in 1854 or 1855. 

PUBLIC-HOUSES. 

About the year 1815 a tavern was built and opened in 
the Friends' Settlement by Samuel Case, son-in-law of John 
Strickland. It was upon the site of the present Eagle 
Hotel, of which it forms a part. After Case it was kept 
by Harvey Hamblin, who remained until 1823, and was 
succeeded by Samuel C. Frey as landlord. Also among its 

landlords were Ferrin, Jackman. and Edmund 

Hall. Wm. Comstock was its proprietor in 1832; Wm. 
K. Butterfield in 1835 and 1836; Jacob R. Howard, 
1837 ; Levi Butterfield in 1838, and for nine years there- 
after. Wm. A. Paul was there in 1848-49 ; James Kirk- 
bride, from 1851 to 1856 inclusive: Russell Washburn, 
1857 to 1863 inclusive; also in 1866 and 1867. It was 
kept by S. G. Elliott in 1864-65. and at different times by 
George Washburn, Henry Washburn, and J. H. Washburn, 
from 1868 until 1877, excepting 1874 and 1875, by F.N. 
Springsteen. 

The other public-house at the vilhige was built and 
opened by Mr. Crofoot about 1825. One of its first land- 
lords wa.s the unfortunate Cyrus Dodge, who was instantly 
killed in Philadelphia by the bursting of a cannon July 4, 
1829. It was kept by John Cross in 1829 and 1830. by 
Chas.G. Bunnell in 1831. by Wm. Mosherin 1833, by Daniel 
Rogers in 1834. Hiram Cross was one of its early pro- 
prietors, and its last was Dr. French. It is the same build- 
ing now occupied by Washburn's store and market, on 
Main street. 

A hotel was opened at Sterlingviile before 1840 b? Rufus 
H.itch. and was kept as a public-house for many years. 
The annual town-meeting was held at this house in 1852, 
during the proprietorship of Seth Hatch. The Sterling- 
viile House, now kept by William Conley, was built and 
o{iened by Frederick Van Ostrand in 1841. At Barber's 



corners, 2] miles east of Philadelphia village, was formerly 
a tavern, kept by Van Ostrand, Van Valkenburgh, and 
others ; also at Pogeland, near Antwerp line, among whose 
landlords were Van Ostrand and Daniel Smith. This house 
was destroyed by fire. 

MILLS AND MANUFACTORIES. 

Hie PhilaJeljthia Flnur-MlU is a successor of the first 
grist-mill, built by the Townsend brothers in 18<i5, stand- 
ing on, or nearly on, the same site. The old mill, passing 
into the possession of John Strickland, Sr., in 1809. and 
from him to Edmund Tucker, was rebuilt in 1825,* with 3 
run of burrs, and was then, and for years afterwards, con- 
sidered one of the best mills in the county. In 1830 it 
was sold by E. Tucker and Miles Strickland to Samuel 
Rogers, who took possession on the 1st of January follow- 
ing. His purchase also included 40 acres of land and 
several houses adjacent to tlie mill. 

In 1845 he sold it to Houck & Frazier, and in 18-18 the 
present mill was built by George Frazier, — Houck having 
withdrawn. It has since passed through several hands, 
among which were those of S. Graves, Frederick Happ, 
Holmes & Scofield, Clark & Brown, and Robert Melrose. 
It is at present owned and run by William McNeil and 
Henry Ford. 

Aid rich's Saic-MiU. on the lesser arm of the river, where 
it is divided by Pine-Tree Island, at the village, was built 
about 1826 by Hamblin <.\: Crofoot, and was included in the 
property sold by E. Tucker and Miles Strickland to Samuel 
Rogers in 1836. After that time it was used as a butter- 
tub factory for a time ; then returned to its original use. 
It is owned by Martin E. Aldrich. 

Tlie Plaster- and Feed-Mills of John W^ait, located on 
the island below the iron bridges at Philadelphia village, 
were started in 1872 by the present owner, in a building 
erected about 1851, by Henry Baxter, as a machine-shop. 
It was afterwards carried on as a flax-mill by Hamilton 
Childs, then became the property of John Cooper, from 
whose estate it was purchased by Mr. Wait. 

Farnham's Tannery is on the eastcrh" side of the river, 
at the village. Built in 1842, by James Shortt. from 
whom it was purchased by H. E. Farnham, the present 
owner. It is 45 by 82 feet in dimensions, and produces 
600U sides of leather yearly. 

Potter's Cabinet Worki occupy the building formerly 
used b}' Milo Shattuck as a clothiery, and both this and the 
w:igon-shop adjoining receive their power from the canal 
constructed by Horace Ball for his fulling-mill, more than 
half a century ago. 

Monroe Bros'. Saw-Mill, on the upper dam at the village, 
was built by William Strong, and after him was run by 
Bracket Ackerman. This establishment doi's a good 
business. 

The Sicrlinyville Grisl-Mill, and the saw-uiill at the 
same place, were built, and are now owned, by Caleb Ess- 
iugtoD, proprietor of the Sterling\'illc forge. 

Of mills and manufactories which have existed in Phila- 



* Tbe old i-afr-mill buill by (be Townsends was at this time demol- 
ished aod Dot rebuilt. 



HISTORY OF JEFFKRSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



479 



delphia in times past, may be mentioned the foundry built 
by Aaron Baxt«r, and the machine-shop (iron-working), by 
Henry Baxter, both located on the island at the village, and 
both carried away by flood; the first saw-mill built by Wil- 
liam StroDjr, which stood near Farnham's tannery, now 
decayed and gone ; and the old white saw-mill, a short mile 
below the village, on Indian river, upon or near the site of 
which Otis Brooks is now erecting a tub- and checse-box- 
factory. 

A saw-mill was built at Stcrlingville as early as 1824, by 
Hamblin & Crolbot, for Edmund Tucker, but said to have 
been owned by Joseph Bonaparte, Another was built at 
the same place by James Sterling in 183C, No vestige of 
either is now remaining. 

SCHOOLS. 

The first school was that taught by Anna Comstock, in 
1810, in the frame dwelling which John Strickland had 
added to the block-house purchased by him from Thomas 
Townsend. >Ii.ss Comstock was also the first teacher of 
the ,school in the Quaker meeting-house, which was built in 
1810, and used for school purposes until 1827. A few 
only of the teachers' names can be brought to memory. 

Mr. Blackman taught a short time in 181G, but soon 

became sick, and was succeeded by Elias Roberts. Jliss 
Anna Strickland taught in 1818, and Samuel Rogers in the 
winter of 1821-22, for a compensation of Sll per month, 
he having a school of about 30 pupils. The first school 
districts, numbering from 1 to 4, inclusive, were laid off 
Sept. 28, 1822, by John Strickland, Jr., David iMosher, 
and James Bones, school commissioners. In that year 
the amount of school money received from the town col- 
lector was S13.56, and an equal amount was received from 
the county treasurer; total, S27.12. Districts Nos. 1 and 
3, however (the last named being the Quaker settlement), 
supported six mouths of teaching; district No. 2, three 
months ; district 4 not being mentioned. Books then in use, 
Introduction to English Reader, Webster's Spelling-Book, 
Comly's Grammar and Geography, Adams' Arithmetic, 

Ten years later (1832) the report of the school commis- 
sioners of Philadelphia (Hiram Ilinman and David Tucker) 
to the State superintendent showed that the public money 
for schools received from county treasurer was 860,80, and 
from the town collector, S.t1.64 ; total, 8112.44; appor- 
tioned to districts 1,2,3, 7, and 8, and joint districts 6 
and 18 ; that the amount paid for teachers' wages, in addi- 
tion to the public money, was 8236,88 ; that the duration 
of teaching in the year averaged 8 months and 2 days ; 
that the number of children taught was .376 ; and that 
the school-books in use were Cobb's Spelling-Book, The 
English Reader, Adams', Rogers', and Daboll's Arith- 
metics, Murray's and Rensliaw's Grammars, and Willett's 
Geography, 

About 1835 a bitter controversy sprung up and continued 
for a long time concerning the management of the school 
on the centre lot. On the one side were the trustees of the 
lot, backed by the Orthodox Quakers, and on the other a 
large part of the inhabitants outside of the sect. On the 
part of the latter it was charged that their children, although 
fully entitled to all the privileges of the school, were ejected 



therefrom for no reasons save those of a sectarian character; 
that thej' (the trustees) had misapplied funds arising from^ 
the rents; that they had employed iniprr)per and incom- 
petent teachers, and (later on; that they had abandoned 
the school and converted the house into a dwelling, etc. 
The management retorted that no misapplication of the 
funds had been made, and that in any view of the case they 
were accountable to the meeting, and to that body alone, for 
the faithful execution of their trust ; that they had been 
unwarrantably interfered with by attempts to employ' and in- 
stall objectionable teachers ; and that as regarded the exclu- 
sion of children from the school, no sectarian discrimination 
had been made, nor had there been any exclusion except 
for improper conduct, which, they more than intimated, was 
not only excused, but incited, by the parents themselves. 
These are but a few of the charges and recriminations of 
that controversy, a correct account of which, in all its 
phases, could hardly be given, even by one whrj was present 
to witness the quarrel, but which to the historian, who must 
gather the facts now, after the lapse of forty years, would 
be a task hopeless and impossible. These events resulted 
in the erection of a school-house by the district (No. 3), 
upon land donated by John F. Latimer, Esq., in 1837, 
This building was some years since remodeled into a dwell- 
ing, the same now occupied b}- Robert M, Cooper. Some 
years later (1851), Messrs. Slocum and Townsend, for the 
Quakers, built a small frame school-house at a spot now a 
short distance south of the track of the R., W. & O. rail- 
road, on the road to the house of Aaron Child. It is now 
the dwelling of Elisha Rogers. A school was taught in 
this for some time, the object probably being to avoid the 
possibility of a reversion of the centre lot to the heirs of Le 
Ray by reason of a failure to comply with the conditions 
upon which it was given. 

The number of districts is now 10, and the number of 
schools 11, allowing for the two departments taught in dis- 
trict No. 3 (Philadelphia village), where a male and a 
female teacher are employed during the year, the former re- 
ceiving about 812 per week, and the latter $6.50. Higher 
salaries than these were formerly paid in this district. Here 
3 terms are taught, — winter, spring, and fall, — aggregating 
about 38 weeks. The school-house is the old Quaker 
church, but the erection of a new building is in contem- 
plation. In the other districts of the town the yearly ag- 
gregate of terms seldom much exceeds the ref|uircd duration 
of 28 weeks. The teachers employed are nearly all females, 
who receive from 84 to 86 per week. The school oflScers 
are district trustees, one or three in each district, at their 
option. 

The schools in Philadelphia village are now taught in 
the old (second) Quaker meeting-house, which, with about 
five acres of land. — th* meeting-house lot, — was purchased 
by the district from the society in 1869, for about 81800. 
A part of this lot has since been sold, leaving about two 
acres as a school lot. It is exceedingly well loc;ited, and a 
new house will probably soon be erected on it. 

The " Pliiladclphia Library" was formed Sept. 13, 1S31, 
with Edmund Tucker, Alvah Murdock, Henry W. Mar- 
shall, Joel Haworth, John F. Latimer. Samuel Rogers, 
Azel Danforth, Weeden Mosher, and John R. Taylor, trus- 



480 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



tees. It has not been kept up. The volumes remaining 
are in custody of John F. Latimer, Esq. 

RELIGIOUS. 

TUE rUILADELPIIIA CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. 

This church was formed of the old society of " the friend.s 
of Christian union in Philadelphia," reinforced by members 
of the Presbyterian church. The first entry upon their 
record is of a meeting uf the friends of Christian union, held 
June 28, 1859, at the hou.se of John Wait, at which An- 
drew Miller, John Wait, Lucius Smith, Bracket Acker- 
man, Francis D. York, William S. Nichols, and Nathan R. 
Whitney were elected trustees. Two days later another 
meeting was held, at which James W. Beers, James H. 
Cooper, and Cyrus Mosher were chosen a building com- 
mittee to raise subscriptions preliminary to the erection 
of a church, and it was also " voted to take the Wash- 
burn site at $15." On July 7, at a meeting, the committee 
rejiorted §420 subscribed, and on July 14 it was again 
voted to take the Washburn site. Tiie next entry is of 
date June 28, 1860, and shows that the church had been 
erected in the mean time, viz., " The regular yearly meet- 
ing of the friends of Christian union met in the Philadel- 
phia church," etc., the chair being taken by Ilev. James 
Gregg, who continued to jireach to them for some years. 

On Wednesday, January 20, 1868, at a council of dele- 
gates from the Congregational churches of West Carthage, 
Lisbon, Richville, Antwerp, and Copciihagon, " for the 
purpose of reorganizing this church on the basis of the 
Congregational polity," it was " voted to receive this into 
the fellowship of Congregational churches." The persons 
taking the covenant, and subscribing to the confession of 
faith under this reorganization, were Rev. Josiah Newton, 
John Wait, L. J. Smith, Mrs. A. S. Newton, Frances Mur- 
doek, Sarah M. Smith, Edward Pitcher, Eliza Sprague, 
Mrs. II. II. York, and E. A. Seofield. Mr. Newton served 
them until Rev. A. B. Dilley became their pastor on June 
1, 1873. He remained until July 2, 1874, when he was 
succeeded by Rev. N. F. Nickeison, who is still in charge. 
The present membership (^1877j is 50 ; 23 males and o6 
females. The house of worship of this congregation is on 
Antwerp street, near the centre of the village. 

The Presbyterian church, which united with this after 
the reorganizatii)n cm a Coiigregatinnal basin, was itself 
a Congregational cluircb, organizcil willi thirteen members 
in 1841, by Rev. N. Duttcm, of Clianipion, who continued 
as their minister fur several years. Tlie society was incor- 
porated under the general law, Feb. 8, 1841, with Nelson 
Ackcrt, Milo Shattuck, Abijah Ford, Peter Bethel, and 
Alvali Murdoek, trustees. Before 1860 the church was 
chan'.;('d to the Presbyterian form, and so remained until 
merged with the Congregalionalist as mentioned. In thr 
first year of their organization they had, in union with the 
Baptists, erected a church on Main street, in the village, 
cosling§1600; and in this they worshiped until the fusion, 
when their interest in the edifice was purchased by the 
Baptists. 

THE M. E. CIllllCll OK IMIlI.AhKl.l'IlIA. 

The first Methodist society in tin' lnwn of I'iiilaticlpbia 



was formed March 9, 1838, the trustees being William 
Powell, George Sim, Theodore Cross, Charles R. Sweet, 
and Stephen Post. In the same year they erected a church 
building on William Powell's land, in the neighborhood 
known .ns Pogeland, near the town-line of Antwerp, in 
which some of the society resided. This organization con- 
tinued until 1867, when the lew remaining members de- 
cided to sell their building and unite with the church at 
the village. The church at Phiiadel]ibia village was organ- 
ized in 1843, with Sterling Graves, Uiehard Crabb, Benja- 
min Allen, and Nelson Chadwick, trustees. Their huuse 
of worship was erected the same season u])oii the main 
road, at the southerlj' end of the village, on land purchased 
of Elizabeth Mosher. They met here for fifteen j'cars, but 
in 1858 a large and most desirable lot (the present site) 
was purchased of Jesse Roberts upon the opposite side of 
the street, and to this the church was removed, enlarged, 
and rededicatcd. In the following year a parsonage was 
erected on the same lot. The estimated value of this church 
property is S4500. 

The following are the ministers who have served the 
church, and the dates of their appointment; Rev. Elijah 
Smith, 1843 ; S. W. Thurston, 1845 ; L. D. Gibbs, 1846 
(died in the charge) ; John R. Lewis, 1847 ; T. D. Sleeper, 
1848; J. N. Brown, 1850; Wm. H. Blancbard, 1851; 
Silas Slater, 1852; A. S. Niekerson, 1853; J. Penficld, 
1855 ; C. Phelps, 1856 ; G. S. Watson, 1857 ; M. Thrasher, 
1859; J. H. Burnett, 1861 ; A. F. Wheeler, 1863; A. 
M. Fradendurgb, 1865; S. C. Goodell, 1867; D. Simonds, 
1869; II. 0. Tilden, 1870; 0. M. Witters, 1872; H. G. 
Miller, 1873; H. Hesselgrave, 1874; and S. F. Kenyon, 
1877. The present trustees are Abel Wilson, Henry 
Hart, II. S. Houghton, A. W. Potter, and Theodore Con- 
way. The present membership is 119. The Sabbath- 
school is under the superintendence of Asa E. Macomber. 
The attendance is about 90. 

A class of 29 members belonging to this charge worships 
in the Union church at Sterlingvilhi. 

ST. NICHOLAS CHURCH (CATUOLIC). 

This church edifice was built in 1838-39, on a site do- 
nated by Mr. La Farge, on Black creek, a short distance 
above Sterlingvillc. The co.st of the building was about 
?8i.'0. The present priest in charge is Rev. Father Plunkett. 
The worshipers are numerous. 

THE BAPTIST CHURCH OE I'HILAHELPII I A 

was organized at the house of E. I). Woodward, in Pliila- 
delphia, Nov. 5, 1840, with the following constituent 
members: William York, Henry York, Walter Culton, 
Nathan Frink, Henry Colton, E. D. Woodward, Sister 
Colton, I)iana Baker, Mrs. Cloyse, and Laura Taylor. The 
organization was approved by a council I'rom the churches 
of Watertown, Le Ray, Antwerp, and Antwerp and Fowler. 
Sermon on that occasion by Rev. Charles (^lark. and of 
fellowship by Rev. Philander Persons; charge by Ilev. Syl- 
vester Davis. A society (corporate) was formed Dec. 14, 
1840, with E. D. Woodward, Elias Roberts, Walter Colton, 
Jesse Smith, and Henry York, trustees. 

For a time lliey met lor worship in a barn, then for a 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



481 



few months in the school-house, and then, in 1841, in union 
witli the Congregationalists, they erected their present 
house on Main street; the cost being about $1600. They 
became sole owners, by purchase of the other party's in- 
terest, about 1868. The first pastor of this church was 
Rev. Ashbel Stevens, then came Rev. John Wilder ; and 
these have been succeeded by Revs. Chas. II. Havens, S. 
L. Bulas, J. F. Bishop, Henry Ward, Lorenzo Rice, Joseph 
B. Drumiuond, Charles Bailey, Elijah G. Blount, Loreu 
G. Brown, and Henry Ward (a second term), thjir present 
pastor. The meinbersiiip is now 73. 

Auxiliary to the church is a flourishing Sabb.itli-school, 
now under the su]>eniiteiideucy of De.'iter Allis. 

TQE FKEE B.U'TIST CIIURCFI OP rHILADELl'HI.\ 

was org-anized at the house of William Chadwick July 25, 
1852, by a council of which Elder Samuel Hart was 
moderator and Elder M. H. Abbey clerk. The constituent 
members were William Chadwick, Irene Chadwick, Samson 
Hildreth, Lueinda Hildreth, Leiand M. Smith, Lovina 
Bcmas, Anson Chadwick, Angeline I. Chadwick, and 
Clarissa Eddy. For many years their meetings were held 
in the Whitney school-hou.se, but they purchased, fur $515, 
a half-interest in the Baptist church building, after the 
Presbyterians had withdrawn from its joint occupation with 
the Baptists. Each share in this property is now valued 
at SIOUO. Their first pastor was Elder Samuel Hart, 
whose successors in the desk have been Elders William 

Whitfield, J. W. Hills, Johnson, J. J. Allen, B. F. 

Jefferson, William G. Willis, J. B. Collins, and Henry 
Ward, who still serves them. 

THE UNION CHURCH EDIFICE 

at Sterlingville was built by an association of citizens under 
the management of George Clark, Caleb Essington, and 
Thomas Delancey, trustees. The object in view was to 
provide a suitable place where Christians of any denomina- 
tion might meet fur religious purposes, and this original 
intent has been adhered to. It has been used as ri^quired 
by Episcopalians, Universalists, Baptists, Methodists, Dis- 
ciples, and others. The two last named hold regular meet- 
ings there at the present time. It was completed in 185G 
at a cost of $1800, the architect and builder being James 
Murray. 

THE disciples' CHURCH. 

The first meetings of this people were held in the town 
of Philadelphia soon after 1850; their first preachers being 

Revs. Benedict, Oliphant, B. F. Bush, and others. 

The organization as a church was made about 1804, with 22 

constituent members, under charge of Rev. Parker, of 

Illinois, who remained in their service one year. Afterwards 
came Rev. Mr. Oliu, Rev. John Hamilton, Rev. Mr. Good- 
rich, who remained only six months, and the present p.istor. 
Rev. John Boggs, who came in the spring of 1877. Meet- 
ings for communion are held every Sabbath in the Union 
church at Sterlingville. Preaching in the same place once 
in four weeks. The present membership is about 50. A 
Union Sabbath-school, under the superintendency of Joseph 
Essington, is held weekly at the Union church. 
31 



THE OLD QUAKER GRAVE-YARD. 

This ancient burial-ground, adjoining which the first 
Quaker meeting-house was afterwards erected, was com- 
menced in 1807 by the interment of the victims of the 
malignant fever of that year. Its first occui)ants were John 
Merrick and two children of Robert Comfort, but it is not 
known which of these was the earliest. Five or six persons 
attended the funerals, and Mr. Oliver Child recollects hear- 
ing mention of the circumstance that a man was sent to chop 
and clear a spot for the graves. The Quakers, by a rule of 
their sect, were forbidden to erect monuments, even of the 
most modest kind, over the departed, and I'or nearly a <|uar- 
ter of a century the rule was enforced in this ground, in 
regard to all, whether Friends or otherwise. The first 
stone erected here was to the memory of Alanson Mosher, 
in 1831, after which the prohibition became a nullity. The 
first sexton, or person having charge of the ground (and of 
the meeting-house when built), Wiis Stephen Roberts, and 
the ofiSce d&scended from him to his son Elias. 

THE TOWN BURIAL-GROUND AT PHILADELPHIA VILLAGE. 

It became apparent, after thirty years of use, that the 
Quaker ground would soon be inadequate to the require- 
ments of both Friends and townspeople, and, besides, the 
antagonism then recently developed in property and school 
matters had extended even to " God's acre." A town 
burial-place was needed, and negotiation was made for a 
spot adjoining the grave-yard of the Quakers, and being a 
part of their meeting-house tract. A deed for this was ex- 
ecuted February 15, 1840, to Miles Strickland, as supervisor 
of the town, by Joseph A. Child, Harmon Ackert, and 
Jacob Chase, trustees of the Le Ray monthly meeting, and 
Cadwallader Child, John Town-send, and Jason Merrick, 
'•acting tru.stees of the estate and funds arising from a 
donation made by James D. Le Ray de Chaumont," etc., 
conveying forty five one-hundredths of an acre " for the 
purpose of a public burial-ground, agreeable to the statute 
in such cases made and provided." The first interment iu 
this was of the wife of Jesse Smith. The area was small, 
and, after some years, an addition became necessary, and 
was laid out upon the northeasterly side. Few interments 
j are now made, cither in this or in the Quaker ground. 

THE PHILADELPHIA CEMETERY. 

After about twenty years from its laying out, the town 
burial-ground seems to have come to be considered as insuf- 
ficient or inconvenient, for, at the annual town-meeting in 
1859, William Allis, Seth Strickland, and Henry Wilson 
were appointed a committee '' to procure a piece of land, 
not less than two acres, suitable for a public burial-ground, 
at some place within one mile of the village of Philadelphia, 
and present the account of the same to the town auditors." 
. . . Nothing was accomplished by this committee, and at 
the next annual meeting John F. Latimer, Charles D. 
Nims, and Thaddeus Scofield were appointed to procure 
such a lot, within two miles of the village, and they were 
authorized " to lay out a portion of said land into lots, and 
to sell the same." At the meeting in 1861 they reported 
in favor of a site on land of Seth Strickland, and that it 



482 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



could be procured for 8525, which was at once voted for 
the purpose. 

The purchase, however, was not then consummated, 
Strickhiud demanding a higher price for the land ; and it 
appears that the matter was thus held in abeyance for two 
years, for, at the annual meeting in 18tj3, it was resolved 
that a committee be appointed "to negotiate with Seth 
Strickland about his land, or to do any and all things ne- 
cessary to get a piece of land for a burying-ground, . . . 
and to report at next meeting.' In the mean time, however, 
the comiuittee had found that the ground selected was wholly 
unfit for the purpose designed, being at times completely 
saturated with water. Accordingly, at the meeting in 18G4, 
it was " resolved that the action of the committee be ap- 
proved in canceling the deed from Seth Strickland." 

The Strickland negotiation being abandoned, a tract of 
about 4 acres was purcliased of John H. Comstock, this 
being a part of the Thaddeus Scofield form, and lying on 
the Sandy Hollow road, westerly from the village about IJ 
miles. A committee was appointed to lay out the cemetery 
" according to plan, and to sell and deed to purchasers 200 
lots, at prices not less than §1.50, nor more than S5 ; and 
in no case to sell more than 2 lots to any one person." The 
cemetery gives general satisfaction, the main objection to it 
being that it must be approached over an exceedingly bad 
road. • It is now the principal place of interment for the 
townspeople, and many transfers to it have been made 
from the old ground in the village. 

THE BURIAL-GROUND NEAR STERLINGVILLE, 

which was commenced, and is used chiefly by, inhabitants 
of that village and the neighboring region, lies just across 
the river, in the town of Lc Ray. The ground — about one 
acre — was purchased of Aaron Comstock, in 1850. The 
first interment in it was of Aaron Bristol, in the early 
part of 1851. James Sterling, the originator of the works 
which made the village of Sterlingville, was buried here in 
1863. 

The burials of the Catholics have been made in their 
church-yard at Sterlingville ; but as this proved a wet and 
unsuitable ground, they are now discontinued, and many 
transfers have been made from this to their ground at 
Carthage. 

The inhabitants of a portion of Philadelphia, adjoining 
Theresa, use the Chase burial-ground, in the latter town. 

PHILADELPHIA VILLAGE. 

Philadelphia was incorporated a village in 1872, the 
boundaries being described as follows: " Beginning at 
a point in line between great lots Nos. 610 and C44, 15 
chains from corner of great lots Nos. 609, 610, 643, and 
644 ; thence N. 39° E. along said great lot line 80 chains 
to a point one chain beyond corner of great lots Nos. 611, 
612, 645, and 646 ; thence N. 51° W., parallel with great 
lot line, 80 chains; thence S. 39° W. 80 chains to .«take 
near bank of Indian river; thence S. 51° E. 80 chains to 
place of beginning; containing 640 acres of land. Sur- 
veyed by Martin E. Aldrich, Dec. 4, 1871." The incor- 
poration was accepted and ratified at a meeting held at the 
l>ublic-house of J. H. Washburn, January 11, 1872. The 



first oflBcers elected were : D. H. Scofield, president ; Seth 
Strickland, Orrin A. Cross, and George E. Tucker, trustees; 
which board appointed Asa E. Macomber clerk and Jas. 
Barr street commissioner. The following-named persons 
have since been elected to the office of president of the cor- 
poration : Daniel H. Scofield, in 1873; Gaylor Rouse, in 
1874, 1875, 1876 ; and George E. Tucker, in 1877. The 
trustees elected for the present year (1877) are John T. 
Strickland and Russell Washburn; Clerk, A. E. Ma- 
comber ; Collector, Charles F. Pollock ; Treasurer, William 
T. Holmes. 

At the ti.iue of incorporation Philadelphia contained 625 
inhabitants. It has now nearly- 700, and contains, besides 
the mills and other establishments above mentioned, three 
churches (Congregational, BaptLst, and Methodist), 1 school- 
house, the post-office, telegraph-office, railway buildings, 2 
hotels, 3 general stores, 2 groceries, 2 drug-stores, 3 physi- 
cians, 1 attorney, 1 hardware-store, 1 stove- and tinware- 
store, 1 harness- and saddlery-shop, and one watelimaker's 
shop. Two fine iron bridges were built across Indian river, 
at Main street, in 1876. 

STERLINGVILLE. 

This little village, also a station on the Utica and Black 
River railroad, contains, besides the furnace, forge, and 
mills already mentioned, the post-office of the same name, 
1 school-house, 2 churches (Union and Catholic), 1 public- 
house, 1 general store, 1 grocery, 2 blacksmith-shops, and 
1 carriage-manufactory. In 1855 its population was 316, 
and in 1865 had decrciised to 276. Probably there has been 
no increase since that time. 

RAILROADS — TELEGRAPH. 

The Rome, Watertown and Ogdensburgh railroad, which 
cros.ses the town from the Le Ray to the Antwerp line, was 
opened from Watertown to Pliiladelj)hia June 2, 1855. 
The agent of the road at Philadelphia is Mr. John Allis, 
who held that position from 1855 to 1866, and again from 
December, 1873, to the present time. In the period from 
1866 till the return of Mr. Allis in 1873 the company's 
asrent here was R. J. Traver. 

The Utica and Black River railroad, which enters the 
town near Sterlingville, and passes thence down the Black 
Creek valley to Philadelphia village, was opened to that 
point Feb. 2, 1872. Tiie Black River and Morristown 
road (a northern connection of the U. & B. R. railroad and 
now leased bj' that company) was opened for traffic hence 
to Theresa in the fall of 1873. Mr. Allis is also the Phil- 
adelphia agent of the two last-named roads. The pa.ssengcr 
depot here is a good and commodious building standing 
some distance south of the centre of the village, but within 
the corporation limits. It is used jointly by the two com- 
panies, whose tracks here cross each other at right angles. 

The aggregate of business done by both roads at this 
station, in the year 1876, was as follows : Freight forwarded, 
829,689.12. Freight received, 818,638.59. Tickets sold, 
812,846.83. The amount of tickets sold at this station in 
the first year of the operation of the R., W. & 0. road was 
about 81700. 

Telegraphic communication with Philadelphia was first 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



483 



opened in June, 18G8. The office was first, as at present, 
in the store of John Wait, and the first operator was Wil- 
liam J. Wait. 

AGRICULTURAL. 

Philadelphia, like the surrounding towns, has a soil better 
adapted for grazing purposes than for the extensive produc- 
tion of cereals, and hence the farmers here, as in the neigh- 
boring region, give especial attention to the raising of stock 
and to dairying. Large numbers of good cattle are sent 
from here by railroad and otherwise, but it is from the 
products of the dairy, particulaily fnim the manufacture of 
cheese, that the husbandman realizes his principal profit. 
There are at present four factories of common, or " Yankee" 
cheese, viz. : the " I'hiladelphia choosc-factory," just out.side 
the village, owned by Madison Cooper, and taking the pro- 
duct of G50 cows; the " Barber factory," IJ miles farther 
east, manufacturing from 350 cows; the factory of Loren 
Fuller, in the northwest part of the town, supplied by about 
500 cows ; and H. W. Eddy's factory, in the west corner of 
the town, furnished by 1 25 cows. There are also ten factories 
of Limbuiger cheese, u.sing the milk of 940 cows ; in all 
more than 2500 cows, exclusive of those from which butter 
and cheese arc made by hand-process. There are few towns 
of the size which make a better showing in this line of 
agriculture. 

PUILADELPUI.V ORANGE, NO. 11-1, P. OF H., 

was organized Feb. 24, 1874, with 40 members. The first 
officers of the grange were Lansing Becker, Master ; George 
E. Tucker, Overseer ; George Comstock, Lecturer ; Charles 
E. Gould, Secret;iry; Joseph P. Lawton, Treasurer; Wm. 
J. Nevills, Steward; Wm. Whiting, Assistant Steward; Al- 
bert K. Allen, Chaplain ; and Edwin Wilson, Gate-keeper. 
The meetings have from the first been held in Farnham's 
Hall, in Philadelphia village. The present officers are 
Wm. Whiting, M;j.ster; John S. Casler, Overseer; Edwin 
Wilson, Lecturer; Cornelius Scouten, Steward; Stephen 
Howland, Assistant Steward ; George Comstock, Chaplain ; 
Samuel Hall, Treasurer; Henry D. Ford, Secretary; Francis 
Wilson, Gate-keeper ; Miss Henrietta Whidng, Ceres ; Miss 
Mary J. Ford, Pomona; Miss Anna M. Becker, Flora; 
Mi.ss Clara Hall, Lady Assistant Steward. The membership 
is now 55. 

PHYSICIANS. 

Dr. Almon Pitcher, who has already been mentioned as 
the first physician to locate at the Quaker Settlement, was 
followed by Dr. Alvah Murdock, who came from Gouver- 
neur, and settled in Philadelphia in 1829. After more than 
forty years of successful practice here he removed to Rens- 
selaer Falls, and has but recently deceased. Among those 
who have practiced in Philadelphia village since the coming 
of Dr. Murdock may be mentioned Dr. A. M. Van Ostrand, 

Dr. Coan, Dr. James B. Carpenter, Dr. A. Welch, Dr. 

0. S. Copeland, Dr. V. B. Ayres, Dr. E. Seymour, Dr. H. 
S. Lane, Dr. E. W. Trowbridge, and Dr. R. A. Stevens. 
Drs. Stevens and Lane are still established here. Dr. 
Weeden Mosher, a botanic ph3sician, w;u< for a long time a 
resident of the village. Dr. C. Heath, eclectic, is .still in 
practice in Philadelphia. 



For valuable assistance in the preparation of this town's 
history, the thanks of the writer are due to the following- 
gentlemen, namely, Oliver Child, Es([., John F. Latimer, 
Esfj., Samuel Rogers, Esq., Reverends Henry Ward and 
N. F. Nickerson, Messrs. E. A. Scofield, John Allis, Asa 
E. Maeomber, Jolin Wait, Loren Fuller, M. E. Aldrich, A. 
C. Comstock, and George E. Tucker, Esrj. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



OLIVER CHILD. 

The ancestors cf Mr. Child emigrated from Wales to 
Pennsylvania as early as 1G81, and settled in Bucks county, 
where they engaged in farming. Being members of that 
plain and unpretending sect, the Friends, the children were 
reared under the discipline of the rigid honesty and sim- 
plicity characteristic of that people. Cephas, the paternal 
grandfather, was born in Bucks county, where he lived all 
his life, rearing a family of eight children. It was here 
that Cadwalador, the father of Oliver, was born, July 18, 
1776. He attended the schools of that day, acquiring a 
good English education. He became for a .short time a 
teacher, and, at the early age of twenty, in 1800, he was 
married to Elizabeth Rea, of the .same place. In the year 
1804 he came to Jefferson Co., N. Y., where for several 
years he was chiefly engaged in surveying roads and 
boundary lines for the great land-owner, Le Ray. Soon 
after his arrival in Jefferson County he, in company with 
ten or a dozen others, selected a largo tract of land for set- 
tlement, which was divided into lots of 440 acres each, and 
the difterent parcels were distributed by lot. Mr. Childs 
drew lot No. 644. The purchase-price of these lands was 
three dollars per acre. In 1806 he, with his family, moved 
on to his (mrchase and commenced clearing up his lands, 
and from this time until his death, which occurred April 3, 
1851, he was engaged in farming and rearing a family of 
six children. The names of his children are Aaron, Jo- 
seph A., Oliver, Mary, Gaynor, and Naylor. Of these, all 
are living and have families except Gaynor, who is deceased. 

Oliver, the third son, was born in the town of Philadel- 
phia, on the old home farm, on which he still resides, Feb- 
ruary 10, 1807. He received a good common-school edu- 
cation, and was reared a farmer, which he has made the 
principal business of his life, although he was in the employ 
of Mr. Le Ray for ten years as a surveyor. By his first 
wife, Edith Shaw, of Pennsylvania, he beaime (he father 
of three children. His first child, Hamilton Child, is a 
publisher in the city of Syracuse. The names of the other 
two are Mary J. and Lewis J. The mother of these chil- 
dren died in 1842. Mr. Child's second marriage occurred 
on September 12, 1844, with Eliza Shepherd, of St. Law- 
rence county. By this marriage there are no children. 
The farm now comprises over 300 acres of fine dairy lands, 
to which it is principally devoted. 

By reference on another page of this work, may be found 
a fine view of the old home of this pioneer family. 



484 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 





LY.MAN WILSON. 



.MUS. RUTU WILSON. 



LYMAN WILSON, 



whose portniit and that of his widow — -Ruth Wilson — oc- 
cupy this pige, are among the old pioneer settlers of Jeffer- 
son County, and are descended from old families of English 
origin, who emigrated to this country at an early date. 
Suel Wilson, the father of Lyman, was a native of Vermont, 
and emigrated to Jefferson County .ibout the year 1805, and 
settled in the town of Le Ray. He reared a family of eleven 
cliildren, — eight sons and three daughters, — of wtiieh Lyman 
was the eldest child. He was reared a farmer, and received 
a good common-school education, which he put to good, 
practical u.se in after-years as a teacher, farmer, and in va- 
rious offices and positions of trust in his town, having at 
various times in his life filled the office of supervisor, mag- 
istrate, commissioner, etc., acceptably to his fellow-towns- 
men. 

At the age of twenty-two, on the 7th day of April, 1824, 
he was united in marriage with Ruth Carey, of Le Ray, the 
daughter of Levi Carey, one of the early settlers of that 
town. His father, Suel Wilson, departed this life on the 
10th day of November, 1827, and his widow only survived 
his death a short time, as her death occurred on the 19th 
day of December, 1827. 

Lyman, the next year afler his marriage, bought a farm 



in Le Ray, which after four years he sold, and soon after 
purchased a farm in the town of Philadelphia, which be- 
came his permanent home and on which he continued to 
reside until his death, which occurred Jan. 24, 1877. He 
was the father of eight children, named as follows: Emma 
M,, Warren, Ghloe A., Lyman S., Lyman H., Henry M., 
Melville D., and Newell C. Of these, all are living, mar- 
ried, and have families, except Lyman and Newell, who are 
deceased. 

Mr. Ljman Wilson, all through a long and useful life, 
posses.scd the confidence and esteem of his fellow-townsmen, 
and the love and affection of a large circle of relatives and 
friends. 

Ruth Wilson, his widow, is still living at the advanced 
age of seventy-seven years, and is in the enjoyment of 
good health and in po,ssos.«ion of all her faculties. She is 
the honored member of the family of her son Warren, who 
now occupies with his mother the old homestead. 

To the readers of this work — to the acquaintances, 
friends, and relatives of the family — this page is affection- 
ately dedicated as a monument to the memory, and a tribute 
of respect to one of the old pioneer families of Jefferson 
County. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



485 





( ^ '^ I 




JDII.V STRICKLAND. 



MRS. JOU.\ STRICKLAND. 



JOHN STRICKLAND, Sr., 



was born in Bucks Co., Pa., in 1757, of English parents. 
When at the age of fifty, in the year 1809, he, with his wife 
and ten children, emigrated to Jefferson County and settled 
in Philadelphia, in the town of Le Hay. Throe of the sons 
had emigrated a year previous. Others soon followed, and 
the settlement was known as the Friends' settlement, as most 
of the settlers belonged to that society. Possessed of a 
strong constitution, persevering industry, a kind and cheer- 
ful disposition, and believing and practicing the peaceful 
doctrines of Penn, Mr. Strickland was a fit man for a pio- 
neer in a new country. He erected the first frame hou.se 
in the town of riiiladeliihia ; also one of the first flouring- 
miils. To him is the town indebted for many of its earliest 
improvements, atid for nearly forty years was engaged in 
active business. When he came, in 1809, he brought with 
him from Pennsylvania a sum exceeding §25,000 cash. 
With this he purcha.sed 5000 acres of land in Philadel- 
phia, taking only selected lots, for which he paid S3 to $5 
per acre. During the succeeding war with England, he, 
with his son-in law, Samuel Case, was largely engaged in 
furnishing provisions for the army, for a considerable por- 
tion of which they were unable ever to obtain paj- from the 
government. Besides this, the sudden declaration of peace 
left on their hands large quantities of supplies, for which 
they realized less than h.ilf their first cost. Those disasters 
compelled him to dispose of his real estate, which, under 
the forced sale, brought so little that, after paying dollar for 
dollar of his indebtedness, he was was left with a bare 220 



acres (a half lot) out of all the broad tracts whiili, if he 
could have retained them, would have made him one of the 
wealthiest men of Jefferson County. He departed this life 
on the 15th of September, 1849, aged ninety-two years. 
He left behind him for a se;ison the partner of his youth 
and old age, for they had trod together the path of life and 
shared its joys and sorrows for sixty-six years, and as pio- 
neers in a new country their trials and hardships were 
many. He left behind him also ten children and a numer- 
ous family of descendants, even to the fifth generation. 

During his last illness no murmur pa.ssed his lips. Ilis 
only wish was to depart, and peaceful as an infant going to 
sleep did the spirit of that aged man take its flight to its 
eternal home. He was married at the age of twenty-five 
to Margaret Stout, Feb. G, 17S2, a lady of German descent. 
She bore him the following-named children, viz., p]lizabeth, 
John, Jr., Sarah, Deborah, Ann, Mahlon, Margaret, Rachel, 
Miles, Martha, and Seth. 

Elizabeth became the wife of Thomas Townsend, April 
17, ISOO, and resided and died at Lowville, Lewis Co., 
N. Y. John, Jr., w;is married to Rachel Townsend, April 
9, 180G, resided and died at Philadelphia, Jeffersim Co., 
N. Y. Sarah became the wife of Ezra Comly, of Byberry, 
Pennsylvania, where she resided and died. Ann became 
the wife of Edmund Tucker, of Pliiladeljihia, Jefferson Co., 
N. Y., on March 19, 1819. where she resided until her 
death. Mahlon was married to Mary Rogers, of Philadel- 
phia, Jefferson Co., Feb. 4, 1819, where she resided all 



4SG 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



her life. Margaret was married to Samuel Case, in 1813. 
Rachel was married to Samuel Rogers, of Philadelpliia, 
Jefferson Co., Jan. 5, 1824, where she resided all her life. 
Miles married, on Oct. lit, 18:!8, Harriet A. Bronson, and 
is now living in the city of Wutertown. Martha became 
the wife, on Sept. 3, 1829, of Robert Gray, deceased, of 
Sparta, Wisconsin, where she died, and S<'tli was married 
on Jan. 27, 1835, to Miss Ann J. Bones, of I'hiladclphia, 
Jefferson Co., N. Y. Of this numerous iamily of children 
all lived to old age, and the most of whom have left large 
families of descendants. Margaret, the mother uf this old 
pioneer family, died at Philadelphia, Oct. IG, 1853, leaving 
to her numerous descendants the record of a long and useful 
life. 

To the friends and relatives of this noble pair of old pio- 
neers, and to the readers of this work, this page, containing 
the portraits of John and Margaret Strickland, is presented 
as a memorial to the lives and characters of a class of noble 
men and women that are now fast disappearing from the 
knowledge of the present geueratiou. 



ERASTUS WHITNEY. 

Mason Whitney, the father of our subject, was born in 
17G5, and was married to Dolly Rawson. They became 
the parents of five children. Dolly died in 1802, at the 
age of thirty-five. In 1806 Mr. Mason Whitney married 
Miss Eunice Babcock. There were two children by this 
union. 

Erastus, the third child by the first marriage, was born 
July 13, 1707, in Herkimer Co., N. Y. When he was 
eighteen years of age he bought his time of his father, and 
with but a cjuarter of a dohar in his pocket started out for 
himself. He made his way into Jefferson County, and went 
to work clearing land by the job. This was about the year 
1824. After a few year.s he accumulated enough to buy a 
piece of land in the town of Theresa, which, af\er a year 
or two, he sold. He soon after took a job of clearing land 
for Moses Chadvvick, in I'hiladel])hia. While on this job 
he found time to court and marry Betsey, the daughter of 
his employer. They were married June 4, 1826. He 
soon after bought a farm in Philadelphia, which was ever 
afler his home until his death, which occurred October 16, 
1854. Betsey Whitney died September 3, 1872, having 
exemi)lifiecl in a long life her faith in (lod by a practical 
exercise of the Christian virtues. 

Of the eight children, n.imed as follows: William M., 
Seymour M., Marion 11., Mason, Harriet M., Ann E., 
George E., and Duane L , all are living except Mason and 
Duane. 

William M., the eldest son. now owns and occupies the 
old home. lie was born March 18, 1827. He received a 
good English education, anil was reared a farmer. He has 
spent much of his time in his younger years as a teacher. 
He has added to the farm since his father's death, so that 
it now comprises 350 acres. We present in this work a 
view of the old home of the Whitneys as a land-mark to 
future gencralinns. 



EDMUND TUCKER. 

The subject of this sketch was horn in Gianville, Wash- 
ington Co., N. Y., July 30, 1703, of Quaker parentage. 
Unfortunately for him, when six years old, his father died, 
leaving the family with limited resources. Owing to this 
circumstance ho went to live in the family of his uncle, 
Isaiah Dean. Having acf|uired a common-school education, 
he began the occupation of surveying and book-keeping, 
and by diligence and perseverance u)anagcd to work his 
own way and assist in the su]i])ort of his widowed mother 
and two sisters, Abigail and Hannah. 

In the year 1816 he came into this county and entered 
Lc Ray's ofhco at Le Ilaysville as book-keeper, surveyor, 
and land-agent. And as immigration was tending to this 
new county, Mr. Tucker was engaged in soiling and sur- 
veying lands in the towns of Le Ray, Philadcl|ihia, Theresa, 
Alexandria, and Wilna. 

Mr. Tucker was married, March 19, 1810, to Ann Strick- 
land, daughter of John Strickland, Sr., and settled in the 
village of Philadelphia, where he afterwards lived and died. 
There were six children born to them, — Joseph, Hannah, 
John, Margaret, George E., and ^latilda. John was 
drowned in Indian river, in 1827, and in the same year 
Joseph and Hannah died, leaving the parents at the time 
childless. The other three are now living. George E., 
married to Mary G. Lamb, of Ogdensburgh, N. Y., occu- 
pies the homestead in Philadelphia; Margaret married 
Elijah S. Coon, and Matilda married Henry B. Mosher, 
both now living in Watertown. 

In 1828, Mr. Tucker erected a brick residence, the only 
one in town. He also rebuilt the gri.st-mill and carried on 
the flouring business for a number of years and to his death 
in company with his brt)thcr-iii-law, Miles Strickland. 

He held several offices of trust in his town, including 
that of postmaster from the time the office was established 
till his death ; and although not a ]iolitician nor an aspi- 
rant for official honors, he, in 182(), was nominated for 
member of Assembly on the ticket headed with De Witt 
Clinton for governor, without asking or desiring the nomi- 
nation. 

His death occurred Jan. 6, 1836, of consumption, at the 
age of forty-two years. And during the remainder of her 
lonely life his numrning widow observed every anniversary 
of his death, keeping each, with her children, in mourning 
and sacred reverence to his memory ; and its last occurrence, 
a shiirt time before her death, was as consecrated as the 
first. 

Mr. Tucker belongeil to the society of Friends, was 
strongly devoted to the cause of religion, and was a regular 
attendant upon their meetings of worship as long as his 
health would admit. His manner was quiet and uiuis- 
sumiiig, his disposition mild, and his character uni|ucstion 
able, endearing him to many friends. In his death his 
family lost a loving and devoted husband and father, the 
church and religion a worthy and consistent advocate, and 
the community a kind and beneficial meudjer. .\li who 
were associated with him in business or social relation will 
cherish his memory to the end <if life. 




ReaiOENCE or GEO. E..TUCKER,ESQ.,PHiLADUPHiA.Jrrni-:.:::'\ir\ 



ilrV 




RODMAN. 



TiiK town (if Rodman was erected, under the name of 
IfiirrUnn, from Adams. March 24, 1804. The name was 
derived I'roin Richard Harrison, of New York, an eminent 
lawyer, and an associate in several large purchases in this 
:in<] adjoining counties. At that time the town embraced 
its present limits, or townshiji No. 8, and a part of No. 9, 
of the Black River tract. By an act of February 12, 1808, 
township No, 9 was erected into a separate town under the 
name of I'inckney, and tile county-line so chan;..;ed as to 
pass around that town instead of across it, throwing the 
town into Lewis county. A few months later, on April 0, 
1808, the name of Harrison was changed to Rodman, be- 
cause it w;is sometimes confused with that of Harrisbutg, 
a town in Lewis county. The present name was bestowed 
in lionor of Daniel Rodman, at that time a clerk in the 
ius.sembly, and who was a favorite witii the legislators. 

The town is nearly square, and measuies a litilc more 
than six miles in length. Its general surface is somewhat 
elevated, and more or less broken by hills, along the water- 
courses, which run in deep gorges, or channels. There are, 
also, several gulfs of great depth and considerable width, 
and these aid in giving the town excellent drainage. The 
principal stream is the north branch of Sandy creek, which 
enters the town near the northeast corner, and flow.s through 
it in a southwesterly direction, passing out south of the 
centre of its western line. Its principal tributary is the 
Gulf stream, which empties into it near the village of Rod- 
man. In the southern part of the town is Fish creek and 
it,s tributaries, having a general westerly course. Some of 
these streams afford excellent water-power, and their dis- 
tribution is so general that nearly every part of the town 
is thoroughly watered. Numerous springs also abound, 
which, together with the favorable condition of the soil, 
makes this an excellent grazing region. Dairying is the 
principal industry of the town, although the cultivation of 
the cereals is not unprofitable. The soil is a loam, or sandy 
and clayey loam, and wa.s originally covered with a fine 
growth of maple, beech, and other varieties of timber, groves 
of whuh have been ]>re.served on the higher lands ; while 
along the streams are belt.s of hemlock, giving the country 
a varied and most beautiful aspect. Before the land was 
cleared the timber products were the principal sources 
of revenue, supplying many asheries, saw-mills, and tan- 
neries. 

In the northwestern part of the town is Dry Hill, having 
an elevation several hundred feet above the general level, 
on which are indications of the existence of a series of 
fortifications, leading to the belief that a prehistoric people 
had occupied this countr}-. These remains will be further 
noted in another portion of this work. 



SUaVEVS AXI) .SETTLK.MENTS. 

The first survey of the town was made about 1798, by 
Benjamin Wright. In .some notes published by him, he 
records his impressions of the town : No. 7, as being '• pretty 
level, with gentle a.scents and some hills; and that Sandy 
creek is a fine stream, with some good mill-seats." Jo.seph 
Crary made surveys several ye.irs later, in 1800. The town 
was divided into fifty-six lots of irregular size, which were 
generally subdivided into quarters, the original division 
being known as a great lot. 

The land varied somcwh.il in price, but was generally 
sold at S3. 50 per acre by Silas Slow, of Lowville, who, as 
the agent of Harrison and Hoffman, opened the town for 
settlement in 18111. In the spring and summer of that 
year, An.son and Ebenozer Moody, Jonathan. Noah, and 
Aaron Davis, Simeon Hunt, Benjamin Thomas, and Wil- 
liam Rice came in, built log houses, and made small clear- 
ings. In September Mrs. K. Moody came to join her hus- 
band, and was the first white woman that settled in the 
town. A few months later she gave birth to a son, which 
was the first child born in Rodman. In accordance with a 
promise of Mr. Harrison to give 100 acres of land to the 
first-born child, the boy was named Walter Harrison Moody 
in honor of his prospective benefactor. The child died at 
the age of three years, before having received the land, but 
Mr. Moody soon after received a title for fifty acres. The 
Moody's remained citizens of Rodman for many years, and 
some of the younger members of the original families still 
live in the town. William Rice became a prominent citi- 
zen, but removed in the course of fifteen yeai-s. Simeon 
Hunt lived there until his death, about 1830 ; and the 
Davis families are well remembered by many citizens of the 
present time. 

On September 4, 1802, Timothy Greenly, from Litch- 
field, New York, purcha.sed 2G<)9J acres in the southea.stern 
part of the town, at eighteen shillings per acre. He soon 
after moved upon a portion of his land, where he lived, a 
prominent, useful citizen, until his death, February 19, 
1852. Thomas White, also from Litchfield, came in 18112, 
and settled on Sandy creek, at what is now Whitesville. 
He was a sub-agent for the town several years, and moved 
to the west in 1810. Daniel Todd, from Connecticut, 
came the same year, and settled near White's. He had 
.seven sons, three of whom, David, Daniel, and Enoch L., 
still reside in the town. The elder Todd died in 18G7. He 
was a respectable and useful citizen. William Dodge set- 
tled on lot 13 the year following, where he reared three 
sons, John, Chester, and Sylvester. The latter was killed 
in September, 1851, by being thrown from a wagon while 

487 • 



488 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



on the way to Watertown. A son, W. S., now resides on 
the homestead. Reuben Smith found a home on lot 13 
this year. He was an active man, and built several mills. 
Among others who came to Rodman in that and the follow- 
ing year were John Peck, on lot 15; John Fa.sset, on lot 
14, whose son John lives on the homestead ; Jonathan 
Wyman, from New Hampshire, on lot 12, where he died in 
1823, leaving a son, 0. C. Wyman, who was a member of 
the legislature ; and the IJtleys, John and Nathaniel, who 
settled on lot 18 ; a son of the former now resides at Rod- 
man village. 

The books of the land-holders show the following addi- 
tional names of those who contracted for land under date 
of December 1 , 1804 : Jesse Smith. Aaron Moody, Horace 
Townsend, Jo.seph Niekles, Arnold Stone, Nathan White- 
man, Avery Wallsworth, Joseph Dana, Titus King, Thad- 
rick Case, Leonard Farewell, Joshua Tinney, John Vaughan, 
and Leonard Barker; and in 1805 Buel and Westcott, 
Nathan Freeman, Hawks and French, Pierce and Lampson, 
Wright, Mead, and others made purchases. 

In 1807, Asa Cooley, from Whitinghatn, Yt., settled on 
lot 28, where he lived a life of great usefulness until his 
death, in Mnri-h, 1854. Of his family, a son, Elani, is the 
only survivor. Abner Fuller made a home on lot 1 the 
s;ime year. From 1804 to 1810 the town settled very 
rapidly, and it will be impossible to note all those who 
became citizens. The Gates' were among the most promi- 
nent in the western part of the town, and have some repre- 
sentatives still residing there. Others who became well 
known were Ziba Buel. Stephen Cook, Jesse Wright. John 
Buttcrfield, Jcjhn Burton, Jacob Heath, Nathaniel Harring- 
ton, Solomon, Joseph, and Job Priest, all of whom aided 
in developing the new town. Besides those already men- 
tioned the town books show the names of the following, 
who were in Rodman as active citizens prior to 1811 : 
Bazaleel Glcason, Roswcll Blanchard, Luther Eastman, 
Peter Yandes, Beloved Rhodes, Cyrus H. Stone, Isaiah 
Post, Calvin Clifford, George H. Thomas, Elijah Rus.sell, 
Enoch Murry, Caleb Woodward, Zachariah Wallsworth, 
p]phras Moody, Abel Loveland, Timothy Underwood, Abi- 
jah Kellogg, Stoddart Eastman, Nathaniel Treniaine, Greene 
Kellogg, Amariah Babbitt, Heinan Swift, Titus King, 
Luther Woodworth, Barnard M. Warren, Aaron Loomis, 
Reuben Tretnaine, Ebenezer Blackstone, John Hacket, 
James Wright, Lyman Lawrence, Thomas Harrington, 
Nathan Whitman, Winslow G. Tracy, William A. Flint, 
Daniel Field, Daniel Kinney, Harry Wagoner, John Burr, 
Samuel Ralph, Joseph Pratt, Alanson Cuniinins, Charles 
Parmeter, Alvin Buck, Ansel Brainard, Benoni Edwards, 
Samuel Kclscy, Return Russell, Philo Booth, James Glass, 
Asa Hill. In 1811, Willard M. Winslow settled in the 
town; in 1813, William Sill; and about the same time 
Abel Cole and Nathan Strong, all becoming prominent in 
the history of Rodman, the latter two having been members 
of the legislature, — Cole in 1818, and Strong in 1832. 
Cole was also a judge in 1815. 

This rapid settlement of the town prevented much of the 
hardshi]) which usually attends the o])ening of a new coun- 
try, and nothing noteworthy transpired until 1813, when 
the town was visited by a severe and fatal epidemic, which 



caused the death of sixty persons within a period of three 
months. It was a .species of pneumonia typhoiJes, and its 
attacks were so sudden and severe that death often ensued 
in a few hours. In about one-third of the cases the disease 
attacked the head, and in the remainder the lungs. While 
it was epidemic it was not contagious, but seemed to attack 
all, regardless of age, ses, or condition of life. This afflic- 
tion awakened the strongest .sympathy, and a willingness to 
divide the burdens and misfortunes arising from it was 
manifest to an unusual degree. If any one was sick and 
unable to attend to his duties, his work was always done by 
the neighbors, who rallied in force for this purpose. Indeed, 
this neighborly feeling was generally prevalent. If one 
chanced to kill a deer or any of the game then common, 
the meat was uniformly shared among the neighbors, and 
the records of the town show that this spirit extended even 
to business transactions. A bank having failed, of whose 
issue the collector had a five-dollar bill, paid to him for 
taxes, the town voted that he should not sustain the loss, 
but that his account be credited with that amount. And 
other instances occur where this friendly feeling prompted 
to generous deeds. In 1826 it became known that the 
family of Win. (ilass was in destitute circumstances. It 
was accordingly voted that the town furnish a cow, from 
the proceeds of which they might procure the necessaries 
of life. The provision for the support of the poor, also, 
was ample, as is attested b}"^ the appropriations, S170 having 
been voted for this purpose in 1816. 

EARLY TAVERNS AND STORES. 

Simeon Hunt was the first inn-keeper. His tavern was 
kept in a log house at the mouth of the Gulf stream. It 
was the usual place for holding town meetings, and was a 
prominent point along the Sandy Creek road, between Zoar 
and Whitesville. About a mile-'below the latter place was 
a large frame hotel, kept at an early day by Benjamin Still- 
man. The building still stands, though unused. Michael 
Ilenster and Joshua Priest kept a store on Dry Hill, in the 
early settlement of the country. The building which they 
occupied is at present used as a wood-house by Franklin 
Woodward. At this place Nathaniel Harrington laid a 
wager that he could lift a hogshead of whisky with two 
men seated upon it, which feat he successfully accomplished. 

THE MANUFACTURING INTERESTS 

of Rodman outside of its villages, though not numerous, 
are of sufficient importance to recjuire mention. As early 
as 1809, Howe Nichols built a saw-mill, and later a small 
grist-mill, on Sandy creek, above Zoar, which did service 
for twenty odd years. Reuben Smith also built a saw-mill 
at Boyington's crossing, and after that was destroyed anoth<T 
farther down the stream, at the site of Todd's raill. He 
also had a potashery at the cross-roads. 

Below Rodman a large building was erected about 1828, 
by the Union Company, or the " company of nine," for 
distilling purposes. A run of stone was placed in the 
building, and some grinding done. Later the distillery part 
was changed to a tannery by Joseph Davis, and as such 
operated ten or twelve years. In 1865 the mill was re- 
modeled and another run of stone added. Moses Slaughter 




GEO 




Residence of S.H.&GEO.A 



"«^i5S«a 



i!i-;l^:aiS^fS^f >■'-■: ■ 



j,U!^^^m»j 




'S^ Rodman ,JurERSON Co., W. K 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



489 



is the present proprietor, and the mill has a fair capacity. 
Neiir this place were Heath's saw-mills and cloth-works, 
liuilt by Abrara Burr, which were destroyed by a freshet, 
and not rebuilt. On Fish creek were several small mills, 
and there is one at present owned by D. Whitcomb. 

Near the centre of the town, on Gulf stream, is a first- 
class saw-mill, liavinjr 1(I,<I0() feet capacity per day, and is 
at present owned by C. Hammond. In the southern part 
of the town a steam saw-mill was operated several years, 
but has long since been abandoned. 

From 1820 to 1880, a number of distilleries were erected 
along Sandy creek and in the western part of the town by 
C. W. McKinstry, W. J. Nichols, Hiram Sloeum, Asa 
Davis, and others. They were only operated until a better 
market for farm crops was .secured, and dairying began to 
cngaize the attention of the people. This is the present 
general industry, and the manufacture of butter and cheese 
forms an inijiortant item, and is the chief source of revenue. 
Private dairies abound, and there are several large and well- 
established eheose-factorics and creameries. Of the former 
ehiss, the West Rodman, i)y A. II. Heath, the lleatou, by 
Anson Miller, and the Loveland, by A. L. Loveland, are 
the most important, each making from three to five cheeses 
per day. Large creameries are conducted by C C. Vroman, 
Milan A. Fassett, E. L. Simmons, and H. C. Spencer, all 
noted for the excellent quality of their products, and each 
daily uses the milk of from 200 to 500 cows. 

ROADS 

were located along Sandy creek and to Burrville in 1801 ; 
and the " Dry Ilill" road to Watertown was also located at 
an early day ; but it was not until 1809 that Sandy creek 
was bridged. A tax of 8150 was voted at the first town- 
meeting, Jlarch 5, ISOG, which seems to have stirred up 
so much opposition that a special meeting was called on the 
Itith day of April following for the purpose of reconsidering 
the vote, when the measure failed of being sustained, and 
several years passed before another appropriation was made. 
Thirteen districts were formed at the first meeting, with 
the following overeeers : William Rice, Anson Moody, 
Bazabel Gleason, Roswell Blanchard, Joseph Dana, Luther 
Eastman, Timothy Greenly, .lnhn Fasset, Peter Yandes, 
Beloved Rhodes, William Dodge, Cyrus H. Stone, and 
Isaiah Post. A year later ten more districts were formed, 
making twenty-three in all, which have been subdivided 
until there are, at present, fifty-three districts. The streams 
are well bridged and the roads of the town are in a very 
fair condition. 

CEMETERIES. 

One of the oldest burying-grounds in the town is at 
the mouth of Gulf stream. Here the first interments were 
made, but as the ground could not be suitably enlarged, it 
has not been much used of late. The principal ground at 
present is Fairview. This is a beautiful tract on lot 28, 
containing three acres neatly inclosed with an iron fence 
and plotted into lots and drives. It is under the manage- 
ment of the " Fairview Cemetery Association," organized 
Aug. 9, 1863, with Elam Cooley, H. L. Eastman, S. W. 
Kellogg, Z. M. Brown, G. W. Flint, A. C. Hughes, C. 0. 
Vroman, 0. G. Heaton, and Ora Cooley, trustees. The 



present board is composed of Chas. S. Gage, Elam Cooley, 
Joseph Brown, M. P. Waite, H. L. Eastman, Charles 
Bilibiiis, Myron Babbitt, G. V. Parmeter, and Leonard 
Bullock. 

A cemetery at Whitesville is controlled by David Todd, 
and is kept in good condition. A few other burial-grounds 
in the town are controlled by the town authorities, but are 
not much used. 

CIVIL ORGANIZATIONS. 

The first town-meeting of Rodman ( then Harrison) was 
held at the house of Simeon Hunt on March 5, 1805, and 
resulted in the choice of the following officers: Clerk, 
George II. Thomas; Assessors, Ozias H. Rawson, Cyrus 
H. Stone, William Rice ; Com. of Ilit/hwut/s, David Nickles, 
Simeon Hunt, Calvin Clifford; Coiislalde <iihI Collector, 
Peter Yandes ; Poor-Masters, Jonathan Davis, Robert 
Stewart; Fence- Viewers, Gcor'^a II. Thomas, John Fas.set ; 
Foinid- Muster, Simeon Hunt. 

The following have held the oflSce of Supervisor since 



ine 1 

1805. 


ncorporaiion or me town 

Tliomns White. 


1847. 


Dennis M. Wait. 


ISOG- 


9. Jonathan Davia. 


1848- 


y. Benjamin F. Hunt 


ISIll- 


'11. Enoch Murry. 


1.150. 


Alanson Tibbctts. 


1812. 


Samuel C. Kauaday. 


I.S51- 


2. George Gates. 


18U. 


Abel Cole. 


1853. 


Ora Cooley. 


1815- 


-30. Nathan Strong. 


1854. 


John Pauling. 


1831- 


-2. William M. Winslow. 


1855. 


Gains Treinaine. 


18.'?3- 


-6. Ora Cooley. 


1856. 


William Gilbert. 


is.ir. 


George Gate?. 


1857. 


Ora Cooley. 


1838. 


N. Strong. 


1858- 


-9. Oliver C. Wyraan. 


1839- 


-40. Thomas Wait. 


1860- 


■3. Nathan Strong. 


1841. 


Ora Cooley. 


1804- 


-5. Hiram H. Taylor, 


1842. 


Henry C. Strong. 


1S6G- 


-7. 0. C. Wyinan. 


1843. 


Herman Strong. 


1868- 


-72. William Christie. 


1844- 


-5. Henry C. Strong. 


1873- 


-4. Orrin D. Hill. 


1846. 


William Sill. 


1875- 


-77. George A. Gates. 



Important special town-meetings were held : Nov. 4, 1804, 
to choose delegates to attend a convention at Denmark, to 
consult on measures for the division of the county of Oneida 
(William Rice, Cyrus H. Stone, and Simeon Hunt were 
appointed). September 12, 1805, " to select a committee, to 
unite with the committee appointed by the other towns, to 
stick the stake for the seat of justice in Jefferson County." 
William Rice was appointed, and the assessment-roll ordered 
to be carried forward by him. February 8, 1806, to elect 
three justices of the peace. Titus B. Willard, Jonathan 
Davis, and Titus King were elected. January 12, 1807, to 
choose delegates to meet in a convention, on January 13, 
1807, at the house of Joseph Clark, in Watertown, to 
take into consideration the military situation of the county. 
William Rice, Cyrus H. Stone, and Ebenezer Moody were 
chosen. May 19, 1846, to vote on the question of granting 
license, — 152 voted "For License," and 177 for "No 
License." In 1847 the question came up again, when the 
votes stood, " For License," 176 ; " No License," 162. 
The courts having decided the law unconstitutional, the 
matter was not further tested. The present excise board 
does not grant license. 

Interesting extracts are made from the town records of 
the annual meetinsrs : 



490 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



In 1805 it was voted " that hogs be free-commoners, 
well yoked." 

In 1806, " Voted, that every person in this town, letting 
or suffering a Canada thistle to grow on his inclosure the 
ensuing year, shall forfeit the sum of two dollars. That 
ten dollars bounty be given for every wolf killed." 

In 1809, " That Noah Davis pay for liis license /)/-o rata 
for tlie remainder of the year. That the town relinquish a 
claim against Woodworth for killing deer. That a pound 
be built at the mouth of Gulf stream by Simeon Hunt and 
Abel Cole." 

In 1811, voted, "That rams shall not run at large from 
September 1 to November 1, under penalty of forfeiture to 
the person taking them up. That the Merino rams belong- 
ing to the town bo sold by the supervisor and the assessors, 
and the money be used to buy standard weights and meas- 
ures." 

In 1814 it was voted that there be a fine of S5 for each 
offense for letting Canada thistle go to seed ; also a fine of 
$1 for letting tory weed (" stick-tight") go to seed. 

In 1815, "Voted, that cattle be restrained from running 
at large near stores, shops, school-houses, and churches, 
under penalty of fifty cents for each ofiense." 

In 1836, "That there be a bounty of ten dollars paid 
for every wolf killed in the town, and one shilling for every 
old crow killed between the 20th of March and the 1st of 
July." 

RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

As near as can be determined, the first religious service 
in Rodman was conducted in the summer of 1802, by Rev. 
Woodward, a mis.sionary, who preached on a week-day to a 
small audience assembled in the hut of Anson Moody. 
Other missionary efforts followed, and on the 22d of Sep- 
tember, 1805, 

THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 

of Rodman was formed by the Rov. Ebonozer La7olle, of 
Waterlown, with the following members; Nathaniel Nichols, 
David Coy, Reuben Tremaine, Laura Tremaine, Aaron Loo- 
mis, Sallio Loomis, William Dodge, Lydia Dodge, and Na- 
thaniel Crook. R. Tri'niaiuc and N. Nichols wore appointed 
deacons. No regular preaching was had until the second 
Sunday in August, 1808, when the Rev. David Spear first 
preached, and was .soon employed at a salary of $220. He 
was an energetic workman, and in the first nine months of 
his pastorate preached 1 25 sermons and rode 2400 miles. 
In September, 1809, lie was installed, and continued pastor 
of the church until tin' fall of 1865, having been the 
spiritual guide of the church for fifty-seven years. In- 
.stances of such a long pastoral relation are indeed rare, and 
no better evidence of his worth and esteem, earned by a life- 
time of daily precept, could be adduced than this long con- 
nection. Mr. Spear was born in Rupert, Vt., June, 1781, 
and was one of the first three Congregational ministers in 
the county, his compeers being the Rev. Dutton, of Cham- 
pion, and the Rev. Bliss, of Lorraine. Afler he had closed 
his ministerial career he moved to Maimsville to live with a 
daughter, and remained there until his death. The church 
holds liis memory in great esteem, an<l lias perpetuated it 



by placing liis portrait in the house where he for so many 
years ministered. Mr. Spear was succeeded in 1866 by the 
Rev. A. B. Dilley, whose pastoral connection extended to 
1873, when the Rev. Samuel Johnson came, April 1, and 
remained until April, 1877. 

The church enjoyed a general revival in 1830-31, which 
resulted in an accession of eighty members, and from the 
original nine has sprung a membership which aggregates 
more than six hundred. The present membership is about 
one hundred, which is united and harmonious, and the 
church is in a prosperous condition. 

On July 17, 1809, the " Harrison Society," belonging 
with this church, was formed, with Reuben Tremaine, Jas. 
Loomis, Asa Davis, Simeon Hunt, Jonathan Wyman, and 
D. Eastman, trustees, and in 1815 built a frame church, 38 
by 50 feet, in the southwestern part of the village of Rod- 
man. The society was organized on the 24th day of April, 
1834, and the name changed to the " Congregational Society 
of Rodman." The old church was replaced by a new house 
in 1850, which was dedicated in March, 1851. This was 
remodeled and repaired at an expense of several thousand 
dollars in the summer of 1877, and it is now a tasty and 
imposing structure, 40 by 61 feet, with a tower and bell. 

A Sunday-school was organized in connection with the 
Congregational church about 1820. Its present meniber- 
ship is 130. John S. Sill is superintendent; Milton H. 
Cooley, secretary. 

THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 

"In the spring of 1811, about six or eight Baptists in 
town agreed to hold meetings on the Sabbath, as often as 
convenient, and to invite such preachers as might be pro" 
cured to attend, among whom was Joseph Maltby, who, on 
the 27th of March, 1812, formed, at the house of Benja- 
min Cole, a church of nine males and thirteen females. 
These, on the 10th of June, were duly fellowshipped by a 
council convened for the purpose by delegates from Rutland 
First church (Elder Solomon Johnson), Adams (Elder 
Timothy Heath), and Watertown (Elders Gill and Morgan) ; 
and Mr. Maltby was duly ordained as pastor. Isaac Benja- 
min, Joseph Cornell, Daniel Peck, and others have since 
been employed. The church was afterwards formed as a 
branch of the Adams church, and in November, 1844, it was 
reorganized as a .separate church, on a petition signed by 
about fifty members. In 1822 a church was erected at 
Zoar, and December 11, 1822, a society was formed with 
Arnold Stone, Levi Heath, and Elisha Cook, trustees. On 
the 6th of 0(-tober, 1846, this was reorganized, with P. W. 
Dyer, John Nichols, and John W. Wait, trustees."* 

The church enjoyed a prosperous career until about 1850, 
when came a period of decay, which so much diminished 
tlie membership that services were suspended, and most of 
those who adhered to the Baptist faith connected themselves 
with the church at Iloneyvillc. To prevent the forfeiture 
of the property by disuse, a .society was organized about 
1854, with I. T. Burton, Henry Holcomb, Almanson Tib- 
betts, Laban Smith, and George Parker, trustees. A claim 
for the ownership of the property followed, whicli, afler a 



s Pr. IIousli. 




Residlncl or A.C.HUOHS, I?oom/^n. JurrcRsoN Co.N Y 




Residence or D.M.TODD, East /Sjj,.;«, 



HISTORY OF JEFFBRSOISr COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



491 



lengthy litigation, was decided to rest in the owner of the 
real estate upon which the building stood. The house has 
since been deinolislied, and the ciuirch which once had two 
hundred and fifty members is known in name only. No 
other Baptist society exist-s in Rodman. 

THE METHODISTS 

had religious meetings in private houses and in the school- 
houses of Rodman at an early day. In l<S21t the several 
classes in the town became a circuit, and ett'orts were at 
once made to build a church. A board of trustees, consist- 
ing of John Adams, Jonathan Hoyington, Kbenezcr Black- 
stone, Arthur Robbins, Anson Moody, Epapliras Mocjdy, 
William Butterfield, Daniel Kinney, and Cliauncey Davis, 
w;u3 appointed, and a church erected on Sandy creek, near 
Ji)natlian Boyington's, which was used for public worship 
until 1858. In the mean time theclassat Rodman village, 
consisting originally of Alanson Kinney and wife, C. I). Mof- 
fatt and wife, James Brown and wife, I. Jeuks and wife, 
Mrs. Thomas Field, and J. P. Billings, had become so large 
that it was thought best to erect a church for its meetings. 
Accordingly, in March, 1848, "the First Methodist Episco- 
pal Society" in Rodman village was formed, with Elam 
Cooley, Hiram Buell, John Buell, James W. Brown, Win- 
son D. Allport, Alanson Kinney, Isaac Jenks, Freeman 
Tuttle, and .Vlinanzor Tibbetts, trustees. A ver\' fine frame 
church was built in 1849, and dedicated by Bishop Janes. 
In 1876 it was enlarged and remodeled to its present com- 
modious size and beautiful appearance, and was rededicated 
January 15, 1877, by Bishop Peck. The membership of 
the church is one hundred and seventy-two, and the official 
board are J. 1'. Billings, Charles Bibbons, E. D. Boying- 
ton, Austin Boyington, George Butterfield, M. P. Waite, 
and M. C. Lewis, class-leaders and stewards; and W. D. 
Allport, N. G. Cooley, Anson Miller, Chauncey Eastman, 
and J. P. Billings, trustees. A Sunday-school was or- 
ganized in this church. May 6, 1849, by the Rev. J. Love- 
lace, which has been continued since. J. P. Billings was 
among the first superintendents, and is the present incum- 
bent. The membersliip of the school is one hundred and 
forty-six, and a library of three hundred and ten volumes 
is maintained. 

The old church at Boyington '.s being out of repair, 
measures were taken to build a new church, either at that 
point or at Whitesville. The society convened its trustees, 
consisting of J. Gardner, Green Gardner, Seymour Plank, 
A. S. Kinney, J. Boyington, B. Fasset, C. D. Hill, C. P. 
Hill, R. D. Renfield, Oct. 27, 1857, when Whitesville was 
selected and the proper steps taken to build. The house 
was begun May 17, 1858, and completed Sept. 10 of the 
same year, at a cost of $2275. It is a frame structure, 
with a pleasing exterior, and will seat three hundred persons. 
The membership of the church is 52. Tiie trustees in 
1877 were Anthony Scidmore, Seymour Plank, Daniel 
Todd, David Todd, Alonzo Sissons, Job Eddy, Job Gardner, 
W. W. Corey, and S. P. Stoddard. A Sunday-school was 
established here in 1859. John Edwards is superintendent ; 
and the school has 45 members, and 150 books in its library. 

Rodman circuit includes both of these churches, and is 
served by a pastor residing at Rodman village. Among 



those who have had charge of the work at these points are 
the following reverend gentlemen : Elisha Wheeler, John 
Lovelace, H. Chapin, William Tripp, M. Lyon, A. M. 
Smith, 0. P. Pitcher, II. O. Tilden, A. C. Arnold, H. C. 
Abbott, S. P. Crosier, J. L Hunt, E. W. Jones, S. Dewey, 
S. F. Danforth, M. M. Rice, and M. N. Capron, the present 
pastor. 

SCHOOLS. 

The first school in the town was taught in the summer 
of 1808, in Anson Moody's barn, by Miss M. Nobles. A 
number of log school-houses were erected the following 
year, which were used until they gave place to a better class 
of buildings. In 181 G, Commissioners Samuel C. Kanaday 
and Nathan Strong divided the town into twelve districts. 
These divisions have been changed and the number of dis- 
tricts increased, but the present twelve districts are essen- 
tially the original ones. Appropriations e(jual to the 
amount of the State aid have generally been voted, and 
in some instances a liberal increase was made. There is a 
good class of school-houses, in which about eight months' 
school per annum are taught. 

A seminary was built at Rodman, in 1840, at a cost of 
$1200, which was raised by voluntary subscriptions. It 
was a fine frame building, two stories high, with a porch in 
front, and a cupola. On the 8th of December, 1840, the 
name of " Rodman Union Seminary" was adopted, and 
Jan. 5, 1841, a constitution was formed and thirteen trus- 
tees chosen. Charles Brown was the first principal of the 
school, which was well attended, and had a good reputation. 
He remained about five years. Other principals were John 
Dunlap and Prof. Skinner. The seminary having been 
discontinued, the public school was taught in the building 
several years, when, by the terms of the deed conveying 
the land to the trustees of the Harrison society, for a select 
school, the property revert<,>d to the heirs of Nathan Strong. 
The ruins of the building yet remain, being used for a 
general storehouse. 

REVOLUTIONARY SOLDIERS. 

Among those who participated in the struggle for 
American independence was Ephraim Wright, a New 
Englander, who died about I860; John Russell and Elijah 
Walsworth ; John Parker, who served all through the 
war, and who resided in the town until his death, about 
1850 ; and William Dodge, who enlisted the second year of 
the war and served to its close. He died March 7, 1827, 
aged sixty-nine years. 

The War of 1812 found the citizens of Rodman ready 
to respond to the call of their country, and many of them 
rendered efficient service. 

" The alarm of the first attack on Sacket's Harbor reached 
this town on the Sabbath, and created a great excitement. 
On the day following there was formed a Silver Gray com- 
pany, of men not required to perform military duty. Nathan 
Strong was chosen captain. Simeon Hunt lieutenant, and 
Sheldon Hopkins ensign. It numbered about GO men, and 
on one occasion repaired to Sacket's Harbor, but was never 
armed or called into service. In the drafts upon the militia 
during the war this town sustained its full share, and but 
few persons left through fear. The Silver Grays, in their 



492 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



articles of association, agreed to march to any place within 
50 miles of home."* 

WHITESVILLE 

is a quiet village of a few score inhabitants, on Sandy creek, 
about five miles above Rodman village, and near the ea.stern 
line of the town. It was founded in 1802 by Thomas 
White, from whom it takes its name. In 1803 he built a 
grist-mill at this point, which was the first in the town. 
After being repaired a number of times, it was destroyed 
by fire in the spring of 1874. It was replaced by a mill 
which had been erected several years previous by Jacob 
Van Buskirk, but which had not been operated, which was 
moved upon the old site. The present mill has two run 
of stone, giving it a capacity of 250 bushels per day, and 
is owned by Wilford Waite. A saw-mill close by is operated 
by Dennis Waite. 

Daniel Todd erected a tannery in 180G, which was burned 
soon after, but was again rebuilt and conducted by him 
several years. Mr. Todd also manufactured shoes, having 
the first shop in town. 

Peter Yandes built a distillery at an early day, the only 
one ever at the place. A small carding-mill was operated 
here about the same time, and a pottery, by Jared Dewey, 
was worked a number of years. 

Taverns were kept about 1808-14 by Peter Yandes, 
Archibald Jones, and others. The latter was also the first 
black.«mith. Jones' tavern was destroyed by fire about 
1847. The other tavern had many additions built to it 
until its pre-sent proportions were reached. D. C. Waite is 
the present landlord. 

A store wa.s kept at this place by a Mr. Booth, Gilbert 
and Waite, and Hancock & Gardner. While in the latter's 
possession the property was destroyed by fire. The house 
was rebuilt, and a store opened by Smith & Co. David 
Gordinier is at present the only one in trade at Whitesvillo. 
Archibald Jones, Jacob Van Bu.skirk, and Lewis Reed had 
black.«mith-sliops. David Knapp at present carries on the 
trade in a shop erected by the latter. D. C. Waite opened 
a wagon-shop in 1852, in which he has carried on his trade 
ever since. 

Among the jihysicians located at Whitesville were 
Doctors Woodman and Potter, neither of whom remained 
a great length of time. 

A post-office was established here about 1821, and called 
East Rodman, which name it still bears. Harrison Dean 
is the postmaster, and the mail service is from Watertown 
via Burrville. 

THE EAST RODMAN CORNET BAND 

was organized in 1871, and reorganized iu 187G, with 
twelve members, and D. II. Way, leader. 

ZOAR, 

sometimes called Unionville, on Sandy creek, one mile 
above Rodman village, was at one time a place of consider- 
able importance. Subsequently it diminished as Rodman 
increased in size. Time was when tliere were two stores at 



* Hough's ilistory. 



the same time, among the merchants being Blood & Cole, 
Nathan Brown, Leonard D. Mansfield, Samuel Dyer, Simeon 
Heath, and Zeba Buell. At present no one is engaged in 
mercantile pursuits in the place. A hotel was kept by L. 
D. Mansfield, and another at the same time by Ransom 
Moody. Cyrus Flint was the last to keep a public-house. 

Saw- and grist-mills were built about 1815, by Abel Cole, 
the latter being operated about twenty-five years, when it 
was destroyed by fire; the .saw-mill had met a similar fate 
years before, but was rebuilt and worked several years, when 
it was abandoned. Henry Emerson manufactured cloth- and 
nap-hats in 1830, but soon discontinued for want of patron- 
age ; and Simeon Heath had a fulling-mill and cloth-dresser 
in successful operation several years. Benjamin Greene 
had begun the manufacture of head-stones, using the rock 
found in the creek, but discontinued because the material 
proved worthless. Workers in wood and iron abounded, 
among them being D. C. Waite and Wm. Vanderwort. 
Francis Butts is the present smith. 

A large butter-tub factory was built about 1850, by Eras- 
tus Curley, which soon after became a general machine- 
shop, and in later years was changed to a vinegar-factory, 
although a portion of the building is still used as a wood- 
work shop. 

Dr. Peck ministered to those spiritually sick, as well as 
those having bodily ailments, and was the only physician 
ever located at Zoar. 

The place is now .simply a cluster of houses, and all of 
those who participated in its former activity have passed 
away. 

RODMAN, 

the most important village, has nearly four hundred inhab- 
itants, and is delightfully located on Sandy creek, five miles 
above Adams. There are several fine business blocks and 
numerous handsome private residences. The village is 
neatly kept, and its inhabitants are noted for their intelli- 
gence and enterprise. Among the first settlers at this 
point were Simeon Hunt and William Rice. The former 
built a tavern a little above the village, and the latter was 
the first to build saw- and grist-mills, about 1806. The 
present grist-mill is on the old site, a portion of the 
wall of the old building having been used in this mill, 
which ha-s been reconstructed twice. There is water-power 
a part of the time, and an engine is used the remainder of 
the year, to propel the three sets of burrs with which the 
mill is furnished, and which give it a grinding capacity of 
five hundred bushels per day. There is also a mill for 
pearling barley, being, with one exception, the only one in 
the county. The property is owned and operated by 0. M. 
Cooley. 

Herring's Tannery, built about 1840, by Joseph Brown, 
and for many years the property of H. Herring, is just be- 
low the mill. It is an extensive establishment, employing 
from 8 to 12 hands, and having thirty large vats. The an- 
nual product is about 200(( sides and 25,000 calf-skins. 

The Rodman Carriage- Works were established in 1S64 
by R. 1\I. Maloney & Co. Employment is given to eight 
hands, and every description of work is produced in a well- 
appointed shop. 

The " American Milk-Pan and Cooler," invented by F. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



493 



W. Pierce, and patented Jan. 19, 1S7C, is manufactured by 
Hughs, Pierce & Co. The cooler has been practically tested 
in many creameries, and in Jefferson County alone over 
a bundled are used with i;ratityiM|^ success. Their manu- 
facture at Rodman forms an important industry. 

Blacksmith- and wagon-shops were opened at an early 
day by John Parker, Behm Palmer, and others. David 
Heu.slis carried on the trade fifty-two years. 

A hotel was built by Nathan Strong, about 1820, which 
was used many years, u portion of the house now forming 
the dwelling of Zebu Buell. The present hotel is in the 
Allport block, and is a large house. 

Among the first stores at Rodman were those of Samuel 
C. Kcnaday and William Sill, during the War of 1812. 
Nathan Strong was also for a long time in trade. Many 
changes have attended the mercantile interests of the vil- 
lage, and the present business is transacted b_v the following 
firms: Hughs and Pieree, hardware; Lyon & Wynian, L. 
W. Cooley, and J. P. Billings, general merchandise ; C. H. 
Tuttle, boots and shoes; Gifford Brown, William Gilbert & 
Son, groceries ; E. S. Paine, harness ; J. F. Spear, sash and 
blinds; N. Keegan, Uiilor; Miss A. H. Lewis, milliner; 
John Mack, James Charters, .shoemakers ; W. S. Hard, 
wagoner; G. W. Booth, blacksmith; Webster Heath, sur- 
veyor; Wa.xhburne Bros., hotel; II. Herring, tanner; 0. 
M. Coolcy, miller ; and R. M. Maloney & Co., carriage- 
builders. 

" Allport's Hall," in Allport's block, is a large room used 
for public gatherings, with a seating cjipacity for 700 per- 
sons. 

The Rodman post-office was established about 1816, with 
Nathan Strong, postmaster. In 1821 a mail-route was or- 
dered through this place, from Adams to Copenhagen. The 
office has at present a daily service from Adams Centre, and 
L. W. Cooley is postmaster. 

Among the physicians located at Rodman, Isaac S. Wood 
was the most prominent, having been in practice there until 
his death, — about forty years. William Christie succeeded 
him, and he and J. Daab are the present practitioners. 

A Masonic lodge was established at Rodman, June 5, 
1824. It was known as '■ Union, No. 397," and had 45 
members, with Levi Heath, W. M. ; Wm. McKinstry, S. 
W., and Philon Parker, J. W. The lodge went down about 
1828, and the fine jewels and other property whieh had been 
accumulated was distributed among the members. When 
the new lodge got into working order, this property was 
gathered in, until at present the order has again possession 
of these mementos of the time when it tried men's souls 
to be a Mason. 

A dispensiition to organize " Rodman Lodge, No. 5(l6." 
was granted Aug., IStiO, and on the 11th of June, IStJl, 
was chartered, with the following officers and members: O. 
M. Cooley, M. ; A. C. Hughs, S. W. ; 0. E. Winslow, J. 
W. Herman Strong, D. M. Waite, Almanson Tibbett.s, 
Orville Strung, W. H, Andrus, W. S. ITurd, Ira Cooley, 
John Marshall, Nathan Strong, Lester Lovelace, 0. L. 
Tibbetts, A. R. Ralph, E. II. Woolcut, A. L. Angel, M. 
Slaughter, and G. W. Tremaiiie. 

This membership h;is increased to 186, with R. M. Ma- 
loney, M. ; J. B. Lyon, S. W. ; and A. C. Hughs, Sec'y. 



The meetings are held in a large and well-furnished hall, in 
Allport and Hughs' block. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



HENRY GORDINIER. 

The father of our subject, whose name was also Henry, 
settled in the town of Rodman, Jefferson County, at the 
close of the War of 1812. He fought as a .soldier all 
through that war, and at its close bought 50 acres of wild 
land and settled on it, where he continued to live until his 
death, which occurred in 1818. He left a wife and three 
young daughters. Henry, the youngest child, was born a 
short time after the death of his father. The widow after- 
wards married David Gordinier, a brother of her deceased 
husband. She survived until 1860, when her death took 
place. Henry remained with his mother and attended 
school until ho was thirteen years old. Meantime, the 
home farm passed out of the possession of the family, and 
Henry went out to work and earn his own living among 
the fiirmers of the vicinity until he was twenty-one years of 
age, when he was united in marriage with Miss Amelia 
Maltby, of Rodman, and bought a farm in the town of 
Theresa, where he farmed for four years. He then sold 
out and went into partnership with his father-in-law, in 
Rodman, for five years. He then purchased the old home- 
stead where his father died, where he has ever since resided. 
He has by purchttsc added to the old home farm so that it 
now consists of two hundred acres of as beautiful and fertile 
farming lands as can be found in Jefferson County. His 
wife died July 18, 1858, leaving three children, — Orvil 
M., Minerva H., and Carrie A. His second marriage was 
with Miss Juliette Woodward, of Rodman, and the fruits 
of this union are two daughters, — Minnie K. and Anna J. 

Mr. Gordinier h;is taken his son into joint copartnership 
with him on the farm. He has been an honored member 
of the Baptist church for thirty-eight years, and enjoys the 
confidence and esteem of all who know him. We present 
upon the pages of this work a fine view of his home and 
portraits of himself and wives, as a memento to his relatives 
and friends in Jefiersou County. 



HARRY HARRINGTON 

is of Scottish origin. His grandfather, Caleb Harrington, 
was a native of Vermont, and was the father of five 
children, — three sons and two daughters. Nathaniel, the 
father of Harry, was born in Vermont in 1785. In the 
year 1800, at the age of twenty-one, he penetrated into 
the wilds of Jefferson County in quest of game, and was 
engaged for several years in hunting, fishing, etc. During 
this time he selected a spot for his future home in the 
present town of Rodman. In the year 1808 he was mar- 
ried to Miss Diana Edmunds, daughter of Judge Edmunds, 
of Jefferson County'. Soon after his marriage he built a 
log house on his location, and commenced clearing up the 
farm on which he ever afterwards resided. He at first 



494 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



owned 100 acres, but by subsequent purchases he increased 
it to 300 acres. He became the father of nine children, 
named as follows: Sally, Betsey, Electa, Ruth, Eri, Riley, 
Nathaniel, Harry, and Franklin. Of these, three sons and 
two daughters are at this time living and have families. 
Mr. Nathaniel Harrington died, at the advanced age of 
eighty-five years, in 1870. His wife died at the age of 
sixty-four. 

Harry was born Sept. 16, 1824, and was reared a farmer. 
He remained at home, assi.sting in the labors of the farm, 
until he was twenty-six years of age. He was united iu 
marriage to Miss Frances M. Freeman, of Rodman, Sept. 18, 
1848. In 1850 he became the owner of a part of the 
old home farm and erected a house on it, in which he has 
ever since resided. 

On Jan. 2, 1852, the hearts of this couple were made 
glad by the birth of the only child they have had, — a 
daughter, named Mary F. She grew up a bright and 
charming young lady, and was the light and life of the 
household, and loved and esteemed by all who knew her. 
At the age of eighteen, on Sept. 28, 1870, she became the 
wife of Mr. Dillin ; but her married life was short, as she 
departed this life on Nov. 23, 1876, leaving an only 
daughter, named Florence M. Dillin, now five years of age. 

We present our readers, in the pages of this work, a fine 
view of the home of Harry Harrington and the portraits 
of him.self, wife, and deceased daughter, with a view of the 
resting-place of this young mother, in the cemetery at the 
old Adams Baptist church. 

Mr. Harrington and his estimable wife have for many 
years been worthy members of the Baptist church, as was 
also his father before him. We give this brief notice of an 
old pioneer family of Jefierson County. 



GEORGE GATES. 

Among the many fim; old pionec^r farm-homes of Jeffer- 
son County, we would call particular attention to that of 
the late George Gates, now owned and occupied jointly by 
his three children. The farm consists of 300 acres, about 
one mile west of the village of Rodman, and is noted for 
its fertility and productive fjualities. Mr. George A. Gates 
occupies the residence erected by his father in 1863, and 
Simeon, the other son, has erected, at a few rods' distance, 
one of the finest residences in the county. A beautiful 



view of both, with the commodious outbuildings and sur- 
roundings, may be found elsewhere in the pages of this 
work. 

George was the eldest son of Silas Gates, who in 1810 
emigrated from Massachusetts to Jefferson Co., N. Y. He 
was born at Petersham, Worcester Co., Mass., April 3, 
1787, where his early years were spent. In the year 1815 
he was united in marriage with Miss Pamelia Hunt, of 
Vermont, and the same year settled on the farm on which 
he resided all his life. The fruits of this marriage were 
three children, — George A , Eliza, and Simeon H. On 
April 25, 1854, this estimable wife and mother died, at the 
age of sixty-eight years. 

Jlr. George Gates by industry and integrity became 
wealthy, and at the date of his death was reputed to be 
the richest man in the town of Rodman. But with all 
his wealth he was most singularly free from the arrogance 
and pride so often engendered by the possession of riches. 
He was for over fifty years an exemplary and honored 
member of the Congregational church of Rodman, and at 
various times held offices and positions of trust in the 
county and State. In the latter years of his life he was 
sererely afllicted with rheumatism, and required and re- 
ceived the most devoted care and attention of his children. 
He passed to his rest on April 10, 1871, leaving to his 
children a fine fortune in lands and property, but a still 
richer inheritance in their memories of a long life of honor- 
able usefulness. 

George A. was married to 3Iiss JIartha Green, of Rod- 
man, Jan. 27, 1864. They have no children. Eliza is 
unmarried, and lives with her brother George. Simeim H. 
was married Feb. 21, 1855, to Miss Eunice T. Babbitt, 
who died the same year, on the ninth day of December. 
He was married to Miss Ellen E. Wood, his pre.scnt wife, 
December 13, 1863, by whom he is the father of three 
children, — Charles W., Anna II., and S. Harold. Since 
the decease of their father these three children liave jointly 
owned and occupied the farm and fortune left them by 
their father, — all working together in harmony and unity 
of interests. The two sons, George and Simeon, are much 
respected and est^jemed for their sterling worth and honor- 
able character. George A. has acted as one of the magis- 
trates of his town for nearly thirty years, and has also 
served as supervisor and in many other positions of trust 
and responsibility. 




f^ESiDENCE of John S Sill, 

' riK>^ South east > 




(■ rJfOM tiof^Tt^ wcsr j 



:o . ti. Y. 



RUTLAND. 



The name of this town was selected at a town-meeting 
held for tho purpose, and was suggested by settlers from 
Rutland, in Vcnuont. 

This town was surveyed by Benjamin Wright, in 1796, 
into 57 lots of about 500 acres each, and in 1799 he sub- 
divided these into quarters. 

This town, having fallen to the share of Wm. Henderson 
in the division of the Black River Tract, was first opened 
for settlement by his agent, Asher Miller,* of Middletown, 
Conn., whom he employed June 6, 1799, to remove to the 
town and commence improvements. As a consideration, he 
was allowed the choice of 500 acres wherever he might se- 
lect, and at a very reduced rate. Accordingly, in July, Miller 
opened a road from the river to near the centre of the town, 
and fixed his residence and location near the small lake, 
about a mile east of Rutland Village. From a memorandum 
made by him we derive the following names of purchasers 
during the years 1799, 1800, 1801, from which it will be 
seen that the town settled with great rapidity, mostly by 
emigrants from New England. Nearly all of these men 
are now dead. The number of acres taken by each is 
appended. 

In 1799, Levi Butterfield (September 21), 172 ; Perley 
Keyes, Amos Stebbins, and William Keyes (October 3), 
343 ; David Coflfeen (November 1), 391 ; Goldsmith Cof- 
feen, 312; Raphael Porter, 213 ; Israel Wright, 98; Jon- 
athan and Clark Boss, 161 ; James Killiam, 141 ; Charles 
Kelsey, 116; Jeptha King, 137; John Dole, 154; Gard- 
ner Cleveland, 242 ; Warren Foster, 142 ; John Cotes, 134 
(November 6). 

In 1800, in June, John Earl, Jr., 120; Nathan Green, 
128; Robert Jeroms, 145; Isaac and Caleb Corp, 196; 
in July, Henry Houk, 130 ; in autumn, John Earl, 134 ; 
Danford Earl, 113; Simeon Munson, 89; Mathias Houk, 
135 ; Alford Comins, 94 ; Charles Comins, 128 ; Solomon 
Tuttle, 233; Chauncey Rawson, 122; Gershom Tuttle, 
276 ; Abel Sherman, 229 ; Kenyon Larkin, 352 ; Peter 

Cook, 92 ; Ezekicl Andrews, 144 ; Rose, 

Welch, 155 ; Lot McClure, 72 ; Isaiah Bailey, 50 ; Luther 
Foot, 137; Enos Sanford, 141 ; Jacob A. Williams, 108; 
Amos Barnes (2d), 97 ; Stephen Kemball, 97 ; Vernon 
Huston, 193 ; Elijah Beech, 80 ; Thomas Lee, 61 ; Daniel 
Russell, 75; Turner Ellis, 160; Joseph Patterson, 122; 
Silas Pierce, 100; Benjamin White, 53; James Murray, 

125 ; Abner White, 51 ; Thomas M. Converse, 78 ; 

Brayton, Swan, 93 ; Jonathan Hill, Frederick Tyler, 

146 ; John Stanley, 136 ; Stephen Cummins, 146 ; Andrew 



* Asber Miller retarncd to Middletown, where he died, Dec, 24, 
1821, being at that time mayor of the city. 



Stafford, 116; James Stafford, 106; William H. Stevens, 
81 ; Dr. Phillips, 197 ; Henry Allen, 106 ; Elisha Ludden, 
261; Philip H. Hinman,269; Thomas Hosmer, 225 ; Peter 
Wright, 118; Erastus Maltby, 158; Chandler Maltby, 151 ; 
Roger Williams, 291 ; George White, 266 ; Benjamin 
Pike, 170: Clift French, 105. 

In 1801, William Coffeen, 257 ; Thomas Dunton, 328; 
John Patterson, 130; Alexander Warner, 74; Joseph 
Wakefield, 98 ; Jesse Hale, Asa and Luther Brown, 100 ; 
Josiah Osmer, Luther W. Dexter, 120; Samuel Tread way, 
178 ; Orange Eno, 68 ; James Morse, 68 ; Levi Hare. 155 ; 
Joseph Underwood, 133; John Smith. 121; David Staf- 
ford, 118; Thomas Starkweather, 103 ; Joseph Ludden, 
124; Thomas Hill. 112; Caleb Harri.s, 114; Reuben 

Scott, Wcssel, Johnson, 651 ; Asher Bull, 247; 

Ethan Newton, 130 ; Stukely Wicks, 114 ; Jonathan Covey, 
126 ; Job Olmstead, 145 ; Britton, Foster, 173. 

Without date, but in one of the above years, Jonathan 
Davis, 93 ; Thinyon Green, 110 ; Charles Hill, 120 ; Jacob 
Shook, 70 ; Ethan Post, 148 ; Artemus Pike, 135 ; Samuel 
Parker, 120, 

The total amount of sales during the three years was 
17,540.03 acres, for 850,738.14, the contracts being with- 
out interest for one year. By much the largest part of the 
town was thus settled, the unsold portions being along the 
north and south boundaries. 

In June, 1803, Abel French succeeded as agent, and the 
same year sold 2313 acres for S71 12.60. Early in 1804, 
Henderson as-signed to Dr. Isaac Bronson, of Greenfield, 
Connecticut, and afterwards of New York, his interest in 
the town. Dr. Bronson was born in Middlebury, Conn. 
When a j-outh he studied medicine at Hartford, and at an 
early age obtained a commission as surgeon on board a mer- 
chant ship, and sailed for the East Indies, where, by trade, 
he amassed wealth. On returning, he embarked in land 
speculations, and, among other things, on the disbandment 
of the American army at the close of the Revolutionary 
War. he purchased soldiers' scrip at a great discount, which 
afterwards rose to par. 

Soon after the purchase of the town by Dr. Bronson, he 
appointed Ethel Bronson, his brother, of Middlebury, Conn., 
agent, to settle in the town and sell lauds. Previous adven- 
turers had brought back flattering accounts of the country, 
and New England was filled with the fame of the new and 
fertile lands of the Black River country. In May, 1804, 
Ethel Bronson. David Tyler, and Josiah Tyler, with their 
families, started for their distant home. Three weeks were 
consumed in the journey, the latter part of which was diffi- 
cult and jierilous. The roads, lately marked out and lead- 
ing through almost uninhabited forests, were hardly passable 

495 



496 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



with teams. Frequent breakages compelled the party to 
walk, encamp in their wagons, or at the most convenient 
locality, and subsist on whatever was at hand. Fortunately, 
however, they suflFered no want of provisions before they 
reached their destination. Ethel Bronson settled in the 
centre of the town, David and Josiah Tyler in the northern 
part ; after whom the village of Tylerville was named. 

Among the first to settle in this town were Samuel Porter 
and family, who experienced many hardships, being obliged 
to Bend to Whitesboro' to mill, a distance of nearly seventy 
miles, the journey being performed with an ox-team. It is 
said that straggling Indians infested the settlements when 
new, and proved annoying by pilfering or openly plunder- 
ing the property of the settlers in the absence of the men 
at their work. 

In 1803 there were but nine farms occupied in or near 
the Rutland Hollow road. The occupants were William 
Newton, John Cotes, John Eddy, Morgan Starks, Robert 
Adams, Stutely Weeks, and three men by the name of 
Maltby. There were but two families settled between the 
Hollow and what is now Felt's Mills, namelj', those of Elisha 
Veber and Jacob Fuller. At the latter place a very few 
settlers had located. Among tho.se who settled in the north 
part of the town about this time were Richmond Howland 
and his brothers, llufus and David, Jonathan Graves, Asa, 
Elisha, Elias, and Archibald Clark, Asaph Chase, Reuben 
Scott, David Wilcox, Enoch Eddy and family, and David 
Veber. Zelotus Harvey had previously settled on the 
farm now owned by Henry Orvis. He w;is for many years 
a very prominent and useful citizen of the town, as a 
teacher, magistrate, supervisor, and inspector of common 
schools. 

Among the incidents that retarded the prosperity of many 
of the settlers of the town was the following : A man by 
the name of John Harris, having a contract to deliver .spars 
at either Montreal or Quebec, bought all the nursery-j)ine 
on the Le Ray plains. Many of the settlers, thinking it a 
favorable opportunity to get a little ready money (an article 
very scarce in those days), contracted to deliver the spars on 
the banks of the river at S5 each. All, except Enoch Eddy 
and Asa Ne.ss, who delivered 100, after delivering a part 
failed to i'ulfill their contracts, as it cost much more to 
deliver them than they were to receive. In floating the 
spars down Rlack river eleven men were drowned, and 
those who failed in their contracts were sued by Harris for 
damages. This reduced many of them to poverty. 

The father of the present Ezekiel Andrus migrated from 
Utica to this town in the spring of 1800, bringing with 
him his family, which consisted of himself and nine chil- 
dren (his wife having died several years before). His con- 
veyance was a two-wheel cart, one yoke of oxen, and a horse, 
— the horse carrying part of the time two and oftentimes 
three of the girls of the family on their way to the " Black 
River wildcriies.s." One of the girls aflt^rwards became the 
wife of Danfoid Earl, another of Warren Spaulding. A 
bark shanty sheltered the large family until a more com- 
modious dwelling could be ]irovided. Four of the chidren 
are still living, the united ages of whom is '.VM years, viz.: 
Ezekiel, 85 ; Elisha, 83 ; Mrs. Frederick Woodruff, 87 ; 
Uriah, 81. 



Ezekiel Andrus is now the oldest living inhabitant, in 
point of priority of settlement, in Rutland, and among the 
very oldest in the county, having lived seventy-seven years 
consecutively in the same town. Allan and Gershom Tattle 
came a few years later. Joseph Russell came " on a look" 
in 1800, and permanently in 1802, and located on what is 
now the Stebbins farm. He died recently at the age of 
ninety-six, and was for some years the oldest man in the 
town. Peter Thompson, now the oldest man living in town, 
was born in 1782, and came to Rutland in March, 1816. 

Among other early settlers might be mentioned Asa 
Clark, who was born on the farm his father settled Decem- 
ber 10, 1806. Asa Clark, Sr., came to the town in 1804, 
and brought his family from Vermont in 180G. He died in 
March, 1854. Elisha and Archibald Clark came in about 
the same time. Trustrin Frink, Andrew Middleton and 
his four sons, Robert, John, Andrew, and Samuel ; Renel 
Randall, father of John D. Randall ; L. D. Olney, James, 
Samuel, and John L. Wilson. In the central part of the 
town, Joseph Hopkins, fttther of Henry and grandfather of 
Henry T. Hopkins ; Daniel Eames, C. P. Kimball, M.D., 
Alexander Warner, Robert Hardy, Andrew Dunlap, Wil- 
liam and David Howland, Asa Parkinson, father of Phin- 
eas and James Parkinson ; John Stebbins, father of Lyman 
Stebbins ; Joel Webb, father of Arnold Webb, who was 
born on the place upon which he now resides nearly three- 
score and ten years ago ; Eli Kellog, and Sylvester, his son, 
now proprietor of the hotel at Tylerville. 

The pioneers of Rutland were mostly from the New 
England States, and were generally intelligent, robust, and 
industrious. They were distinguished for their sound 
common sense, their love of justice, and an admixture of 
singular Puriuin simplicity, as seen by reference to their 
early religious records. They took an active part in the 
educational and moral development of their adopted resi- 
dence, and were in the main a capital class of people for 
the settlement of a new country. They were generally poor, 
but, being thrifty, they usually overcame the difficulties of 
their position ; and those who became permanent settlers 
got along nicely, financially and otherwise. 

GEOLOGICAL AND NATURAL PHENOMENA. 

There are several deeply-interesting geological features in 
this town, which are due to the latest, and, indeed, almost 
the last, of the agencies which have modified the earth's 
surface. Acro.ss the northern part of the town, nearly par- 
allel with Black river, and about two miles distant, is littt- 
land UoUuw, a remarkable valley, worn in the limestone, 
like the valley of a river, but entirely destitute of any run- 
ning stream that could have produced it. Near the middle 
is a marshy spot, from which the water flows off in both 
directions, and then appears to be continued across Water- 
town, Hounsfield, Adams, and Henderson, to the lake, 
although in some places interrupted and scarcely perceptible. 

Along the edge of the terrace of limestone which under- 
lies the town, and at an elevation of nearly four hundred 
feet above the lake, is distinctly to be observed the trace of 
an ancient beach, proving that the lake once washed these 
bluffs, and covered the low country north and west. Both 
of these features in geology will be again noticed. 



r?? 



iii. 




HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



ill? 



On the Dr. C. P. Kimball farm (now occupied by his 
son, Henry M. Kimball), near Burrville, is a remarkable 
copious spring, the .same that i.s mentioned by tiie Rev. John 
Taylor, in an early mls.sioiiary tour through the country.* 

In the newly-settled district embraced in townships 2 
and 3 the men were mostly in the ])rimc of life, fond of 
athletic games, and, at their gatherings, would often indulge 
in amusements that are now nearly obsolete. Among these, 
wrestling at "square hold" was esteemed as a sport that 
afforded the fairest test of personal strength and agility, 
and a successful wrestler would, in those days, accjuire dis- 
tinction wholly unknown at present. On a certain occasion, 
about 1803, a bet had been made by a No. 1 min " that 
his town ( Rutland) could throw everything in No. 2" 
(Watertown) ; and as this challenge was too direct to be 
evaded, about a hundred men assembled, by appointment, 
at G. Tuttle's, in the edge of Rutland, to settle the ques- 
tion, the victors, besides the consolation of beating their 
adversaries, being promised all they could eat and drink. 
After various preliminaries and much discussion, it was 
agreed that each town should choose a man, and that they 
would abide by the result of this single contest. David 
Coffeen was chosen by No. 3, and Turner by No. 2, but 
after a long trial neither succeeded, and night put an end 
to the contest. The parties separated, with the agreement 
that they should settle the question when they next met, 
which accidentally happened some days after, and the ques- 
tion of supremacy was decided in favor of Rutland. 

There does not appear to have been any action taken by 
the town at their annual meetings during the War of 1S12 
with reference to drafting or enlisting men ; but many 
volunteers and drafted men from the town served in the 
army. A company of Silver Grays, consisting of about 
forty, mostly Revolutionary soldiers, whose age exempted 
them from militia service, was organized under Timothy 
Tamblin as captain, and Levi Butterfield as lieutenant. 
They were at Sacket's Harbor for several weeks, and erected 
near the site of Madison barracks a defense, which was 
named Ihrt Volunteer. 

Judge Ethel Bronson continued in the agencj' of his 
brother's estates in this country till his death in 1825, and 
in September, Major George White, an active and prominent 
citizen, who had lived in town almost since its first -settle- 
ment, was appointed, and continued till the lands were sold 
and accounts settled with the proprietor. On the 13th of 
April, 1S4G, the last of the lands were sold, it being an 
island near the village of Black River. Most of the settlers 
enumerated in the previous list came in and commenced 
improvements immediately. 

FIRST BIRTH — FIRST DEATH. 

The first child born in the town of Rutland was Harriet, 
daughter of Charles and Lois Kelsey. She became the 
wife of Alfred Pardee, who eventually settled at the bend 
of the river, in Champion. Towards the close of her life 
she became partially deranged, and finally committed suicide 
by drowning in Black river in the spring of 1863. The 
first twin children born in town were Robert and William 



* Documentary History of New York, vol. iii. p. 1144. 

32 



Middleton, sons of John Middlcton. Robert died at Felt's 
Mills ; William is still living. 

The first death was that of Relief, wife of Francis Tornie, 
who was killed by lightning, Aug. Iti, 1804. 

The first physician was Dr. Hugh Henderson, who com- 
menced practice in the town and vicinity as early as 1802. 

THE FIRST INN — FIRST MILL. 

There is a (juestion as to whether Dr. Hugh Henderson 
or Levi Butterfield opened the first tavern. But as the 
records show that the town-meetings were held at the house 
of the latter in 1803, 5, and 'G, it is probable he opened the 
first public-house, now generally called Rutland Centre. 
The county map of Burr gives the name of this place as 
" Brooksville," from Curtis G. Brooks, an earlj' and promi- 
nent settler, but it has never been known by this name 
among the inhabitants. 

The first grist-mill in the town and county was erected 
in the year 1800 by David Coffeen, who had received a 
gift of ten acres (to be confirmed when the mill was finished) 
at the present village of Felt's Mills and on Mill creek, near 
its mouth. This primitive mill was indeed rude and hum- 
ble, but Very useful for the settlements throughout the 
county. It was put in operation in March, 1801, and was 
resorted to from great distances. The millwright was 
Samuel Parker, and the first pair of mill-stones were made 
from bowlders of gnci.ss, found in the vicinity. This mill 
opened a new era in the business of milling, which had 
been previously accomplished by pounding in stnnip-niortars 
rudely scooj)cd out. 

The first saw-mill in town was erected at Felts Mills in 
1801. About the same time the first frame house in town, 
and one of the very first in the county, was erected by 
Wolcott Hubbell, on the lot known as the Jacob Tooker 
lot, now owned by Wm. Roberts, and situated nearly oppo- 
site Felt's Mills school-house. The remnant of the old 
structure is now used as a barn. 

INCIDENTS. 

An event in the early history of the town that caused 
much sympathy was the death of Avery Worden. On the 
afternoon of the 26th of February, 1810, the first .school 
exhibition held in the town of Rutland was given at Heath's 
tavern, Rutland Centre. The school was taught by Charles 
Dayan, afterwards a prominent citizen of Lewis countj', 
member of congress, .senator, etc. It being something 
new, the house was crowded with spectators. Ezra Worden 
and his brother Avery, aged 12, started for home afoot 
about 6 P.M., the snow being fully five feet deep. The 
road between the turn west of O. Phillips' and the Hollow 
road had not been opened that winter. In passing over 
that part of the road at the top of the hill, Avery became 
so overcome with cold and weariness that he could go no 
ftirther. Ezra attempted to draw him through the snow, 
but only succeeded in drawing him about one hundred 
rods, when, his strength failing, he was obliged to leave him 
in order to obtain assistance. He proceeded to Benj. Weeks' 
house near the Hollow road, where he arrived between 
eleven and twelve o'clock. Mr. Weeks and Robert Sword 
put on their snow-shoes and went after Avery, whom they 



493 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



found alive, but lie died before he could be got to a house. 
Ezra became unconscious soon after arriving at Mr. Weeks', 
and remained so about twelve hours. He was frozen even 
woi-sc than hi.s brother, and only by superior endurance was 
his life saved. 

In connection with the perils of the pioneer life, may 
here, perhaps not inappropriately, be noticed tliose of one 
who, at a later period, lived and died in this town. The 
events happened at an early period and a distant locality, 
but the account will interest many who were personally 
acquainted with their heroine : 

" Mrs. Elizabeth Parkinson, who died in Rutland, June 
26, 1822, at the advanced age of 84, was a native of New 
Hampshire, having married for her first husband Mr. Peter 
Pour, and with hini moved to the town of Bethel, in the 
State of Jlaine. Here she was residing with her husband 
and two children in the year 1781, in the autumn of which 
year the savages came down upon that recent and defense- 
less settlement to seek for scalps and plunder. 

"These savages were instigated to maurauding and mur- 
derous expeditions by the bounty offered by the British 
for scalps. They entered the house of Mrs. P., with two 
of her neighbors already captured and bound, and made 
inquiry for her husband, who was fortunately absent at the 
time. After having ate, plundered, and rioted as they 
pleased, they went in quest of Mr. Poor, and without her 
knowledge found him, and on his refusing to become their 
prisoner .shot him and took his .scalp in their sacks. Mrs. 
P. fled from her house with her children, and waded the 
Androscoggin at as great a depth as she dared, in order to 
avoid being traced by the Indians, and at night lodged in 
the forest. Meanwhile, her husband had been discovered 
and taken up, and in the first house she dared approach 
she beheld his mutilated and bloody corpse. This was a 
heart-rending scene; and yet it was met with Christian 
fortitude. She was soon composed and .sat down to her 
Bible, which she had not forgotten to take along with her, 
and opened the 4i;th I'sahn, and when .she eame to the 10th 
verse she responded in her heart, ' I will be still.' She 
buried her husband, tiien took her children with her upon 
a horse and started for her friends. The road was, at best, 
only a foot-jiath, winding through a dense fiirest, over hills, 
and across bridgeless streams. The journey was made as 
fast as possible by day, and through the night she composed 
herself as well as she could, being compelled to lodge upon 
the ground, with no covering but the dense branches of the 
woods. There were beasts of prey to seek her life, and 
none to preserve and defend her but her JIaker. 

" She afterwards married Mr. William Parkinson, with 
whom she moved to Sharon, in this State. They were 
indigent in circumstances, and, as usual in new countries, 
Mr.s. P. endured privations, and labored hard to a.ssist her 
husband in maintaining the family. She earned some money 
by weaving, and on Saturday of each week would travel on 
foot five or eight miles with the articles she had woven, 
receive her pittance for the work, and return to her family. 
She afterwards removed to Rutland, where her husband 
soon died, and where .she finally rests from her labors."* 



• From an extended obituary notice published in the New Yorlt 
Obien-er, Doceinbur Ifl, IS42. 



CIVIL ORGANIZATION. 

This town, embracing its present limits, or as designated 
in the original survey as township No. 3, of the Black 
River Tract, was taken from Watertown April 1, 1802. 
The first town-meeting was held at the house of David Cof- 
feen, and adjourned to the house of Levi Butterfield, at 
next meeting, March 7, 1803. The first town ofiicers 
chosen were: Henry CofTeen, Supervisor; Jacob A. Wil- 
liams, Clerk ; Abel Sherman, "j" Zelotus Harvey, William 
Coffeen, Assessors; Levi Heath, Solomon Thompson, Ger- 
shoni Tuttle, Commissioners of Highways; Benjamin Eddy, 
Constable and Collector. In addition to the above there 
were chosen two pound-ma.sters, three fence-viewers, twelve 
path-masters, three deer-reeves, six hog-reeves, and a com- 
mittee of three to settle accounts with Watertown. 

Wolf bounties of $10 were offered in 1803, '7 '8, '14, 
and of 815 in 1805-6. Fox bounties of 50 cents in 1816, 
and of $1 in 1818. In 1811-12 a law was pas.sed re- 
quiring Canada thistles to be cut "at the full moon, in 
June, July, and August," under a penalty of one dollar. 

The list of supervisors from the organization of the town 
to the present comprises the following names : 1803, David 
Coffeen; 1804-5, Clift French; 1806, Ethel Bronson 
(fiiiled to qualify, and Perley Keyes appointed) ; 1807, Ze- 
lotus Harvey; 1808, Hugh Henderson (at a. special meeting 
in April, Ethel Bronson to fill vacancy); 1809-13, Judah 
Williams (in July, 1813, Jonathan Smiley to fill vacancy) ; 
1814-20, Jonathan Smiley; 1821-23, Ethel Bronson; 
1824-20, Amos Stebbins; 1827-35, Joseph Graves; 1836, 
John Felt; 1837-40, George White ; 1841-42, Aaron W. 
Potter; 1843, Joseph Graves; 1844, David Rowland; 1845, 
Gardner Towne ; 1846-47. Merrill Coburn ; 1848-19, Asa 
Clark, Jr. ; 1850-52, IMartin L. Graves ; 1853, John Sher- 
man ; 1854-55, Orlin Whcelock ; 1856-57, George W. 
Hazelton; 1858-00, Andrew C. Middleton ; 1801-02, 
George Town; 1803, Asa Clark; 1804-66, George W. 
HazeUon; 1808, A. C. Middleton; 1809-70, Samuel 
Frink; 1871-72, William Southworth ; 1873-74, Harlan 
P. Dunlap; 1875, William Southworth ; 1876-77, George 
W. Smith. 

Previous to 1830 Justices of the Peace were appointed 
by the Governor and Council. We have not been able to 
ascertain who first received appointments, but among those 
who served as Justices were Zelotus Harvey, Daniel 
Eames, Perley Keyes, Ethel Bronson, Archibald Clark, 
Joseph Graves, Levi Hale, and ]\Ierrill Coburn. 

The township ofiicers elected at the annual town-meet- 
ing of the current year (1877) were as follows, namely, 
George H. Smith, Supervisor; Bj'ron J. Smith, Clerk; 
Samuel Frink, Jackson Tamblin, Cyrus B. Gipson, John 
W. Beecher, Justices of the Peace ; Silas Weller, D. W. 
Wheeler, Warren Jobn.son, Highway Commissioners; Wil- 
liam Southworth, Asa Clark, Henry T. Hopkins, E. Clem- 
ents (appointed). Town Auditors; Samuel Frink, Daniel 
J. Eames, Eli Kellogg (appointed). Inspectors of Election 



t l>i-. AIm'I .'^iHTiiiiin, th(! first shcrilT, was born in Rrimfield, Mass., 
and removed to Clinton, Oneida connty, from whence, in 1802, lie 
settled in Uutluhd, on the south road, where he subsequently lived 
nn<I died. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUxVTY, NEW YORK. 



499 



Dist. No. 1; Arthur H. Tucker, Charles C. Hardy, 
Edmund McOmber (appointed), Inspectors of Election 
Dist. No. 2 ; Charles C. Hardy, Collector ; Talcott Mer- 
vin, Orville Brown, Gardner Griswold, Commissioners of 
Excise; Stanley W. Brown, John C. Gipson, Robert C. 
Hardy, Matthew Parkinson, Constables; Robert C. Hardy, 
Game Constable. 

FELT'S MILLS. 

The village of Felt's Mills was first settled in 1800. A 
n;rist-mill was coniinonced that year, and finished the year 
following. The first grist brought to that mill was by 
William Hadsall, of Champion, and was so full of mill- 
stone grit that it was scarcely fit to be eaten. This was the 
pioneer mill of Jefferson County, and the proprietor of the 
town gave David Coffeen, the miller, ten acres of land as a 
reward for his entorpri.se in erecting the same. The mill stood 
on the creek, near where the lower bridge spans it. The 
dam was erected about eight rods south of the south bridge 
over the creek ; and the water wa.s conveyed through pine 
logs dug out, as there was no saw-mill to saw plank for a 
flume. In 1804 another mill was built farther down the 
creek. The fir.st dam was abandoned and a new one con- 
structed, in order to obtain more water. This mill wm 
built by Wolcott Hubbell. It had two run of stone, — one 
run was an Esopus, the other a Washington burr. The 
mill passed into the hands of Barnabus Eldridge, and from 
him to Barnabus and Omie La Grange. In 1813 the mill 
was purchased by John Felt, by whom it was conducted 
until 1821, when he built dams across Black river, and 
erected the present stone mill. In 1822 the old mill was 
abandoned. The stone mill continued in the pos.se.ssion of 
John Felt until 1858, when it was sold to Charles H. Bart- 
lett. It has since been owned by different parties, among 
them William Griswold & Son, and is now the property of 
Samuel Manser, and operated by Edward McDonald. 

The first .saw-mill wa.s built in 1801, and pa.ssed through 
the same hands the grist-mill did, namely, John Felt and 
his predecessors. The original mill was torn down in 
1818-19, and a new one was built on the same site, which, 
in 1828, pa.ssed into the hands of Jason Francis ; it has 
been demolished, and nothing stands in its place. 

A carding-machinc was built at an early day on the west 
side of the creek. In 1813 it was owned by George Choat. 
George Oaks, Merrill Coburn, and William Usher were 
severally interested in the shop at different times. The 
building was washed away during the high water in 1862. 

Mr. 0. A. Felt, son of John Felt, from whom the village 
receives its name, thus discourses on the primitive manu- 
facture of whisky : 

" There used to bo places where liquor was soUi. .John Felt started 
a distillery in ISIi!, and ran it almost uninterrupte^ily till the spring 
of 1833. Within a radius of two miles there has been within my 
recollection four distilleries, namely, those of John Felt, A.^hbel 
Symonds, Jacob Fuller, and Elisha Yeoman.s, Jr., whore liquid death 
and damnation was dealt out freely ; and whisky was a lawful tender 
here as much as cinvholtt were at Chaumont, As an illustration, when 
the church near Francis' Corners, in Champion, was being built, quite 
a number paid their subscriptions in whisky." 

The first merchant was Jenison Clark, who kept a small 



assortment of goods; after him came William Brown, who 
kept but kw goods on hLs shelves. Since 1828 there have 
been stores up to the present time. 

The first tavern was opened by Wm. K., son of Levi 
Butterfield, one of the first settlers of the town of Rutland, 
in 1825. 

The first school taught was in an old house which stood 
just below the present residence of J. C. Cross; it was con- 
tinued there until a house was built on the site occupied by 
the present school-house. It gave way to an octagonal stone 
school-hou.se in 1832, which, in 1852, was torn down and 
the present school-house built. The school district in 1828 
was divided, and a new district formed from this and parts 
of other districts. It was the year that General Jackson 
was elected president, hence the name of Jackson school- 
house and the Jacksonville district. Among the early 
teachers were Jacob Fuller, Gardner Towne, John Felt, 
and Elijah Graves. 

THE OLD ROCK. 

" There wa.s situated in the centre of the ' place on the 
green,' as it was called, a rock which was about eight feet 
over, nearly circular in form. The north side rose perpen- 
dicularly from the ground about three feet, then slanted 
off southerly to the ground. The ' old rock ' used to be 
the place of general resort, where the sports of the younger 
people were carried on, and where the elder people smoked 
and told stories. The general elections were held in the 
month of April up to 1822. On that day the young men 
and boys used to gather in and play ball. They usually 
brought with them plenty of eggs, maple-sugar, and milk ; 
the distillery furnished the whisky with which they made 
egg-nog. So they used to drink egg-nog and play ball all 
day long, — and go home sober at night. The old men used 
to sit on the rock and keep tally." 

In 1808, a bridge was built to the Island, and soon afler 
another to the north bank, which was swept off in ISll. 
Several have been since constructed, and one, an iron bridge, 
was swept away in the freshet of 1873. Another iron 
bridge has since been built. The expense of both was 
about §10,000. In 1821, as before .stated, a dam was 
built acro.ss the river. In 1823—1 a saw-mill was erected 
on the Island ; and in 18-12 another and larger one, lower 
down ; since which time, up to within a score of years, a 
very extensive business in lumbering has been carried on at 
this place, from two to three millions of feet of pine lumber 
having been sent to market annually. The Pine Plains, 
which were immediately adjacent on the north bank of the 
river, furnished for many years the logs for supplying these 
mills, but this source having been mostly exhausted, very 
little business in this line is now done. 

Felt's Mills is a place of considerable business, having a 
variety of manufacturing interests, of which the principal 
one is the tannery of C. C. Veber. This business was 
established by a stock company incorporated in 1857. The 
original incorporators were : JMerrill Coburn, 3Iartin L. 
Graves, Russell Wilmot. Le Roy Wood, Benjamin Crossett, 
and Orlin Whcelock. It remained under the control of a 
stock company for a few years, and then pa.ssed into the 
possession of Mr. Coburn, who in 18G6 formed a copart- 
nership with C. C. Veber, under the firm-style of Coburn 



500 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



& Veber. In 1868 the former gentleman retired ; since 
which time Mr. Veber has conducted the business alone. 
He emplovs on :iii average ton men, ami the aiiunal product 
of the establishment is 288,0(10 poumls of .-iole leather. 
The other manufacturing estiiblishnients are: checso-box 
factory and saw-mill, owned and operated bj' H. Marshall ; 
pump factor}', by D. C. Wheeler; carriage-factory, by 
Charles Roberts ; cabinet-shop, blaeksniithy, and gri.<t-mill, 
owned by Samuel Manser, and conducted by Ed. McDonald. 

The business interests of the village are represented by 
one general store, kept by Sam. C. Cross & Co., two gro- 
ceries, a hotel, of which F. L. Rockwood is proprietor, a 
post-office, with James M. Smiley as postmaster, an express 
office, and a depot of the Utica and Black River railroad. 
It has a neat and substantial Union church edifice and a 
good district school, a cemetery, and about three hundred 
inhabitants. 

The " Felt's Mills Burying-Ground Association" was 
incorporated March 29, 1852, with the following officers: 
Henry W. Chapman, president ; 0. A. Tooker, vice-presi- 
dent ; Elijah Graves, secretary; Samuel Felt, treasurer; 
Paschal P. Carpenter, sexton. The above, with Hugh and 
Joshua Roberts, .ilso constituted the board of trustees. The 
association was incorporated under the Act of April 29, 
IS 47, relating to rural cemetery associations. No organiza- 
tion has been kept up of late years. 

THE POST-OFFICE 

was established in 1824, and William Brown was appointed 
postmxster, but failed to qualify. Subse((uontly, Merrill 
Coburn was appointed. The mail was carried through 
from Watertown to Alexandria Bay one day and returned 
the next, making a tri-wcekly mail. This was the first 
official recognition of Felt's Mills. Prior to this it was 
called Truckville, which name is still used by some of the 
older inhabitants. There are various reasons assigned for 
the assumption of the name, but that of Mr. 0. A. Felt 
doubtless is correct. He says the nanie arose from the 
organizatiou of a " Truck Company," which was formed to 
truck otf worthless and indolent characters, but which was 
in reality a sort of humorous burles(]uc on the boys of " ye 
oldeu time." 

Felt's Mills is pleasantly situated on Black river, about 
eight miles from Watertown, on the Utica and Black River 
railroad. It possesses an excellent water-power. By an 
act of April 1, 18-tl, the island here was taken from the 
town of Le Ray and annexed to Rutland, by which each 
town has a bridge to support. 

TYLER VILLE 

(South Rutland post-office) is situated in a narrow val- 
ley, on Sandy creek, and at an early day it acquired some 
importance from its being the seat of a small woolen-factory, 
that was erected by 

THE urTL.\ND WOOLEN-M.WUFACTURING COMP.VNY, 

formed September 25, 1811, with a capital of 825.000, and 
the following parties as signers of the articles, the tii-st thri>c 
being trustees : Ethel Bronson, Daniel Eamcs, Josiah Ty- 
ler, Thomas Hill, Abel Doohttle, Ebcr Ingalsbe, and John 



Oaks. This factory was the first in the county, and it is 
claimed one of the very first in northern New Y''ork. On 
the 19th of September, 1817, the fiictorj' and machinery 
were sold to Daniel Eamcs for §400, the enterprist' having 
failed of success soon after the close of the war on ac- 
count of the influx of British woolen goods. The build- 
ing was siibse<|uently sold by Mr. Eames to Albert Boying- 
ton, and was by him used for a dwelling-house. The latter 
solil it to Dr. A. W. Porter, who rented it as a residence, 
and owned it until his death. His widow sold it to Ar- 
nold Webb, who used it as a tenant-house until 1875, 
when he disposed of it to the Kellogg Brothers, who con- 
verted it into a creamery, for which purpose it is still used. 
We have been thus explicit in bringing down the history 
of this old fabric, because its now venerable antiquity 
entitles it to historical notice. 

A building for carding and spinning by water, and an- 
other for hand-looms, were built at this place in 1812, and 
got in operation the following winter. High prices were 
necessarily paid for wool, which embarra-sscd their opera- 
tions, and on the loth of April, 1814, an act was passed 
allowing 85000 to be loaned from the State treasury to 
Ethel Bronson, in behalf of the company, security being 
given. All of these interests ceased about 1850, and the 
buildings were abandoned and torn down. This necessarily 
retarded the growth of the place. 

Among the early settlers of Tylerville were those whose 
names appear above, Joel Webb, Erastus Lathrop, Na- 
thaniel Frink, Jonathan Smiley, and others. In 1805, Mr. 
Lathrop erected a grist-mill on the south side of the creek, 
and ojierated it up to about 1815. He was succeeded in 
the business by Joel Webb and Jonathan Smiley, who con- 
tinued operations until about 1821, when they disposed of 
the property to Frederick Tyler. He carried on general 
milling in the old structure about five years, when he de- 
molished it, and utilized such of the material as was of suf- 
ficient worth in the erection of another mill on the north 
side of the creek. About 1830 he sold the new mill to 
Elijah Holmes, who conducted the business for a decade or 
more, when it pas.-ied into the possession of Nathaniel Wads- 
worth, and he, about 1855, sold to Heiny Andrews, who tore 
it down and built the present mill on the south side of the 
creek, which he continues to operate. 

SAW-MILLS. 

Contemporaneously with the erection of the old grist-mill, 
Nathaniel Frink built a saw-mill, which remained in the 
Frink family up to about 1830. It then passed into the 
possession of Giles and Harvey Doud. Those owning the 
mill since the Messrs. Doud disposed of it have been 
Henry Andrews, Homer Hecox, John Babcock, Even 
Evans, and Hiram Hadcock, the present owner. 

THE FIRST STORE 

was erected by Josiah Tyler (father of Lucy Ann Eames)' 
about 1810. He put in an assorted stock of general mer- 
chandise. He was succeeded by Frederick Tyler. The 
merchants since have been Messrs. McCuc, Grinnel, and 
Laccy. After the closing-out of business by the latter firm 
no store was kept in the village until about 1840. when 




DlDlxtci^. BEHT chair STOCK FACTORY of BLACK /?/V£/f,Jfw«ow Co.N.Y. 








f-^ 




ffl 



i fliit! If^ffn 




Dav/0 Dexter. 



D. DEXTER^ SON , MANurACTUREffs or Cahc aho WoodSeat Cha.hs 

BLACK RI^CR JEffE/fSOM CO. M f 



E A.DoircR. 




W. S. YVILCOy^, CABiNir Ware iJjNDtKTAKiNG Works, Black RivcR.j'LfFCRSON Co. N Y 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



501 



Simeon Oaks started a store, and continued actively engaged 
cither as sole proprietor or senior partner until his death. 
The business is now conducted by his <;randsoii. 

The post-office was established lure in 1S2(), and Calvin 
Chijjman was the appdintce. Tiie present incunibent is J. 
B. Vi.scher. Tylervillc now coiituins two general stores, 
one harness-shop, one blacksniithy, one creamery, a grist- 
mill, saw-mill, one hotel, post-office, two churches, — one 
Baptist and one Union,— a good public school, and about 
100 inhabitants. 

BLACK RIVER,* 

locally known as Lnchporl, is a post village, pleasantly 
located on both sides of Black river, in Rutland and Le 
Ray. Improvements commenced here in 180G, by the 
erection of a saw-mill by Isaac and Harvey (!leveland. The 
mill being destroyed by the flood of 1SU7, was rebuilt the 
same season. In 1818 there was but one house on the 
Rutland side of the river. About 1815, Andrew Middle- 
ton and Christopher Poor erected a mill at some distance 
below the present village, where a branch of Black river 
issues from a subterranean ])a.s.s;ige, and affords a mill privi- 
lege. Francis Butterlield moved from Antwerp to Black 
River in 1S2G, and at that time there were but four I'ami- 
lies on the Rutland side of the river, iiamelv, Bariah Pen- 
nimaii, Eli Penniman, Thomas Scott, and one other not now 
remembered. Francis Butterfield erected the first frame, 
in 182U. It was a primitive affair, 22 by 24 feet. In 
18:i0 or 1831 he built the first hotel. In 1832 the first 
bridge across Black river was constructed, the expense being 
chiefly borne by Mr. Butterfield and Christopher Poor, many 
others contributing labor and material. 

The po.st-officc was established here about 1832, and Dr. 
Albert Parsons, a .son-in-law of Mr. Butterfield, was ap- 
pointed the first postmaster. He held the office three or 
four years, and then Mr. Butterfield received the appoint- 
ment, which he held for about fifteen years. 

The first store was put up by Levi, Francis, William K., 
and Philander Butterfield, four brothers, who carried on 
general merchandising, lumbering, etc. 

The main feature of the place is its manufacturing 
interests, which are greatly facilitated by the excellent water- 
power obtained there. The jirincipal establishment is that of 

D.WllJ DEXTER i SON,| 

proprietors of one of the oldest chair-factories in the State, 
having been established more than si.xty years. The firm 
manufacture all kinds of chairs, and have ac((uired an ex- 
cellent reputation for the quality of their work. They have 
one of tlie best water-powers in northern New York, and 
their factory is supplied with all the modern improvements 
in machinery and general appointments. 

POOR &. DEXTER. 

The above firm is composed of Christopher Poor and D. 
E. Dexter, both of whom are enterprising young men, and 
natives of Jefferson County. They are engaged in the 



* See also unilor lic.ad of Le Ray. 

j" See illustratiou elsewhere in this work. 



manufacture of bent work for chairs, tables, and coach-rims, 
being the succcs.sors to C. Poor. They commenced some 
three years ago with Marshall's Improved Patent Bending- 
Machinc, a very ingenious and highly serviceable inven- 
tion, with which they are enabled to make the most diffi- 
cult bends in nearly every kiml (if tinjber with great pre- 
cision anil certainty. Their works are located on the Island, 
in the town of Rutland. They are i|uile successful, and are 
constantly increasing the capacity of their works. They 
are prepared to do all kinds of work by .sample, and in any 
quantity to suit customers. 

W. S. WILCOX 

is the proprietor of the inffin- and c.xsket-works, which were 
established by him in 184!). lie manufactures coffins, 
metallic cases, and caskets, and does a general retail trade 
in the undertakers line. He furnishes all the necessary 
accoutrements for funerals, such as robes, shrouds, cajis, etc. 

D.VIRY l.VTKRESTS. 

Rutland is one of the best dairying towns in the county, 
and is excelled by few in the State. It is situated on the 
summit of the Trenton limestone formation, and although 
to one entering it from Watertown it appears elevated, it 
is loss so tlian the country farther east and south ; and one 
cause of its peculiar fitness for grazing is, doubtless, in the 
abundance and excellence of its springs of water. 

Statistics at hand show that in 187") Rutland produced 
777,000 lbs. of cheese, and 18:!, 200 lbs. of butter. From 
a careful personal estimate of the season's (1877) product, 
we can reasonably place the number of pounds of cheese at 
1,000,000, and of butter, at 200,000. There are nearly 
4500 cows owned and pastured within the limits <if the 
town. The number of regular cheese-factories in Rutland 
is nine, and they are owned and operated by the following 
persons, namely, B. P. Smith, Thomas Maines, William 
Fuller, Henry C. Eames, Parkinson Brothers, Timothy 
Bailey, W. Case, David Hamblin, and H. JI. Campbell. 
There are two regular creameries, operated by Kellogg Bros, 
and B. Hines, respectively. The former manufactured 
during the season (1877) about 25,000 lbs. of butter, of 
an excellent quality and delicious flavor; the latter about 
18,000. The products from private creameries would 
probably reach nearly 200,000 lbs. 

The reputation of the town for the production of an ex- 
cellent quality of butter and cheese is well sustained and 
richly deserved ; and the exceptional good prices these 
products demand is, perhaps, the best criterion by which to 
judge of their merit. 

TRAGEDY. 

November 30, the inhabitants of Rutland and adjoin- 
ing towns were thrown into a state of the most intense 
excitement over the murder of an eleven-year-old daughter 
of Mr. A. Conklin, a well-known resident of Rutland. It 
appears that a young man named Frank Rettan had, for 
some cause, become angry at Sarah Conklin, the victim, and 
on the afternoon of the date above mentioned, as she was 
returning from school by way of the Humphrey woods, he 
waylaid her, and clubbed her to (loath. The youthful cul- 



502 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



prit was convicted, and sentenced to the penitentiary for 
life ; being then, we believe, about fifteen years of age. 

RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES, ETC. 

The subject of religion received early attention from the 
early settlers of Rutland The first record we have; in re- 
lation to religious matters is of a visit to the settlements in 
Jefierson County, by the Rev. James W. Woodward, in 
1802. He collected 81 in Adams, 50 cents in Watertown, 
$3.47 in Rutland, §1.50 in Champion, and 25 cents in 
Brownville, — Rutland contributing more than all the other 
settlement combined. Tlie records of religious societies in 
this town, generally, are not as full as might be desired. 

THE RUTLAND BAPTIST CHURCHES. 

The Baptists appear to have been the pioneers in religious 
services. As early at least as 180G, the Rev. Mr. Maltby 
held services in both North and South Rutland, and a great 
revival was the result of his labors. It is presumed that 
a society of this denomination was at that time organized, 
but there do not exist any definite data to determine this 
accurately. Meetings continued to be held in both parts of 
the town. They were held for Nurtli Rutland in Charles 
Fuller's barn, about 80 rods west uf Eiisha Clark's, in Rut- 
land Hollow. A church edifice was erected near Deacon 
Fuller's on David Vober's land, in 1821. Martin E. Cook 
was the first preacher in the new church. Some of tiiose 
who preceded him were Elders Wilkie, Morgan, and Card. 
Elder Palmer Cross preached in the church several years. 

It appears that prosperity did not attend the early efforts 
of the church, for we find that it disbanded, July 22, 1837, 
and that it was reorganized by a council on the 27th of 
September following, with 28 members. In June of the 
preceding year they had been received by the Black River 
Association, under the charge of P]lder Alvah D. Freeman, 
who remained till September 14, 1839. In December, 
1839, Justus Taylor succeeded, and May 7, 1840, was dis- 
missed. Elder Sardis Little began June 20, 1840, and 
continued till January 6, 1842. In the latter year, by a 
vote of the society, the North Rutland church was removed 
to the Great Bend, in the town of Champion, where it has 
since flourished. Some of the successors in the pastorate 
since Elder Little were Eiders John Wilder, Sylvester 
Davis, D. D. Reed, Hartshorn, and Lorenzo Rice. 

The "Baptist Society of South Rutland" was formed 
November 1], 1833, with James Brown, Stephen Brai- 
nard, and Milo Maltby, trustees. This society, in con- 
cert with the Methodists and Universalists, in 1843 erected 
a Union church, tlio only one in Tylervillo, until 18 — , 
when they built their present edifice, at a cost of about 
85000, and transferred their interest in the Union house 
to the other two societies. The new Baptist church was 
erected in thesununer of 1SG9, and dedicated in July, 1873 ; 
the dedicatory sermon was preached by Rev. L. E. Spaffbrd. 
It is built of wood; is a neat and sub.stjintial building, and 
will comfortably seat about 350 persons. The lot was 
donat.^d by Arnold Webb, and is a j.artof the Webb home- 
stead. The jiresetit membership of the church is 65 ; present 
Pastor, Rev. E. II. Lovett ; Deacons, Stephen Seamans and 
V. O. Braiiiard ; CI rk, Je.s.sc Hopgood ; Trustees, Welling- 



ton, Brown, Jesse Hopgood, Franklin A. Oaks ; Clerk of 

the board of Trustees, Arnold Webb. 

There is a flourishing Sunday-school connected with the 
church, which has 4(j scholars and 9 teachei'S, and of 
which 0. V. Brainard is the superintendent. 

A Baptist church was formed at Black River (Lockport), 
in 1837, and the next year joined the association and re- 
ported thirty-nine members. It never had a meeting-house, 
and has long since ceased to report. 

THE FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. 

This religious organization was formed January 12, 
1808, by the Rev. Wm, Lathrop, a missionary from Ver- 
mont, consisting of ten members, namely, David Tyler, 
Amos Mallory, Thomas Converse and wife, Samuel Porter 
and wife, and William Parkinson and wife. Amos Mal- 
lory and David Tyler were chosen the first deacons. 

The '■ First Religious Society of Rutland" was formed 
Feb. 8, 1808, and Ethel Bronson, Timothy Tamblin, John 
Read, Thomas Converse, and Ebenezer Hayward were 
elected trustees. 

It may be mentioned, as indicative of the strict Puritan- 
ism of the early fathers of the church, that Amos Mallory 
was objected to for the office of deacon on account of not 
having a wife, a deficiency which is contrary to the letter 
of the law. We are not informed whether they required 
him to qualify for the office by complying with the Scrip- 
tural advice on this subject. The first prudential com- 
mittee was formed Oct. 26, 1815, consisting of David 
Tyler. Amos Mallory, Ethel Bron.son, Jonas Bronson, Levi 
Hall, and Rev. Daniel Banks ; the latter of whom became 
the first pastor, and was ordained over this church and 
that of Watertown, Oct. 26, 1815. Previous to him, the 
clergy had been, the Rev. Messrs. Lathrop, 1808, Enos 

Bliss, 1810, Leavenworth, 1813. On January 20, 

1824, the Rev. Adams W. Piatt was ordained, and re- 
mained till July, 1829, when he dissolved his connection 
with the church. On the 24th of February, 1824, the 
church numbered 87 members, the total up to that time 
having been 116, of whom 23 had united by letter and 77 
by profession. Of the latter, 30 joined in 1817, and 18 
in 1822-23. On December 22, 1823, it was resolved to 
unite with the Presbytery, retaining the former plan of 
government, but placing themselves under their watch and 
care. This was done Jan. 20, 1824. 

In 1835, July 5, the Rev. David Spear was emploj'ed 
for a stated time; in 1838, Rev. Mr. Morton; and in 
1839, Rev. J. H. Rice. November 25, 1841, the Rev. 
Iliram Doane was installed over the church. Rev. James 
Douglass, in September, 1850, was employed fur one year, 
at the end of which time he left to fill a professorship to 
which he had been appointed, in Genesee College, Lima, 
New York. In his absence, the Rev. Henry Budge 
was employed for one year; and in May, 1853, Pro- 
fessor James Douglass, having resigned his chair in the 
college, received a unanimous call from the church society 
to become their pastor, and in September of the same year 
W!Ui ordained and installed over the church. His succes- 
sors have been Reverends Cheney, Bradnac, and Albert 
Lee, the present incumbent. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



503 



For a series of years meetings were held in a school- 
house, until the first cliureh was erected opposite the resi- 
dence of Henry Hopkins. The old site was exchanged 
fiir a new one, upon which the present edifice was erected 
in 1841. It is of wood, with a belfry-tower in which there 
is a bell ; it has a good in.'*truniint for the choir, and an 
ample session-room in the basement. The house will com- 
fortably seat about 300 persons. The present mctnbership 
is about 50 ; congregation, 150. The church ofliuers are 
Harland P. Dunlap and Francis Underwood, deacons; Tal- 
cott Mcrvin, Harland P. Diinlap, George Hammond, Henry 
N. Kimball, and W. A. Winslow, trustees. There i.s a 
flourishing Sunday-school connected with the church, num- 
bering about 100 teachers and scholars, and a library of 
500 volumes. The present superintendent is Henry T. 
Hopkins. 

BLACK RIVER CIRCUIT. 

In order to give a succinct and elaborate history of the 
Methodist Episcopal church in the town of Rutland, it will 
be necessary to include a portion at least of the historj' of 
the Black River Circuit, which is now entirely included 
within the towns of Rutland and Le Ray. Particularly is 
this requisite, as the old Rutland Hollow appointment Ls 
the oldest within the circuit, and one of the most ancient 
in the county. It was originally organized in 1821, under 
the name of " Le Ray Circuit," and was then, with all the 
territory of northern New York, " Black River District," 
and within Genesee Annual Conference. 

The first records of the circuit now in existence were 
made at a Quarterly Conference held in Pamelia, Sept. 22, 
1821, of which R, M. Evarts was Presiding Elder, and 
Israel Chambcrlayne and Josiah Keyes were the Circuit 
Preachers. The latter failed in health in December of that 
year, and Hezekiah Field, then a local preacher, was ap- 
pointed in his stead. The first Quarterly Conference con- 
sisted of the above, and Robert Middleton, Local Prcaclier ; 
Andrew Middleton and John Townsend, Exhortcrs ; John 
Parish, John Wilson, Elkanah Corbin, Philip Sunbury, 
and Wm. Taggart, Class-Leaders ; Wilson Peiinock, Jesse 
Holmes, Lyman Ackerman, and Patrick S. Stewart, Cir- 
cuit Stewards. 

In territory the circuit then embraced all within its 
present bounds, together with all of what is now Brown- 
ville, Pillar Point, Point Peninsula, Cape Vincent, St. 
Lawrence, Clayton, Depauville, La Fargeville, Pamelia, 
Philadelphia, Carthage, Natural Bridge, Copenhagen, and 
Champion, and had within its bounds twenty-three appoint- 
ments. 

It does not appear that there was but a single church, as 
there is no mention made of any othef, and that one was 
just rebuilt after having been burned, which is still stand- 
ing and in good repair in Rutland Hollow, and is one of 
the regular preaching-places in the present Black River 
Circuit. As trustees of church property were not then 
members of the Quarterly Conference, no record of the ex- 
istence of any of such officers appears until Aug. 22, 1822, 
when John Pari.sh, John Gould, John Augsbury, Jesse 
Holmes, Robert Middleton, and P. S. Stewart were ap- 
pointed " trustees to receive a deed of a lot of land from 
Bro. Gould for a parsonage house." This "lot of land" 



was somewhere in the town of Pamelia, but just whore does 
not appear. . . . During the early years of this circuit the 
Quarterly meetings were held once in a year at the " Rut- 
land Hollow meeting-house," but at other times in the 
woods and groves when the weather and the season would 
permit. . . . This circuit was the ;*/'.«<■<■;• in its recognition 
and adoption of the various institutions of the M. E. 
church. In 1827 the. Quarterly Conference resolved, 
" That they feel it their duty to promote the interests of 
onr Tract and Sunday-school societies by every consistent 
means in their power," and in March, 1828, the same body 
" formed themselves into a Sunday-.scliool societ\' auxiliary 
to the Sunday-School Union of the M. E. church," and ap- 
pointed a full board of officers, as follows : N. Salsbury, P. E., 
president; H. Field, L. P., vice-president ; Ralph Clapp, 
secretary and treasurer; Gardner Baker, preacher in charge; 
Wilson Pennock, P. S. Steward, Elijah Smith, Silas F. 
Spicer, Jo.seph Graves, Samuel Gilbert, J. Hemingway, 
Elisha Clark, W. II. Ilodgkin, Thomas Potter, and Benja- 
min Walts, managers. The following is the list of preach- 
ers ap])ointed on the original Le Ray Circuit, the Le Ray 
and Watertown Circuit, the Le Ray and Carthage Circuit 
(a.s in 1829-30), and now, since 1841), Black River Cir- 
cuit :* 

Israel Chamberlayne and Josiah Keyes; Lsaac Smith 
and Benjamin Deightou ; Enoch Barnes and Chandler 
Lambert ; John Escamback and James Lowdon ; James 
Brown and J. Escamback ; N. Sal.sbury and Gardner 
Baker (the same also in 1S27) ; J. H. Ilawley, David II. 
Kingsley, Jesse Penfield, James Brown (the last four sup- 
posed to have been assisted by local preachers, as no juniors 
are given) ; D. II. Kingsley and Robert Middleton ; Lewis 
Whitcomb and D. W. Bristol ; Enoch Barnes and Ross 
Clark; James Irving and A. J. Phelps; W. D. Moore and 
B. Deighton ; N. Salsbury and Friend Freeman ; N. Sals- 
bury and Jesse Penfield ( failed in health and was succeeded 
by Morenas Thrasher) ; Jesse Penfield and John Thomp- 
son ; Nathan R. Peck and W. W. Ward (same in 1842) ; 
Samuel Orvis and Isaac S. Bingham ; A. ¥j. Munson and 
John F. Dagan ; Stephen F. Fenton and John F. Dagan ; 
S. F. Fenton and T. W. Thompson; Alban M. Smith 
(1847-48); Henry 0. Tilden (same in 1850); Isaac Hall 
(in 1851-52) ; Ebenezer Arnold, S. Hitchcock, Royal 
Houghton (1855-56) ; Oliver P. Pitcher (2 years) ; J. C. 
Killanc (2 years), H. 0. Tilden (2 years), Enos E. Kel- 
logg (3 years), Moses Lyon (2 years), Joseph H. Lamb (2 
years), Loranus C. Corbin (3 years), Benjamin F. Wood 
(3 ycai-s), I. S. Bingham, W. M. Ilolbrook, the present 
incumbent. 

BL.\CK RIVKR .Vl'l'OINTMENT. 

In 1833 a division of the circuit was made, and Water- 
town was separated and became a station ; after which reg- 
ular preaching was established at " Lockport," now Black 
River village. In 1837 a committee of three — Francis 
Porter, Samuel Middleton, and Bildad Woodward — was ap- 
pointed to make an estimate of the expense of building " a 
meeting-house at Lockport ;" but it does not appear that 

» Each year from 1821 to 1877, inclusive. 



504 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



anything was done towards building till January, 1844, 
when a subscription was circulated by S. Orvis and I. S. 
Bingham, the preachers of the circuit, and funds were 
raised suflicieut to build and inclose a church edifice. It 
was finished and dedicated to the worship of God in the 
spring of 1848. I. S. Bingham, then stationed at Evans' 
Mills, preached the dedicatory sermon. The building was 
reconstructed and rededieated in 187G, with preaching by 
the same reverend gentleman after an interval of 28 years. 
The first trustees of the church were Thomas H. Scott, 
Bildad Woodward, Henry Scutt, William P. Treadway, and 
David Dexter, who were elected April 9, 1845. This house 
of worship is built of wood, with a spire, and will comfort- 
ably .seat about 300. It, including the parsonage, is valued 
at §4000. The present membership of the church is 04 
probationers and 62 full members ; of the former 58 have 
been added during the pastorate of Rev. W. 51. Holbrook. 

RUTL.\ND HOLLOW APPOINTMENT. 

The history of this appointment is already given. Suf- 
fice it, therefore, to say that the venerable structure erected 
there in 1821 still does good service as a house of worship. 
It is of wood, about 45 by G5 feet, with a seating capacity 
for 300 persons, a;id is valued at $2500. The present 
membership of the appointment is 24 full members and 13 
probationers, of which 7 have been recently added. 

felt's mills appoint.ment. 

There exists no mention of preaching at Felt's Mills until 
1842, when N. R. Peck and W. W. Wood were the 
preachers. That village, then the largest within the charge, 
was favored with a great revival that year, some of the fruits 
of which still remain. The church edifice was commenced 
in 1844, and built as a Union church; but in 1871 the 
property was found to be illegally conveyed, when it was 
reconveyed to a board of trustees of the M. E. church, 
and it thus became a Methodist church, with only a con- 
ditional lieu upon a limited use of it by other societies. 
The present membership of the appointment is 92 full 
members and 40 probationers, of which 5 have been added 
during the ministration of the present pastor. The present 
officiary of the circuit is as follows : W. M. Holbrook, pas- 
tor; Geo. W. Fairman, local deacon; John D. Randall, 
local preacher; Cyrus Huntington, Curtis Cory, William 
Roberts, and David IJcntley, leaders; Alexander Dunn, Wni. 
Middleton, Peter Terpinning, Robt. Davis, Gardner B. Scott, 
Simeon Dexter, Jo.seph S. Graves, Charles G. Ryder, and 
Wondall Iliel, stewards; J. D, Randall, Lewis Dunn, and 
David Beiitlcy, Sunday-school superintendent.s. The num- 
ber of teachers in the Sunday-schools of the circuit is 38 ; 
scholars, 234; nuiuber of volumes in the library, 100.* 

A Sunday-school is regularly kept at the Union church 
at Felt's Jlills, uf which Charles Roberts is the superin- 
tendent. The number of teachers and scholars is G5. 

THE CONCiUEGATION OF DISCIPLES OF CHRIST. 

This religious denomination first held meetings at Felt's 
Mills, in 1857, Rev. Mr. Benedict oftieiating. A society 



• For Iiistoricnl sketch of Snnford's Corners appointment, see bi«- 
liirv priii)cr of llii' t..wn of I,c Uiiy. 



was formed, including Black River, in 1871, and a comfort- 
able church building was erected the same year. The suc- 
cessors in the pastorate since Rev. Benedict have been 
Revs. Belden, Hughes, Hamilton, Gooderich, and John H. 
Bogg, the present pastor. The first church officers were 
Charles Roberts, Vincent Slater, Stephen Cooper, and D. 
N. Middlekautf, elders ; Thompson Carter, Andrew Z. 
Drake, and Vincent Smith, deacons. The present trustees 
are Vincent Smith, Charles Roberts, Chandler Clark, Chris- 
topher Poor, and Wellington J. Horton. The present 
membership of the church is 75. 

UNIVERSALIST SOCIETIES 

have been organized at Felt's Mills, Tylerville, and Black 
River ; the precise dates of which organizations are not 
known. The Reverends C. G. Parsons, Pitt Morse, H. S. 
Haywood, J. P. Averill, 0. Wilcox, J. H. Stewart, and 
othei'S officiating. The society at Tylerville is the only one 
in the town retaining its organization. This society owns 
a half-interest in the Union church at that village. 

EDUCATIONAL. 

The people of Rutland evinced a commendable interest 
in the subject of education at an earl}' daj'. It was the 
practice, when a sufficient number settled in a neighborhood 
to sustain a school, to erect a log school-house and engage 
a teacher, almost without exception a female in summer, 
and a male in winter. The first of these houses in town, 
accordini; to the recollection of the oldest authority, — Eze- 
kiel Andrus, — was built in 1800 or 1801. Its locati(]n 
was about GO rods north of the cheese-factory now owned 
by William Fuller. He does not recollect who was the first 
teacher. Dr. Hough, in his " Hi.stoi-y of Jefferson County," 
gives the name of Miss A. Porter. Soon after a school- 
house was built on the Hollow road, a short distance west 
of the Four Corners. Miss Naomi Blackmer was the first, 
or one of the first, teachers. This house was used but a 
short time, as many of the settlers lived at too great a dis- 
tance from it. In its place a house was erected farther 
west in the Hollow, and another near the site of M. L. 
Graves' residence. As the re(|uirements of the people in- 
creased, other houses were built. In these rude structures 
the children of the pioneers of Rutland received the rudi- 
ments of education. These children, or thu.sc of them who 
survive, are the silver-haired nien and women of to-day. 

In those days no aid was received from the State in .sup- 
port of schools, but in the winter of 1812-13 a law was 
pas.sed establishing a school fund, and appropriating the in- 
terest thereof to the support of common schools. At the 
annual town-meeting, March 2, 181;!, the following resolu- 
tions were passed : 

" licHofrcfi, That the supervisor be authorized to levy a school-ta.v, 
according to the law in regard to the sehool-fund. 

" Hemtlveiif That Ethel Bronson, Judali Williams, and Amos Steb- 
bins be a committee to superintend moneys for the use of schools, 
and transact the business as the I.iw retjuircs." 

At a special meeting, held July 5, 1813, Commi.s.sioners 
and Inspectors of Common schools were elected. Districts 
were established by the commi.ssioners, and their boundaries 
fixed. Tiie original districts, except some slight alterations. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



505 



remain, with the following changes : No. 3, dissolved ; No. 
4, changed to 10; No. 8, recorded in Champion; 10, rc- 
changcd to 4 ; IS, changed to 3 ; and 14 to 8. There are 
at present 12 districts.* 

Among the early teachers were Curtis Mallory, Jacob 
Fuller, Zelotus Harvey, Hon. Charles D.iyan, and Hon. 
Jason Clark ; and at a later date, Horatio Sherman, Gard- 
ner Towne, A. P. Sigourney, John M. ]>uiila]i, John Felt, 
the Misses Cornelia Johnson and Adeline M. Brown, and 
Elijah Graves. The latter has probably taught longer than 
any other person in Jefferson County, and is therefore en- 
titled to a more extended notice. 

ELIJ.\U GR.WES, 

son of Jonathan Graves, one of the early settlers of the 
town of Rutland, was born in that town July 1(!, 1813. 
At the usual age he commenced attending the district 
school, and continued to attend winters until the twentieth 
year of his age. In the fall of 1827 he attended a course of 
lectures on grammar and arithtnctic, given by Wm. Kuger, 
in an adjoining district. At the close of the term he was 
selected as one of the number who had made the greatest 
advancement in grammar ; and he ranked either first or 
second in arithmetic, although many of the students were 
over twenty-one years of age. The first school taught by 
him was in the winter of 1833 and 1834, .since which he 
has taught a portion of each year. The summer of 1837 
and 1838 he spent in the service of A. Copley, Esq., at 
Chaumont, as clerk in his store, teaching the Chaumont 
school during the winter. He was married in Champion, 
July 4, 1840. Having taught in Champion during the 
winters of 1840 and 1841, he moved to Chaumont in the 
fall of 1841, and taught the school three years. In answer to 
a " call" he next located at Three-SIile Bay, where he taught 
six years. His health wa.s such during the winter of 1839 
and 1840 that his physician advised him to leave off teach- 
ing. On closing his engagement for the year he moved 
to the east part of the county, finally settling at Felt's 
Mills. In the mean time, his health improving, he continued 
to teach. • In the spring of 1853 he entered into the mer- 
cantile business at Sinithville, still teaching winters. 

In June, 1850, pursuant to the act creating the office of 
school commissioner, he received the appointment for the 
second district of Jefferson County. He had previously 
served as town superintendent of common schools in the 
towns of Lyme and Rutland. In 1858 he failed of an 
election, but ran ahead of his ticket in the towns then 
under his supervision (the district was altered in 1858), 
against 5Ir. L. Lyttle, one of the most popular men in the 
district. In Dec, 1858, he opened a select school at Evans' 
Mills, teaching there eight terms. Since 1860 he has spent 
most of his time in Champion and Felt's Mills, teaching a 
large portion of his time at the latter place. He is still 
engaged in teaching at Felt's Mills, from the most influen- 
tial citizens of which place he recently received the follow- 
ing testimonial: " We, the citizens of Felt's Mills, respect- 
fully represent that we are well acquainted with Elijah 
Graves, and consider him a faithful and a competent teacher 

* See tabulated statistics in general history of county, aiife. 



in imparting instruction. He is well posted in all modern 
improvements in teaching. Age has not dimmed his zeal 
or made him rusty." 

In closing this brief sketch on the educational history of 
the town, it may be well to quote the subjoined extracts 
from a recent school commi&sioner's report: "The town 
of Rutland has taken the lead in school improvements. . . . 
There seems to be a noble emulation among the inhabitants 
of the several districts in relation to school affairs; higher 
wages are paid, better teachers are secured, and, as a result, 
they have more advanced schools than their less enterprising 
neigliboi's." All of which is apparent even to the casual 
visitor in the town. 

We are especially indebted to the following gentlemen 
for valuable assistance in the compilation of the history of 
Rutland : Elijah Graves, Ezekiel Andrus, L. D. Olney, 
0. A. Felt, Edmund McOmber, A. Conklin, Rev. I. S. 
Bingham, Daniel J. Eamcs, Arnold Webb, Sylvester Kel- 
logg, Charles C. Hardy, the Middletons, Asa Clark, J. M. 
Augsbury, B. J. Smith, C. C. Veber, D. Dexter, G. W. 
Smith, the Parkinson Brothers, Christopher Poor, and 
others. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



HARLAN P. DUNLAP. 

William Dunlap, whose ancestry wore Irish, emigrated 
from Schoharie Co., N. Y., to Jefferson County in 1815. 
He here .settled on a farm in Rutland, about eight miles 
east of Watertown. He reared a large family of children, 
of which Wm. M. was the second son, and who became the 
owner of the old home farm. He was reared and educated 
as a farmer. He was united in marriage with a daughter 
of Reuben Scott, an old settler of Rutland. The fruits of 
this marriage were five children, named as follows: Har- 
lan P., Cornelia, Cecilia, Arthur S., and ^Martha J. Of 
these, all are living except Cecilia and Arthur. Cornelia is 
the wife of Geo. A. Moore, of Rutland, and Martha is the 
wife of Robert M. Francis, of Carthage. 

Harlan P. w;is born Jan. 30, 1838, and received a good 
common-.school and academic education. He bec.ime a 
teacher and taught for a number of terms. At the age of 
twenty-five, on the 24th of Dec, 1862, he was married to 
Mi.ss Martha Hopkins, of Rutland. By this union he is 
the father of one child, — Mary E. He lost his wife by 
death on the 9th day of Dec, 1866. His present wife was 
Miss Mary C. Dutton, of Rutland, by whom he has one 
child, — Charles J. Mr. Dunlap has, by purchase, become 
the owner of the old home farm, which now consists of 265 
acres of beautiful grazing land, to which it is chiefly de- 
voted. By reference to another page, a beautiful view of 
his residence may be seen. His father and mother are 
both living in the city of Watertown, the former seventy 
and the latter sixty-five years of age. in the enjoyment of 
good health and the retirement of a green old age. Mr. 
Dunlap is held in high esteem and respect by all his ac- 
quaintances, who at various times have manifested their 
confidence in him by electing him to the highest oflices in 
the town. 



606 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 





n.VNIEL EAMES. 




CLIFT EAJIKS. 



LUCY A. EAMES. 



THE EAMES FAMILY 



were of English origin. They emigrated to tlie New World 
as early as 1G18. Daniel Eauies, one of the early pioneer.s 
of Jefferson County, was born at Hopkinton, Mass., in 
1767 ; was married in 1787 to Mollie K. Wright. In 
1794 he removed with his family to what was then Steuben 
Co., N Y., where he remained six years ; he then removed 
to Jefferson County. He selected a spot for his future 
home in the town of Rutland, where he .settled with his 
family, and where he ever afterwards resided until his death, 
which occurred Sept. 15, 1855, at the advanced age of 
eighty-eight years. His wife's death occurred on the 4th 
day of February, 1842, at the age of seventy-three. These 
hardy old pioneers were the parents of the following-named 
children : Kittredge, Daniel, Mima, Jesse, Daniel, Jun., 
Daniel W., Aaron, Harriet, Dorca.«, Clift, Aaron (2d), Moses, 
and Lovett. Of this numerous family of children, Daniel 
W., Dorcas, and Moses are all that survive. 

Clift became the owner of the old homestead, on which 
he lived all his life. He received a good English education, 
and before he reached his majority wa3 engaged in teaching 
in the common schools, and for a short time was engaged 
in lumbering down the St. Lawrence. Rut on coming of 



age he .settled down to the life-long occupation of a farmer. 
On the 5th day of October, 182G, he was married to 
Miss Harriet Webb, who died Jan. 29, 1831. In the 
year following he was united in marriage with Lucy A. 
Tyler. He had no children by his first marriage, but his 
second marriage was more fruitful, resulting in the births 
of eight children, named as follows : Harriet A., Harriet 
C, Byron W., Daniel J., Polly W., Henry C, Charles T., 
Lucy E. Of these all are deceased except Harriet C, 
Daniel, and Henry, who are married and have families. 

Mr. Clift Eames died March 19, 1873, at the age of 
sixty-nine years. His widow, Mrs. Lucy A. Eames, still 
survives, and, although seventy years of age, is in the en- 
joyment of all her fiieulties. Henry Eames has become the 
owner of the old home. He is tlie father of two children. 
Daniel, the other, owns a farm in the same neighborhood, 
and has a family of three children. The sister, Harriet, 
also owns a farm near the old home, and has one child. 

We are pleased to be able to present to the people of 
Jeffereou County the portraits of the old pioneer, Daniel 
Eames, with that of Clift and Lucy A. Eames, and also a 
fine view of the old home of the family. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



507 




SAMUEL MIDDLETON. 



HON. ANDREW C. MIDDLETON. 



His ancestors emigrated to the United States about the 
year 1790, and settled in New Jei-sey ; they afterwards 
removed to Scholiarie Co., N. Y., and in 1807 removed to 
Jefferson Co., N. Y., which has ever since been the homo 
of the family. 

Andrew, the grandfather of our subject, was born in 
1740, and at the time of his settlement in Jcffer.sou County 
his familj' consisted of his wife and seven children, — four 
sons and three daughters, all of whom settled in the town 
of Rutland, except one daughter, who settled in Otsego 
county. Andrew IMiddJeton lived to the advanced age of 
eighty-four years, dying in 1834. 

Samuel, the youngest child, was born at Charleston, 
Montgomery Co., in 1700. Ho became a resident of Rut- 
land in 1807, and in the fall of the same year settled ou 
the farm where he continued to reside until his death, a 
period of sixty -six years. He was married April 26, 1821, 
and his widow. Seraph Middleton, still survives. She is 
now seventy-five years of age, and is the honored member 
of the family of the Hon. Andrew C. Middleton. 

Mr. Samuel Middleton wxs seventy-seven j'ears of age 
at his death, which occurred in 1873; he was the father 
of six children — three sons and three daughters. Reuben 
and John are in business in the city of New York ; Mar- 
garet is deceased, and Sarah A. and Harriet are married, 
and live in Carthage, N. Y. 

Andrew C, the second son, was born April 5, 1824. He 
was brought up on a farm, and has always made farming 
his business. He received a common school and academic 
education, and after ceasing to be taught continued in 
school as a teacher for a number of wintere. 



In 1849 he became town superintendent of schools, a 
position which ho filled satisfactorily for two years. In 
1858 he was elected supervisor, and served two years ; and 
again in 1868 he occupied the same position. Daring the 
war he was deputy collector of internal revenue. For the 
years 1872 and 1873, he was president of the Jefiferson 
County Farmers' Club. 

Jlr. Middleton is prominently identified with the Grange 
organization of this State, having been honored by being 
elected president of the State council. 

At a convention of farmers. Oct. 20, 1873, Mr. Middleton 
was nominated to represent the 18th senatorial district; he 
was elected by a large majority over his competitor. During 
his term he served at the head of the Committee on Agri- 
culture, and also as a member on the Committees on Public 
Expenditures and Grievances. Mr. Middleton cast his first 
vote in 1845 for the Whig ticket, and a Whig he remained 
until the organization of the Republican party, since which 
time he has voted for Fremont, Lincoln, Grant, and Hayes. 
In the year 1847, at the age of twenty-three, Mr. Middleton 
was united in marriage to Miss Nancy Butterfield, of Rut- 
land. Three children have been born to them. One died 
in infancy. Dewitt C, the son, is in business in the city 
of Watertown, and is unmarried ; Gertrude I., the daughter, 
is the wife of Henry T. Gipson, who is in the legal profes- 
sion in Watertown. 

We present our readers on this page the portrait of the 
old pioneer, Mr. Samuel Middleton, and with it this brief 
sketch of the family, as a monument to his memory and a 
tribute of respect to the character and worth of his de- 
scendants. 



508 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



CHRISTOPHER AND WILLIAM MIDDLETON. 

John and Samuel Middleton came into the wilds of Jef- 
ferson at the same time, and were among the other early 
settlers of that day engaged in clearing lands and fitting 
them for cultivation. 

John was married before he reached his majority to Miss 
Susannah Parkinson, of Rutland. The fruits of this mar- 
riage were five children, named as follows : Andrew, Wil- 
liam and Robert (twins), Betsey, and Christopher, all of 
whom are living, married, and have families, except Betsey, 
who was married to Thomas Scott, and died at the age of 
thirty years, leaving two children, and Robert, who was 
married to Emily Fi'ancis, of Champion, and who died in 
1869, aged fifty-eight. Andrew, the eldest son, resides at 
Carthage, has been married three times, and has two chil- 
dren. 

Christopher, who was born in 1809, was reared a farmer 
and had but very few advantages to get an education ; but 
under the guardianship of his mother and stepfather acquired 
a very practical knowledge of farming and hard work. He 
remained with them until he wag of age. John Middleton 
died in 1813, at thirty years of age. His widow was married 
the second time to Reuben Scott, of Rutland. Christopher, 
on coming of age, went to work by the month, and at the 
expiration of five years he bought a farm of 100 acres in the 
town of Champion, which, after five years, he sold and then 
purchased a farm of 143 acres in Rutland, on which he has 
resided ever since. In 1845 he was united in marriage 
with Miss Dorcas H. Jones, of Champion, the daughter 
of Gardiner Jones, an old settler of the town of Orleans. 
The issue of this union is one child, a bright, intelligent 
lad of fifteen years, who is at this time a student at the 
Ives Seminary, at Antwerp. He is named Fred. C. Mid- 
dleton. By reference to another page may be found a 
fine view of the beautiful farm homo of Christopher Mid- 
dleton. 

William Middleton was born in Rutland in 180G, and, 
after his father's death, he and his twin brother Robert 
were taken by their uncle Samuel, and brought up in his 
family. The brothers remained with their uncle until they 
reached their majority, and William continued to work for 
him for .some years after. The two brothers bouj,'iit the 
old homestead, and remained in partnership for a niuiilier 
of j'cars, when AVilliam bought his brother's interest in the 
farm. In 1832 William was married to Almira, a daugh- 
ter of Thomas Scott, an old settler of Rutland. Their 
union has never been blessed by children, but they have 
adopted and reared a young lady, who remained with them 
until her marriage with William Sherman, of Minnesota ; 
they now reside in Iowa. 

It is with pleasure we are able to present our readers 
with portraits of this worthy couple, with a view of the old 
home of the family. 



L. D. OLNEY. 



The ancestors of Mr. Olney were of English and Scottish 
origin, and emigrated from England about 1G70, and settled 
in Rhode Island. 



Nedebiah, the paternal grandfather of our subject, in the 
year 1725, at the age of seventeen, in company with forty- 
two others, was captured by the Indians and taken to the 
border of the Ohio river, where they were subjected to vari- 
ous tortures, running the gauntlet, etc., from which they all 
peri.shed except young Olney and one companion, who were 
saved and adopted by the chief's wife. They remained with 
the Indians seven long years before they made their escape, 
when, aft<;r inconceivable hardships, they made their way 
back through the wilderness to their friends. While with 
the Indians Mr. Olney acquired what was then called the 
Black Art, which is identical with what is now known as 
psychology. In after-years he would occasionally give speci- 
mens of the art, to the great wonder and amusement of his 
friends. He reared a family of five children, and lived to 
the extreme old age of ninety years. Davis, the second 
son, was born at Suiithfield, R. I., in 1777 ; he was educated 
for, and became, a teacher, but after a few years he engaged 
in mercantile business, in which he invested his all, and in 
about a year he was burned out and lost everything. In 
180G, in company with his brother, he started for the Black 
river country. Arriving in Rutland, Jefferson County, he 
located IGO acres of land, which was his homo until 1850, 
when he retired from active business and moved into the 
village of Tylerville, where he resided until his death, 
which occurred Oct. 17, 1868. He was married, in 1807, 
to Miss Olive Rowe, of Connecticut. They became the 
parents of thirteen children, — seven sons and six daughters. 
Luman D., the youngest son, was born at the old home in 
Rutland, Feb. 10, 1825 ; he was reared a farmer, and until 
seventeen years of age attended the common schools. He 
then attended the Jefferson County Institute, and was in- 
tending to pursue a collegiate course ; but, after advancing 
two years in the same, pecuniary considerations on his father's 
part prevented. At the age of twenty he commenced teach- 
ing, which he followed for several years. At the age of 
twenty-eight, on Sept. 28, 1853, he was united in marriage 
with Miss Adeline E., daughter of Chauncey D. Hunting- 
ton, and great-granddaughter of William Huntington, who 
came from New Hampshire, and settled in Jefferson County 
in 1804. She was born in Watcrtowu in 1831 ; has one 
sister, who is the wife of Thomas C. Parker, of Water- 
town. 

Mr. Olney and his wife are the parents of three children, 
all daughters, named as follows : Carrie E., Adeline C, and 
Channez I. Carrie is married to Mr. Clias. E. Hadcock, 
and resides on a farm adjoining the old home. Adeline C. 
is the wife of Clark D. Eddy, of Watertown. Mr. Olney 
is held in high esteem by a large circle of friends and 
acqmiintances, and is a man far above the average in 
scientific knowledge, which he puts to a practical use in 
the management of his farm, which is one of the finest in 
the county. In his religious faith he is not fettered by the 
contracted and narrow views of the sectarian, but cherishes 
liberal and enlarged ideas of the great Creator of the 
universe and his characteristics, as he sees them demon- 
strated in all the works of nature. 

It is with much pleasure we are able to jiresent in this 
work the portraits of Mr. Olney and his wife, and a fine 
view of their beaulit'iil luinie. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



509 



CHAUNCEY D. HUNTINGTON. 

Dicil in Croglian, Liwis ccmntv, N. Y., July 22, 187"), Mr. Chauncey 
I). Iluntingluii, of Riitbiml. JofTirson County, ngpil sixty-nine years. 

Mr. Huntington wa.s the oldest of the third generation 
of Iliintingtons known in tlie eounty, being the oldest .son 
of Wni. Huntington, Jr., who emigrated with his father, 
Wni. Huntington, and family from New- Hampshire, and 
settled in this then " western wilderness," in 1804, locating 
in Watertown, upon the farm in tlic eastern part of the 
town, subsequently known as the " Colonel Gotham farm." 

The father of the subject of this imperfect .sketch pur- 
chased and occupied the adjoining farm, now known as the 
" Westcott form," upon which Chauncey was born in 180G. 

He was a member of a large and highly-respected pioneer 
family. While Chauncey was yet young, his father changed 
his residence to within one mile south of Burr's Mills, in 
this town, where the balance of his m'inority was spent, 
acquiring his education at the district school in Burr's Mills. 

His majoritj' attained, he purchased a large farm near by, 
in the adjoining town of Rutland, and, on the 16th of 
March, 1831, married Miss Clarissa Bull, daughter of the 
late Johnson Bull, with wlinin he commenced the journey 
of a business life, with health, a commendable ambition, 
and desirable reputation for capital. Relying upon their 
joint indu.stry and economy for success, both were adopted 
as leading characteristics of their life, and very soon their 
farm was paid for and a liberal surplus was laid aside to 
meet contingencie.s. Mrs. Huntington .still survives him. 

While occupying a prosperous and enviable position in 
the community of farmers of which he was a member, his 
health failed, and he soon found him.self unable to conduct 
the business of his chosen occupation, and in 1852 ho sold 
his fiirm and retired from labor. 

For the past twenty years he has been accustomed to 
making, annually, from one to three excursions to the "big 
woods," fishing and hunting, camping out, often entirely 
alone, finding such action congenial and recuperative to 
both body and mind. On the last of these excursions he 
crossed life's rubicon, surrounded by his daughters, Mrs. 
L. 1). Olney, and Mrs. T. C. Parker, with their husbands, 
his physician, and numerous of their resident friends, who 
had .so often greeted his visitations. 

Mr. Huntington was of that cla.ss of minds that must 
be known to be appreciated. All respected him ; few, 
comparatively, knew him. He was a close student, much 
of his time being applied to study and investigation, espe- 
cially since the loss of his health; was emphatically indi- 
vidualized ; by nature, positive ; conclusions, reached by 
close investigation, recjuired demonstration for their re- 
moval. His religion was advertised in his life by his 
dealing justly, loving mercy, walking humbly, and paying 
twenty shillings on the pound. Although a firm believer 
in God and the immortality of the soul, yet he failed to be 
satisfied with the popular dogmas of the age, and his theory 
was, formerly, more nearly allied to that promulgated by 
Swedenborg than auy other writer ; but for the past twenty 
years he hiLS been a firm believer in the theology of modern 
spiritualists as developed in the writings of Andrew Jack- 
son Davis, of which he was an admirer. His religion was 
a reality ; to him, a certainty. 



As a man, Mr. Huntington possessed sterling merit and 
unflinching integrity ; was upright, lioncst ; as a frieiul, true 
and genial ; and as husband and father, consistent, kind, 
and indulgent. 

Funeral services were held at liis late residence in Rut- 
land on the 24th, by Rev. Mr. Herscy, from Micah (Jth 
chap. 8th verse, and Acts 10th chap. 34th verse, — especially 
appropriate, and listened to by a very large and apprecia- 
tive audience. S. 



THE PARKINSON FAMILY. 

William Parkin.son emigrated originally from Vermont 
to Schoharie Co., N. Y"., and about the year 1804 moved 
to Rutland, Jefferson County. He settled on a farm in 
what is known as the Hollow, .some five miles east of the 
city of Watertown. He here became engaged in farm- 
ing and coopering, and reared a family of seven children, 
named as follows : IjSther, Susan, Robert, Moses, Asa, 
Reuben, and William, all of whom are deceased except 
Reuben. William Parkinson was born in 1747, and he 
was marric<l to Elizabeth Poor, the widow of Peter Poor, 
who was killed by the Indians at an early day in tlie State 
of Maine. This old pioneer lived to the advanced age of 
seventy-nine years, dying in 182G. His widow died in 
1842, at the age of eighty-three. 

Asa, the fifth child, was born in Rutland, Vermont, Oct. 
19, 1793, and was ten years of age when the family emi- 
grated to Jefferson County. He served as a soldier in the 
War of 1812, and was at the battle of Sacket's Harbor. 
He was reared a farmer, and had very limited advantages 
for an education at that early day. In 182.") he was united 
in marriage with Miss JIargaret Dunlap, of Rutland. This 
union was severed by the death of his wife in 1837, leav- 
ing no children. On June 22, 1842, Mr, Parkinson was 
married to Miss Olive Knight, of New Hanqishire. By 
this marriage there are two children, Phine.is C. and James 
B., who, with their mother, own and occupy the old home- 
stead in Tiutliind Hollow. Asa Parkinson died M.iy 8, 
1870, at the age of seventy-si.x years, and his widow, who 
is now seventy-six years of age, is an active, intelligent old 
lady, and bids fair to live yet many years, the honored and 
revered head of the family. 

Phineas C. the eldest son, was born May 22, 1844, and 
James B. on the 21st day of July, 1846. The brothers 
own and occupy the old home farm jointly, and with their 
mother live together in one family. They have both re- 
ceived a good common school and academic education, and 
are engaged in forming and dairying, in which they have 
been very successful. Phineas C. was united in marriage 
in December, 1869, to Miss Ida Hardy, of Rutland; they 
have two children, named Grace B. and Robert A. James 
B. is still unmarried. Their father, Asa Parkinson, was a 
man of genuine piety, and was one of the pillars of the 
Presbyterian church of Rutland, of which he and his ex- 
cellent wife have been honored members all their lives. We 
tiike pleasure in presenting our readers this brief sketch of 
an old family of early settlers, and elsewhere in these pages 
a view of the ■' old home in the Hollow," with portraits of 
Asa Parkinson and his surviving companion. 



510 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



PETER POHL. 

The ancestors of our subject were natives of Hesse 
Darmstadt. His paternal grandfather died when his father 
was five years old. His father, Johannes, was born at the 
old ancestral home, in the village of Erzhausen.on the 
twenty-fourth day of June, 1805 ; was reared a farmer, 
which occupation he followed all his life on the old home- 
farm, where he was born. At the age of tweuty-four he 
was married to Anna M. Leiser, of the same place, by 
whom he became the father of Mary, Peter, Margaret, 
Frederick W., and Elizabeth. Of these all are living and 
married except Margaret, who died in 1871. They are 
living in Germany, except Frederick, who is a resident of 
the town of Pamelia, in Jefferson Co., N. Y. 

Peter, the second child, was born at the old family home, 
in Germany, on the seventeenth day of March, 1833. He 
remained with his parents — attending the village school and 
assisting on the farm — until he was twenty-two years of 
age, when, fired by the ambition to get a fortune and home 
for himself, he emigrated to the United States, and located 
at Clayton, Jefierson Co., N. Y. With the characteristic 
industry and economy of his people, at the end of five 
years' labor by the month he had accumulated enough to 
purchase and partly pay for a farm of 50 acres in the 
town of Orleans. He had, meantime, on the seventeenth 
day of March, 1859, married Miss Louise Baltz, a daughter 
of Andrew Baltz, of Orleans, who emigrated to this county 
in 1833, and has reared a family of six children. Mr. Pohl, 
after four years, sold his 50 acres in Orleans, and purchased 
a farm of 200 acres in the town of Clayton, where he re- 
sided until March, lB77, when he again sold out, and bought 
a farm of 290 acres in Rutland, situated seven miles east of 
Watertown. He has three children, named Charles F., 
George A., and Edwin L. The farm is fertile and produc- 
tive fur dairy purposes, to which it is chiefly devoted, and 
Mr. Pohl keeps at this about 40 cows, and manufactures 
his own butter in his own creamery. Mr. Pohl is Repub- 
lican in politics, and the familjp are Methodists in religious 
faith. 

We submit this brief sketch of one of the worthy adopted 
citizens of Jefferson County, and, on another page, a fine 
view of the home and portraits of Mr. Pohl and his wife. 



CHARLES C. HARDY 

was the fifth son of Robert Hardy, who emigrated to Jeffer- 
son County and settled in the town of Watertown, near 
Rurrville. in 1811 — who was the second son of Thomas 
Hardy — (of Scotch descent), and a soldier of the Revolu- 
tionary war ; he fought under Stark at Bennington, under 
Wayne at the gallant charge of Stony Point, was with 
Greene in his .southern campaign, and present at the surren- 
der of Cornwallis, which closed the war. 

In 1815 he returned to his native place, Concord, N. H., 
and was united in marriage to Abigail Stone, with whom 
and his brother Phineas (^whose present place of residence 
is represented in this work) he returned to Jefferson 
County, and settled in the town of Rutland. Soon after 



he purchased, in company with his brother Phineas, the 
homestead now occupied and owned by his son, Charles C. 
Phineas cleared and improved the farm, while Robert car- 
ried on his business of carpenter and builder quit* exten- 
sively ; he employed many hands, and many of the old 
buildings now standing are monuments of his handiwork. 

He carried on his business of builder until 1836, when 
he was crippled by the falling of a building while being 
raised, and thereafter turned his attention to farming. He 
was a devout Christian, and practiced in his every-day life 
what he professed in his church. To him and his faithful 
helpmeet were born ten children, viz. : Thoma.s, Lovilla S., 
Abby, Robert C., Gustavu.s, Lucy A., Addison W., Charles 
C, J. Calvin, and Arthur L., all but the last arriving at 
adult age, and of whom the first three and the last one are 
deceased. 

Charles C. resided with his father until the age of nine- 
teen, — working upon the farm during the summer seasons, 
and attending school winters, obtaining a good common edu- 
cation, — when he was engaged with Benjamin Gibbs, of the 
city of Watertown, to learn the trade followed by his father. 
After working two years at the bench he studied architec- 
tural drawing with Otis L. Wheelock. In January, 1853, 
he took the Nicaragua route for California, on the steam- 
ship " Lidcpendence," which was wrecked and burned near 
St. Margarite Island, and one hundred and fifty lives, out of 
a total of four hundred on board, were lost. Arriving in 
California by the whale-ship " Meteor," which took the sur- 
vivors off the barren island on which they were cast, he at 
first turned his attention to mining. Not being very suc- 
cessful in that undertaking, he took up the .saw, the plane, 
and the hammer, and carried on the business successfully 
at the mining town of French Gulch. He subsequently 
obtained the situation of master mechanic and builder under 
the U. S. Government, at Fort Walla- Walla, Washington 
Territory, which position he held until his return to his 
native place in 1859. His father's death occurring the 
following year, he came into possession — by purchase — of 
the old homestead, and has since turned his attention suc- 
cessfully to farming, — the products of the farm being prin- 
cipally the dairy and maple-syrup and sugar. 

The old house was burned in 1872, and in 1873 he 
erected the fine residence which is represented elsewhere in 
the pages of this work, one of the finest in the town, show- 
ing the fruits of his early education as a builder and 
arcliitect. 



ARNOLD WEBB 



is a descendant of good old English stock. His fraternal 
grandfather was a seafaring man in his younger days, and 
afterwards a soldier in the wars against the French in this 
country. He was in the battle when the brave General 
Wolfe lo.st his life, and afterwards w;ts a jiatriot soldier in 
the Revolutionary War, and fought all through that mem- 
orable struggle. 

He settled in Vermont and became a farmer, rearing a 
large family of children. He lived to the extreme old age 
of ninety years, leaving to his descendants the record of a 
lonir life of noble deeds. 




Residence of M.B. BOOMAN, Theresa, jEFFCf^soN <.n. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



511 



Joel Webb, the father of our subject, was born in Ver- 
mont in 1779. He attended the common scliools, and 
acquired a good English education. At the early age of 
sixteen years he left his father's home and came into the 
State of New York, where he worked out by the month for 
two years. He then went into the wilds of Lewis county, 
where, it is said, he chopped the firet acre of forest in the 
town of Pinckney. 

In 1804 he came into the town of Rutland, and bought 
of Deacon Phillips the right to 200 acres of wild land, at 50 
cents per acre, which became his future home. His next 
move was to get a wife, which he accomplished bj' marry- 
ing Miss Amy Stanley, the daughter of one of the earliest 
settlers. He next erected a log house and commenced 
clearing his land, and from that time on until his death he 
was engaged in farming and rearing a family of nine chil- 



dren, whose names are as follows : Harriet, Arnold, Almira, 
Stanley, Lucy A., Emily, Ellen, Reuben G., and Wm. P. 

Arnold, the second child, who was born Jan. 4, 1808, 
remained at honge with the parents, and at his maturity 
took charge of the farm and the old people. He remained 
single until he reached the mature age of forty-seven, when 
he surrendered all the privileges of bachelorhood to Miss 
Jane D. Henderson, of Oswego county, the daughter of one 
of the early settlers of that county. They have no children, 
but this does not seem to mar their happiness in each other's 
society. Mr. Webb is a stanch Democrat of the Jackson 
type, and has for a long time been an honored member of 
the Ma.sonic order, by whom he is held in high esteem and 
respect. Elsewhere in the pages of this work may be found 
a fine view of the beautiful home residence of Mr. Webb, 
an<l portraits of his excellent wife, his father, and himself. 



> o O cj -<- 



THERESA. 



This town is nearly in the form of a parallelogram, with 
its longer lines stretching northeast and southwest. St. 
Lawrence county is its northeastern boundary, Le Ray 
township its southwestern, Orleans joins it on the west, 
Alexandria on the northwest, and Antwerp and Philadel- 
phia on the .southeast. 

The Indian river traverses its entire length, entering the 
town at its southern corner, and leaving it in the extreme 
northeast, whence it passes into St. Lawrence county. The 
northern portion of the town contains a number of beauti- 
ful lakes, abounding in fish. Of these, Butterfield and 
Mud lakes lie on the Alexandria line, and partly in that 
town, Gniss lake is partly in St. Lawrence county. Moon 
lake extends from this into the town of Antwerp, while 
Hide, Crystal, Sixberry, Mill-site, Red, and Muskalonge 
lakes, and the Lake of the Woods, lie wholly in Theresa, 
This lake region is a paradise for the sportsman of to-day, 
just as it was for the red hunters and fishermen before the 
blight of the pale-face fell on them. The margins of these 
waters are nearly everywhere bound in by high, rocky 
shores and bold promontories, and in many places the same 
feature is noticeable along the Indian river. The ledge 
known as Bluff Rock, 4 miles below Theresa village, on 
the river, is from 130 to 150 feet in height, and nearly a 
half-mile in length ; in a great part of this distance de- 
scending sheer from the summit to the water's edge. There 
is a spot — deeply indented and shut in by the hills — just 
below Theresa village, on the river, known as the " Indian 
landing," because the red men paddled their canoes up to 
this spot, at the very foot of the falls, disembarked, and, 
carrying them over the nigged porUige, placed them again 



in the still water above the rapids, to continue their journey 
towards the southeast. This was their gi-cat water-way 
and trail. It is not very many years since there died in 
Le Ray an old man named Keyser, who was captured by 
Indians at the battle of Oriskany, now a century ago, and 
who recollected that on his way to Canada he passed a 
night of suffering, closely bound and watched by his savage 
captors, at this same landing-place, at the foot of the "high 
falls ;" then, and for many years after, an unbroken wilder- 
ness. 

At a considerable distance below this landing-place, and 
on the left bank of the river, is a point known as " Bar- 
ret's landing," because that, during or before the War of 
1812, a man of that name, living at Evans' Mills, engaged, 
as is supposed, in smuggling, made this the landing-place 
for a bateau which he had placed on the lower river, in the 
contraband trade, taking his goods by portage around the 
falls, and reloading them upon another similar boat, at a 
point not far above Seeber's mill ; thence to proceed up the 
river. There are persons yet living who have seen and 
used these boats after their owner had abandoned them. 

From the falls to the St. Lawrence county line, the sur- 
face of the country along the river is a dead level. It is 
also comparatively free from inequalities in the south and 
southwest portions. In other parts, particularly in the 
lake section, it is broken by abrupt hills and ribbed by 
barren and forliidding ledges. Nearly all the township was 
comprised in the 220,000 acre purcha.sc of J, D, Le Ray 
de Chaumont from the Antwerp company, Jan, 4, 1800. 

Mr. Le Ray was not slow to note and fully appreciate the 
material advantages offered by nature at the High Falls of 



512 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Indian river (as the locality, now Theresa village, was then 
designated), and he marked it as a point for the erection of 
mills which should supply lumber and flour — two prime 
necessities of life — to prospective settlers, upon his lands. 
Lumber could be produced with comparatively little delay ; 
he had but to build a mill and utilize a fraction of the 
immense water-power of the falls to change the dense pine 
forest, which then covered all the hills and ravines down to 
the river's edge, into merchantable boards, plauk, and tim- 
ber. Accordingly, in 1810-11, a saw-mill was erected 
which produced large quantities of lumber, and this, in the 
absence of a home demand, was rafted down the river to a 
market at Rossie or Ogdensburgh. The opening of the 
War of 1812 paralyzed this traffic, and not only was the 
saw-mill stopped, but a great deal of lumber was left 
unrafted and went to decay at the mill-yard. 

To produce flour was wholly a different matter. The 
glens and hill-sides, which were heavy with timber to sup- 
ply the saw, had never borne an ear of wheat or corn ; and 
there could be no need of nor work for a grain-mill, until 
great labor had been e.xpended to clear the thick forest, to 
break the soil, to sow seed, and, God willing, to gather 
the harvest. Such clearings Mr. Le Ray at once proceeded 
to make. It was his purpose to sell and settle his lands as 
rapidly as possible, and by clearing and sowing grain he 
would be able to furnish the means of subsistence to pio- 
neers until they could produce for themselves. The largest 
of the clearings which he caused to be made was about 100 
acres, and laid something more than a mile above the falls, 
on the left bank of the liver. Another, of about 40 acres, 
was made on the river, a short distance below the first- 
named. This was cleared before the larger tract ; it was 
the spot where the land-office was afterwards established, 
and \Yliere a stone house, still standing, was built by the 
proprietor's agent, Rotier. It was recently the property of 
Joseph Fayel, and is now owned by J. P. Douglass, Esq. 

At the end of two years, portions of these "jobs," as 
they were called, had been seeded to grass, and he had 
stocked them with cattle. In 1813, his animals numbered 
nearly 500 sheep, about GO horned cattle, and 20 or more 
horses. The War of 1812 was then in progress, and these 
herds were in a most exposed position to a foray by the 
enemy from the border. All around them was thick forest, 
stretching to the St. Lawrence, and in the opposite direction 
to the Quaker settlement, seven miles distant, which was 
the nearest point of communication, and this was reached 
only by an obscure trail tlirough the woods. To guard 
these animals, Capt. John Hoover, afterwards landlord of 
the tavern at Evans' Mills, was garrisoned in the strong 
log house upon the forty-acre clearing, the forces under 
him consisting of his wife and John A. Evans, but with 
arms and ammunition enough for a force three times as 
large. Not only Wiis the captain successful in saving the 
animals, but he actually captured, single-handed, two of a 
party of five of the enemy who came to reconnoitre his 
position. 

Sales of land in Theresa were commenced by Mr. Le 
Ray in 1817. Three dollars per acre was the usual price, 
and seven years' time was given for payment. The con- 
tracts required the purclniser to build, within one year, 



upon the premises, a log house eighteen feet square, or the 
equivalent of these dimensions, and to clear, within the 
same time, four acres of every hundred acres purchased ; 
this to be done in a thorough and proper manner. There 
were at first no reservations of mineral rights to the pro- 
prietor, but after a few years these were required to be 
made. During the year in which sales were commenced by 
Le Ray a few settlers came in, and a larger number arrived 
in the following year. In 1818, the proprietor, with a view 
to the building of a village at the falls, caused a reservation 
to be surveyed containing 1000 acres, the exterior lines 
being run, and that part of the tract lying south and west 
of the river in one-fourth-acre lots, by M. Evans, surveyor. 
The locality and prospective village was for some time 
known only as High Falls, but after the place became more 
important it was christened by Mr. Le Ray Theresa, the 
name of his daughter, who married the French Mar(|uis de 
Gouvello, and the name of the village was given to the 
town, upon its erection. 

EARLIEST SETTLEMENTS — FIRST TR.\DES AND PROFES- 
SIONS. 

The first two settlers upon lands in Theresa were Colonel 
Siuesa Ball and James Shurtliff, both of whom came in 
1817, but it is not known which arrived earliest in the 
year. Mr. Shurtliff settled upon the spot where Le Ray's 
larger clearing had been made, now comprised in the farm 
of W. H. Seeber. For a short time Mr. Shurtliff kept his 
house as an inn, and it was the first opened in the town. 
After him, the farm was occupied by his son-in-law, Jesse 
KcKsey, and still later came into the ownership of James 
Ward, of Le Ray, now of Carthage. Mr. Shurtlifl" died at 
Plessis, August 1, 1846, aged seventy-nine years. 

Colonel Ball settled on the Military road, two miles west 
of the falls. He had served as an officer at Sackct's Har- 
bor in the War of 1812, and became colonel of militia. 
Many are .still living who remember him as commanding 
officer at the " trainings " held on the field near Cook's 
tavern, in Antwerp. Afterwards his land was sold to Ed- 
ward Cooper, from whom it descended to his son, Irvin C. 
Cooper, the present owner. Colonel Ball died near Hide 
lake, in Theresa, July 1 , 1877, at the age of eighty-six years. 

At the commencement of the year 1819 there were within 
the present limits of the town, in addition to the two already 
mentioned, the following settlers : Anson and Jeremiah 
Cheeseman, Mr. Moyer, Joseph Miller, Jas. Lake, Elipha- 
let Emery, and Zaimon Pool. Anson Cheeseman at that 
time was sawyer at Le Ray's mill at the falls, and lived in 
the " mill-house" He afterwards purchased and occupied 
a farm between the falls and the Military road, now the 
property of L. Salisbuiy. He also at one time carried on 
a potashery in the village. Jeremiah Cheeseman, brother 
of Anson, on the Alexandria road, south side, opposite 
estate of Timothy Wood. He is now living in Alexan- 
dria. Mr. Moyer settled near Shurtliff's, on land now of 
Alexander Cooper. Joseph Miller located on west side of 
Alexandria road, now Benjamin Colvin's farm. James 
Lake, on land afterwards owned by Charles Wilsim, on the 
easterly side of Hide lake. Eliphalet Emery, adjoining 
Mr. Lake, and also on the Wilson premisfts, and /almon 






(nyioiyVh&l^^ I^J'A^^nyftct^ ^4^'t^ ^, j^^/la^^^^^^'l^ 




Residence OF JONATHAN STRATTON , 

JHC/?£5A , JCrF£P,SON CO. I, 1 




RcsiDLNCE or DAVID BEARUP, Ihl^lsa. /V 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



513 



I'dijI, Jr , will) lia'l pui-cli;useJ, in tliu fall (if 1SI7, and 
uiDVod lioi'C with his family in -March, 1818, settling on the 
Aiitwei']) town lino, in lot No. loS, on tlio southurly side 
of Moon lake. IIlto he lived until his death, Sejit. 20, 
ISlJf), at the age of seventy-three years. These were the 
only inhabitants, excepting perhaps a few persons in tlie 
employ of Le Ray, who were in no sense settlers. 
• In February, 1819, Jes.sc Doolittle came from Water- 
town (wliere he had located as a blacksmith in 180Gj and 
settled on the easterly side of the river, on lot No. 134. 
With him came a family of five children : Alanson, died in 
1850; Jesse S., .still living on the firm; Richard, now in 
Illinois, and two daughters. He was the first blacksmith 
in Tiicresa (the second being Carley Smith, from New 
Hampshire, who lived and worked at liis trade u|)on the 
site of the residence of the late John C. (Mollis). Mr. Doo- 
little, arriving in Febrnary, cleared sufficient land to put in 
three acres of wheat and one acre of corn the same spring. 
In the fall of the same year he sowed ten acres of winter 
wheat. He lived on this farm until his death, July 7, 
1836. 

There were several others who came during 1811): Na- 
thaniel Parker, Ebenezer Lull, Mrs. Keeler, Allen Cole, 
Henry R. Morey, Austin Bates, Augustus Soper, and per- 
haps a few others. Mr. Lull was from Morris, Otsego 
county, N. Y. He purchased and built a frame dwelling 
upon the grounds where is now John Parker's residence, 
in Theresa village. Mrs. Keeler, a widow, and sister of 
An.son Chccseman, built a frame house where Mrs. Coe's 
brick liouse now stands. She brought with her two sons 
and a daughter. Mr. Lull became her boarder until the 
time of his own marriage. Henry Morey was the first who 
established as a carpenter and joiner, located his shop on 
the lot where Nathaniel W. Lull's house now stands, and 
built the earliest houses at the Falls. Afterwards he built 
and occupied the present dwelling of George P. Fox. He 
removed to Evans' Mills and died there, but is buried at 
Theresa village. Allen Cole settled four miles west of the 
Falls, near the Orleans line. Afterwards he sold to (ieorge 
Snell, and removed to Alexandria, where he died. Augus- 
tus Soper came from Augusta, Oneida county, and settled 
on the road to West Theresa, two miles west of the river, 
now the land of Absalom Zellar. Nathaniel Parker located 
adjoining Soper. He died in 1854, at the age of 87. 
Michael V. D. Cook also settled in 1819, two and a half 
miles northwest of the Falls. Benjamin Allen anil Daniel 
Morgan settled in the same year, both on great lot 130, Job 

Whitney on lot 135, and Castleman ".squatted" in a 

log house on Le Ray's 40-acrc clearing, above the Falls. 
Lodowick Salisbury came about 1820, and located on the 
Military road, lot 97, the land being the same now owned 
by Silas West. He built a log house, and opened it as a 
place of public entertainment, the first of the several inns 
which sprung up on that road, in Theresa. Mr. Salisbury 
died April 5, 1846. His sons were, Alexander, the first 
supervisor of Theresa, and at one time president of the 
Redwood Glass Company, now living in Illinois ; Lodo- 
wick, Jr., now residing in Theresa; Edward and Joshua, 
both dead ; and Percival B., now a resident of Ohio. 
Leonard Boyer a'so came about that tims, and settled with 
33 



his large family on lands afterwards of Jacob Ostrander, at 
the intersection of the Clayton and Jlilitary roads. Syl- 
vester Bodman came in 1820, and .settled a mile southeast 
from tlie Falls, on lot 133. His widow, Mrs. Relief Bod- 
man, still lives there, aged 90 years, the oldest person in 
the town. Nathaniel W. Lull came also in that year, and 
is now living in the village. Dudley Chapman came with 
Bciilman and settled near him. 

Col. Artemas Bakir, the .second blacksmith at the Falls, 
came in during that year. He located his shop where 
Ballard's store afterwards stood. In the journal of Jesse 
Doolittle, under d.ite of 1821, is found an entry showing 
that the latter loaned to Baker the anvil, bellows, vise, 
shoeing tools, tongs, hammers, and coal, for the prosecution 
of his trade. He built and occupied the present dwelling 
of Jason Morrow. In later years he lived for a long timi; 
in California. He died in Michigan in September, 1877, 
but is buried at Theresa. Another of the earliest black- 
smiths was Nathan Starks, who settled east of the Falls, 
near Bodman's. Seymour Murray was the first shoemaker, 
and came in 1821. His dwelling and shop was just north 
of the present residence of R. C. Collis. He had come from 
Lowville, and a few years later returned and died there. 

The first tailor was Deacon Abraham Morrow, from 
N. H., about the same time. His shop and residence 
were first in the house which Mrs. Keeler had occupied, 
and he is said to have been one of the most industrious 
men in the town. He afterwards purcha.sed, and lived op- 
posite the Presbyterian church, on the corner lot, later .sold 
to Rosele C. Collis. He went to California with Col. Baker, 
returned, and died in Theresa village. It was not long 
after, 1850, th.it Zalmou Pool, Sr., and John and Isaac 
Pool located near Antwerp town-line, on great lot 137. 

Archibald Fisher came from N. II. about 1820, and pur- 
chased lands near the line of Orleans ; the same afterwards 
being the farm of Nicolas D. Yost. Mr. Fisher afterwards 
removed to the village, became general of militia, and a 
citizen of considerable prominence. Samuel Hall, a shoe- 
maker, came about 1822. Ilis residence and shop were on 
hind now owned by J. S. Vanderburgh. In 1822 or '23, 
Azariah Walton came to the Falls, bringing his family and 
movables, in Barrett's .scow, down the Indian river, di.seni- 
barking at the head of the rajiids. He purchased five acres 
on the north bank of the riv(!r, the tract afterwards owned 
by Gen. Fisher, and embracing the present sites of Collis' 
factory and Stockwell's mills. His dwelling stood where 
Mrs. Yost now lives. He afterwards removed to Alexandria, 
and was for more than eighteen years deputy collector at 
the Bay. 

The first white child born in the limits of Theresa was 
Ursula Cole, daughter of Allen Cole, born May 20, 1819, 
now the widow of Jacob Ostrander. The next birth, and 
occurring at nearly the same time, was a daughter of Anson 
Cheeseman. She died while young. 

The first marriage was that of Erastus Clark to Kate 
Underwood. The ceremony was performed at the house 
of Jesse Doolittle, in the year 1820. The next was that 
of Andrew Stone to Hannah, daughter of James Shurtliff, 
Es(|., the ceremony being performed by the father of the 
bride. 



514 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



The first death among these settlers was that of Thompson 
Doolittle, son of Jesse Doolittle. He died Nov. 18, 1820, 
at the hou.se of his father, was buried on the farm, and lii.s 
remains still lie there. 

Dr. James Broolcs was the first physician. He came in 
1852, boiijiht, and built a small frame house upon the lot 
adjoininj; Nathaniel W. Lull, now owned by John I'mker. 
He died in 1823, and the house and lot became the property 
of his son, Thompson Brooks. The successor of Dr. Brooks 
was Dr. Samuel J. Gaines, a man of good abilities, who, 
however, remained but a short time, and was in turn suc- 
ceeded by Dr. John D. Davison, who came from Pamelia 
to tlie Falls in 1824, bringing a wife just married. He 
located his ofiicc in an unfinished building, erected by Mr. 
Stephenson, on the spot where now stands the American 
House. This building also for a time was his dwelling. 
He aftxTwards built a house at the end of a lane, in the 
rear of Captjiin Nathaniel Lull's premises. He died Sept. 
22, 1865, aged 72 years. His two sons, James and Nathan 
M., Were also physicians, and practiced here, but died com- 
paratively young ; the former, Jan. 2, 1 854, at the age of 29. 

The first grist-mill was commenced at the Falls by Samuel 
Case, for Le Ray, in 1820, and completed in 1821. Its site 
was about the same as that of the jiresent grist-mill at the 
lower dam. Its height was 4 stories in front and 5 on the 
river. Noah Ashley, the father of Marcius B. Ashley, 
was the firet miller employed. His li\niily occupied the old 
" mill-house, ' Mr. Cheescman liavingvacated it to move upon 
his farm. Mr. Ashley died January 17, 1840, at the age of 
63 years. The mill was sold to Percival Bullard in 1823. 
About 1830 it passed to the ownership of Marcius B. and 
Stephen Ashley ; after whom it was at different times 

owned by Salisbury, Kelsoy & Co., Stokes, and George 

Wil.son, during whose terra it was burned, in 1852. He 
rebuilt it, and the firm was Wilson & Humphrey ; aft«r 
them, David Burr, from whom it passed to Charles Pool, 
and was his jiroperty wlien destroyed l)y fire in 1859. 

The first public-house at tha Falls wa.s built in 1819, upon 
the .spot now occupied by the Getman House. It was owned 
by Le Ray, but opened and kept by Sir. Stcjihenson, from 
Lowville. It was destroyed by tire in the fall of 1821 ; 
ttie fire occurring, it was said, by the carelessness of a 
colored girl, who, whether culpable or not, lost her life in 
the flames. A new pulilic-house — being the main part of 
the present Getman House — was built on the same spot, in 
1824, by Gen. Archibald Fisher, who long remained its 
landlord. It was for many years known as " The Brick 
Tavern," and was the first structure of that material erected 
within the hounds of Theresa. The bricks for the pur- 
pose were both manufactured and laid by Benjamin Barnes, 
the first brick-maker and brick-layer at the Falls, and who 
had then ju.st arrived. His kiln was on the opposite side of 
the river, in the locality now known as " Brooklyn." The 
ne.xt brick building was the dwelling-house of Natlianiol W. 
Lull, — titill standing on Main street. The bricks for this 
were also furnished and laid by Mr. Barnes. He became 
a local preacher of the Mellxidist denominalion, and is 
represented to have been remarkable for his persuasive 
powers, rugged elofjuence, and religious fervor. He died 
in Tlieresa, March 21, 1804, at the age of 72 years. 



The first tannery was that of Jonathan Thompson, at 
Barnes' creek, northeast of the Falls settlement, on land 
now of Charles Fairbanks. This was started in 1822. and 
in the same year another was put in operation by Nathaniel 
W. Lull, on a small run. near the present railway station. This 
last continued in ojieration for about ten years, and was then 
abandoned. Thompson, after a time, removed his vats and 
appurtenances, and re-erected them near where the foundry 
now stands, at the soutli end of the lower bridge, where he also 
had a shop fur the finisiiing of his leather. John S. Casler 
succeeded Thompson in the business at that place. A third 
tannery was erected by Almond Tlnving in the ravine, in 
the rear of the present American Hotel. He was suc- 
ceeded in this by his son Charles; and himself, in partner- 
ship with Mr. Eddy, about 1 SCO, built another tannery on 
the river above the Falls, and below Seeber's saw-mill, — the 
same now owned and operated by V. J. Cooper. After- 
wards^ having disi)osed of his inten>st in this, he put in 
operation still another tannery, where Aaron Parkhurst 
now resides. This was carried on but a short time and 
abandoned. 

A fulling-mill and elotliiery-works were put in operation 
about 1822 by Nathan M. Flower, a clothier by trade, who 
came to Theresa Falls from Cherry Valley. These works 
stood where Coilis' woolen-factory now is, and they were 
destroyed by fire some years later. Mr. Flower stood high 
in the community, and held various offices, among them 
that of justice of the jieace. He occupied an office on the 
north side of the street, between Bullard's store and the 
Presbyterian church. He died of apoplexy, April 4, 1843, 
aged only forty-seven years. One of his sons has been 
mayor of AVatertown. 

K.VRLIEST STORES AND MERCHANTS. 

The first merchant at Theresa was Ebenezer Lull, who, 
in 1820, built and opened a small store on the corner 
where Snell's hardware store now is. The clerk he em- 
ployed was Alexander Salisbury. Soon afterwards, Lull, 
in partnership with Azariah Walton, entered quite exten- 
sively into the lumber trade, sliipping West India .staves 
and square timber to Jlontreal by the St. Lawrence river. 
Their point of shipment was Alexandria Bay, and they 
also opened another .store at Plessis. Tiieir operations, 
however, did not result in profit. In 1825, Mr. Lull sold 
the store to Olney Pierce, of Watertown, for Anson Ranney, 
who afterwards also bouglit the frame dwelling wliich Mr. 
Lull had built where John Parker's residence now stands. 
Mr. Ranney, being a bachelor, did not at once occupy the 
hou.se, and Mr. Lull remained in it until his death, which 
took place in December, 1827, from disease produced by 
exposure in i'unning his lumber-ratts on the St. Lawrence. 
Mr. Ranney afterwards moved the Lull house to the place 
where it is now occupied by L. Salisbury, and, in the place 
where it had stood, erected a house which has been remodeled 
into the present residence of Mr. Parker. The stone store 
at the southeast corner of Main and Commercial streets 
was built by Ranney about 18.32, and he here continued 
business for many years, having partners at different times, 
among whom were his former clerk, P. D. Bullard (1840 
to 181 I >, and Silas L. George, after 1844. 




Benjamin Still. 



Benjamin Still, the son of a British soldier, and the 
youngest of a family of three children, was born in Litchfield, 
Connecticut, in 1777. He was reared upon a farm, and was 
educated in the common schools of that day. In 1802 he 
married Lydia Kent, of Boyalton, Veiinont, by which union 
were born four sons and five daufjhters, in all nine children, 
of whom five are sstill living. Comentha, the eldest daughter, 
married Jotham Marshall ; the second daughter, Zilpha, mar- 
ried Alfred Adams; Harriet married Kli H. Phelps; Mary 
married Edward Cooper, and Elvira, the youngest daughter, 
married Matthew H. Smith, of Redwood. Early in the year 
1804, they came with an ox-team and one cow (all their 
worldly goods), and settled in the wilderness, six miles north- 
east of Brownsville, in the town of Pamelia, on what is now 
known as the military road. For a short time they accepted 
the hospitalities of their friend, Nathan Cole, who had preceded 
them and erected a log cabin. Mr. Still soon erected a log 
cabin for himself, and moved into it before he could procure 
lumber to make a door, and a bedquilt was substituted therefor, 
which was sufficient by day, but a glowing fire was required by 
night to keep wild beasts at bay. 

In the fall of 1805 an accidental gun-shot wound disabled 
his left arm for life. The doctors' bills and attendant expenses 
amounted to tliree hundred dollars, covering fully every dollar 
that he was worth. By his well-disciplined habits of economy, 
perseverance, and energy, he succeeded in discharging all this 
indebtedness and paying for his land, which wa.s greatly aided 
by his amiable wife, who was truly a helpmeet for him. 

"Her careful hand kept everything from waste, 
With t'heerful lumle each thrifty tciil einliraced." 

In 1824 he sold his farm in I'anielia, and bought two hun- 



dred acres in Theresa, which he cleared up and paid for, and 
held free from encumbrance. This farm is now owned by his 
son Horatio, and ranks among the first in the county, and haa 
received the first premium at the Jefferson County Agricultural 
Fair. Also, the dairy butter of Mrs. Still's own make received 
the first premium. 

Mr. Still's integrity won for him the esteem of his fellow- 
townsmen, and he was repeatedly elected to important town 
offices. While magistrate, he always advised a settlement 
rather than a suit. At the declaration of the war of 1812, a 
log fort was erected on his farm for the protection of the sur- 
rounding inhabitants from the Indians. Although exempt 
from military duty, he volunteered at the battle of Sacket's 
Harbor to rally the demoralized militia to renew the battii' 

During his life he was the poor man's friend, not simply to 
relieve his present need, but to instruct him how by his own 
legitimate efi"<)rts to become a usefiil and independent citizen. 
In politics ho was originally an old-line Whig, but upon the 
formation of the Republican party he joined its ranks, and 
always stood firm to its principles, and on his death-bed his 
great anxiety was for the Union. 

In religious faith he was a Methodist ; and of Mrs. Still, it 
can be truly said, 

" Her .Saviour, dear, through life's meandering path, 
Was her dear Saviour in the arms of death." 

He survived his widow fifteen years, and died in 1S65, at 
the age of eighty-six, and now reposes in the family burying- 
ground on the farm, by the side of his wife, two sons, and one 
of his daughters. 

'* He temp'rate lived, and free from envious pride, 
If fiiuU.** he had, they leaned to virtue's side." 




A ' Q Hi y F? :CHi , Propriuor. 

THERESA, N- V 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



515 



The second store in town was opened by John J. Gilbert, 
in a brick building wiiich he erectdl near the south end of 
the lower bridge, about 1830. After liiiu it was carried on 
by De Grasse Salisbury and Benjamin L. Smith, then by 
A. Salisbury and l\Iorsenian, then by John S. Casler, who 
soon closed the store and changed the building to a dwell- 
ing and currier's shop. Another store was opened, at an 
early day, by John Gibbs, near the one last mentioned, in 
the house now occupied by Mr. Ilibbard. 

The store on the southwest corner of Main and Comuior- 
cial streets, now Joseph Fayel's, was built about 1837 by 
A. Salisbury and Ichabod Thompson, who opened trade 
there in partnership. At one time afterwards the firm was 
Salisbury, Tiiompson, Ashley & Davison. 

The four brick stores on the east side of Commercial 
street, e.vtending 90 feet north from Main, and then known 
as Exchange block, were completed in 1845, and occupied 
as follows : the corner, by P. D. Bullard ; the next (now 
Yost's bank) by the jewelry -.store of William 1). Chapman, 
with office of Dr. Davison in second stor3' ; the third by 
Franklin Parker, with " East and West India goods ;" the 
fourth by Baker & Salisbury. 

The brick block on west side of Commercial street, now 
partly occupied by F. M. Peck, was erected in 1847. It 
comprised four stores, ^ — one owned by William Townsend, 
one by Thomas Gale, a third by Miles Myers and others, 
and the fourth by A. N. Brittan. Mr. Townsend sold his 
store to Anson Ranney, who removed to it from the stone 
store. It is of course impracticable to follow the changes 
down to the present time ; but in the above we have noticed 
the first and earlier stores and traders of Theresa village, 
outside of which there has been no merchandising in the 
town, except that of Warren Parrish and his successor, 
Jolin Rappole, who some years ago traded in a small way 
at Ivajipole s Corners, or West Theresa. 

POST-OFFICES — TELEGR.WH. 

The establishment of the post-office at Theresa was in 
the year 1822, upon the creation of the post-route from 
Champion to Alexandria Bay, by way of Evans' Mills and 
this village. The first postmaster was Ebenezer Lull. The 
mail-service was weekly, and performed on horseback by 
Sidney I. Jones, the first mail-carrier. The ofiice was kept 
at Lull's store. The second postmaster was Anson Ranney, 
then Alexander Salisbury, under whom the office was re- 
moved to the store of Salisbury & Thompson, on the oppo- 
site corner. The present postmaster is Alvin F. Richardson. 

There was formerly a post-office in the southwesterly 
part of the town, near the line of Le Ray, known as 
Military Road. This was established before 1840, and has 
been discontinued many years. The post-office of West 
Theresa was established in 1848, with Warren Parrish as 
postmaster. This also has been out of existence for some 
years. 

Theresa was first placed in electric communication with 
the outside world in 1850, by the erection of the '■Mer- 
chants' Line" of telegraph on the stage-road from Oswego 
to Ogdensburgh, by way of Watertown. The office was 
first located in the brick block over the store of Silas L. 
George, and the first operator was J. D. Moak. 



PUBLIC-HOUSES. 

In the days when the Military road was a great route of 
travel, several taverns were opened upon it within the limits 
of Theresa. Thefirstof these, as has already been mentioned, 
was that of Lodowiek Salisbury. The next which was 
opened on that road was by Elias Ilolbrook, of Le Ray, 
about 1827. It was afterwards kept by Austin Bates and 
others; the Ijuit being a Mr. Hodges, from Utica, from 
whom it was usually known as the Hodges' tavern. It 
stood on the east side of the Military road, near the pres- 
ent premises of J. P. Dougla.ss. The " Shufta tavern," on 
the same road, near the line of Le Ray, was built by John 
L. Farrar, of Pamelia, about 1828. He was not only a 
publican, but a farmer and manufacturer of pumps, which 
business he carried on upon these premises. Several land- 
lords succeeded him, among whom were Austin Bates, 
Marcius B. Ashley, and P. Shufta, proprietor of the house 
(no longer an inn) and the farm belonging to it. The 
'• Red Tavern," the best known of any on the road, was 
built about 1828, by Henry R. Morey, of Theresa village, 
at the road-crossing just north of Col. Ball's farm. After 
Morey, it was kept by Hiram Becker, Elias Glass, Austin 
Bates, and others. It is still standing, but in a state of 
decay. Benjamin Pease also opened a log tavern on the 
Military road as early as 1825. He had no successor. It 
was on the Le Ray town-line, now J. Stratton's place. 
Besides these, there have been two or three public-houses 
in other parts of the town outside of the village. One 
was opened about 1837, by Daniel Strough, on the La 
Fargevillc road, near the town-line. It was kept by him 
a few years and then closed. Warren Parrish also kept a 
tavern at West Theresa for some years. On the north side 
of Red lake, a few years since, John Graves erected a house 
on land purchased of George T. Brown, and this he opened 
as a summer resort for sportsmen and pleasure-seekers. It 
is now owned, and kept open in summer for the same pur- 
pose, by Alanson Cook. 

Of the hotels in the village, that now known as the Get- 
man House is identical with the " Brick Tavern," the 
erection of which has already been noticed. It has since 
been somewhat enlarged and improved. Among its land- 
lords, since Gen. FLsher, have been Marcius B. Ashley, S. 
Wilson, J. Davis, John F. Smith, W. E. Bennett, C. C. 
Chadwick, B. N. Hanson, Noah Perkins, Niles Terrill, and 
the present proprietor, Elias Getman. 

The American House, commenced by Stephenson in 
1822, after the burning of the first hotel, but remaining 
unfinished for some years, occupied as an office by Dr. 
Brooks, and afterwards as a dwelling, was remodeled by 
Sewell Wilson, who excavated the sand-bank on which it 
stood, building under it the present brick basement, and 
opened it as a public-house about 1842. Among those 

who have succeeded him in its management were 

Bullard, James Chaumont, B. N. Hanson, Niles Terrill, 

Stephen Rheincr, Woodworth, Eddy, P. Veb- 

ber, and A. Church, present owner. 

SEPARATE TOW.V ORUANIZ.A.TION. 
By an act of April 15, 1841, Theresa was erected a 
town ; its territory — the same now embraced in its bounda- 



510 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



ries — being partitioned from Alexandria. The first town- 
meeting was lield at the public-house of Marcius B. Ashley, 
in Theresa vilhigc, and resulted in the election of the fol- 
lowing officers, viz.: Town Clerk, Percival D. Bulhird ; 
Justices of the Peace, Abraham Morrow, Michael Servis, 
Osniyn Caswell ; As.sessor, Richard Hoover ; Comuiissiouers 
of Highways, Barney N. Hanson, Jonathan Halves ; Com- 
missioner of Common Schools, Stephen Scott ; Inspectors 
of Common Schools, Samuel W. Strough, Ichabod Cronkite ; 
Overseer of Poor, Samuel T. Brooks ; Coii.stables, Isaac L. 
Huntington, Jeremiah R. Hungerford, Albert W. Coven- 
hovcn. Alexander Salisbury, elected supervisor of Alex- 
andria for that year prior to the partition, held over as 
supervisor of the new town, under a clause of the act of 
erection which provided that all persons elected to town 
offices in Alexandria at the last previous annual meeting 
should continue to hold those offices, until the expiration 
of their term, in the towns in which their residence fell. 
Some other officers than the supervisor also held over in 
Theresa under that provision. The list oC persons e(ected 
to the office of supervisor from the erection of the town 
until the present time is as follows : Alexander Salisbury, 
1841; John D. Davison, 1842-43; Archibald Fisher, 
1844 and 1845; Jesse Kelsey, 1S4G; Zalmon Pool, Jr., 
1847-48; Anson Ranney, 1849,1850, 1852, '53 and '54; 
Percival D. Bullard, 1851, 1857, 18G3; Franklin Parker, 
1855 ; Joseph Fayel, 1S5G ; Nicholas D. Yost, 1858, 1859 ; 
Joseph Atwell, 1860 ; Benjamin P. Cheeseman, 1861-62 ; 
David Bearup, 1864 to 1870, inclusive; Jason C. Morrow, 
1871, 1872; George E. Yost, 1873-74; and John Parker 
in 1875, '76, and 1877. 

Theresa having no town-hall, the annual town-meetings 
have been held at the following houses, viz. : 1841, at M. 
B. Ashley's; 1842, '43, '44, '45, and '46, at S. Wilson's; 
1847, at J. Davis'; 1848-49, at John F. Smith's; 1850, 
'51, '52, '53, '54, '55, at W. E. Bennett's; 1856, 1859, 
'60, '62, at C. C. Chadwick's ; 1857, at James Chauniont's ; 
1858, 1861, 1863, at Barney N. Hanson's; 1864, 1865, 
at Noah A. Perkins' ; 1866, 1871, at Niles Terrell's; 1867, 
at Stephen llheiner's ; 1868, '69, and '70, at Elias Getmaii's ; 
and from 1872 to the present time, in Dresser's hall, all 
these being in Theresa village. 

The population of Theresa in 1845 (the 1st State census 
after its erection) was 2109; in 1850, 2342; in 1855, 
2278; in 1860, 2628; in 1865, 2515; in 1870, 2304; 
and in 1875, 2361 ; which is hardly an encouraging show- 
ing, being only an increase of 22 souls in the two decades 
extending from 1850 to 1870, — the hist-named date being 
prior to the incorporation of the village. 

AGRICULTURAL. 

A stranger on first entering the town is likelj- to hold its 
af;ricultiiral ca])acities in low estimation. Tlie portions, 
however, which join Philadelphia, Lc Ray, and Orleans 
are good, while the reclaimed bottoms of the lower river 
(elsewhere mentioned) are very productive ; and even among 
the ledges and steep hills cattle find excellent pasture. 
Dairying, particularly the manufacture of cheese, is mo.st 
in faviir, and is found most profitable by farmers. Most of 
this is done by the factories. Of these there are in the 



town at present 4, viz., one, of -J. P. Douglass, taking the 
product of 350 cows, and three factories belonging to Irwin 
C. Cooper, wiirkiiig the milk of 1100 cows. Besides these 
there are 4 Limburger cheese-factories, — Phillips', F. Park- 
er's, Z. Pool's, and L. Barrett's, at Kelsey bridge, averaging 
75 cows each. Total number of cows represented by the 
factories, 1750. Of those who.se product goes to butter 
or to hand-made cheese, we haye no statistics. 

There is no Grange of the Patrons of IIu.sbandry in 
Theresa, neither any agricultural society. The old society 
in Alexandria held its second (and last) fair at There.sa in 
1839, and the present society in that town has its gi'ounds 
— as are also the grounds of the Redwood Driving Park — 
just across the line in Theresa, though both are institutions 
pertaining especially to the village of Redwood, to which 
the grounds are immediately contiguous. 

THE PROW.NKl) LAND.S ON I.NDIAN Rn'ER. 

After making its last leap at Theresa Falls, the Indian 
river takes a long rest, and for many miles flows slowly, 
lazily, towards the St. Lawrence, making a descent of not 
more than two feet in the next sixteen miles of its winding 
course. All along its margin, until after it leaves the 
county, there are bottom lands, aggregating more than 3300 
acres, which, when the white man first saw them, were 
covered with soft maple and elm, but which were not sidj- 
mergcd, except in times of extraordinary high water. The 
additional flowage caused by the erection of the dam of the 
old Ro.s.sie .smelting works, saturating, though not wholly 
overflowing the bottoms, gradually destroyed this growth, 
converted the lands into soft morasses, covered with coarse 
grass and button-bushes, and caused them to become gener- 
ally known as " the drowned lands." These tracts were 
included in the sale of 24,230 acres, made Feb. 15, 1836, 
by the Antwerp Company to Samuel Stocking and Norris 
M. Woodruff, who j)roceeded to di.spose of them in com- 
paratively snudl lots, and at low prices. Soon the project 
of draining the entire tract beciime agitated, and it was 
said in support of this that their condition was detrimental 
to the general health. The removal of a rock reef in the 
river above Rossie would accomplish the desired object (the 
smelting works having been already removed), and for the 
power to do this the legislature was petitioned. The result 
was the passage of an act (April 10, 1850) conferring the 
desired power on Archibald I'^isher, Abraham 3Iorrow, and 
George W. Clark, as commissioners ; the cost of removal 
and damages resulting to be a.ssossod on the lands drained. 
Nothing was done under this act, and a second was passed 
April 12, 1852, appointing Archibald Fi.sher, L. W. De 
Zeng, of Redwood, and A. P. ^Ior.se, of Hammond, com- 
missioners to carry on the work and cut away the reef to 
the depth of five feet. The hostility of .Mr. Parrish again 
defeated the improvement, and for nearly 15 years more the 
river remained as it had been. 

On the 3d of April, 1865, the legislature passed "an 
act to provide for the promotion of the public health, and 
for draining and reclaiming overflowed and wet lands adjoin- 
ing the Indian river," etc., and provided for assessments on 
the lands, to cover the total outlay, which was estimated at 
86415, including damages for the destruction of the water- 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



517 



power of D. Parrish and Thomas McRobbie. David 
Bcarup, Fiarikliii Parker, and Cliarlos Luiii were appointed 
commissioners, under whom tin; work was prosecuted ; but 
the desired effect was not produced, altiiouijh tlie river was 
lowered to some extent. 

Under these circumstances the leirislature was .soon after- 
• wards asked for a State ajipropriatiun for the improvement 
of the navigation of Indian river at this point; and in 
response to this petition a i;runt of $10,000 was made for 
that purpose, to be expended by J;ison C. Morrow, Wilbur 
¥. Porter, of Watcrtown, and Rodney I. Sinionds, of 
Tiieresa. Under these iientlemen the work proceeded, but 
as, at the expiration of the term for wliich they were ap- 
pointed, they had expended only a portion of the funds, 
the balance remaining in their hands was deposited with 
tlie State treasurer, as required by the terms of the act; 
but it was soon discovered by those interested, that, having 
been once returned to the treasury, this balance could not be 
redrawn by now commissioners for the completion of the 
work, except under the authority of further leuisjation. 
Accordingly, a new act was procured, investing Ueorge E. 
Yost, L. W. Tyler, and 11. I. Siraonds with autliority, as 
commissioners, to draw the balance, and expend it ujion 
the Work, whieii they did in a manner and with a result 
satisfactory to the projectors, namely, a marvelous enhance- 
ment of the productiveness of the '' drowued lands." 
Wherever the jiiow has been put to them since their re- 
clamation, it has turned up a soil which is at first sight clayey 
and untractable, but which, upon exposure, becomes soft and 
friable, said to be much like the flats of the Mohawk ; too 
rich for oats, but yielding great crops of wheat and corn, and 
apparently inexhaustible in its fertility. The opinion is freely 
ailvaneed by some (and it does not seem to be wholly 
an absurd one) that, on asking legislation for the purpo.se 
above-named, the petitioners may have had in view other 
ends than the promotion of health or of inland navigation, 
and that the latter, instead of having been improved, has 
been permanently injured by the lowering of the river-bed. 

NAVIGATION OP THE RIVER. 

The firet navigation of the Indian river in Theresa (other 
than that by SCOWS and canoes propelled by hand power) 
was by the little steamer " Indian Chief," 70 feet in length, 
and 11 feet beam, side wheels; engineer and master, C P. 
Ryther, now of Carthage. The enterprise was commenced 
by an association of individuals, each taking one sluirc at 
§25, except J. A. Haddock who took 2 shares, and E. V. 
Fisher and George T. Brown, 4 shares each. The hull was 
built at Indian Landing below the mills at Theresa, was 
launched April 24, 1858, and had received her machinery 
and commenced running in the May following. On her 
start she drew 8 inches of water, and her draft when fully 
laden was 18 inches. She was run as an excursion boat, 
wood-drogher and tow-boat for logs, for about five years, then 
sold to Warren & Gray, who took her by land round the 
obstructions at Rossie, and placed her to run between that 
place and Huevelton. They afterwards took her upon the 
St. Jiawrence, where she was nseil as a ferry-boat between 
Morristown and HroekvilK', and in this service was worn out. 

The second steamer on this river was a very small sidc- 



wheeler purchased by Win. D. Chapman, upon the Erie 
canal, about 1860. He brought it by land transportation 
to Theresa, ran it for a lime for excursions, etc., then sold 
her to be taken to Alexandria Ray. The third steamer — a 
flat-boat, called thQ " Lady of the Lake" — was built at In- 
dian Landing, by Mr. Chapman, who also afterwards sold 
her to parties at Alexandria Ray, but reserved the engine, 
which he placed in another boat, built by himself at Thercsji 
and called the ''Sir John Keach." This boat is still run- 
ning between Theresa village and the plank-road bridge, 
l(j miles below, and is owned by Henry Simonds. The 
other boat, which is still running (and the 5th steamer 
which has jilied on the river at this place), is the " Eldo- 
rado," built bj' David Bearup, Esq., and run under Ins 
directions until 1S7G, when she was purcha.scd by James 
McAllaster. She is the largest of the five boats which 
have.run to and from Theresa on the Indian river. Their 
trade has never been remunerative, and their future pros- 
pects here are not encouraging. 

MILLS AND JIANUKACTOKIES. 

There are several mills and manufacturing cstablisliment.s 
in Theresa which merit more than a bare mention, .some of 
which occupy the sites of older establishments of their 
kind which have pa.ssed away by the hand of time, or flood, 
or conflagration.* 

Webster's planing-niill and wood-working shop stands on 
the site of Le Ray's mill of 1811. This was demolished 
and rebuilt by Le Ray about twelve years later; was sold 
to Percival Bullard in 1823, pas,scd to M. B. and Stephen 
Ashley about 1830, and finally decayed and was discon- 
tinued. Succeeded by wood-machine shop, built by Geo. 
Wilson; burned in the fire of 1852; rebuilt by Wil.son ; 
burnt in 1859; rebuilt by Y. & A. Cooper; was twice 
carried away by floods, and, after more changes, came into 

possession of Otis Brooks and Jenkins, who sold 

to Charles Pool, the present owner. It is operated by 
AVebster Bros. 

Pool's .saw-mill, south side of river, lower dam, was 
erected in 1848, by Z. Pool, Jr.; sold to Charles Pool in 
1S52 ; burnt in l.Sy'J; rebuilt by Pool same year. Atone 
time, a planing-mill and chair-factory was carried on there. 
It is now only a saw- and shingle-mill. 

The Empire flour-mill stands on the site of Le Ray's 
first grist-mill, before mentioned. The present stone mill 
was built by Charles Pool, tlie present owner, immediately 
after the destruction of his previous one on the same spot. 



"■■ The most disdftrous fire which Theresa has ever known com- 
iiiunccd nt iniilnight on the 12th of May, ISj9, at the mills nnd fhops 
on the south side of the lower bridge, on which il cro.sged, to spread 
devastation on the north side of the river. The property destroyed 
was as follows: One barn and 2 dwellings (one of these being the 
"mill house" built by Le Ray in ISIl, the first house in Theresa); 
two saw-mills, — Pool's nnd Fisher's; one wnod-working shop, owned 
by (5. AV. Flower: G. Wilson's iron-working machine-shop; a saw- 
mill and foundry, owned by Willis (iregory ; Pool's grist-mill, stand- 
ing on the site of the present mill, and the cloth-factory of John C. 
Collis. The bridge was totully destroyed. The foundry, now Wake- 
field's, escaped, .is it had in 1852, when Wilson's mill and the wood- 
shop had been destroyed at only a few yards' distance. The grent 
flood in the spring of 186^ also did great damage, carrying away the 
upper dam, the covered bridge, and other property. 



518 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



in the fire of 1859. It is equipped with four run of 
stones. 

The chair-factory of A. N. Brittan, at the lower dam, 
left bank of river, .stands on a site ])urehn.sed by Petor II. 
Riley of M. B. and S. Ashley, on whieh, about 1845, he 
erected a frame blacksmith-shop, which escaped the tire of 
1852, but was consumed in that of 1850. Rebuilt as tub 
and cheese-box flictory by Geo. W. Flower ; passed from 
him to David Augsbury, then to A. N. Brittan ; again 
destroyed by fire in 1870, after which the owner erected 
the present woiks. 

Wakefield's Foundry was built by George Wilson about 
1848, and emploj'ed in the manufacture of stove and agri- 
cultural iuijilemcnt castings. Standing like a salamander 
through the different fires which have scorched it, it has 
pas.sed through various bauds to those of its present owner, 
Ceylon Wakefield. 

Collis' Cloth -Factory, north side of lower dam, is on the 
seat of the fiist fulling-mill, built by N. M. Flower about 
1822. Flower sold a half-interest to John C. Collis about 
1840. Weaving niachiiieiy was put in ; Collis bought the 
interest of Flower after his death ; the mill escaped the fire 
of 1852; was destroyed, as has been seen, in 1859; was 
rebuilt, as at present, by Mr. Collis, to whose estate it now 
belongs. 

Stockwell's Tub-Factory and saw-mill, lower dam, north 
side, is the successor of the saw-mill built by A. Walton, 
Esq., soon after his settlement here. It was burnt in 1859, 
and rebuilt by Archibald Fi-sher ; passed by inheritance to 
Elbert V. Fi.sher ; part interest was aci|uired by Daniel 
Barnes, and the business of cheese-box and butter-tub manu- 
facture added. The present proprietor is E. S. Stockwell. 

Gregory's Foundry, destroyed by fire of 1859, was built 
by George Wilson in 1845 or '46. It stood on north side, 
lower dam, near the Collis factory. 

The upper dam across Indian river at Theresa village 
was built by Anson Ranuey about 1839. He also erected 
a saw-mill at that time, at its northeasterly end, which mill 
was kept in operation for a few years and then demolished. 
Its last proprietors were Ilildreth & Woolidge. 

The Indian river flour-mill, on the left bank of the river 
at this dam, is a frame building, erected in 1839 or '40 by 
A. Ranney, the millwright being Isaac Barrett. After 
Ranney, the next ]iro]iiietor was A. D. Gardner, and if has 
passed through other hands to the present owners, Messrs. 
Snells & Makepeace. It uses 6 run of burrs, and is one of 
tlic finest mills in the county. 

The I'laning-mill, Door- and Sash-Factory, etc., on the 
right bank at this dam, is the .successor of a similar estab- 
lishment built by Brooks it Sheley. The projirietor of the 
present works is E. 1). Sheley, who erected lliem in 1870. 
A nuichiiic-.shop (iron-working) has been recently added. 

The above comprise all the establishments in the town of 
Theresa using water-power, except four saw-mills, as follows : 
The Seebcr .saw-mill on Indian river, about \>, miles above 
the village, built by Wm. Sceber, about 1825, at a point 
farther np the river, destroyed by flood, rebuilt by Seeber 

on present site, and now owned by Brittan ; the So]ior 

sawmill, on tlie outlet stream of the Lake of the Woods, 
built about 1830 by Lawrence Goodale of Carthage, then 



engaged in considerable lumbering operations in that region, 
afterwards sold to Grinnell, and now owned by Or- 
ange Soper ; R. Gleason's mill, on a small, dry creek enter- 
ing the river in the northern point of the town, built about 
1845; and the Suydam mill, between Mill-Site and But- 
tcrfield lakes, built by Curtis Mann before 1840, bought by 
the Redwood Iron Ccmipany, and, the power being again in • 
disu.se by reason of the collapse of that concern, the mill 
was recently rebuilt by the present proprietor, Mr. Suydam. 
In the year 1847, the " Redwood Iron Company," com- 
posed of Joseph C. Budd, AVm. Bones, and Samuel T. 
Hooker, commenced to build a smelting-fuinace on great 
lot No 91, on the west side of Mill-Site lake, for the re- 
duction of iron ore, supplied by their mines in the vicinity. 
They started in the fall of 1848, and continued work until 
the spring of 1850, during which time they produced an 
aggregate of nearly 1100 tons of iron. The enterprise was 
then definitely abandoned as unprofitable. The cost of their 
works was about $8000. 

INCORPORATION OF THERESA VILL.\GE — ITS PRESENT 
BUSINESS. 

The village of Theresa was incorporated, June 29, 1871, 
under the general act of April 20, 1870, for incorporation 
of villages. The first election was held on the 29th of 
July, resulting in the choice of the following officers : Presi- 
dent, George E. Yost; Trustees, John Parker, Ambrose 
Walradt, Gideon Snell, Sr. ; Treasurer, Hiram P. Salisbury; 
Collector, Charles Fairbanks. And the trustees appointed 
Melvin E. Cornwell clerk. The .sum of S75 was voted 
" to procure a Lock-up," and §25 " to procure a Pound." 
John Parker was appointed to enipliiy a surveyor to survey 
and map the corporation, and this was done by George 
Rockwell. The boundaries are irregular, and embrace an 
area of about 1200 acres. The present oflScers of the vil- 
lage are, James Cooper, president ; L. W. Tyler, Jacob II. 
Snell, and Charles Brittan, trustees; Jason C. Morrow, 
treasurer; Byron J. Worsley, collector. 

Theresa is now a village of nearly 1000 inhabitants, and 
contains, in addition to the hotels, mills, and manufactories 
already mentioned, 3 churches, 2 school-hou.ses, the post- 
office, the railway buildings, 1 banking-house, 2 physicians, 
2 lawyers, a Masonic lodge and chapter, 1 job-printing of- 
fice, 5 general stores, 3 groceries, 2 drug-stores, 1 boot- 
and shoe-store, 2 hardware-, 2 milliuery-, and 3 furniture- 
stores, 2 blacksmith-shops, 2 harness- and saddlery-, and 2 
wagon-shojis, and the fishing-tackle manufactory of Wm. 
I). Chapman, said to be one of the most extensive and best 
known of the kind in the country. 

TllKKF.SA LODGE, NO. 174, Y. AM) A. SI., 

was organized Nov. 28, 1849, with (lie tollowing officers, 
viz., John D. Davison, Master ; John .Moak, Senior War- 
den ; John Dillenback, Junior Warden ; .Manson Doolittle, 
Trea.surer ; J. B. Davison, Secretary; A. Baker, S, D, ; 
A. Morrow, J. D. ; George W. Cornwell, Tyler; which 
li.st also comprises the names of all the original members of 
the lodge. The membership is now 161, and the present 
officers arc Jesse D. Moak, Master; John F. Lambie, S. 
AV. ; Charles W. Thompson, J. W. ; Hiram P. Salisbury, 







■7 



nsrionoL^s 

The story of tlic life of this well-remembered citizen 
IS one of humble beginning, of energetic and persistent 
effort, crowned i>y for more than the usual measure of 
worldly success ; the more to be admired and emulated 
because it was not gained by the surrender of any prin- 
vipU'. of right or probity, and wiis accompanied by the ap- 
preciation and respect of the wide comniunitv in which 
he was known. His father, William Yo.t, a native of 
Johnstown, Montgomery County, New York, was born 
on the 2i)th of August, 1779, and was married to Dor«,s 
Doxtater, by which union were born four sons antl seven 
daughters, in all eleven children, of whom four are still 
living; one in Virginia, one in Michigan, one in Wis- 
'•<msin, and one in Montgomery county. New York. 
Mr. Yost died in Johnstown, August 24, 18G0- his 
widow survived him nearly five years, and departed 
March ;3, ] S65. Nicholas Doxtater Yost, the third son 
of these parents, was born on the 20th of November, 
ISOS, in .Johnstown, where he j)as.sed the years of his 
youth, and acquired suci, rudiments of education as the 
common schools of that .lay aHbrded. 

On the 13th of Februa;y, 1834, he wa.s married to 
Mag.hdiu Hanson, who now survives him. Thromrh 
all (he days of their journeying together, she proved lo 
iHin a helpmeet indeed, and in her he fully realized the 
tnah of th<. wonls of Solomon, "House and riches 
are the inheritance of fathers; but a prudent wife is 
from the Lord." 




X). YOST. 

The children of their iniion were, — Mar)' E., born 
November 29, 1834, married Melvin E. Cornwall; 
(xeorge E., born April 7, 1838; William H., born 
Aii;-.iist 13, 1840; Ann, l)orn March 24, 18-12, married 
Frvin C. C'oojior ; Jennie, l)orn September 2, 1845, 
married Calvin B. Still, and died February 1, 1871 ■ 
and Ettie J., born November 13, 1852, married George 
P. Stone. 

In March, 1837, Mr. Yost set out from Johnstown 
in a sleigh, with his wife, infant daughter, and house- 
hold goods, all his worldly possessions, to drive through 
the wilderness to the farm of two hundred and fifty 
acres in Theresa (then Alexandria), upon which his later 
life was passed, the homestead now owned by his son 
M'illiam. Much of this property he cleared with his 
own hands. He was always industrious, and most 
strictly tem])eratc, and when, after a time, he began to 
gather the pecuniary fruits of these virtues, lie made 
small speculative transactions in ttie purchase of cattle 
and produce, or loaned his funds, without usury, to 
such as needed and deserved the assistance. From these 
modest venttu-es, which ra()idly gi'ew in magnitude, was 
realized his ample competence. He died September 5, 
1870, and was laid in the cemetery at Theresa, l)ene;ith 
a beautiful moiuunent of granite, typical of the .solid, 
practical judgment, the unyielding firmness and perse- 
verance, ar\d the unshaken honesty, which won tfic for- 
tune and the good name that he left behind him. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



519 



Treasurer; Dorman Walradt, Secretary ; Percival B. Salis- 
bury, S. i). ; Abraham M. Walradt, J. D. ; Simeon P. 
Chapman, Tyler. The hall of the lodge Ls on Commercial 
street, Theresa village. 

A lodge — the " Alexandria," No. 383 — was formed in 
Theresa as early as 1824, but expired about 1828. The 
Masters of this were William Sturm, Dr. J. D. Davison, and 
Archibald Fisher. 

THERESA CHAPTER, NO. 149, R. A. M., 

was organized in January, 1854. The first officers were 
John D. Daviison, II. P. ; John Moak, K. ; Jolin C. 
Young, S. The membership is at present 99, and the 
officers are Jesse D. Bloak, H. P. ; William M. Lambie, 
K. ; Alexander H. Cooper, S. ; Jeremiah K. Sturtevant, 
C. H. ; Percival B. Salisbury, P. S. ; Davis Ballard, M. 3d 
V. ; Ceylon Wakefield, M. 2d V. ; C. M. Fusk, M. 1st V. 

CASSIOPI.V LODGE, I. O. O. F., 

was formed at Plessis in April, 1S47, and in Decojnbor of 
the same year Wiis removed to Theresa, but this is long 
since defunct. 

Yost's nANKiNt; iioh.se 

is located on Commercial street, in the village. It is a pri- 
vate institution established Jan. 1, 1872, by the present 
proprietor, George E. Yost. Cashier, Jason C. Morrow. 

A weekly newspaper, the Tlwrcsa Cliroiu'c/c { Demo- 
cratic), was commenced in this village Jan. 14, 1848, but 
died in the following July. The press was removed to 
Madrid, St. Lawrence county. No paper has been pub- 
lished in Tlioresa since that time. 

TIIK BLACK UIVEIl .\ND MORHISTOW.N KAILIIOAD, 

which passes through the west part of the village of The- 
resa, was commenced in Sept., 1870, and opened for traffic 
from its southern terminus — Pbilad<'lphia — to this point 
Oct. 29, 1873, tiiougii the first train had arrived here Dec. 
9, 1872. The first* and present president of the company, 
David Bearup, Esq., — to whose perseverance and tireless 
energy the road owes its existence, — is a resident of this 
village. The company's agent here is E. V. Fisher. 
Theresa, like the other towns traversed by this road, issued 
bonds to aid its construction. The amount of these was 
8G0,OO0, for which the town received an ei|ual amount of 
the stock of the road. 

The most discouraging and expensive piece of work in 
the construction of the line was in Theresa, about one mile 
south of Redwood. It was the building of 1500 feet of 
embankment to a height of about 35 feet above the surface, 
on which a large force was kept at w-ork for nearly three 
years, during which time, besides the gradual subsidence 
which was continually taking place, the bank repeatedly 
dropped below the surface after having been brought nearly 
to its contemplated height. 

SCHOOLS. 

The first scluiul in Theresa — then part of Le Ray — was 

» ElecteJ April IS, 1870. 



taught by a Mrs. Castlcnian, in the summer of 1820, in the 
log house where she lived with her husband, on the west- 
erly corner of the forty-acre clearing which Captain John 
Hoover had garrisoned as a cattle-guard seven years before. 
She taught only the children of two or three neighboring 
settlers, and it was not, of course, a public school. The 
next school was taught by Miss Almira Barnes, at the 
house of Mre. Keeler, at the Falls settlement. A third was 
taught at about the same time by Miss Abigail Salisbury 
(afterwards Mrs. Percival Bullardj, at the house of Carley 
Smith, on the north .side of the river, at the Falls. 

The first building erected expressly for school purposes 
(probably in 1821) was a frame structure, which stood upon 
a site nearly opposite the present residence of D. IJearup, 

Es((. The first teacher in this Wiis Welch, next 

Freeman Phillips, and .soon after Alexander Salisbury and 
Oshea Goss. The last named taught several terms. Among 
the surviving pupils of these teachers are Jeremiah Cheese- 
man, Alanson Cheeseman, Clifford Cheeseman, Jesse S. 
Doolittle, Miranda Bodman, Martin Bodman, Charles Wal- 
ton, of Alexandria Bay, and others. Tiie books they used 
were " Cobb's Spelling-Book," " English Reader," and 
" Pike's Arithmetic." 

By the first annual statement of the commissioners of 
common .schools for Theresa, made April 5, 1842, it was 
shown that the immber of entire school districts was seven, 
designated as follows, viz., Theresa village, Chee.seraan 
Settlement, Parker Settlement, James Kelsey district, 
Glass tavern, Hodges tavern, and Keyes district, and that 
the number of joint districts was 11, viz., 3 with Alex- 
andria, 2 with Antwerp, 3 with Le Ray, and 3 with Phila- 
delphia ; that the total number of children Wiis 024 ; that 
the amount of public school money received and appor- 
tioned to the districts was $385.07, — that is to say, 
$309.37 for teachers' wages, and $75.70 library money. 
The school commissioners for that year were Jesse S. Doo- 
little, Lodowick Salisbury, Jr., and Jonathan Hokes. The 
books then in general u.se in these schools were " Cobb's 
Spelling- Book and Juvenile Reader," " Olney's Geography," 
"Kirkham's Grammar," "Rogers' Arithmetic," and the 
" English Reader." 

Passing over a period of twenty-five years to the present 
time, it is found that there are in Theresa 15 entire and 
joint districts; that the total number of children on which 
the town draws public school money is 815, the total aver- 
age daily attendance being 350.714 ; that in the apportion- 
ment of school-money for the year ending Sept. 30, 1877, the 
town received as follows: according to number of children, 
$527.84 ; according to average daily attendance, $549.63 ; 
district quotas, $803.60 ; library money, $26.84 ; total, 
$1907.91. 

In the districts outside of Theresa village the average 
aggregate of yearly teaching is not more than 30 weeks. 
A few of those districts employ male teachers for the winter 
term, the salaries of these being $35 to $40 per month, 
and those of female teachers $4 to $4.50 per week. In 
district No. 7, comprising a part of the village, the teaching 
is about ;!0 weeks ; male teachers arc employed in winter 
at $50 per month, and $6 per week to females. Number 
of pupils about 80. The school in district No. 1 (Theresa 



520 



IIISTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YOBK. 



villapre) embraces tliree departments, under charge of a male 
principal and two female assistants. The salary of the 
principal has been S-1 per day until the present year (1877), 
but is now reduced to S3. The fii-st and second a.ssistants 
receive respectively S6 and S5 per week, reduced from S7 
and §8, paid in 1876. They had in some of the previous 
years received SIO and 88. The usual duration of the 
terms has been 14 weeks, three terms in the year. The 
school-house in this district is a fine, large stone building, 
two stories in height, which was completed in 1869, at a 
cost of about S6000, including the large lot on which it 
stands, purchased from Chauncey Parkhurst, and adjoining 
the premises of David Bearup, Esq., on Main street. This 
house is the successor of the old brick school-building, 
built some forty years since, on a rock summit on River 
street, near the Methodist church, — the second school-house 
in the village. It still stands on its perch, and is owned by 
E. S. Stockwell. 

Private schools have been taught at various times in 
Theresa village, the most noteworthy of which was opened 
in 1856, in Dresser's hall, by William T. Goodenough, and 
taught by him, in both the old and the present hall, for 
about twelve years. At one time fully 100 students were 
under his tuition, and his success as an educator was great. 

THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OP THERESA 

was organized at the house of Abraham Morrow May 8, 
1825, Rev. Wm. B. Stowe acting as moderator. Eleven 
persons were present, but only"nine were enrolled as mem- 
bers, — four males and five females. 

Abraham Morrow and Sylvester Bodman were chosen 
elders and deacons. The following have also served the 
church as elders at different times since the organization : 
Nathan M. Flower, James Shurtliff, Anson Ranney, A. N. 
Brittan, Giluian Evans, B. J. Owens, Atwood Bodman, 
and J. S. Vanderburgh. And the following ministers, in 
the order named, have served as pastors or stated supplies : 
Revs. Wm. B. Stowe. Roswell Puttibone, Samuel F. Snow- 
den, L. M. Shepard, William Chittenden, Luman Wilcox, 
Revilo Cone, Harvey Smith, William Chittenden (a second 
pastorate), Chas. W. Treadwell, Samuel L. Merrill, James 
R. Keiser, Alexander Smith, ]>. Alexander Williamson, 
and the present supply. Rev. J. A. Canfield. 

The whole number of members enrolled since the forma- 
tion of the church is 247, and the number now on the roll 
is 80. 

On Dec. 22, 1835, a society ( bculy curjiorate) was formed, 
with Ans(ni Ranney, James Sliurtliff, and Nathan M. Flower, 
trustees, who, in union with the Methodists, built a church 
costing SI 800, and which was dedicated in September, 
1838, Revs. R. Pettibone, Presbyterian, and Jesse Peck, 
I^Iethodist. officiating at the ceremonies. In 1849, the 
Methodist interest in the edifice was purcha.sed by the 
Presbyterians, and it has since been their house of worship. 
Of the original members of the church, enrolled more than 
half a century since, two still remain, namely, Mrs. Lucinda 
Morrow, lacking but a few days of 80 years, and Mrs. Re- 
lief Bodman, nearly 96 years of age. They are both slill 
able til attend divine worship, though the elder lady resides 
about two miles from the meeting-house. 



THE METHOIIIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. 

Methodism in Theresa is half a century old, the first class 
being organized in 1827, by Rev. Squire Chase. Another 
of the early preachers who served them was Rev. Lindley 
T. Gibbs, then an itinerant. The organization under the 
statute was effected Dec. 22, 1835, with S. T. Brooks, 
Alexander H. Morgan, and Benjamin Barnes, trustees. 
Their worship was held in the selioul-house and in private 
dwellings, until 1838, when their first church edifice — built 
in union with the Presbyterians — was completed, at a cost 
of S1800, and was dedicated in September of that year, 
the Rev. Jesse Peek, on the part of this church, officiating 
at the ceremonies. In 1849 the Methodist interest in this 
building was sold to the Pre.sb\'terians, and a new church 
was built the following year at the place where Dresser's 
hall now is. This building, 30 by 00 feet in size, was 
destroyed by fire April 27, 1860. A new site was then 
purchased, on which the present house of worship was 
erected, and was dedicated in February, 1802. The present 
memberehip is 175 ; pastor. Rev. Simon P. Gray. A pros- 
perous Sabbath-school is connected with the church ; Charles 
Pool, superintendent. 

Some years since a small chapel was built near the outlet 
of the Lake of the Woods by Jlethodists residing in the 
northern and eastern portions of the town, and in this 
building (now in a state of repair amounting almost to di- 
lapidation) meetings are occasionally held, under jireachers 
from the Plessis charge. 

ST. J.\MES' CHURCH (EPISCOPAL). 

The first clergymen of the Protestant Episcopal church 
who ever conducted services in Theresa were Revs. Star- 
key, Hills, and Levi Norton. This was before the organi- 
zation of the parish, which was made July 16, 1848, with 
the following communicants, Daniel Parker, Horace Parker, 
Franklin Parker, E. W. Lewis, Dr. Lucius Hannahs and 
wife, and Percy Jarvis. The parish was admitted to union 
with the Diocesan Convention in the same year. In 1S50, 
Rev. W. A. Fiske, who had held this as a mission before 
the organization, became rector, and through his efforts, 
and those of Franklin Parker, E. W. Lewis, and Horace 
Parker, contributions were raised towards the building of a 
church, and the corner-stone was laid by Rt. Rev. Bisliop 
Do Lancey, July 19, 1850. Aid was also received from 
Trinity church, and the edifice, a Gothic structure, after 
the plans of R. Upjohn, of New York, was completed at a 
cost of S260O, and was con.secratcd by Bishop De Lancey, 
Aug. 7, 1851. This building is their jiresent hou.se of 
worship. Its tower was demolished and the church other- 
wise injured in a violent gale in 1863, the repair of which 
damage cost the parish nearly S500. On Jan. 1, 1852, 
Rev. Mr. Fiske resigned the rectorate, and was succeeded 
in February by Rev. B. W. Whitcher, who remained until 
Feb. 13, 1854. Rev. Robert Horwood took charge Feb. 
11, 1855, remaining until May (i, 1857, when he resigned, 
and was succeeded by Rev. M. B Benton, who in turn was 
followed by Rev. Dennis Smith, deacon, who was ordained 
to the priesthood in this church by Bishop De Lancey. 
After a charge of two and a half years Mr. Smith resigned, 
and on Sept. 28, 1863, departed to a better world. He 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



521 



was inteiTc'J in the Theresa cemetery, his burial-services 
being conducted by Rev. Theodore Bahcock, D.D. Rev. 
John B. Linn took charge Sept. 17, 1805, and re.signed in 
August, 1SG9. Rev. Francis W. Hilliard took charge 
May 20, 1870. In July, 1873, he wa.s placed in charge of 
an associate mission, including Theresa, Redwood, Ant- 
werp, and Evans' Mills, and in September of the same 
year Rev. Hugh Bailey, deacon, became the rector's assist- 
ant. Mr. Hilliard resigned the rectorship in February, 
1874, and Rev. John J. Andrews was placed in charge in 
the following May. He resigned May 2, 1875, and was 
succeeded by Rev. Charles A. Wenman, who served the 
parish for two years and five months, resigning 5Iay 1, 
1877, but continuing to hold services until Oct. 1, when he 
was succeeded by Rjv. J. B.irtou Finn, deacon. 

THERESA CEMETERY. 

At the laying out of the village, Mr. Le Ray reserved 
a spot, supposed to be about one acre, as a gift to the 
public for cemetery purposes. It was not until Feb. 7, 
1833, however, that a deed of the plat was executed to 
John D. Davison, supervisor, by Francis Depau, attorney 
of Le Ray, and S. C. Kanady, general land-agent. It was 
surveyed by Jason Clark and found to contain ly'j'j acres. 
The first interment in it was that of ^Ir. Castleman, 
drowned in 1821, while attempting to secure a log in the 
river above the falls. Soon after, in the same year, the 
second burial was made ; that of the colored girl who 
perished in the fire of Stephenson's tavern. 

At the first town-meeting in Theresa, May 11, 1841, it 
was voted '' that the sum of 830 be raised for the purpose 
of improving the public burial-ground in the village of 
Theresa, and that three trustees be appointed to take 
charge of said burial-ground, to expend the sum raised in 
the improvement and laying out in lots''' the said ground, 
and that Jesse S. Doolittle, Nathan M. Flower, and Alex- 
ander Salisbury be said trustees." In 1850, S25 wa.s voted 
to fence and repair the ground. In ISUO, §10 was voted 
to improve it, and at the annual meeting in 18G3, S250 
was raised " to enlarge the burying-ground," and it wa.? 
accordingly enlarged by the purchase of about two acres, 
adjoining its westerly side, from George P. Fox. The 
ground is eligibly located upon a high, dr^- spot, command- 
ing a fine vitw of the valley of the Indian river. 

The other burial-grounds are comparatively little used; 
the greater ])art of those dying in the town being interred 
in the cemetery at the village. The grave-yard on the 
river-road, near Kelsey's bridge, was taken from the Kelsey 
farm many years ago. Members of that family, however, 
and others who were residents of that vicinity, have been 
brought to the Theresa cemetery. The Chase burial- 
ground, located near the Philadelphia road, on the town- 
line, was taken from the original farm of Otis Alden, one 
of the early settlers, and one who is buried there. This is 
an old place of burial of the Clnise family and of the 
neighborhood, both in Theresa and Philadelphia. There 
is an interment-ground, taken from the farm of Osmyn 
Caswell, lying on the west side of the Evans" Mills road, 



near the residence of Amos Hoover. The first burial there 
was in 1835, — a child of Benjamin Pease. 

On the west side of the Military road, near the east .shore 
of Mud lake, aixl within three- fourths of a mile of Red- 
wood, lies the village cemetery belonging to that place ; 
also the cemetery of the Catholic church in Redwood ; but 
these, although lying just within the domain of Theresa, 
do not belong to her, hut to the town of Alexandria. They 
were taken from the farm of Robert Adams. 

I'llYSICIAN.'*. 

The principal doctor to practice the healing art in The- 
resa, as a resident physician, was Dr. John D. Davison, 
who came from Panielia in 1824. He died Sept. 22, 1865, 
aged 72 years. His two sons, James and Nathan, adopted 
their father's profession, and were both promising young 
physicians, but died early in life. Nathan survived his 
father, and died in 1874. Dr. James 15. Carpenter located 
in the town in 1812, or thereabouts, and removed later to 
Philadelphia, being in the latter place as late as 1853. Dr. 
Samuel J. Gaines was a resident physician of this town in 
1820, or thereabouts. Dr. Catlin was a student of Dr. 
Jno. D. Davison. Dr. Oliver Brewster, from Lynie to 
Theresa, was in eomjiany with Dr. Davi.son, and died in 
the town. Dr. Rexford Davi.son was a nejdiew and student 
of Dr. J. D. Davison. Dr. Lucius Hannahs came to 
Theresa also from Lyme, and was in jiractice for tuany 
years in this town, dying here in 1S7G. His brother. Dr. 
Kilbourn Hannahs, is a physician of AVaterlown. Dr. J. 
R. Sturtevant and Dr. James E. Kelsey, students of old 
Dr. Davison, are at present resident physicians of Theresa. 
Dr. Marvin J. Hutchins, of Redwood, is also a student of 
the old veteran. The above, except Drs. Carpenter, James 
and Rexford Davi.son, and Hannahs, were or are members 
of the Jefferson County Medical Society. 

The publishers are under obligations to David Bearup, 
Esq., Reverends J. A. Canfield, Clias. A. Wenman, and 
S. P. Gray, Messrs. Jesse S. Doolittle, P. D. Bullard, Geo. 
E. Yost, Nathaniel W. Lull, Joseph Fayel, Charles Pool, 
E. V. Fisher, Geo. W. Cornwell, Esq., and Wm. Dresser, 
Esq., for valuable assistance in the preparation of the 
history of Theresa. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. 



* This was evidently the fir:-t hiding uut of th^ ground in luts. 



JONATHAN STRATTON. 

The grandfather of the subject of this sketch was a sol- 
dier in the Revolutionary War, and was engaged in the battle 
of Bennington. Jefferson S. Stratton, the father of Jona- 
than, was born in Bennington in 1801, and moved to Jef- 
ferson County in 1832, traveling the whole distance with his 
horses and wagon, with his wife and six children, and settled 
in the town of Pamelia. In 1839 he settled in the town of 
Theresa, and in May, 1853, removed to Michigan, where he 
now resides. 

Jonathan was born in 1829, and moved with his parents 



522 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



to this county, wliere he now resides, in the town of The- 
resa, on the old homestead which he and liis father cleared 
and built up, a view of which, together with the portraits 
of himself and wife, are found elsewhere in this work. In 
1852 he married Chloe A. Wilson, of Philadelphia, Jefferson 
Co. The result of this union was six ehildreti, namely, Lewis 
W., born April 9, 1854; Mary J., born August 29, 1855 ; 
Ruth Emma, born January 21, 1857, and died August 10, 
1874 ; Elbie J., born April 29, 1859 ; Cora E., born April 
14, 1807; and Belle C, boru February 13, 18G9. Mary 



J. married John Timmemian December 29, 1875. Jona- 
than received a common-sehool education, and then learned 
the carpenter's and joiner's trade, which he followed for ten 
years; since which time he has been engaged in farming and 
dairying. Mr. Stratton has always affiliated with the Dem- 
ocratic party. Both he and his estimable wife are consist- 
ent members of the Methodist church, of which Mr. Strat- 
ton has been for several years a class-leader. He has always 
been a strictly temperate man, and one of Theresa's most 
respected citizens. 



-6=»>. 



d^^»**- 



W I L N A. 



The town of Wilna was formed from Le Ray -and 
Leyden (Lewis county), April 2, 1813, by an act which 
altered the line of the two counties, and annexed a part of 
Lewis to Jefferson. It is situated upon Black river, in the 
extreme eastern part of the county. Its surface is broken, 
and is chiefly underlaid by the primary rock, which rises 
into low, naked ridges, and by calcareous sandstone. Upon 
Black river, which forms the western boundary of th(! town, 
are a series of rapids, forming an abundance of water-power 
at several places. The form of the town is very irregular, 
and its area is about equal to nine miles square. A large 
portion of the town is still uncultivated, and is covered with 
a dense growth nf ma]ile, beech, basswood, oak, hemlock, 
etc. The soil is a light loam, producing the various crops 
of the country. The first town-meeting wa.s held at the 
liouse of Thomas Brayton, Jr., and the j)0or-moneys of the 
three towns* were to be e(|ually divided by the last tax list. 
For many years the town-meetings have been held at the 
" Checkered House," four miles from Carthage village. 
The first town officers elected were Thomas Brayton, .super- 
visor; Elihu Stewart, clerk; John B. Bos.sout, Caleb Fulton, 
and Enoch Griffin, assessors ; Robert C. Hastings, collec- 
tor; Henry Lewis and AU'ri'd Freeman, overseers of the 
poor; Henry Lewis, Freedom Gates, and Thomas Brayton, 
commissioners of highway.s. The succession of 

SUPERVISORS 

has been as follows: 1814-15, Thomas Brayton; 181G, 
.\lfred Freeman; 1817, Francis Lloyd, T. Brayton to fill 
vacancy; 1818-19, Nathan Brown; 182(1-2, Thomas Bray- 
ton; 1823-7, Eli West; 1828-9, Thomas Baker; 1830-2, 
Eli AVest; 1833, Walter Nimoeks; 1834, William Bones; 
1H35-G, Walter Nimoeks; 1837, William Bones; 1838, 
Oliver Child ; 1839, Walter Nimoeks; 1840-1, Eli West; 
1842, Jonathan Wood; 1843, Walter Nimoeks; 1844, 



\N'ilnn, Lv Kay, mid lii'^iltMi. 



Milton II. Carter; 1845, Charles Strong; 184G, Hiram 
McCollom; 1847-9, Simeon Fulton; 1850-1, William 
Christian; 1852-3, Horace Hooker; 1854, Samuel Keys; 
1855-5G, Nel.son D. Furgu.son ; 1857, William Chrisban ; 
1858, Patricks. Stuart; 1859, Samuel Keys; 18G0-1-2-3, 
Charles W, Smith; 18G4-5-6, William Christian; 18G7, 
James H. Morrow; 18G8, Lawrence J. Goodale; 18G9, 
James H. Morrow; 1870, William Christian; 1871-2, 
Henry W. Hammond; 1873-4, Foster Penniman; 1875- 
G-7, James Galvin. 

In 1815-16-17-19-20-23, was voted a wolf bounty of 
$5 ; in 1827-8, of $10, with $5 forwolf whelps. In 1831, 
the path-masters were allowed to lay out three days' labor 
in destroying noxious weeds. In 184G, strong resolutions 
were passed in favor of the Black River Canal. 

SETTLEMENTS. 

Settlement was commenced in the fall of 1794 by agents 
of the Castorland Company.f In 1798, Henry Boutin, 
who had purcha.scd one thousand acres of land of Rodolpli 
Tillier, agent of the French Company, on the east side of 
the river, at the village of Carthage, made a considerable 
clearing. Jean Bapliste Bossout, a native of France, came 
from the High Falls during the same year, and after the 
abandonment of the clearing he remained the sole inhab- 
itant for several years, keejiing a ferry and inn for travelers. 
Wiishington Irving made a tour to Ogdensburgh by way of 
the Black river in the year 1803. In volume four of 
his Ijife and Letters, written by himself, he gives a full 
account of this journey. After describing his route down 
the river from the High Falls, during which his party killed 
a deer in the river, he says : 

" In the evening wo arrived at B.'s, at tlio hcail of tlio Long Kails. 
A dirtier liouse was never seen. We dubbed it the 'Temple of Dirt,' 
but we contrived to have our venison cooked in a cleanly manner by 
Mr. Ogden's servant, and it made very fine stcalts, which, after living 
for two days on crackers and ginger-bread, were highly acceptable. 

■f Kor full account of thiji .scltleuieiit, sec gcncr;il history. 




^rs/D£wc£ or SIMEON FULTON. Wilna, H. Y. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NE\V YORK. 



523 



" Fn'dat/. ihe 13th. — Wc prepared to leave the Temple of Dirt, and 
set out ftliout sixty miles tlirough the woods to Ogdensburgli. We 
ate an uneouit'ortaljic breakfast, for indeed it was impossible to relish 
anything in a house so completely filthy. The landlady herself was 
in perfect character with the house, — a little squat Frenchwoman, 
with a red face, a black wool hat stuck upon her head, her hair, 
greasy and uncombed, hanging about her ears, and the rest of her 
dress and person in similar style. Wo were heartily glad to make 
our escape." 

Before leaving, the young traveler wrote with a pencil 
over the fireplace the following memorial : 

** Here sovereign Dirt erects her sable throne. 
The house, the host, the hostess all her own." 

Some years afterwards, Mr. Hoffman, traveling with 
Judge Will. Cooper, father of the novelist, pa.ssed this way 
and .sto])ped at the same hou.se. The pencil-lines were still 
legible, and the judge, who had seen too much of frontier 
life to be over-nice about trifles, wrote underneath: 

" Learn hence, young man, and teach it to your sons. 
The wisest way's to take it as it comes." 

The ferry established by Mr. Bossout was kept up till 
the bridge was built in 1813 by Ezra Church. 

The first birth in the town of Wilna was that of George 
Bossout, in April, 1805. The second, that of Mr. John 
Hewit, in Septenibcr of that year. The first store was built 
by Mr. Quilliard in 1818 or 1!), on the site of the present 
depot of the Utica and Black River Railroad Company. 

Boutin was drowned below the village a few years after 
his first .settlement, and J. Le Ray was appointed to ad- 
minister the estate, which was sold at auction, and was pur- 
chased by Vincent Le Ray, from whom the titles in Car- 
thage village and vicinity have been since derived. 

E.VRLY MANUFACTURES. 

The place which had previously been known as the Long 
Falls was, on the erection of a post-ofiice, called Cartknge. 
In ISOG, David Coffcen built a grist-mill upon the west 
bank and constructed a bridge partly across the river, and 
this was subsequently completed by those owning the forge 
on the east bank. A forge was built in 1810, above the 
site of the furnace afterwards built, which wa.s burned 
during the same year ; and soon after, James Barney, 
Francis Lloyd, and Nathan Brown, from Fort Ann, N. Y., 
having lea,sod for ten years the water-power, with privileges 
of ore, coal, etc., erected a forge in the lower part of the 
village, which wa.s got into successful operation, making 
chiefly mill-irons and anchors. This business gave the first 
impulse to the growth of the place, but Jlr. Barney having 
soon afterwards died, the property reverted to Le Ray. The 
purchase-money for lands .sold by the Antwerp Company 
having been invi^sted in United States stocks, was subse- 
quently realized by the company in money, and May 20, 
1816, loaned to Mr. Le Ray, for the purpose of building a 
furnace and opening a road between the furnace and the 
St. Lawrence, with such other improvements as might be 
necessary to enhance the value of their remaining lands. 
The Alexandria road and other communications were opened 
accordingly ; and in 1819 a blast-furnace was erected under 
the supervision of Claudius S. Quilliard. A refining-forge 
with two additional fires was built in lS20-l,and in the fall of 



1820 the furnace was got into operation. The stack was 30 
feet square at the ba.se and 2 4 feet high. At first bog ore was 
used, which was procured from swamps in the country and 
from near the river in Lewis county. About 1838, specular 
ores from St. Lawrence county and from Antwerp and 
Philadelphia in this county, began to be used in the blast. 
The pivnii.ses have been four times burned, and the accident 
known as " blowing up" had several times happened, being 
caused by the clogging up of damp, loomy ores, below which 
a cavity will form. When the support.s below melt away 
the mass above falls, and the dampness in the ore being 
subjected to a sudden and intense heat, is changed instantly 
into steam and explodes with terrific violence. 

This accident is known only where bog ores are used 
alone. Upon using rock ores the height of the furnace was 
increased to 28 feet, and two tewels, or pipes for air, were 
used instead of one. The Kearney ore was drawn 24 
miles, and cost §1.25 to 82.25 per ton on the bank, and 
about $3 for drawing. The ore from the Shurtliff bed in 
Philadelphia, seventeen miles distant, cost 81. 50 to 82.00 
for drawing, 50 cent.s for raising, and 50 cent.s for the ore. 
It was worked alone sometimes, yielded aliont thirty-five 
per cent., and made a very hard metal, known as " cold 
short." The Carthage furnace produced from two to three 
tons of iron daily from eight to ten months per year until 
1846, when it was abandoned, and nothing was done until 
1863, when the projicrty was purchased by Mes.srs. Cole 
& Allen. At the time of this purchase the premises had 
been out of use for so long a time, and had fallen into 
such a state of decay, as to re(|uire rebuilding through- 
out. It was not until 1865 that the furnace was again 
in operation. In May, 186(), the dam was carried away, 
necessitating a stay of operations until the fall of that year. 

The works remained idle until 1870, when the works 
were purchased by the present company, known as the 
" Carthage Iron Company," of which R. N. Gere is presi- 
dent, L. H. .Mills, vice-president, and C. F. Bissill, secretary. 
This company have enlarged the furnace, and are manufac- 
turing about ten tons of iron per day. The ore used at 
present is taken from the Sliurtliff mines, and the iron pro- 
duced is mostly used in the manufacture of car-wheels. 

EARLY BRIDGES. 

The bridge built by Ezra Church in 1813 stood until 
1829, when the bridge and turnpike were surrendered to 
the towns, and the piers of the old bridge were bought by 
the towns of Champion and Wilna. In 1829, J. C. Budd 
built a series of bridges from island to island below the 
present State dam. It soon, in consequence of the flood, 
became useless, and was abandoned. The upper bridge in 
1829, thnuigh the influence of Dr. Eli West and others, by 
a contribution of 81600, was built, and lasted eleven years. 
A covered bridge was erected upon the .same site in 1840. 
The '■ Carthagenian Library' was funned May 12, 1818. 
. Sylvian Bullard, David Wright, Nathan Brown, Lanis Cof- 
feen, Ebenezer Sabins, Seth Hooker, John Wait, Elijah 
Fulton, Walter Nimocks, S. E. Angelis, John Hodgkins, 
and John Belmot were the first trustees. The collection of 
this society, amounting to 500 volumes, was sold at auction 
June 14, 1845. 



524 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Nail-works were erected in 1828, and continued about 
ten years, the nails being made from bar-iron. In 184G an 
extensive nail-factory and rollinjr-mill were built by Hiram 
McCuUoni, which have long since been discontinued, and 
in 1849 and 1850 an exten.sive cotton-factory. While this 
factory was being built, Mr. William Manning, one of the 
workmen who was engaged upon the building, fell from the 
roof, a distance of seveiUy-one feet, striking in a small but 
rajiid stream of water. This stream, although but a few 
inches in dc]ith, prevented him striking directly upon the 
rocks, and his friends found him seated upon the rocks, 
slightly brui.scd, but with no bones broken. 

The State road to the Oswegatchie, opened in 1802-6, 
afforded the principal avenue to St. Lawrence county, and 
made this point one of much importance, as through it must 
pass all the travel to the central and .southern parts of the 
State. The St. Lawrence turnpike, built in 1812-13, 
added another avenue to the northern settlements, and 
made the erection of a bridge necessary. 

TOLL-BRIDGE. 

An act was passed, June 8, 1812, authorizing Russell 
Atwatcr and associates " to build a toll-bridge, over Black 
river, at the place where the State road leading to Oswe- 
gatchie crosses, the same being at the head of the Long 
Fails, in Champion, in the county of Jefferson." The 
principal party in this enterprise is understood to have 
been David Parish, the eminent financier, and extensive 
purchaser of northern lands. The act reipiircd the bridge 
to be sixteen feet wide, well built, and completed before 
Nov., 1813. Before opening, it was to be examined by 
the road commissioners of Champion, and the act was to 
continue in force twenty years. If damaged and not re- 
paired within twelve months, it was to revert to the State. 
A bridge was accordingly erected in 1812, the architect 
being Ezra Church, and maintained till 1820. On the 
28th day of iNIarch in that year, the act was extended 
twenty years, as the bridge was .so decayed that it re(|uired 
to be rebuilt. Early in 1820, an effort was made to secure 
by subscription the means of building a free bridge ; a 
meeting of the towns was called, and the piers of the toll- 
bridgj were purchased for $500. At this time, those in- 
terested in the lower part of the village, among whom the 
most active was Mr, Joseph C, Budd, started a project of 
erecting a bridge across the river, among the islands which 
abound at the Long Falls, and this project, aided by Mr, 
Im Ray and others, led to the erection of a passage across 
the river, by a series of five bridges thrown from island to 
island. At the next spring flood this bridge was injured, 
and it was again repaired. The next flood .so injured the 
work that it was never rejiaircd, and it soon fell into ruin. 
Tlie u])pcr bridge, through the influence of Pr. Eli West 
and others, was built by subscription the same summer 
(1829) as a free bridge, at a cost of -SKJOO, and lasted 
eleven years, when, in 1840, it being found necessary to 
rebuild, a meeting of Champion and Wilna was called, 
which procured an act, May 7, allowing a loan from the 
school-fund of $2500 to Champion ; §750 to Le Ray ; 
S2000 to Wilna; and S750 to I'anu'lia for bridges; among 
others, this one. A covered bridge was built, at a cost of 



$5000, which lasted until 1853, when preparations had 
been made to rebuild, and the contract was let. An act 
was passed, A]>ril 11, 1853, a.ssuming it as a State work, 
on the ground that it was over a portion of the river which 
is acknowledged to be a jiart of the Black River Canal, 
During the .summer and fdl of 1853 a substantial bridge 
was built by the State. 

Within ten years from the first imiirovement of this 
town, settlements had begun along the main road north, 
and inns had been opened by Alfred Freeman, at the 
" Checkered House," and Henry Lewis, located nine miles 
from the river. Few farms were locatcdT however, before 
the War of 1812. The iron business, with the several 
branches of industry which it fostered, with the advan- 
tages of a valuable water-power, and the vicinity of an 
early-settled district upon the opposite side of the river, 
gave a gradual growth to tlie village of Carthage. 

THE FIRST STEAMBOAT 

that navigated the Black river wa.s called the " Cornelia," 
and was built at Carthage in 1832, by Mr. Paul Boynton, 
for a stock company consisting of Vincent Le Ray, Wil- 
liam Bones, J. C. Budd, Hiram JlcCollom, Eli We.st, Seth 
Hooker, and James Welch, and others. The cost of this 
boat was $6000. Its keel was 90 feet long, and the breadth 
across the guards 22 feet. The first trip was made Sept. 
22, 1832, to Lowville, where she grounded, and was got oft" 
with much difiiculty. The boat continued to run the 
ensuing season to the High Falls, with an hourl3' speed of 
six and one-half miles, frequently getting aground, and 
proving to be too large for the river, and eventually be- 
coming nearly a total loss to the ]iroprietors, of whom Mr. 
Le Ray was the princi]ial, A thrilling incident occurred 
during the first trip of this boat to the falls. The man at 
the tiller, wishing to show the party on board and the spec- 
tators on shore the qualities of his craft, steered up so near 
the falls that, as be turned, the spray from the torrent 
deluged the dock, and the boat itself came within a Ic'W 
feet of being brought under the fall. Fortunately there 
was a heavy pressure of steam up at the moment, and they 
escaped with a thorough drenching. 

This attempt proved the practicability of navigating the 
river forty-two and a ha]f miles, and the steamer "Cornelia" 
made several trips during the summers of 1832 and 1833. 
During the summer of 1834 it remained most of the time 
at the wharf in Carthage, on account of low water in the 
river. In the spring of 1835, during high water, it in 
some way got loose from its fastenings and was carried over 
the dam. It lodg(>d among the rocks a short distance below 
the dam. The machinery was taken otit by J. P, Hodg- 
kins, and was afterwards sold and used in iron mines in St. 
Lawrence county. 

The only distillery ever built within the town was owned 
by John Bossout, It was erected at an early day, but used 
only a short time. The liiet that no other distillery was 
ever operated can be accounted fi)r from the fact that the 
land-titles were derived from Mr. Le Ray, and a elau.so was 
inserted in every contract of conveyance, forbidding the 
erection of distilleries. 

April 22, 1834, an act was jiassed authorizing the survey 



IIISTOKY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY. NEW YORK. 



525 



of a camil from (lie High Falls to the Erie canal, with a 
navigable feeder, and an iuipnivenient of tlie river to Car- 
thage. It was at this time that large numbers located at 
Carthage, believing that tliis was destined to become an 
important ship]]ing-point. 

A large tannery was built by Nimocks and Peck in 1831, 
upon an island below the dam. This building is still used 
as .■» tannery, and is owned by Mr. McCoy, who has made 
large additions to the building. 

On the night of January 1, 1840, a small wooden build- 
ing situated upon the main street in the village of Carthage, 
and used at the time as a tailor-shop, was destroyed by fire, 
and a Mr. Coyle, who occupied the premises at tiie time, was 
burned. 

UAII.W.W. 

A company was formed under the title of " The Black 
River & St. Lawrence Railroad Co.," with a capital of 
$:5S0,000. The construction of a railroad from Carthage 
to Ilarrisville was commenced in that year. The town of 
Wilna was bonded for 850,000 for the construction of 
the road, which was laid from Carthage to Natural Bridge, 
a distance of ten miles, and grading was done towards 
Ilarrisville, Lewis Co. The proposed length of the road 
was 38 miles. It was built of wood, and extended towards 
a region rich in ores of iron and forests of timber, and, if 
made a permanent iron road, would be a very important 
one. The road, however, proved a failure. After expending 
a. vast amount of money in its construction, it was finally 
abandoned. 

The bridge at Carthage village has been twice broken 
down. The first occasion was upon September 13, 1 862, 
when a drove of cattle were crossing, and a span of the 
bridge 80 feet in length was precipitated into the river. 
Although the water was at the time unusually high, none 
of the cattle were injured. On March 29, 1805, while two 
loaded teams were upon the bridge, about 70 feet of the 
structure gave way beneath them, and one of the teamsters 
(a Mr. Chadwick) and Henry Erwin, a boy who was riding 
with him at the time, were drowned. 

April 20, 1S02, the river and its tributaries were higher 
than they had ever before been known ; brooks were sud- 
denly swollen into torrents, and no less than twenty bridges 
in the town of Wilna were swept away. 

Nearly all of the business portion of Carthage was de- 
stroyed by a succession of fires which occurred upon July 
29, 1862, Dec. 22, 1862, and May 12, 1863. 

VV.\R OF THE REBELLION. 

When the tidings of Sumter's fall came flashing along 
the telegraph-wires, closely followed by the president's call 
for men to put down an organized rebellion, the patriotic 
spirit of Carthage was thoroughly aroused. Martial bands 
paraded the streets, and the din of preparation resounded 
upon every hand. During the eveuing that followed the 
reception of the news, a party of men had assembled in 
one of the stores in the village to discuss the situation, and 
a remark was made by one of the party to the effect that 
there was not a flag to be seen upon a public building in 
the village. Mr. George O'Leary, the village justice, who 
was present, stated that before the sun arose upon the fol- 



lowing morning the stars and stripes would float from the 
spire of St. James' churcli. Mr. O'Leary, being unable to 
procure a flag in the village, purchased the material. The 
flag was manufactured during the niglit by a few patriotic 
ladies, and fastened just beneath the cross upon the spire of 
the church. The sight of the flag awakened the enthu- 
siasm of the crowds upon the street, and when it was 
known that Mr. O'Leary had placi^d it there, he was sought 
out by the villagers, and a procession was formed headed by 
a martial band. After parading the principal streets, they 
repaired to the cliurch, where a speech was made by Mr. 
O'Leary, during which, pointing to the flag and cro.ss above 
them, he remarked that it was a fitting association of the two 
great emblems of man's salvation and of a nation's freedom. 
A few days after this occurrence the following lines from 
the pen of Mr. O'Leary appeared in the village paper: 

"RAISE HIGH THE B.VNXER. 

« 
" Yo Sims of old Iriland, hoiic.«t an 1 true, 
Your country adopted apjtcals now to you. 
Hor lianncr unfurlrd to the breeze let flow : 
'Tis the (lag of Columbia, down ne'er let it go. 
Behold it dishonored, and trailed in the dust, 
By tyrants and helots whoso names arc autrurscd. 
Grasp, grasp the loveil banner, and raise it on high, 
For 'neath its proud folds we all fain would die. 

** Yes, raise it on hiijh, and march right along 
AVith the drum, and the music, and the patriot song; 
Grasp, grasp the loved banner, and ne'er let it go, 
For freedom is crushed the moment you do. 
Lift up the loved banner, and high let it be, 
For I sec by its stars it was made for the free. 
True sons of old Erin lielped to raise it on high, 
Anil 'neath its proud folds did Montgomery die. 

'• How oft we have struggled, how often in vain. 
In hopes for dear Erin a flag we might gain ! 
But here we are now, in the home of the free, 
The Slar-Spanglcd Banner insulted to see. 
Then raise it on high, I im]>lore you once more : 
'Tis the banner which Washington honored of yore. 
Y'our couutrymen helped him to raise it on high, 
And prayed that the chieftain's work never would die." 

INCIDENT.S. 
Some time during the year 1804, a man calling himself 
Oliver Davis came into the town, and hired rooms in Mr. 
McCoUom's block. He had no apparent business, and when 
questioned replied that ho expected to go into business in the 
spring. He remained until January, 1805, when he suddenly 
disappeared. Shortly after his departure Mr. McCollom 
missed several articles. An oflicer was sent in pursuit of 
Davis, and he was overtaken near the city of Watertown, 
and returned to Carthage. It was found that he had in bis 
possession large quantities of stolen goods. While the offi- 
cer in charge of the prisoner was engaged in conducting 
him to the oflice of the justice, a stranger* hurried through 
the crowd and attempted his rescue. The attempt was, 
however, unsucces.sful, and the prisoner was taken before 
the justice. Here the stranger again interfered, and de- 
manded the discharge of Davis, upon the ground that he 
was a soldier in the service of the United States Govern- 
ment, and further stated that should the justice refuse to 

* A prominent attorney from Herkimer county. 



526 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



discharge him, he (the justice) would be imprisoned within 
Fort Lufayette within forty-eight hours. The justice re- 
plied that he did not know of the existence of martial law 
in Jefferson County, and that he should do what he deemed 
to be his duty, regardless of the consequences. Davis was 
afterwards convicted, and served for a term of years in the 
State- prison at Auburn. 

During the winter of 18G4 a man living a short distance 
north of the village of Carthago started for the village. 
The night was intensely cold, and a severe storm was 
raging. He lost his way in the darkness, and wandered 
about until overcome by the cold. His body was found 
upon the following morning but a short distance from the 
village. 

THE VILLAGE OF CARTHAGE 

was incorporated May 26, 1841. The bounds were made 
to begin at a point south, 45° east, thirty chains from the 
south corner of the stone nail-factory; thence -north, 45° 
east, sixty chains; thence north, 45° west, sixty chains; 
thence south, 45° west, to the line between Champion and 
Wilna ; and thence along said line to the place of begin- 
ning. The charter is after the model of that of the village 
of Seneca Falls, and provides for the election of five trus- 
tees. The charter was amended by an act passed in 1870. 
Since that time but three trustees have been elected annu- 
ally. The first trustees elected were, in 1841, Virgil 
Brooks (president), Suel Gilbert, Ebenezer Hodgkins, 
Amos Choate, and Walter Nimocks. The following per- 
sons have since been elected trustees, the one first named 
in each year being chosen president : 

1842. Virj^il Brooks, Aiaos Choate, Elijah Ilorr, Ebcu Hoiigkius, 

William Blodgct. 

1843. Uirarii McCollom, Joseph C. Budd, Thcodoro S. Hammond, 

Samuel .J. Davis, Alvah H. .lohnson. 
■1844. Hiram MeCollora, .Joseph C. Budd, J. P. Hodgkins, Kellogg 
E. Parker, Clark Dodge. 

1845. Eli West, Hiram MeCollom, Clark Dodge, Suel (lilbert, Amos 

Choate. 

1846. Eli West, Hiram McCollom, Amos Choate, Samuel A. Budd, 

Samuel .1. Davis. 

1847. Hiram McCollom, Kli West, Clark Dodge, Suel tlilbcrt, Scth L. 

King. 

1848. Hiram McCollom, Alvah II. .luhnsoii, Clark Dodge, Selh L. 

King, Suel (Jilbert. 

1849. Hiram McCollom, Clark Dodge, Suel Gilbert, K. Rice, S P. 

Davis. 
ISaO. Patrick S. Stewart, Walter Nimocks, Horace Hooker, Hiram 

li. Chambers. 
1861. John B. Johnson, U. Rice, Joseph Crouncr, Minor Guyot, 

Charles II. Kimball. 
1352. Eli West, H. C. Rice, .(ohn Ilewit, Samuel C. Hopkins, Seth 

French. 

1853. Eli West, John S. Edwanls, llemuui liulisun. Walter Nimocks, 

Charles H. Kimball. 

1854. Orlin Holcomb, Joseph H. Root, Richard Gallagher, C. L. 

Frederick, J. P. Hodgkins. 

1855. William D. Levis, Samuel W. Gilbert, N. D. Fcrgns<m, T. J. 

Morgan, Ezra Hodgkins. 

1856. Eli West, Clark Dodge, Samuel J. Davis, N. D. Ferguson, N. 

Tuttlc. 

1857. Samuel J. Davis, Clark Dodge, Noyes Tuttle, N. D. Ferguson, 

Eli West. 

1858. Joseph Crouner, Alexander Brown, William A. Peck, Nelson 

D. Ferguson, Abncr P. Gilbert. 

1859. Eli West, Charles W. Smith, Hiram McCollom, .lohii B. John- 

fO:i, Richard Gallagher. 



ISCO. Richard Gallagher, Alexander Brown, Joseph H. Root, Minor 
Guyot, A. P. Gilbert. 

1861. S. S. Hoyt, Ilager Shatrcr, J. T. Walsh, S. C. Hopkins, George 

M. Brown. 

1862. Richard (^allagher, Horace Hooker, Charles T. Hammonil, 

Justus Kesler, A. P. Gilbert. 

1863. Charles T. Hammond, Abner P. (iilbcrt, Justus Kesler, .^arauel 

C. Hopkins, George M. Brown. 

1864. Horace Hooker, Richard Gallagher, Suel Gilbert, William 

Wynch. John Hewit. 

1865. George Gilbert, Myron Raplee, J. H. Root, RoUin Dickerman, 

Nicholas AVagner. 

1866. L. J. Goodale, H. Hooker. S. S. Iloyt. H. Rulison, M. P. 

Mason. 
1S67. Augustus Babcock, RoUin Dickerman, II. W. Hammond. 11. J. 
Kellogg. A W. Sylvester. 

1868. Rollin Dickerman, H. W. Hammond, H. J. Kellogg, W. A. 

Babcock, A. W. .Sylvester. 

1869. T. J. Morgan, James S. Ward, Joseph Crouner, E. Macomber, 

James 11. Morrow. 

1870. S. S. Hoyt, N. Wagner, H. W. Hammond, Orlin Holcomb, H. 

J. Kellogg. 

1871. S. S. Iloyt, N. Wagner, II. J. Kcll.igg. 

1872. Samuel Branaugh. Ileman H. Frink, Frederick Hues. 

1873. Nicholas Wagner, Augustus Babcock, Joseph H. Root. 

1874. Alonzo W. Sylvester, John Ilcwit, Charles F. Bissell. 
1S75. Charles P. Ryther, h. N. Stephens, Richard Gallagher. 

1876. Charles P. Ryther, Richard Gallagher, John E. Strickland, 

Rollin Dickerman, Charles Bissell. 

1877. Charles Rugg, Richard Gallagher, John E. Stricklanil, Rullin 

Dickerman, Patrick Corcoran. 

The village, having a population of about 2000, is finely 
situated upon Black river, at the northern terminus of the 
Black River canal improvement. It is a station upon the 
Utica and Black River R. R., and contains a post-office,* 
six churches, a bank, a newspaper office, a graded school, 
six dry-goods stores, four clothing-stores, two general hard- 
ware-stores, two drug-stores, three boot and shoe-stores, three 
harness-stores, three meat-markets. There are four hotels 
in the village: The Lyons House, John Cole, propr. ; The 
Hatch House, Geo. Fredenburgh, propr. ; Peck House, 
Peck Bros., proprs. ; Spencer House, Wm. Baum, propr. 
The hydraulic power in Carthage is not fully occupied. It 
supplies two tanneries, two saw-mills, a sash- and blind- 
factory, a blast-funiacc, two foundiios and machine-shops, 
two cabinet-shops, a rake-manufiietory, a grist-mill, two 
planing-mills, four carriage- and wagon-shops, and an axe- 
factory. 

CARTHAGE FIRE DF.PAHTMK.NT. 

The first fire company was organized, July 24, 1S41, 
with Samuel A. Budd a.s cajitain, and was called "The 
Carthage, No. 1." The record shows that almost every 
year, upon the change of village officers, the old coiupanies 
were ]>io forma di.sbaiided, and new ones acce])te(l, with 
the same officers and members. The old hand-engine was 
purcha:sed, Aug. 12, 1842, for 8300, of L. Burton & Co. 
June 9, 1843, a new fire company was organized, and 
called the " Washington Fire Co." A cistern with a 
capacity of 400 barrels was built in 1849, on the corner 
of School and State streets. The first hook-and-ladder 
company was formed May 24, 1851, Levi Wood, captain. 
April 9, 1852, a new hook-and-ladder company was formed. 

* The present postmaster at Carthage is Jesse E. Willis ; at 
Natural Bridge, Isaac W. Nichols; at North Wilna, Sanford Lewis; 
at Wilna, Lewis Fargo. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



527 



Fiom this period, nothing fuitlicr w;is dcme by tlie village 
ill the way of keeping up an or<;anized fire dejiartment 
until Dee. 12, 1870. In the interim, three speeial elee- 
tions had been held for the purpose of purchasing adequate 
fire apparatus. During the year 18.50, the present village 
hall and engine-house was purchased and completed. 

Dec. 12, 1870, a new fire company was formed, of which 
C. C. Ingraham was elected foreman ; Henian H. Frink, 
assistant engineer ; and H. J. Kellogg was elected and con- 
firmed chief engineer. In April, 1874, a new company 
was formed, with Mark A. Peck as foreman. During the 
same month, another company, designated "The Carthage 
ITook-and-Ladder Company," was formed. June 12, 1874, 
H. J. Welch was appointed chief engineer of the Carthage 
fire-company by the board of trustees. A special meeting, 
on petition of the inhabitants, was called by the board, to 
be lield at the village hall on July 15, 1874, to raise by 
vote the sum of $2000 for the purpose of constructing 
cisterns, purchasing hose and hose-carts, hooks and ladders, 
and a second-hand fire-engine. Pending this call, the 
board, acting in good faith, purchased, on their own lia- 
bility, a second-hand fire-engine, believing that the same 
would be for the interest of the village, and that it would 
be accepted. The people, however, thought otherwise, and 
defeated the special tax, leaving the engine upon the hands 
of the purchasers, who now own the same. 

In Feb., 1875, the board of trustees purchased a second- 
hand, third size, steam rotary fire-engine, with two ho.se- 
carts and one hundred feet of rubber hose. The engine- 
house was then prepared and furnished for the reception of 
the engine. 

A general meeting for the organization of the Carthage 
Fire Department was held April 27, 1875, wherein two 
hose companies and an engine company were represented. 
The meeting resulted in the election of Mark A. Peck, 
foreman of the engine company ; Joseph Hoot, a.ssi.stant 
foreman ; J. E. Willis, secretary ; 0. S. Levis, treasurer ; 
and John B. Wood and Nicholas Wagoner, directors. 
Hose Company No. 1, in the election of Curtis C. Ingra- 
ham, foreman ; F. I). Hubbard, assistant foreman ; E. II. 
Myers, secretary and treasurer ; and Frank E. Willis and 
E. A. Monroe, directors. Hose Company No. 2, in the 
election of Ueorge McKanna, foreman ; John P. Cole, 
assistant foreman ; John C. Hannan, .secretary ; John M. 
Gallagher, treasurer; and William II. Rich and Peter 
Lyman, directors. H. J. Welch w;»s elected chief engineer 
of the department. 

THE CARTHAGE UNION FREE SCHOOL. 

The present academy building was erected in 1841, by 
Mr. Harrison INIilier. Two years later it Wiis purchased by 
Mr. Uriel Hooker, and the school was conducted by his 
daughter Mary ;us principal, and her two sisters as a.ssist- 
ants. They were succeeded by Rev. Orin Wilbur, of Low- 
ville, who taught the school for throe years, when he was 
succeeded by Mr. Jacob Wood, who in t\irn was succeeded 
by Mr, B. F. Bush, who conducted the school until August, 
18Gli, when a call wiis made for a meeting for the purpose 
of organizing a Union Free School. At this meeting a 
board of five trustees was elected. The trustees elected at 



that time were Lawrence J. Goodale, Richard Gallagher, 
John B. Einmes, Horace Hooker, and Lyle Bones. Mr. 
Goodale was elected president of the board, and Mr. Emmcfl 
clerk. 

The school has an academical department, and is under 
the visitation of the regents. It is at present conducted by 
Mr. A. H. Brown as principal, and Miss Frank J. Hubbard 
assistant. 

The school was never in so prosperous a condition as at 
the present time, having in its various departments upwards 
of four hundred sdiolars in attendance. 

SOCIETIES AND ORDERS. 

" The Carthage Agricultural Society' was organized in 
1875, and embraces the towns of Wilna and Chamjjion, in 
Jefferson County, and Denmark and Cnigan, in Lewis 
county. Mr. James Galvin was elected president of tlie 
society, A. E. Kilby, .secretary, and 0. Ilolcomb, treasurer. 
The first annual fair held by the society was in September, 
1870. At the annual election of officers, held the fourth 
Tuesday of December, 1876, the following officers were 
chosen : John L. Norton, president ; F. B. Johnson, general 
superintendent; E. II. flyers, treasurer; James Pringle, 
secretary. 

The first meeting for the organization of a Masonic 
Lodge in the village of Carthage was held July 11, 1826, 
the address being delivered by Isaac Clinton, of Lowville. 
The officers elected were Eli West, M. ; Thomas Brayton, 
S. W. ; N. Starks, J. W. In June, 1849, it was received 
as No. 158, with Eli West, M. ; Joseph Crouner, S. W. ; 
K. E. Parker, J. W. The present officers of the society 
are as follows : James Pringle, W. M. ; L. N. Stevens, 
S. W. ; E. A. Monroe, J. W. ; N. Wagoner, Treas. ; I), 
S, Miller, Sec, ; John Chase, S. D. ; 0. J. Mosher, J. D, ; 
George W. Parmerter, S. M. C. ; L. J. Morrow, J. M. C. ; 
0. F. Deans, Tyler, 

" Carthage Chapter, No, 259, R, A, M." — The present 
officers are as follows: John L. Norton, M. E. II. P.; 
C. H. Kimball, Sr,, E, K. ; George N. Hubbard, E. S. ; 
N. Wagoner, Treas. ; E. A. Monroe, Sec. ; James Pringle, 
C. of H. ; L. N. Stevens, P. S. ; Zelotus Wood, R. A. C. ; 
L. J. Morrow, M. of 3d V. ; J. II, iMiller, M. of 2d V, ; 
John Chase, M, of 1st V. ; 0. F. Dean, Tyler. 

The Father Mathew Total Abstinence Society of Car- 
thage was organized May, 1877, with forty-two members. 
The membership increased to ninety-six during the first 
two months. The officers of the society are James Gal- 
vin, Marshal ; James H. Walsh, Pres. ; Charles Duffy, Vice- 
Pres. ; R. Commins, Rec. Sec.; Jere. Coughlin, Cor. Sec; 
M. O'Brien, Treas.; Rev. J. J. Fedigan, O.S.A., Chap- 
Iain; John Fitzsimmons, Joseph (lalleciez, Frank Rose, 
Joseph Collins, and Frank Henry, Directors. 

NATURAL BRIDGE. 

Near the extreme eastern edge of the town, on Indian 
river, and distant about nine miles from Carthage, is the 
village of Natural Bridge. A re.serv.ition of a mile square 
had been here, and a village ]ilat surveyed by Edmund 
Tucker, Im])rovemeiits commenced here in 1818, some of 
the early settlei-s being Zebina Chaffee, C. I. Becker, 



528 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSOX COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Arnold Burr, Abel Binglmm, Tennis Allen, Stephen Nut- 
ting, Charles R. Knij^ht, and others. Mills were erected in 
1819 and 1820. Abi-l liinn;liain opened the first store, in 
1820, and C. R. Knight the first inn, in 1821 and 1822. 

BONAPARTE. 

About 1828, the Count de Survilliers (Joseph Bona- 
parte), having aci|uire(l the title to a largo tract in this 
vicinity, first came to cxjiloro his lands and spend a low 
weeks in rural pastimes, lie directed a road to be cut, and 
wont in a stage-coach through from the old turnpike to the 
lake, which has since been known as Bonaparte lake. He 
caused a boat to be taken through the woods and launched 
upon this water, and a log house to be built on an elevation 
connnanding a fine view of the lake and its shores. He 
also built, during the same year, a large house at Natural 
Bridge, which is still standing. The count visited his 
lands four times, upon each occasion spending a few weeks, 
and always accompanied by a number of chosen companions, 
some of whom had witnessed and shared the sunny fortunes 
of the ex-king of Naples and of Spain, the favorite brother 
of the great Napoleon. Upon one occasion, in returning 
from Natural Bridge to Evans' Mills, the cortege halted 
upon the pine plains and partook of a sumptuous feast, 
which bad been prepared with great care and embraced 
every delicacy that the country afforded, displayed upon 
golden dishes and served with regal ceremonies. Liberal 
in the use of money, and sociable with all who were brought 
into busine-ss relations with biui, lie was, of course, popular, 
and his annual return was awaited with interest and remem- 
bered with satisfaction. 

The village derives its name from the fact that, in dry 
seasons, the water of the river finds its way, by a subterra- 
nean pa.ssage, under a mass of white limestone that here 
constitutes the rock at the surface. In floods, the excess 
flows in an open channel on the surface, over which a bridge 
passes. Numerous and extensive caves have been discovered 
in the vicinity (.some of which are .several hundred feet in 
extent), which, from the soluble character of the rock, 
have been worn by the action of water. Here, as else- 
where, along the junction of the white or primary lime- 
stone and the gnei.ss rock, there occurs a great variety of 
minerals, which aftbrd an inviting field of research, and will 
be more fully described in our account of the mineralogy 
of the county. Somewhat extensive ojierations for copper- 
mining were undertaken in the fall of 1847, by a Boston 
company, under the direction of Mr. Bigelow, in the town 
of Wihia, about two miles from Natural Bridge. 

The village of Natural Biidge consists of a hotel, known 
as the Central House, Erastus Penny, proprietor ; three 
stores, kept by Charles \. Starkey, Joel Ilulhert, and Dr. 
1'. E. Johnston ; a .sa.>h- anil blind-factury, two wagon- 
sbops, two blaeksmith-.sbdps, three saw-mills, a gri.st-niill, 
and an extensive tannery, owned by Thomas E. Proctor. 

CHURCHES. 

ST. .tAMKS' CIIUUCII. 

The first Catholic church in northern New York was 
built in Carthage in the year 1818, at a cost of $2000, 
ujicm a lot of three acres given to the society by Mr. Le 



Ray, who also contributed largely to its erection. This was 
the first church built in the village of Carthage, and is 
claimed to be the oldest in northern New York, and the 
timbers for the frame were cut close by the site. A society 
was formed July 20, 1S21, with Claudius S. Quilliard, 
Edward Galvin, John Finley, James and Vincent Le Ray, 
John Deley, and James Walsh as the first trustees. In 
18G4, under the supervision of Rev. M. Barry, the build- 
ing of the j)resent church edifice was begun, and the nest 
year services were held in it. This church occupies the 
site of the old one. The first priest was the Rev. Father 
John Fanibam. When be was here, and ibr some years 
after, the Catholics of Watcrtown attended services at this 
place. Since Father Farnhani, the succession of priests 
has been as follows: Rev. Fathers James S.dman, Fitz- 
simmons, Cabell, M. Kelly, Delay M. Gilbride, Gillick, 
MeFarlane, M. Powers, John Gillagan, Morris Roach, M. 
Clark, U'Reilley, M. Barry, Wm. Connoloy, J. M. Griflith, 
and J. J. Fedigan. 

M. E. CHURCH. 

As early as the year 1820, the Methodist church itiner- 
ants visited this locality and laid the foundation of the 
present prosperous church. Prominent among the first 
. members were Je,s.se I'enfield, Benj. G. Paddock, Isaac 
Puft'er, Elisha Wheeler, and Nathaniel Salisbury. Car- 
thago, Champion, Copenhagen, Pinckney, Tylerville, and 
Denmark formed one circuit, and belonged to the Gouver- 
ueur district. 

The first church building was erected in 1840. The 
corner-stone was laid on the 27th of April. The church 
was dedicated to the worship of God November 12 of 
that year. The Rev. Jesse T. Peck, A.M., who at the 
time was principal of the Gouverneur Wcsleyan Seminary, 
officiated. 

The first board of trustees were as follows : E. Horr, 
Hiram L. Chambers, Allen Peck, Joel P. Rice, Ehenczer 
Wheeler, Willard Bartlett, William L. Chambers, Nel.son 
Rulison, and Joel Miller. Since the dedication, twenty-two 
ministers have ofiiciated. 

GRACE CUURCII. 

At first occasional services were held, in connection with 
the Protestant Episcopal church of the United States, by 
the rectors of Trinity church, Watcrtown. In 1857 the 
Rev. J. Win.slow entered upon regular .services here, and 
at Champion and Sterlingville. A j)arish was organized in 
the fall of ISGO. In 1801, Rev. Mr. Winslow went into 
the army as chaplain, and services were discontinued. In 
18(52, Rev. A. H. Rodgers took charge of the church. He 
remained, however, but a few months. Shortly aflcr this. 
Rev. Mr. Winslow returned to the charge. In 18G5, Rev. 
D. C. Loop took charge of this church and the one at 
Champion. In June, ISGG, Rev. L. H. Brewer entered 
upon the duties of rector. During February of the year 
following a church building was completed, and on Sept. 
14, 18()7, it was consecrated to the service of Almighty 
God by Bishop Coxe. In 1873, Mr. Brewer having been 
called to Trinity parish, Watertown, he was succeeded by 
Rev. J. B. Linn, who in turn was followed by Rev. John 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



520 



Muir in 1875. Mr. Muir was succeeded, in ihe fall of 
1876, by the Rev. J. Cathell, wiui is tliu jiicscnt rector. 

Connected with the pari.sh are tlie two luissiiiiis of Cliani- 
pion and Copenhagen. Grace chnrch lias a Snndayschool 
numbering about 60 pupils. Tlio present officers of the 
church are as follows: H. W. llaniniond and George L. 
Norton, wardens; C. F. Rissell, J. ]j. Norton, William 
Carpenter, L. II. Slills, IT. J. Welch, William Hutchinson, 
J. Pringle, N. Wagoner, vestrymen. There are at iireseiit 
eighty-six communicants. 

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 

Upon the rid day of 1835, many Christian people of 
Puritan faith and profession, feeling that the time had come 
to organize themselves into a church of their choice, took 
such measures as were needful to that end. They were 
re.sidents of East and West Carthage, twelve in number, 
five men and seven women. The officiating ministers were 
Rev. Nathaniel Dutton and Rev. James II. Monroe. Philo 
Weed was elected deacon and Merritt Coughlan dork. It 
was voted that the church be called '' The First Congre- 
gational Church of Carthage," an<l that it be connected 
with the Black River Congregational Associalion. The 
church was organized not far from where their j)rcsent 
house of worship now stands, in the old stone school-house, 
subsequently destroyed by fire. It was irregularly supj)lied 
with such ministers as Rev. David Spear, Father Nash, of 
revival memory. Rev. Marcus Smith, and Rev. 5Ir. Nortbup. 
The school-house becoming an undesirable place of worship, 
and no more eligible place being available, after three years 
a store was procured and fitted u]i in West Carthage to 
meet the necessities of the congregation. 

Ill the fall of 1839 the Rev. 0. Parker commenced a 
revival, the result of which was that about one hundred 
individuals were converted, many of whom united with the 
infant church. In November, 1840, Rev. Charles F. 
Halsey commenced his labors among them. He remained 
until November, 1842. From this time until the summer 
of 1850. a period of eight years, the church was destitute 
of religious services. At this time Rev. Hiram Doane was 
induced to take the oversight of the church. The Baptist 
church in Carthage was temporarily secured as a place of 
worslii]). By unanimous vote the church became Presby- 
terian in Novcmlier, 1S51, and four months before (July 
3 ) bad dedicated a small building in the village to the 
worship of God. Mr. John Hewitt and Chester Willes 
were unanimously elected elders, and was received into 
membership with the Watertown Presbytery. 

In the summer of 1852 the Congregational church in 
West Carthage was erected, and the body which previously 
had been one was separated into two parts. Rev. ]\Ir. 
Doane resigned his charge December, 1855. In January, 
1856, the church adopted the system of rotary eldership, 
and George Gilbert, Esq., was elected clerk of the session. 
In May, 1859, the Rev. J. McLeash took the temporary ] 
charge of the congregation, and measures were taken to 
build a larger bouse of worship; Mr. McLeash remained 
about two years and a half. The pulpit was vacant until 
the spring of 1864, when Rev. S. M. Legate, formerly of 
the Methodist church, assumed its oversight. He remained 
34 



until March, 1867. Under his ministry the present edifice 
was completed and dedicated to divine worship. In the 
summer of the same year the Rev. E. W. Brown became 
its minister, and remained until November, 1861). During 
these ministrations the church incre;uscd in ability and 
strength. 

In tbr month of August a call was presented to the 
present minister, who commenced his regular administra- 
tion in September, 1869, and was installed as pastor No- 
vember 30, 1870. During bis jiastorate the membership 
of the church has doubled it.s number of members. 

DISCIPLES CHURCH. 

The religious services which resulted in the organization 
of the Disciples Church commenced in Carthage in March, 
1855, — Elder J. D. Benedict, a missionary employed by 
the State board, being the first laborer. During the fol- 
lowing summer. Elder J. J. Lovcll commenced his labors. 
The church was organized formally in the September fol- 
lowing. Until 1863 the preaching was by jiersons casually 
here, and by the resident Elders B. F. Bush and Marcus 
Bickford. In 1863, Elder Thomas Hillock commenced his 
labors, and continued for about three years. From the 
time of his departure until lS7t), services were conducted 
by Mr. Bickford and several elders from abroad. In 1870, 
Elder J. S. Hughes came here and remained about two 
years. He was followed by Elder Ruuzee, who remained 
one year. Following him were Elder J. H. Hambleton 
and Elder 0. C. Atwater. Prominent among the mission- 
aries were J. D. Garrity, of Elaine, Elder J. .^I. Bartlett, 
Dr. W. A. Balding, Elder J. E. Goodrich, Elder Dorcy, 
and Elder Van Buskirk. The first services were held in 
Dodge's Hall, which was burned in 1861 ; afterwards in 
Gallagher's Hall, and then in Disci]iles Hall. After the 
latter place burned, a room was fitted up in the Academy 
building, in which the congregation held their services 
until the present church edifice was built in 1862. 

BAPTIST CHURCH. 

This church was set apart from the Baptist church of 
Chauipion, January 21), 1833. It was at that time known 
as " The Baptist Church of Wilna." This was dune by 
council, — the moderator of the council being Rev. Sanders 
Little ; A. P. Lewis was clerk of the council ; John Cha.se 
was elected clerk at that time. The first deacon was Jere- 
miah Bayton ; Rev. J. N. Webb was the pastor from JIarch 
21, 1840, until June, 1845. The church edifice was dedi- 
cated April 18, 1840. Previous to the erection of the 
church, .services bad been held in school-houses and other 
buildings. Rev. Mr. Webb was succeeded by Rev. D. D. 
Reed in March, 1847, and was succeeded by Rev. Jacob A. 
Wood as supply until April, 1849. At that time the Rev. 
S. Davis took charge, followed by Rev. Elisha Sawyer, who 
succeeded him in Jutie, 1852, and remained until July, 
1856. 

In the year 1853 there were 118 members of the society, 
this being the largest number of members at any one time 
until the past year. In 1856 the Rev. G. A. Ames became 
the pastor, and remained for five years. 

On the night of July 15, 1861, the church was de- 



530 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



stroycd by fire, and no services were lield until 1864, when 
Rev. Jacob Gardner was secured upon half time. Services 
were held in a block of buildings which had been fitted up 
in the village for the purpose. Mr. Gardner remained until 
January, 1867. In March, 1867, Rev. E. P. Weed came 
on, and remained until August, 1874. During the years 
1869-70 the present church edifice, costing ^16,000, was 
erected. In January, 1875, Mr. Weed was succeeded by 
Rev. C. H. Merrill, who is the present pastor. 

The present officers of the church are Joel A. Hopkins, 
clerk ; Joel A. Hopkins and William Manney, deacons. 
There are at present 187 members of the church. The 
Sunday-school has an attendance of 140, and is under 
the supervision of A. E. Sawyer as superintendent. 

METHODIST CHURCH AT NATUR.\I, BRIDGE. 

The church building was erected in 1830. having been 
about one year in building. Since that time services have 
been held, most of the time, by pastors of Carthage and 
other neighboring churches. Services are held regularly 
at present ; the pastor is the Rev. Mr. Hitchcock. 

UNITERSALIST CHURCH AT NATURAL BRIDGE. 

This society is of recent origin. The present church 
edifice was erected in 1870. The first pastor was the Rev. 
Mr. Sturdevant, of Watertown, who remained until 1874, 
when he was succeeded by Rev. Mr. Rice, who in turn was 
succeeded in 1876 by his son, who is the present pastor. 
The Sunday-school has an attendance of about 40 scholars. 
They have a small library. 

THE PRE.SBYTERIAN CHURCH AT NATURAL BRIDGE. 

This church was organized in 1830, and they com- 
menced the erection of their church building at that time. 
They were, however, obliged to discontinue work upon the 
building shortly afterwards through lack of means, and the 
building was not fini.shed until 1838 or 1840, when Mr. C. 
I. Becker advanced the money. The first pastor was Rev. 
James Rodgers, who remained for two years. Since that 
time, and previous to 1871, the pulpit has been occupied 
occasionally by pastors of neighboring churches. Sinte 
1871 they have had no .services, and the church has been 
unoccupied. 

THE UNION CHURCH AT WOODS* SETTLEMENT. 

The church building is at present used by the Methodists. 
Regular services are held. The present pastor is Rev. 
Frank W. West, who has been in charge since 1876. The 
society is small. 

METHODIST CIIUllCH AT NORTH WILNA. 

The congregation is small. No regular services are held, 
the pulpit being occupied occasionally by the pastor of the 
Methodist chun;h in Antwerp. 

NEWSPAPERS AND PHYSICIANS. 

The Cartliiir/riiiiin, a weekly Whig paper, devoted to the 
advocacy of the Black River canal, was begun Dec. 1!), 
183U, by David Johnson, who on the 18tli of June, 184i), 
was succeeded as editor by William H. Hough. It had 



six columns to the page, and was issued at S2.50. The 
press was principally owned by Hiram McCoUom. In 
April, 1843, the name was changed to the Black River 
Times, W. H. Hough, editor. Jan. 1, 1847, Myron F. 
WilLson commenced a semi-monthly neutral paper, styled 
The People's Press. In the third number W. H. Colston 
became associate editor, and in September, L. Jones. It 
was of brief continuance. In 184'J the press was removed 
to Gouvcrneur, and used in printing the Northern New 
Yorker, and it was allerwards taken to Potsdam, where it 
now is. The Peopli's Press was .succeeded by the Black 
River Biidi/ct, published by Barnes & Burr. The Budget 
was published for one year. After this there was no paper 
published until 1858. At this time Adolphus Allen 
succeeded the publishers of the Binhjct, and changed the 
name of the paper to the Curtluige Standard. Within 
three months Adolphus Allen was succeeded by W. R. 
^Merrill and E. R. Cole as publishers, who enlarged the 
paper about one-fourth. They continued the publication 
for nine months. In 1861, Mr. Bickford commenced the 
publication of the Carthage Ripidilican. He continued 
as publisher until September, 1864, when he sold out to 
James H. Wilbur. In September, 1865, Mr. M. M. Wil- 
liams purchased a half-interest in the paper. It was pub- 
lished by this firm until January, 1873, when Mr. S. R. 
Pratt became the publisher. In August, 1876, Mr. G. L. 
Cha.se purchased the paper, and is the present publisher, 
with Jerry Coughlin as associate editor. In 1874 a paper 
known as the Fuiiners Journal was published by Mr. S. 
R. Pratt. The publication of this paper was continued 
until May, 1876, when it was juirchased by Hon. John 
O'Donuell, and removed to Lowvillc. In May, 1875, a 
paper called the Northern New Yorker was started by 
Durham & Gillette. In 1876 this paper was purcha.sed 
by Mr. Chase, and was consolidated with the Cartilage 
Republican. 

Dr. James T. Peden, of Carthage, studied with Dr. 
Sturdevant, of Martinsburgh, Lewis Co., N. Y. Attended 
a course of lectures at the Albany Medical College in the 
winter of 1842. Practiced in the village of Martinsburgh, 
Lewis county, until 1860, when he removed to the village 
of Carthage, Jefierson County, where he has since con- 
tinued in practice. He is an honorary member of the 
County IMedical Society. 

Dr. N. D. Ferguson, of Carthago, graduated at the 
Geneva Medical College. Practiced in the village of Car- 
thage until 1S()1, when he entered the army as surgeon in 
the 07th Regiment. Was transferred to the 8tli N. Y. 
Cav. Returned to Carthage March 6, 1865. Was elected 
to the legislature in 1865. Was elected county clerk the 
year following, and at the close of his term of oflice he re- 
turned to Carthage, where he has since continued in practice. 

Dr. J. H. Miller, of Carthage, studied with Dr. John 
Davison, of Theresa, in 1S56. He afterwards attended 
lectures, and graduated, at the medical college of Castleton, 
Vermont. Has been in practice in Jefferson and St. Law- 
rence counties for eighteen years. He located in the village 
of Carthage in 1870, and has continued in practice at that 
place since. During the past six years he has been en- 
gaged in the drug business. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



531 



Dr. G. N. Hubbard, of Carthage, studied with Dr. G. 
S. Coiikoy, of Antwerp, in 1850. Graduated at the Al- 
bany Medical College in 1854. Practiced for eight years 
in tlic town of W'ilna. Removed to tlio village of Car- 
thage in 18G2, where he has since continued in practice. 
Was elected coroner in 1873 and re-elected to that office in 
187G. 

Dr. J. W. Brown, of Carthage, graduated at the New 
Y^ork Ilounjcopatiiic Medical College in 1868. Practiced 
for a short time in Ilion, Herkimer county, when he re- 
moved to Morrisvillo, Madison county, where he continued 
in practice until October, ISG'J, when he removed to the 
village of Carthiige. 

E. A. Monroe, dentist, of Carthage, studied with Bou- 
nian Bros at Cantou, Si. Lawrence county. Removed to 
Watertown in 1863, and to Carthage in 1864. In 1865 
he removed to the city of Now York, where he became! a 
member of the Society of Dental Surgeons of the City of 
New York. Returned to Carthage the year following. 
Attended a course of lectures at the College of Physicians 
and Surgeons in the winter of 1874-5. 

C. W. BuUard, dentist, of Carthage, studied with John 
Leggan, of Ottawa, Canada. Attended a course of lectures 
at the I'liiladelpliia Dental College in 1868. Practiced in 
Antwerp, Jeti'ersou County, for six years. Removed to the 
village of Carthage, January, 1876. 

Dr. P. E. John.son, of Natural Bridge, was a pujiil of 
Dr. Arien Spafford, of Cooperstown, N. Y. Graduated at 
the Medical College at Fairfield, Herkimer county, N. Y., 
in 1835. Since that time he was in practice in Coopers- 
town for thirty-five years. Removed to Natural Bridge in 
1872. 

Dr. J. H. Copp, of Natural Bridge, studied with Dr. 
V. A. Baker, of Mexico, Oswego county. Graduated at 
the Metro])olitan Jledical College, of New York city, in 
1863. Since that time he has been in practice in Oswego 
and Jcfl^er.'ioii counties. 

Dr. Benjamin S. Budd, of Carthage, studied in the city 
of Philadelphia. Graduated at the Pennsylvania Univer- 
sity in the spring of 1821. Located in the village of Car- 
thage. Since that time he has been in practice most of the 
time in Lewis and Jeflerson counties. Dr. Budd is proba- 
bly the oldest practitioner in the county, having been in 
active practice for fifty-eight years. 

Dr. H. S. Ilendee, formerly of Carthage, studied with 
Dr. Aniasa Trobridge, of Watertown. Graduated at the 
Medical College of Castleton, Vermont, in 1851. Prac- 
ticed in Carthage until 1860, when he visited Europe, and 
attended lectures in Edinburgh and London. Returned to 
this county upon the breaking out of the Rebellion, and 
entered the service of the Government as surgeon in the 
186th Regiment. Returned to Carthage in 1868, and con- 
tinued in practice until 1873, when he was elected to the 
office of member of a.ssenibly from the second district of 
Jefferson County. Shortly after this he removed with his 
family to the village of Lowville, in Lewis county, where 
he is ill practice at present. 



We are under obligations for information furnished by 
George O'Leary, J. P. Hodgkins, and Jolin Hewitt, of 
Carthage, and to Mr. C. I. Becker and Dr. Johnson, of 
Natural Bridge, and many others. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. 



SAMUEL BRANAUGH. 

The subject of this sketch was born in Belfa.st, county 
Antrim, Ireland, September 11, 1823, and came to this 
country with his parents in 1830, who located in Greene 
county. When (juite young Mr. Branaugh removed to 
Herkimer county and entered the employ of John C. Pitt, 
as foreman in his tannery at Salisbury Centre, where lie 
remained for ti^ve years. At the expiration of this time ho 
concluded to engage in the tanning business, and forming a 
Cdjiartnershiji with Mr. James White, they erected a tan- 
nery, which they carried on for two years; he then .sold his 
interest to Mr. White, and re-entered the cstiiblishmcnt of 
his old employer, Mr. Pitt, and there romaii;ed as his fore- 
man for thirteen years. From there he went to New 
Bremen, l^ewis county. New Y'ork, and formed a copartner- 
shi]) with James U. Morrow and David A. Steward, for five 
years, under the firm-name of S. Branaugh & Co., and for 
the five years following with Mr. Steward, under the name 
of Branaugh & Steward ; this was a large tannery, and they 
did a successful business. April 1, 1861), IMr. Bianaugh 
removed to Binghamton, New York, purchased a residence, 
and the tanning establishment of Joseph B. Abbott & Son, 
where he remained something over one year. Arriving at 
Carthago, Jeft'erson County, June 2, 1870, he purchased 
the small tannery located down the river about half a mile 
from the depot, tore it down and erected a large new one, 
and is doing a very j)rosperous business. Three \earg since, 
Mr. Branaugh, not being content with business on a small 
scale, purcha.sed a large sole-leather tannery at Bclfort, 
Lewis county. New York, which is doing an extensive 
business ; also a large tract of hemlock-bark lands to supply 
his tanneries. The establishment at Carthage is superin- 
tended by his son-in-law, J. P. Corcoran. 

Mr. Branaugh is the second son of a family of seven 
children, four of whom are living. 

Archibald Branaugh, the father, died about twelve years 
ago, in 1865. Jane Anderson, the mother, died about five 
years since. They were of Scotch descent, and originally 
of the Presbyterian faith, but latterly Blethodists. The 
subject of this sketch was united in marriage to Miss Diana 
Bellinger, of Maidieim, Herkimer county, September 6, 
1848. The fruits of this union were five children, — two sons 
and three daughters,' — viz., Martha J., born June 1 1, 1849 ; 
Celcstia, born June 16, 1852 ; Jesse J., born September 10, 
1858; William A., born April 4, 1860; Edmund W., born 
March 12, 1871 ; of whom Celestia and William are de- 
ceased. 



W O R T H. 



This town is known in the old records as town No. 2, 
of Boylston's Tract, and was erected from Lorraine, by an | 
act of the Senate and Assembly, April 12. 1848. It is \ 
provided that the town shall be about six miles from east j 
to west, and about seven miles from north to south, the 
boundaries to be co-extensive with those of town No. 2. : 
Its name was bestowed in honor of Gen. W. J. Worth, of 
the U. S. A., who became personally known in this county 
dnrin? the Patriot disturbances of 1838-40, and whose 
services in the Mexican war, about the time the town wa-s 
separately organized, had made him one of the most prom- 
inent actors on the Americ-an side. His name was selected 
in preference to Roseville and Wellington, which had also 
been proposed. 

The general surface of the country is undulating and 
very elevated, the altitude of this town being probably 
greater than that of any other portion of the county. In 
the eastern part of the town is the divide between the Black 
river and Sandy creek in Jefferson County, and the Salmon 
river in Lewis county. The south branch of Sandy creek 
flows through the town in a general westerly direction to 
its confluence with the north branch, in the town of Ellis- 
bur"-. It has numerous tributaries, the principal ones being 
Chloe and Abijah creeks, named after Miss Chloc Wilcox 
and Abijah Gillet respectively. These streams afford water- 
power at certain seasons of the year, and drain the town 
thoroughly. In general, the town is less broken by " gulfe" 
than Rodman and Lorraine, but from its great elevation it 
is subject to early frosts and deep snows. The soil, being 
underiaid by a shale rock, is less liable to drouth than the 
lower portion of the county, and is finely adapted to grazing. 
The surface was originally covered with a fine growth of 
timber, chiefly beech, maple, hemlock, and pine, and large 
forests are yet found in the southern and eastern parts of 
the town. These forests have been the source of consider- 
able revenue, furnishing the material for numerous mills 
and tanneries. Gathering these products and dairying are 
the principal industries of the people of Worth. 

Ill order to make the proportions of the proprietors of 
the Black River Tract equal, the eastern portion of the 
town of Worth was divided among them. Reckoning from 
north to sf.uth, these tracts were, Harrison and Hoffman, 
1283; Henderson. G40 ; Low, 1.576; William Con.«table, 
947 ; the remainder to Harris^^n and Hoffman. 22,004 
acres. A portion of these lands are in what is known as 
the '■ mile strip," an unlottcd tract a mile wide, extending 
along the ea.stem side of the town. In the northwestern 
part of the town Daniel McCormick and Charles Smith 
made purchases, which afterward.* became the centre of the 
first settlement. Abel French, an active and prominent 
532 



agent of McCormick and Smith, secured the services of 
Jteeph Crary to make the first surveys in November, 1801. 
and May. 1802. The town was only partly surveyed, and 
subsetjuently was lotted in such a way that several duplicate 
numbers occur, which has occasioned some trouble. French 
was also instrumental in the formation of the first settlement. 
Passing through Herkimer county, from his home at Ten- 
mark, he succeeded in inducing a company of citizens, 
residing at Litchfield, to purchase, in common, a large tract 
in this town. Timothy Greenly, Joseph Wilcox, and Elihu 
Gillet were appointed a committee to visit the tract and 
report upon the advisability of making a purchase upon the 
proposed basis. Their report being fovorable, a contract 
was concluded, July 22, by which they agreed to pay 
French, as the representative of McCormick and Smith, 
§7622 for the northwest quarter of the town. Afterwards 
a deed was executed to them, in trust, for themselves and 
their associates, and a mortgage given. The tract was 
divided into lots Cit comprised the nine great lots in the 
northwest corner), and drawn by ballot by the company, 
who paid over money as they might be able to their com- 
mittee, and received bonds for the deliven,- of deeds when 
the purchase-money should have enabled them to produce 
a clear title. Besides the committee mentioned, the com- 
pany consisted of Asaph Ca.se, Leonard Bullock, W. Flower, 
Eli Gillet, Lodwick Edwards. John Griswold. Ezekiel 
Chever, Phineas Rose, Joel Caulkins, Abram Ford, Nathan 
Matson. Asa Sweet. John Pinear. Phineas Stevens, Elijah 
and David Richmond. John and William Sagas, John 
Houghiailing, and perhaps a few others, all from Herkimer 
county, and mostly natives of Connecticut. 

Ainons the first to settle in the town were Asaph Case 
and I^eonard Bullock. They came in the fall of 1802, and 
settled on lots 7 and 8, some of their families residing there 
at the present time. The latter had three children— Electa, 
Alanson, and Charlotte— on coming to Worth, and had nine 
more bora to him. Of the twelve, eleven grew to mature 
years, but only four have survived to the present,— two 
sons. Leonard and Hiram, and two daughters, Juliette and 
Esther. Leonard Bullock was born in 1817, and has 
resided upon the fanii taken by his father sixty years con- 
tinuously. Contemporarj- with the Case and Bullock 
families was that of Ellsha Gillet, one of the company's 
committee. Of the Gillet family, David, George, Elihu, 
Alanson, and Mrs. Leonard Bullock are yet citizens of 
Jefferson County. Mr. Bullocks first house was built 
entirely of logs. There was no floor, door, or window in 
any part of it. The roof was made of hollow basswood 
logs, split, and so laid that every alternate one formed a 
I trough to carry away the water. A blanket hung up served 



HISTORY OF JKFl'EUSOxN CXJUNTV, NKW YORK. 



5a3 



far a diiDi-, ;iii(J tlic oaitli, smoothed down and covered with 
leaves, served for a floor. A larjre Dutch chimney suiiplicd 
a place where they mij;ht cooic tlieir scanty meals. Tlio 
following year Jiwopli Wilcox came, by way of Kcdficld, 
making the journey, in the month of .March, with an ox- 
team hitched to a sled. There were no roads nor bridges, 
and their only guides were blazed trees. Reaching the 
Sandy creek, then swollen by a recent freshet, they were at 
a loss how to cross it. But the strong native sense of the 
true pioneer is equal to any emergency. A tree was felled 
across the stream, so as to form a foot-bridge, over which 
the load Wius carried piece by piece ; the oxen were then 
urged into the stream and swam acro.ss, carrying the sled 
with them ; and tlien a bed-eord w;us fastened in turn around 
the necks of their three hogs, and the.se, too, were safely 
piloted across, although it was at first feared that tlu^y had 
met a fate similar to that which had befallen the swine of 
the Gadarenes, when the common enemy of man had taken 
refuge in them. Upon reaching the spot selected for his 
liomo, Mr. Wilcox erected a log hon.>ie, which had a 
puncheon floor, bark roof, and for a window a sheet of 
paper, oiled so as to admit the light. It had a chamber 
floor, too, but, as it was made of elm bark, the utmo.st caution 
was required in the movements of the occupants. The 
winter winds, too, would sometimes ruthlessly take away a 
portion of the roof, admitting the snow to the depth of 
several inches, so that it was not uncommon to be obliged 
to shovel away the snow before those in bed could descend 
to the room below. 

Sterling Wilcox, then a lad of fifteen, came with his 
father, and for seventy odd years has lived near the spot 
where they first broke the ([uietude of the forest. He served 
ill the War of 1812, and has always been an active, useful 
citizen. Nearly all the others of the Litchfield company 
came in 1803, working their way to their destination with 
great difiiculty. After this was reached, their labors and 
trials were by no means ended. Living remote from the 
settlements below, they had no roads except wood-])aths, 
and no vehicles but drags formed from the crotch of a tree 
and drawn by oxen. However, the settlements grew apace 
and had attained respectable proportions, when the war 
broke out and filled the country with alarm. Many de- 
serted their homes and went back to their native places. 
Several cold seasons followed, causing others, who had braved 
the terrors of war, to follow, until the settlements were al- 
most depopulated. Tiien the mortgages were foreclosed, 
bringing hardships upon those who remained ; for all had, 
by the terms of the contract, made themselves liable for the 
failure of one, and much of the land reverted to the pro- 
prietors. 

From this time until 1828 the history of the town is 
uneventful, and in 1830 it was yet comparatively new and 
unsettled, as will be seen from a list of the names of those 
then residing in Worth : Joseph Wilcox and his son, Sterl- 
ing ; Daniel Wilcox; Asaph, Abel, and John Case; E. 
West, John Ru.ssell, Chester Bushnell, Andrew W. Craig, 
John Wilson, Paid Pryor, Peter AVakefield, Joseph H. and 
Venus C. Rising, Joseph Totten, James Potter, Zadoc 
Hale, Henry, Erastus, and Richard Lyon ; Leonard and 
Alan,son Bullock, Joel Overton, B wmor K , Charles, and 



Lyman Jenks ; William, Simeon, and James Houghtailing; 
Eli, Elihu, David, and George Gillet; Leonard Parker, 
Daniel and Joseph Caulkins, and Nathan Matoon. Among 
tho.se who came to Worth this year was Albert S. Gillet. 
He at once identified him.self with the town, and he, as well 
as his brother Jjorenzo P., are well known in Worth's his- 
tory. The organization of the town in 1848 gave it an- 
other impetus, which resulte<l in the formation of settlements 
in the central and southwestern ])ortions. 

MILLS AND FACTORIE.S. 

The manufacturing interests of Worth are limited chiefly 
to saw-mills. The first attempt to build one was made by 
Leonard Bullock, about 1808, on the Sandy creek, on lot 
7. The work had progres.sed as far as the raising of the 
frame, when a foreclosure on the land of one of the com- 
pany obliged him to postpone it. The building was never 
completed. In 1810, Joshua Miles built a saw- and grist- 
mill under one roof, on the Sandy creek east of the Corner. 
Miles selected his mill.stones from the rocks in the woods, 
and very ingeniously constructed a mill with the few simple 
tools at his command. He operated the mills five or six 
years, then sold to Timothy Greenly, who, in turn, sold 
them to Abner Rising. They remained the property of 
the Rising family while in use. The grist-mill was for a 
long time the only one in the town, and until it wils built 
the settlers had to carry their grain to Adams or Whites- 
ville, which usually took two days. 

A saw-iuill was next built, about 181 G, by Joseph 
Wilcox and Green Kellogg, near the Corners, and on the 
site of the present grist-mill. To erect the latter, a company 
was formed in 185C, comjwsed of A. S. Gillet, L. 1*. Gillet, 
Abel Case, Sterling Wilcox, Leonard Parker, Horace R. 
Chafin, and Boomer K. Jenks, who bought the mill-site of 
John Henderson, and ofl^ered it, together with a ca.sli 
bounty, to Pealer and Fox, who erected the mill in 1860. 
It is a two-story frame, has two run of stone, and is capa- 
ble of doing fair work. S. B. Kellogg is the present pro- 
prietor of both mills. 

In 1857, a saw-mill was erected just below the firet mill 
by Abel Case. This has been remodeled and enlarged, and 
is now a first-class mill, having circular and upright saws, 
a planer, matcher, and lath-saws. A. S. Gillet owns and 
operates this mill, whose capacity in times of fair water is 
ten thousand feet per day. 

The Gardner brothers built a mill on the site of an old 
wood-turning establishment, a short distance up the creek, 
about 1850. For many years it was known as the Tucker 
mill, and at present is the property of a Mr. Spear. In 
the neighborhood of this, Henry Prouty, in 18C3, erected 
a very good saw'-mill, which is at present supplied with a 
shingle-machine, and turns off a large amount of w'ork. 

The Worth Centre mill Wiis built by E. Cornell, about 
18(>2, and is the most exten.sive in the town. V;tst quan- 
tities of lumber are manufactured annually, and nearly 
every grade can be su])plied. Employment is given to ten 
hands, and the establishment is, in every .sense, first-class 
for this region. 

Other mills had been built on the Abijah creek, by 
William Houghtailing and J. M. Ackley. The former, 



534 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



while the property of Brown & Haddock, was destroyed by 
firo. Tlie latter has been out of use for many years. 

A clico.se- factory was built at Wmtlivillc', in 1SG7, by a 
stock company, at a cost of $4(M)(). The company con- 
sisted of Leonard Bullock, Levi VVilcox, C. C. Moore, B. 
B. Brown, and J. IL Rising. The factory \ia» 0])eratcd 
by them a year, then sold to Abel Bigford, who has leased 
it to A. McNe;il, the present operator. Lucius Mandigould 
started a factory in the western part of the town, in 1870, 
but it was soon discontinued. 

SCHOOLS AND CIIURCDES. 

About 1807 the first district school in Worth wa.s taught 
in .\saph Case's barn, by a Mrs. Nobles. Her husband died 
in the town, and she moved to the west. She had ten or 
twelve pupils from the Case, Russell, and other families. 
In the winter of 1SI)8, Kuel Canfield tauglit a school in a 
part of Timothy Greenly s house, in Rodman, near the 
" corners." Miss Betsey Bugbee taught a school in a log 
house, a few years later, in what is now known as district 
No. 2. She was carried to and from her duties by an ox- 
tcani hitched to a sled. About this time a log house for 
sehool i)urj)(i,ses was erected at the " corners." This was 
supplanted by other small log and hame houses, where A. 
S. (xillot taught for a number of years, about 18.30. 

In 1845 the present structure, a frame, was built. There 
are six districts in the town provided with respectable build- 
ings. The one at Worth Centre is especially neat, and re- 
markable for its generous propoitions. In 1876, the pub- 
lic money apportioned to Worth for the support of schools 
amounted to $552.31. 

RELIOIOUS. 

At an early day the Methodists held religious services 
in the town, and organized a class which has had a strug- 
gling existence until the present. The membership is 
tliirty-one, and there is no regular leader. Weekly ser- 
vices are held in the Union church in connection with the 
Lorraine charge. 

The Protestant ]M(^tliodists have religious services at 
stated times at Worth Centre, but they have no regular or 
ganization. The Baptists and other denominations also 
have occasional services. 

The " Worthville Union church" is the only house of 
public worship in the town. It was erected by a commit- 
tee apjiointed for this purpose, composed of Leonard Bul- 
lock, Levi Wilcox, and L. D. Munroo, in 1875. It is a 
frame with a very attractive exterior, costing $8000, and 
has sittings for 250 people. The church is C(mtrolled by a 
board of seven trustees, ap])ointed by the holders of sub- 
scriptions to the building fund. The use of the building is 
accorded to all, irrespective of creed. A Sunday-school is 
Conducted in the church in the summer. It was organ- 
ized many years ago in the old school-house, but has not 
retained its orginal organization. 

CEMKTEKIES. 

There are several cemeteries in Worth, all controlled by 
the town board. One of the oldc-st is on lot No. 9. Elisha 
Sweet WiW one of the fiist interred in the town. The old 



cemetery having poor drainage, a more favorable spot was 
selected on lot No. 8. This has been well kept, and con- 
tains some fine tablets and head-stones. 

ROADS. 
Provision was early made for })Utting the roads of Worth 
in a good condition. In 1849, §200 was voted for this pur- 
pose, and subsequent appropriations have been made. Good 
roads now lead to Adams, on the R., W. & 0. R. R., the 
principal point of shipment for the town. 

CIVIL ORGANIZ.\TION. 

At a special election held at the house of Benjamin 
Gates, in Lorraine. Feb. G, 1810, the division of Worth 
from Lorraine was unanimously voted, but the War of 
1812 prevented the immediate carrying out of this vote. 
No further action was taken until 1848. In that year 
the division was ordered by the Legislature, with a provision 
that the first meeting be held at the school-house at AVil- 
cox's Corners, on May 2 ; that the town officers of Lorraine 
residing within the limits of Worth were to exercise the 
functions of their respective offices until the next ensuing 
election; and that Mathew Fox, Jonathan M. .Vckley, and 
Albert 8. Gillet be a board of election, with the jiower of 
justices of the peace. The election resulted in the choice 
of the following officers, 48 votes being polled: Supervisor, 
A. S. Gillet; Town Clerk, Daniel Wilcox; Justices of the 
Peace, A. S. Gillet, Riley W. Green, Jonathan M. Ackley ; 
A.ssessors, George W. Gillet, Albert Nichols ; Corns, of 
Highways, Leonard Bullock, Levi Smith, William Bell; 
Constables, Levi Wilcox, Ozias E. Elmer, Newman A. 
Hawley ; Overseers of the Poor, Boomer K. Jenks, Sterling 
Wilcox ; Collector, ]\Iathcw Fox ; Supt. Com. Schools, 
Robert R. Bell. 

Since 1848 the Supervisors have been: 1849, A. S. 
Gillet; 1850, Riley AV. Green ; 1851, Jonathan M. Ackley; 
1852, Riley W. Green; 1853-4, Jonathan M. Ackley; 
1855, David Gillet; 1856-7, Lorenzo P. Gillet; 1858-62, 
Carlton C. Moore; 1863, Solomon B. Storm; 1864-9, 
Carlton C. Moore; 1870, Solomon W. Kellogg; 1871-2, 
Henry V. Jenks ; 1873-4, Jonathan M. Ackley ; 1875-6, 
Henry V. Jenks; 1877, Samuel B. Kellogg. 

From the town records the following interesting excerpts 

are made : 

]S,->5. 

'* Votvtl, That it shall bo considerctl a penal ofTcnsc ft>r any persun 
to suffer any neat cattle or hogs to run at common within -It) rojs of 
any place of jiultlic worship on the .Sahhath day, hetwcen Nov. 1 end 
May I ; and such offender shall be guilty of misdemeanor, and shall 
pay a fine of SI. 00 on complaint of any person for each otTenso, one- 
half to be given to the support of the poor, the olhcr half to the coin- 
]»laiiiant." 

" \''ifn/. That any person who shall suffer any dojj; to be caught in 
any house of public worship in said town in the hours of religious 
service, the owner of said dog shall forfeit a line of $1.(10, one-half to 
be given to the support of the poor, Ihe other half to the complainant ; 
and if such dog shall be found in any house of public worship with- 
out any owner, such dog shall be iinniedialely kilU'il. .Joseph H. 
Rising is appointed to dispose of any dog that may be found as above 
stated." 

" Vtiti </, That any j'erson who sliall sutler any buck to roam at 
large in said town between Sept. I and Dee. 1 shall forfeit the 
sum of $.'>.00 on complaint, and the buck and all to go to the com- 
plainant." 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



535 



In 1877 the supervisor was instructed to use his influence 
aj^ainst tlie renewal of any charter to plank-roads as turn- 
pikes in the county of Jefferson. In 187G tlie office of 
Ru])ervisor was tied between Hfiiry ^^ Jenks and Henry 
L. Griiushaw, each having received lUi) voles. Tiiu total 
number of votes east in 1877 was 221. 

WORTH CENTRE. 

This is a lianilet of a dozen buildings, near tlie centre of 
the town, on tlie Ahijali creek. The first settlement hero 
was made about 1850, by E. Cornell. The country was 
then in a primitive condition, and Mr. Cornell's house was 
as rude as that of the first settler fifty years before. But 
roads were built to the Centre and farms opened until fpiite 
a neighborhood was gathered ; and when the saw-mill was 
erected its future was assured. A small store was opened 
at this point about 1874 by E. Cornell, and a post-office 
established, with daily mails from Adams via W'orthville. 
Ezra Cornell is the postmaster. Mr. Cornell also manufac- 
tures and deals in all kinds of lumber. 

WORTH VI LLE. 

Thi3 village, formerly known as Wilcox's Corners, is 
located on both hanks of South Sandy creek, and has a popu- 
lation of about 100. Tlie village is one mile south of 
Rodman, and two southeast of Pinckney, in Lewis county, 
and was the centre of the early settlements, Joseph Wilcox 
having made the beginning at this place. The situation 
is pleasant, and it will always remain the largest trading- 
point in the town. The history of its mills has been de- 
tailed elsewhere. 

A store was opened here in 1849, by Lorenzo P. Gillet, 
who erected a large two-story frame house on the southeast 
corner for this purpo.se. A portion of the house was used 
for a tavern. He was succeeded, in 1858, by A. S. Gillet, 
who conducted both places until 1806. The store was 
then closed and the building u.sed for a tavern only, by 
Horace Struter, Ormsby Moon, Alanson Pettengill, Levi 
Calvin, landlords in the order named. John Doauburs: 
is the present proprietor. In 1858 an opposition tavern 
was started on the corner opposite, by Orlin A. Chase. A 
large hostelry was erected, but the jnofits were too meagre 
to reward the owners. Duaue Earl and Leonard Parker 
wore also among the hosts. The building is at present 
occupied as a residence. 

Another store-house was erected in 1SG5, down the 
street, where Henry L. Porter opened a stock of goods. 
The place pa.s.sed into the hands of George D. Macomber 
in 1871, who has been in trade there since. 

Blacksmith-shops were conducted at an early day, and 
at different periods, by Canfield, Eliliu Gillet, and Egelbert 
West, all prior to 1840. Richard Lyon followed, and 
built a shop east of the village. Albert Harrington has 
worked here a number of years. His present shop is west 
of the village, on the Sandy creek, and is operated by 
hydraulic power. Wagon-shops are conducted by David 
H. Atkins and L. H. Spaulburg, established iu 18C0 and 
1875 respectively. 

A summary of the business of Worthville shows, — 
grist-mill, S. B. Kellogg; saw-mills and lumber-dealers, S. 



B. Kellogg, A. S. Gillet; store, George D. Macomber; 
blacksmiths, A. Harrington, Joseph Crawford ; wagon- 
makers, David H. Atkins, L. F. Spaul.sburg; shoemaker, 
Charles Young; joiner, Charles Valier; coopers, Daniel 
Wilcox, Grant Van Brockliu ; postmaster, George D. 
Macomber. 

The post-office was established in 1848, with L. P. Gil- 
let as postmaster. The mail route was from Adams i-in 
Lorraine to Copenhagen in Lewis county. Richard Lyou 
was the carrier, going on horseback once a week. A sub- 
scription on the jiart of the citizens of Worthville secured 
a semi-weekly mail. In 18C5 a triweekly mail was sup- 
plied. At present (1877) there is a daily service from 
Adams to Worth Centre liti Worthville. Other post- 
masters at this point have been Henry Hitchcock, A. S. 
Gillet, and H. L. Potter. 



BIOGRArillCAL SKETCHES. 



LEVI WILCOX. 

In the year 1805, while yet Jefferson County was an 
almost unbroken wilderness, Joseph Wilcox, a native of 
Connecticut, emigrated to the present town of Worth. At 
that time there was but one other family in the town. He 
purchased 150 acres of wild land, built a liou.se. and moved 
into it with his family, which at that time consisted of his 
wife and six children. This old pioneer couple lived to 
advanced ages — the wife dying at the age of 7G, and the 
old gentleman at the age of 88. 

Sterling Wilcox, the son who succeeded to the old home, 
was born in 1791, and has lived in Worth since 1805, on 
the same spot, and now, at the advanced age of 8G, is a 
hale old gentleman, in possession of all the faculties and 
intelligence of his earlier years. He was married in 1818 
to Miss Sarah Smith, of Lorraine, by whom he boeanie the 
father of six children, — Lydia, Philura, Levi, Caroline, Gil- 
bert, and Charles, — all of whom are living and have fami- 
lies except the last-named two. Mrs. Sarah Wilcox died 
March 22, 1867, aged G7 years. 

Levi Wilcox, the present owner of the old Wilcox estate, 
was born Nov. 2G, 1825, and was united in marriage with 
Miss Mary Fox, of the same town, in lSt7. Two children 
have been born to them, Emma G. and Gilbert H. ; the 
daughter is deceased. Gilbert II. is married to Miss Eva 
M. Brown, of the same town, and resides at home with his 
parents. 

Thus can be seen three generations of this old pioneer 
family all living together in one family to-day, on the same 
spot selected by the great-grandfather of the younger mem- 
bers of this family. 

The farm consists of 220 acres, and is one of the finest 
in the county. Mr. Levi Wilcox has recently erected a 
very fine and commodious house near the old home, which 
adds much to the beauty and comforts of this old landmark 
of Jefferson County. Elsewhere in these pages may be 
found a fine view of this old home, with portraits of Levi 
Wilcox and his excellent wife. 



536 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



LEONARD BULLOCK. 

One of the very earliest settlers of the town of Worth 
was Leonard Bullock. He came originally from the State 
of Rhode Island to Oneida county, N. Y., and from thence 
to the present town of Worth, in Jefferson County, in 
1802. He here located a tract of land which has ever 
since been the home of himself and his descendants. He 
built a log shanty and commenced clearing up his land. 
He was married to Miss Bathsheba Hancock, and at the 
time of his settlement in Worth was the father of two 
children. The whole number of children reared by this 
worthy couple was twelve, four sons and eight daughters, 
who all grew up to manhood and womanhood except one 
son, who died in infancy. Mr. B. lived to the age of 55, 
dying in 1828. His wife survived to the age of 82, dying 
in 1860. 

Leonard, the present owner, and next to the youngest of 



these twelve children, was born Jan. 3, 1817. He was 
reared a former, and after his majority bought cut the 
other heirs, and thus became posses.sed of the old home 
farm, where ho was born and on which he has resided all 
his life. 

At the age of twenty he was united in marriage, with 
Miss Martha Gillct, of Worth, the daughter of Elihu 
Gillet, another old settlor of Worth. To them have been 
born three children, — Emily L., Levi S., and Leonard C. 
Levi died at the age of ten years. Leonard C. and Emily 
are both married and settled on portions of the old home- 
farm. 

The flirm owned and occupied by Mr. B. consists of 320 
acres of the finest flirniing lands in the town. By reference 
to another page in this work, the reader will find a fine 
view of his residence, together with portraits of himself 
and wife, presented as a legacy to his children and the 
future generations of Jefferson County. 



MILITARY AND NAVAL. 



REVOLUTIONARY SOLDIERS— MILITARY AND NAVAL OPERATIONS IN THIS VICINITY DURING THE 
WAR OF 1812-15 — BIOGRAPHY OF PROMINENT OFFICERS OF THAT AVAR— THE CANADIAN RE- 
BELLION, 1807-40— AVAR OF THE REBELLION OF 1801-5— IITSTOi; A' OF OUti.VNIZ.ATIONS— ROSTERS 
AND ROLL OF HONOR. 



Quite a number of the surviving soldiers of tbe Revolution settled 
at various ])crio(Is in Jefferson County, some account of whom will 
be found in the hi.**tory of the various towns and villages. The fol- 
lowing list of Revolutionary peuHiuiier* residing in the county in 
1S40 is from Hough's history. As all the soldiers were not necessa- 
rily pensioners, this may not include the total number. A number of 
the towns of the county arc for some cause left out of this list, 
whether from inadvertence, or because there wore no soldiers in them 
at the time, we are unable to say ; 

AnAM.s. — Peter Do.xtater, f<S\ Lucy Thomjison, 73: Cynthia White, 
77; John Merriani, 84; Abel liassctt, 80; Unnforlh Doty, 85. 

Alexandria. — (!eorge Rappolc, 8'J; William Carter, 8.1; Daniel 
AVhorry, 7.i ; Edith I'ntten, SO; Ephraim Hogert, 84; Peter Lulz, 
70; Abram Newman, SI. 

AsTWKiip. — Lydia Turner, 70; Noah French, SO ; Martha Cliirk, 
70; .Tosiah Drake, 78. 

Brow.wili.e. — John Ba.xter, S8 ; Walter AV'ilsoii, 8.') ; Selah Bur- 
ton, 79; David Rimiston, O.'J ; John P. Bcecher, 78. 

Clayton. — Solomon Ingalls, 90; Rosea Randolph, 72; Ly<lia 
Di.\on, 85; Amos Richards, 82; James Bothcll, 82; Mary Davis, 73; 
Abraham Joy, 78; James Rankin, 83; Thomas Fetterly, 70. 

EbLisiiuiiG. — Solomon Tracy, 81; Jonathan Fish, 8."; Stephen 
Lindsloy, 81 ; Mrs. Deuse, 80; Bryant Eddy, 79; Jonathan Matte- 
son, 78; Rufus Richardson, 70; Abel Porter, SO; Samuel Hubbard, 
79; James (Jault, S3 ; Simeon Russell. 84 ; Samuel Mixer, 82 ; Levi 
Smith, 85 ; .Miiezar Philips, 81 ; Thomas Wurden, 82; Simeon Rus- 
sell, 89; Ebinczer Wallace, 79; Stephen llicks, 85; Henry H. Fall, 
90. 

UKSDKnsoN. — John Pettingcll, 73 ; Ebenezer Sawyer, 80 ; Abijah 
Sticknc}', 82; Jol^ Carter, 78; John Morris, 81 ; Stephen Hawkins, 
82. 

HoiiN.sFiKLn. — Jarod Olcott, 81; Charles Ripley, 70; Sumner 
Ailains, 05; Solomon Livermore, 78; Anna Dorchester, 79: Elias 



Taylor, 72 ; Thomas Cole, 72; Julius Tcrrey, l>4 ; Ebenezer Philips, 
80. 

Le Ray.— Timothy Tamblin, 83; Joel Dodge, 79; Iliel Truesden, 
78; Ezekiel Lyman, 80; William Rogers, 83: Hannah Harwick, 81 ; 
Elizabeth Ainsted, 74; Elisha Scofield, — . 

LoHRAiNE. — .Tacob Weaver, 83 ; Benjamin Fletcher, SO ; Caleb Tift, 
81. 

Lyme. — Samuel J. Mills, 81 ; Jacob H. Oves, 83; Nicholas Siniih, 
85 ; Prudence Hodges, 73 ; Luorctia Marsh, 84 ; Felix Powell, 77. 

Oni-EANS. — Jose])h Rhodes, 78; Adolphus Picket, 79: AVilliam 
Colins, 80; John Monk, 89; Moses Limon, 78; Elizabeth Rixford, 
75; Nicholas Smith, 85; Elizabeth Barret, SO ; Caleb AVillis, 78 ; M. 
Contreman, 70. 

Pamema.— J. Gloyd, 85. 

PiiiLADELtMiiA. — Edith Taylor, 84; James Hewitt, 77 ; Jonathan 
Carr, S3 ; Isaac Hurd, 79. 

Rodman. — Ephraim Wright, 73; John Russell, Elijah .Mcintosh, 
78. 

Rutland. — Mary Barney, 74 ; Samuel liunliam, 88. 

WiLNA. — Peter Brown, 8S; Stephen Shew, 79; Josiah Hurlbert, 
79; Solomon Cleveland, SO. 

M'hen the War of 1812-15 broke out. the populotion of JefTer.son 
County was about 10,000. and very many of her young men were con- 
nected with the military and naval operations along the northwestern 
frontier, and one of her private citizens. Jacob Itro^vn. then living tui 
his farm at Brownville, became very prominent. Sackefs Harbor 
was the most important station on the great lakes, and was made the 
centre of naval and military operations during a considerable portion 
of the war. 

The following chapter, descriptive of the operations in this region, 
is from Dr. Hough's History of the County, published in 1854. It 
hai been carefully revised and corrected, and is believed to be full 
and reliable. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



537 



WAR OF 1812-15. 

" Coininj^ events cast their shadows before them," and the troubles 
that preceded the dechinitiun of war in some degree prepared the 
public inind tor that event. On the 22d of December. 1807, congress 
laid an indefinite embargo, which applied to the inland lakes equally 
with the sea-board, and rendered measures necessary for enforcing 
an observance of the non-intercourse. In the summer of 1808, Lieut. 
Melanchthon T. Woolsey wasaent to Oswego to superintend the build- 
ing of a brig, which was launched early in 1S09, and named the 
" Oneida." She was built by Christian licrgh and Ilenry Kekford, and 
was pierced for sixteen guns. A company of infantry, under Capt. 
Wni, V. JJennet, and of twenty-three artillerymen, under Lieut. Cros?, 
were stationed at Sackefs Harbor in 1808, and early in March, 1809, 
two detachments of militia (forty-five men) from Col. Paul Stickney's 
regiment were drawn out, twenty of whom were st:itioned on (he St. 
Lawrence, opposite Kingston, and the remainder on the Oswegat- 
chie niad, where several routes united.^' Tne embiirgo had the cfTect 
of lowering (he price of grain, b}' interrupting the commerce by which 
it was exported, while, from the same cause, it enormously increased 
the price of potash, which all new, woody countries protluce, and 
which tho embargo prevented from reaching England, except indi- 
rectly by way of Canada. Tliis atVordeil a temptation too strong for 
the honesty of great numbers, who, notwithstanding the vigilance of 
the revenue officers, wore very successful. This article rose to JUOO 
and $.T2(1 per ton in Montreal, from whence it could be exported with- 
out obstruction to England; and as there then existed in Canada no 
law against its importation into tho country, the only difficulty to 
meet was an evasion or open dctiance of our own laws. Potash was 
brought from the interior counties, and oven from New York to this 
frontier, and temporary roads were beaten through the forest in the 
winter time by those engaged in this illegal traffic. ,\moug these was 
the "embargo road," from the Black river, near Brownville, to near 
French creek, which for a season became a great thoroughfare for 
smugglers. Previous to the calling out of the militia detachments 
above mentioned, Mr. Hart Massey had seized fifty-four barrels of pot 
and pearl ashes and twenty barrels of pork near Cape Vincent, 
which property was openly rescued and carried off by a force of tifty 
or sixty armed men, with many sleighs from Kingston. 

This open and bold defianceof laws was not entirely due to a mer- 
cenary s])irit, but political rancor and a practical opposition to a law 
which they declared unconstitutional and void. On the 1st of March, 
1809, the embargo gave place to a non-intercourse law. which expired 
in May, 1810. April 4, 1812, an embargo was again laid, which 
rendered renewed vigilance necessary ; but this time a more efficient 
system of means was at hand. 

In May, 1812, tho "Lord Nelson," a British schooner bound for 
Niagara, and laden with tlour and merchandise from Kingston, being 
found in American waters in the lake, was captured by Woolsey, 
brought into Sacket's Harbor, and condemned as a lawful prize. 
Among the goods taken nnd oflered at auction was a quantity of plate, 
jewelry, wearing apparel, and household articles of rich materials 
belonging to a lady of Queenstown ; and these articles, although of 
great intrinsic value, were inestimably precious to tho owner, as 
family relics and keepsakes. These Commodore Woolsey. with true 
courtesy, proposed to restore, and the suggestion was seconded by the 
hearty acclamation of his gallant sailors, who offered to relinquish 
//iei> claim : but others, from sordid and illiberal motives, insisted 
that the sale should go on, and undertook to compete in the bids, 
which gradually arose to three, four, and five hundred dollars. At 
this moment the gallant Woolsey, determined not to be baffled in his 
design, suddenly raised his bid to Jirc thougmttf, which at once ended 
the contest, amid the cheers of his men, and to the discomfit of his 
opponents. The jiroperty he promptly forwarded to the owner, and 
the government sanctioned his course by discharging him from the 
obligation. f The vessel was owned by Crooks, of Niagara, who 
afterwards got a reversal of the adjudication. The "Lord Nelson" 



* Dr. Istiiah MftS'^py haii charge of the nillittHoii theOswogratchie road, Daniel 
Spiniiiug of tlmse at Port I'litiiuni, Aliol Knmkliii of those at ^ticket's Hurlwr, 
and N'Hthaiiicl II. Hulilianlof tliost- at IIt'luU*r-oii Ilarl'or, in the spring of 1800, 

t .\ djffi-reiit vci*»iun v>f thi^* am-cdole it* given by Cooper, in his Livf3 of Dis- 
ttiigiiisheil Naval (Hlicers, vol, ii. p. 1:1C. We give the accuiiul as related by 
Capt. Augustus Fold, of Aitket's ihirbor, who, since I7i»r>, has been familiar 
with whatever is connertotl with the navigation of Lake Ontario. 



was changed to the " Scourge," and was afterwards recaptured by 
the enemy. 

June 14, the schooner "Ontario," Capt. Charles Sweet, was seized at 
Cape Vincent for an alleged violation of the revenue laws, but dis- 
charged on (he 22d. The schooner " Niagara" was seized at abi>ut tho 
s.ime time, and afterwards sold for a like cause. The " Ontario" had 
a cargo consisting of about 000 packages of goods. Her papers 
showed a permanent registry granted by the collector of Niagara, 
June y, 1810 ; and a regular clearance by him from the port of Lewis- 
ton to the port of Queenstown. dated April 15, 1812. 

At the time of her seizure she was on a voyage from Queenstown 
to Prescott. When approached by the revenue officers she was lying 
at anchor off shore, opposite the store of J. B. and Kichard Essclstyn. 
Upon being hulled she attempted to move off, i)ut was taken and 
brought to port. Tho collector had sent men to bring her into Sacket's 
Harbor for safe keeping. Her armament consisted of three muskets ; 
and her bill of lading, according to the affidavit of K(tbert tlrant. of 
Queenstown. consisted of bales of leather, 4i>(5 barrels of flour, and 4 
barrels of whisky, making a total of 471 packages, shipped June 10, 
1812, from t^ueenstown to Prescott by (Jrant A Kirby, and owned 
by Porter, Barker A Co. 

The State legislature, acting on tho spirit which led the general 
Government to take the steps above related, Feb. 12. 180S, directed 
that 500 stand of arms should be deposited at Champion. Gov. 
Tompkins, in a letter to Judge Noadiah Hubbard, of Champion, 
Feb. 27, ISO'J, announced that of the above ;i60 sets of accoutre- 
ments, 7500 rounds of fixed ammunition, etc., had been for some 
time at Utica, awaiting some place of deposit, which was not, how* 
ever, provided, and their destination was, by an act of March 27, 
1801), changed to Watertown, where an arsenal was built that year, 
under the direction of Hart Massey. The street on which it was lo- 
cated was called Columbia street previous to this time, when its 
name was changed to Arsenal street. It was maintained as a Siate 
arsenal until sold under the act of April 19, 1850. 

By an act of Congress, passed April 10, 1812, the President was 
authorized to raise a body of 1(10,000 minute-men, of which propor- 
tioh New York was to furnish i:J,500. 

Col. Christopher P. Bellinger, from German Flats, Herkimer 
county, was stationed at Sacket's Harbor in May, with a regiment 
drafted under the act just mentioned, and remained three months. 
A portion of his commaml was stationed at Cape Vincent, and was 
very efficient in enforcing the embargo. 

War having been for years antieii>ated, was declared June 18. 1812, 
by a vote of 7'J to 49 in the House, .ind of 19 to 15 in the Senate, Silas 
Stow then representing this district, and voting in the negative. 
The event was first announced in a letter from Gov. Tompkins to 
Brig. -Gen. Jacob Brown, of the militia, dated June 2;!, in which ho 
was empowered to reinforce Col. Bellinger with the militia of Lewis, 
Jefferson, and St. Lawrence counties, and to arm and equip them at 
the State arsenals at Russell nnd Watertown, if occasion required. 
Col. Benedict, of De Kalb, St. Lawrence Co., was ordered to turn out 
immediately, to guard the frontiers from Ogdensburgh to St. Regis. 
In reply, Gen. Brown urged tho speedy forwarding of arms and 
munitions, and that a force should be posted at Cape Vincent and 
Ogdensburgh, which could be concentrated at a few hours' notice, 
should decisive measures be necessary. 

The news of the war had scarcely reached this frontier, when 
hostilities were begun in a siuall way by Abncr Hubbard, a Revolu- 
tionary soldier, who, without authority, and with only the aid of a 
man and a boy, made a descent upon Fort Carleton, near Cape 
Vincent, and, without firing a gun, took the garrison, consisting 
of three invalid men and two women, prisoners. The next day a 
boat was sent to the island for the st!)res, and the buildings were 
afterwards burned. This proceeding being known at Kingston, an 
attempt was made to detain a citizen from Brownville. who was in 
town on commercial business, but, being forewarned by a friend, he 
escaped. On the 29lh of April, a fleet of trading-vessels, that had 
been caught at Ogdensburgh. and were attempting to ascend the river 
to the lake, were pursued by a party of provincial militia. Two of 
the vessels — "The So('hia" and "Island Packet" — were burned, .ind 
the remainder returned in great confusion to Ogdensburgh, where 
they created the greatest alarm. This occurred near the foot of tho 
Thousand Islands. On the 2d of July the scouts of Gen. Brown 
brought in a man, found between Indian river and the St. Lawrence, 
who was taken for a s])y, but proved to bo an American, and con- 



538 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



firmed the account of the hurning of the vessels, stating that there 
were about thirty persons aboard, mostly families moving, and that 
the most of their effects were burned. It was apprehended that the 
enemy wore about to fortify the islands, and thus command the 
river. A few days before the news of war was received, a .large 
quantity of small arms was forwarded by the governor to this frontier, 
consisting of 20UU muskets, and a corresponding quantity of muni- 
tions, which were mostly t^ent on to the Russell arsenal, in Lawrence 
county, escorted by the detiichment from Lewis county. A consider- 
able body of militia from Jefferson County was assembled at Cape 
Vincent, together with a portion of the force of Cul. Ilellinger, as it 
was considered advisable to keep Kingston in as great a state of 
alarm as possible. At this point was the great naval station of the 
enemy, where for one or two years armed vessels had been building, 
and from whence alone an attack could be reasonably expected. It 
was apprehended that an attempt would be made by the British to 
destroy or take our vessels at Ogdcnsburgh and Sacket's Harbor. 

On Sunday, July 19, 1812, Capt. VVooIsey, of the "Oneida," dis- 
covered from the mast-head of his brig five sail of the enemy beat- 
ing np the harbor, viz., the ** Royal George," 2-1 guns ; the " Seneca," 
18 ; " Prince Regent," 22 ; " Earl of Moira," 20 ; and '' Simcoe," The 
** Oneida" attempted to gain the lake, but failing, returned, and was 
moored outside the point, where the ship-house now is, with one 
broadside of nine guns to the enemy, while the others were taken out 
and hastily plnce<l on a breastwork on the shore, near which, on the 
day previous, a 32-pounder had been mounted on a pivot, upon a 
mound about six feet high. Alarm guns were fired and expresses 
sent to call in the neighboring militia, who did not, however, arrive 
in time to render assistance, but who, in the course of the day, came 
in to the numbet of 3000. The British had, early in the morning, 
captured a boat laden with flour, from Cape Vincent, and the crew 
were set on shore, and sent with the message "that all they wanted 
was the brig 'Oncidn,' and the * Lord Nelson' (a vessel taken a lit- 
tle before for a violation of the revenue), and that they would burn 
the village if there was a single shot fired at them." The enemy had 
been misinformed about the defenses of the place, and especially of 
the 32-pounder, and supposed there was nothing to be feared in the 
way of ordnance. The force in town at that time was, besides the 
crew of the " Oneida," the regiment of Col. Bellinger, a volunteer com- 
pany of artillery under Capt. Camp, and a few militia. Capt. Woolsey, 
leaving his brig in charge of a lieutenant, took the general command 
on shore, the 32-pounder being in charge of Mr. William Vaughan, 
sailing-master, and the other guns under that of Capt. Camp. There 
were no shot in town hirger than 24-pound balls, which were used 
(with the aid of jiatches formed of carpets*} in the 32-pounder. By 
the time these arrangements were made the enemy had arrived within 
gun-shot, nearly in front of the battery, when the action was begun, 
the first shot being from the 32-i)0under on the mound, ujion which a 
shout of laughter was heard from the fleet, at the supposed imbecile 
attempt at resistance. The fire was returned briskly, iind continued 
for two hours, all of the enemy's l)alls but one or two falling against 
the rocks at the foot of the bluff, where our force was stationed. One 
hall fell near by, and plowed up the ground for some distitn'jc. It 
was caught up. just as it had spent its force, by a man who came run- 
ning in and shouting that he had '* caught them out ;" and so it proved, 
for, from its commanding position, it was seen that our big gun had 
cvcr3' advantage, and that several of its shots told with effect. To- 
wards the close of the action, as the " Royal George," the flag-ship, 
was wearing to give another broadside, a 24-pouud shot struck her 
stern, and raked her whole length, killing eight men and doing much 
damngo. Upon this the signal of retreat was given, and the whole 
fleet bore away for Kingston without ceremony. At this, the band 
uu shore struck up the national tunc of "Yankee Doodle," and the 
troops, who had through the whole affair behaved like veterans, sent 
up three cheers of victory. The shots from our battery had broken 
their chest of medicines, their fore-top-gallunt mast, and their vessels 
in a dozen places, while the enemy broke nothing but — the SuUmth. 
In a letter to the governor, of July 24, Gen. Brown attributed the 
success of the day to the gallant spirit of \Vo«dsey, Bellinger, and 
Camp, in their respective capacities, and especially to the nice shots 
nf the 32-pouDder. Mr. Vaughan, who pointed and fired this piece, 
claims the honor of having fired the first hostile gun in the war. One 
uf the men at this gun, named Julius Torry,a negro, bettor known as 

* Belonging to Mrs. Yauglian. 



Bluck JuliH9, and a great favorite in the camp, served at his post with 
remarkable activity and courage. As there was no opportunity for 
the use of small arms, the greater part of the troops who were drawn 
up were passive spectators of the engagement. 

It has been intimated that a fleet of eight trading-vessels was de- 
tained at t)gdensburgh, which occasioned great anxiety among our 
citizcnsf and to both belligerents. If they could be got to the lake 
and armed, they would give us the supremacy there; and if they 
could be destro^'ed, the enemy were sure of the asoendency for a con- 
siderable time. To prevent any attempt at escape, the " Earl of 
Moira," of fourteen guns, and the '■ Duke of Gloucester," of ten 
guns, had been sent to Prescott. This did not prevent a bold at- 
tempt from being made to relieve the vessels, which, although it failed 
to effect all that was intended, was carried out with great firmness, 
and deserves honorable notice. In a letter of July 30, to the gov- 
ernor, General Brown said, — 

" The expedition for Ogdensburgh is fitted out. The 'Julia," J with 
the long thirty-two pounder, two long sixes, and about sixty volun- 
teers, uuder the command of Lt. Wells, from the 'Oneida.' seconded 
by Capts. Vaughan and Dixon, now lies otT the h.irbor, ready to sail 
with the first favorable wind. We count upon her being under way 
in the course of this day, and we pray God she may do something 
towards saving the honor of the country. Perhaps your Excelbney 
mny suppose we have been led astray by our ardor, da/zled by tho 
object, and forgot our humble means. Our means are humble, but, 
with the blessing of Heaven, this republican gun-buat may give a 
good account of the 'Duke' and the 'Earl:' and a successful ter- 
mination of this enterprise will give us an equal chance for the com- 
mand of the lake." 

The result of this expedition is detailed in the following extract 
from a letter of Gen. Brown to the governor, dated Sacket's Uarbor, 
Aug. 4, 1812: 

"DkarSib, — The 'Julia' engaged the 'Earl' and 'Duke* on the 

St. Lawrence, about twelve miles above Ogdensburgh. They closely 
hugged the Canada shore, as the wind at the time was down the river, 
and it was impossible for them to beat to windward. The fire was 
continued for full three hours, when night — ami a dark night — was 
coming nn. and Lt. Wells very prmlently made his way to Ogdtnsburgh. 
The 'Julia' was very little injured ; but few balls struck her : there was 
neither killed nor wounded on our side, and we have not been able to 
learn what injury the enemy suffered. We expect to hear from AVclls 
again in a day or two." . . , 

The "Julia" was moored in the stream before Ogdensburgh until 
Sept. 5, in charge of Sailing-Master Vaughan, when, availing herself 
of the armistice in September, she returned to the lake in company 
with the vessels at that port. Bellinger's regiment was disbanded on 
the 20th of August, before being paid; the officers remained and the 
soldiers returned home. The delays of payment which these men 
experienced occasioned murmurs, and their claims were repeatedly 
made tho subject of representation to the governor by (ien. Brown, 
who awarded them much credit for the services rendered, but insisted 
that tho interests of the service and the honor of the country alike 
required iheir discharge at the end of their enlistment. 

On the 30th of July, a fine company of riflemen under Capt. Benj. 
Forsyth had been ordered to join (Jen. Brown at Sacket's Harbor, 
which was the first regular force on this frontier since the declaration 
of war. He was encouraged by Gen. Brown to enlist ns many men 
into his company as ]>ossible, and it was hoped that he would be able 
to have men enough for two companies in the course of the fall. On 
the irth of Sept., Gen. Brown addressed a letter to the governor, in 
which he said, — 

Di-:An Sin. — The first and only official notice that I havo received 
from my governituMit of the renewal <d" otVeiisive operations against 
Great Britain, came to hand yesterday by the way of Ogdensburgh.^ 

. . . But I must say to your Excellency that, unless more vigor 
and energy is infused into tho national council, it is not in human 
nature that this war can be brought to a conclusion worthy of the 
Anu-rii-an people. Excuse me. sir. Of vessels we have on this lake 
ten, besides the " (hieida," and vessels they are of the first class for 
their burthen; six of them are here, viz., the *' (Jenesee Packet, "jj 
" Experiment," f '• ('ollector,"'^^ "Lord Nelson, "ff " Niagara," and 
the "Julia." At Oswego, "Charles and Ann,"JJ " Diana,"^^ "Fair 
American," and "Ontario." These vessels are from 70 to 100 tons 

t See History of St. Lawrence County. 

X A fchuoner built hy Miiltbew BlcXalr, of O^^wego, and named from hl« 
(lituKbter. 
§ UeftTrinK to an nrmintice that liad lieon acreed ujwn Aiiff, 8, 1812. 
[1 Afrorwanis tho "Corniuejtt.'* ft .\f!«'rwiirds tlje " Scourjci*." 

^ .\fterwiirdt the "Growler.'' XX Afterrtiirds the " f^ov. Toniiikiiis.** 

•* .\fterw;irdi tlm " I'Ort." W Aflcrwnrds the " llaiiiiUuii.'* 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



539 



burthen, and, if armed with long |{2-pounders and manned with such 

uu'n as ihis nation couM t"iirnif>li, wuuUl at once couiiuand the lake 
ami the St. Ijiiwiciicc- li> tlif rapids ; ami may 1 ask, your Kxcellency, 
in Ilie name of all that is holy, why this lias not been done? IJesides 
J.hese vessels, we have a nuinl>er of slip-keel boats, of from 10 to 12 
tons burthen, and many other boats of Irom to S tons burthen. Tht-se 
boats should be armed wiih swivels and lij^ht guns of from 4 to 6 
pound calibre. Let this be done, and we will soon see tliest- waters 
ours, and tlien I'liper Canada will not bu of so difficult aequirenunt. 
Anything like a respectable army will thtn be enabled tu look down 
all opposition. 

On the night of the 20th of Sept., an expedition was dispatched 
from Sackct's Harbor, which is thus described by Gen. Urown, in a 
letter to the governor : 

*' At a time when my force was the lightest, and a very consider- 
able alarm prevailed for the safety of th;it ))urt, 1 fitted out a secret 
expedition, under the command of that excellent officer, ('apt. For- 
syth, against (iananoqui,asinall Britisli jiust, 20 miles below Kingston, 
with the view of capturing some of the enemy's ammunition, of which 
we were, and are, greitly in want, and <jf alarming them as much as 
possible for their own safety. My order was exernted by Capt. For- 
syth as became an officer and a soldier; and (.'apt. MeNitt and Lieut. 
Brown, and Knsigns Hawkins and .Tohnson, of the militia, who vol- 
unteered on the expelition. are reported to me, by Cajtt. Forsyth, as 
deserving the highest praise for their eoul, intrepid valor and good 
conduct. There was not a man but did his duty. ('apt. Forsyth 
landed in open day, two miles above the village, his whole force 
amounting to 'Jo. At three-quarters of a mile he met two horsemen, 
one of whom was probubly shot; the other lied to the village, wheie 
Capt. Forsyth found, on his arrival, the enemy drawn up in order of 
bailie. 110 strong, and upon his approach they commeneed a heavy 
lire upon him. but over. He rushed immediately ou, without tiring, 
until within lOU yards, when his parly made a few deliberate shots, 
tliea rushed >n\ and broke the eui'my, drove them across a bridge, 
which, for bis bettor security, ('apt. Forsyth broke up. He had one 
man killeil ancl one wounded. The loss of the enemy, in killed, Capt. 
Forsyth has declined stating, but, from the best information I can 
collect from the pitrty. it was from ten to lifteen.-^- Twelve prisoners 
wen- (aken. lUKlO ball cartridges, and 41 muskets. f There were, in 
the King's store, about loU barrels of provisions, and as there wore 
DO boats to bring it away it was consumed by fire, together with the 
store. Private property was hidd sacred. To the soldiers on this 
expe lition [ have prcsentv?d the public property taken, as a reward 
for their valor and good conduct. £ wish your l^lxccllcncy to appro- 
bate or disapprobate this my donation to these brave men. Your 
Excellency must bear in mind that, with my very little brigade, or 
at best a part of that at Oswego. I have been ]>ut upon the detenso 
of this northern frontier, from St. Kegis to near (Jswego. The men 
that I have tlie honor to command have done and suHered much for 
militia; their clothes generally were in tatters, and they are poor 
men. They cannot cbithe themselves in this region for SG.fiti per 
month, and it is not in huumn nature that these men can enlure a 
winter campaign in this climate thus clad. I cannot believe that these 
men would leave me; it would grieve me if they should; but it is a 
stain upon our national character that the citiy.cn soldier of this 
country should be worse paid and provided for than any other class 
among us." ... 

September 21, Brig.-(3en. Richard Dodge arrived at AVatertown, 
with a detachment of militia from the Mohawk country, and issued 
orders for (Jen. Brown to march to Ogdensburgh with the detached 
militia under his command, and take charge of that fort. As the 
roads wore then nearly impassable, and the journey would have been 
tedious and expensive, he chose the route of the river, and arrived at 
Ogdensburgh, without accident, on the 1st of October. On the 2d the 
enemy cannonaded the town, and on the 4th made an unsuccessful 
attack, J in which they were repulsed with considerable loss. His 
presence and the efficient exertions of his troop.s at that time saved 
the town from capture. A part of Capt. Forsyth's company accom- 
panied (ien. Brown, the remainder being detained by Gen. Dodge at 
Packet's Harbor. Early in October, Gov. Tompkins visited Sackct's 
Harbor, to take efficient measures for its defense; and on the 6th, 
Com. Isaac Chauncey, having been appointed commander of the 
naval forces of the t'nited States on the lakes, arrived. The vessels 
on the lake were immediately bought and fitted with armaments, and 
ship-building on an extensive scale was commenced under the direc- 
tion of Henry Eckford. The enemy bad at this time a naval force 
of 105 guns and 890 men. At the request of the governor, Gen. 
Dodgo detached to the aid of Gen. Brown, about the 12th of October, 
the residue of Capt. Forsyth's company, and the artillery companies 
of Captains Brown, King, and Foot, in all 1(50 men, with a sup]ily of 
munitions, among which were two brass nines, one iron four, two 

* Ten killed and eight prisonei'S. 

t One account sn.vs, sixty stand of arms, two blanket^, a consid<*r.ibIe quan- 
tity of tixed anmiunition, one burrel of powder, one of Hints, and some other 

prupi-rty. 
X History of St. Lawrence aad Franklin counties, p. G25; Jeff. Co., p. 424. 



chests of ammunition, 250 12-pound balls, 300 9-pound balls, 200 6- 
pound balls, GO muskets, and 145 pounds of powder. 

Com. Chauncey first appeared on the lake on the 8th of November, 
with his broad pennant on the ** Oneida," 10 guns, Lt. Woolscy, and 
having in company the "Conquest," Lt. Elliot: "Hamilton," Lt. 
Mcpherson; "Gov. Tompkins," Lt. Brown; " Perl," Mr. Arundel ; 
" Julia," Mr. Trant ; and '* Growler," Mr. Mi.\ : the last three persons 
being sailing-masters. The vessels together mounted 40 guns, of 
difTerent calibres, and numbered 4it0 men, including marines. The 
object of the expedition was to intercept the enemy's vessels ou their 
return from Fort tleorge, whither they had gone with troops to rein- 
force that post, and from which they were daily expected to return to 
Kingston. The reputed force of the enemy's fleet was as follows : 

The ship " Royal George," 20 guns, 200 men ; ship " Earl of 
Moira," 18 guns, 200 men; schooners ** Princie Uegent," 18 guns, 150 
men; "Duke of Gloucester," 14 guns, SO men; *' Simeoe," 12 guns, 
70 men ; and " Seneca," 4 guns, and 40 men. 

On the morning of the 10th he took a small schooner, which ho 
burnt, having got sight of the "Royal George," which he followed 
into Kingston harbor, and engaged her and the batteries an hour and 
forty-five minutes, but finding these stronger than anticipated, night 
coming on, and a gale of wind blowing in, he stood off" and anchored. 
In the morning he fell in with the "Simeoe," and so disabled her 
with shot that she sank before getting alongside of the dock. 

On the morning of the IDth he took a large schimner from Niagara, 
bound in. and the next morning sent down the prize, under convoy of 
the "Growler," past Kingston, to induce the ship to follow, but 
without success. The night of the llth was boisterous; on the 12th 
was a severe snow-storm, and on the \'Mh it continued to snow fast, 
but with little wind. The remainder of this cruise we give in the 
language of Com. Chauncey, in a letter to the governor: 

"The 'Growler' sent the prize in, and stood in for the hurku, 
where he bad orders to join me. Near the Duvkn he fell in with the 
' Earl of Moira,' convoying the sloop ' Elizabeth' from York to 
Kingston. Sailing-Master Mix, who commanded the 'Growler,' ran 
down in a vijry gallant nninner and took possession of the ' Eliza- 
beth' within two miles of the shiji, and brought her in. I imme- 
diately weighed and stood for Kingston, in hopes to cut her ofl"; but 
the elements were against me again, for I scarcely had left the harUir 
before it blew a guleof wind, and snowed so thick that we freijuently 
could not see a mile. W'v, however, persevered, to tlie great danger 
of the vessels and lives of the crews. On the 14th we got sight of 
tlie ' Earl of Moira,' entering Kingston harbor, but it blowing a galo 
of wind, we concluded not to follow, and after beating about almost 
all that day, I made the signal for all the squadron to bear for this 
place, where we arrived on the same evening. During these two 
short cruises we captured three vessels, — two have arrived, one we 
burnt, — a fourth was so injured that she sunk, and we learn from one 
who came in with the flags yesterday that the * Royal George' was 
so much injured that she had to haul on shore to keep from sinking, 
having received several shots between wind and water, several guns 
disabled, and a number of persons killed or wounded, besides c(m- 
siderable injury (though not intentional) to the town. Amongst the 
prisoners is Capt. Brock, of the 2i)th regiment, and a relative of the 
late Gen. Brock, who was returning from York with part of the bag- 
gage of his deceased friend. Our loss was trifling: one man killed 
and four wounded: two of the latter by the bursting of a gun on 
board of the ' Pert,' the commander of which vessel. Mr. Arnndell, 
was knocked overboard and drowned. The damage tlone to the rig- 
ging ami sails not much, and a few shot in the liulls o( one of the 
vessels, but the injury from which was soon lepaired. The 'Gov. 
Tompkins,' 'Hamilton.' 'Conquest,' and 'Growler,' are now block- 
ading the vessels in Kingston. I ;im taking on b'-nrd guns and 
stores for Niagara, for which jilacc I shall sail the first wind, in com- 
pany with the ' Julin,' ' Pert,' ' Fair American.' * Ontario,' and 
'Scourge.' and I am in great hopes that I shall fall in with the 
* Prince Regent,' or some of the royal family which are cruising 
about Y'ork. Had we been one month sooner we could have taken 
every town on this lake in three weeks, but the seas<in is now so 
tempestuous that I am apprehensive we cannot do much more this 
winter. I am, however, ready to co-operate with the army, and our 
officers and men are anxious to be engaged." 

This brilliant mana'uvre conferred great credit upon those engaged, 
and called public attention to the operations ou this frontier, as 
likely to afford a theatre for deeds of valor that would confer honor 
upon the American name. The spirited engagement in Kingston 
harbor has been compared by Cooper to the assault upon Tripoli, in 
our previous war with the Barbary States, to which it was not in tho 
least inferior, due alh)wancc being made for the comparative force 
employed. The fact of the " Hoyal George." which was by much tho 
largest vessel that had then been built on our inland waters, retiring 
before the "Oneida," has been ascribedH to her not being properly 

II Naval History of tbe Cnited States, Ijy J. Feuiaioru Cooper, ii. 333. 



540 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



officered. The British had not then made their drafts upon the royal 
navy for the service of the Inkes. 

A singularly romantic incident, remarkable in its coincidences, 
and vcrilyinj; the proverb thiit tnttk in strunger than Jiction, was 
related to the author by onc^* who was intimately acquainted with the 
facts, and whose reputation fur voracity and correctness is above sus- 
jiicion. 

Tom Garnet was the son of an English farmer, living about forty 
miles from Liverpool, who conducted a large farm with much success, 
and had acquired more of the conveniences and luxuries of life than the 
average of that class in England. Tom had arrived at manhood, and 
had just married the object of his choice, when he was sent by his 
father to Liverpool with an ox-cart laden with wheat, to exchange for 
household furniture and articles necessary for nn outfit. He had 
been but a short time in town when he was rudely seized by a press- 
gang, and, despite of his entreaties and resistance, was taken on 
board a frigate about to sail for the East Indies, his cart and oxen 
rt-maining in the streets, and himst-lf unable to send a single word 
home, to relieve the druadtui anxiety that his protracted absence 
would occasion. 

l>uring ?even long weary years he was detained abroad, without 
exchanging one letter with home, or knowing whether those most 
dear were deacl or living; when, at length, sun-burnt by tropical 
heat, and, by hard service, so worn and haggard as scarcely to be 
recognized, lie was landed at Liverpool, and, witli a light heart, set 
his face homeward, wondering what the changes of seven years 
might have wrought in his home. On the approach of night, fearing 
to call at an inn, lest his dress and appearance should excite sus- 
picion that he was a deserter from the navy, he crept into a nook 
under a stack of straw, and spent the night. In the morning, there 
being a dense fog, and not knowing the course he was going, he fell 
into the midst of another press-gang, who, in spite of entreaties, 
again carried him to the fleet, and he was soon under way to the coast 
of South America. After several years, finding an opportunity, he 
reached the shore and fled ; crossed the Andes, and, at length, reach- 
ing another port, and, tinding no other opportunity of leaving, 
he enlisted in an American ship-of-war for a few months, and soon 
after sailed for the United States. His crew were soon detailed for 
service on Lake Ontario, and he arrived at Sacket's Harbor in the 
fall of LSI2, and became one of the crew of the "Oneida," under 
Woolsey. 

Here our informant became acquainted with hiiu, it having bein 
twenty years since he was first abducted, during which time not ono 
word had been received from home. He was of a kind, cheerful, and 
obliging disposition; was strictly temjierate, used no profane lan- 
guage, and was made captain of the forecastle, from the entire con- 
fidence that was jdaeed in his capacity and fidelity. In short, Tom 
Garnet was the universal favorite of the brig, and both officers and 
men became strongly attached to him for his kindness of heart, intel- 
ligence, and moral worth. 

On the morning before the fleet of Cliauneoy sailerl to meet the 
enemy near Kingston, Tom related to his comrades a dream he had 
the night before, in which he thought his wife aj>i)eared to him as a 
disemliodied spirit in heaven, with a son, whom he had never seen, 
anci told him that he would soon join them. His story was treated 
with levity; but the calm and serious earnestness with which he 
related it, and the evident conviction he felt of its reality, clieeked 
that hilarity that might otherwise have attended the announcement 
that ho was to be the first man killed on board the fleet. Ho pro- 
ceeded to divide his wardrobe among his companions, and gave in- 
structions about the little property he possessed, as would one to 
whom death was a certain doom; yet his cheerfulness and alacrity 
was unabated, and, although he evidently believed in the presenti- 
ment he expressed, he seemed to bu exhilarated with the welcome 
prospect of meeting the long-lost and de:»r partner of early hopes 
blasted, — the object on which his memories had centred, and the only 
one for whom he had de.*ired to live. Chaunccy's fleet sailed and 
engaged the enemy's batteries in the harbor of Kingston, as above 



• Ciiptnin Au;;iistU8 Ford, of Sacket's Harbor. Ho was born in 1772, and In 

Ids liuyli.iKi .torv<-il in llio Coiitinentil fri«iitc " Wiwliiii':tnn,"' iiin) nficrwiirils in 
«'-viTiiI |trivfttoL'ni,—'* Snak"*fl-b," " Dolphin," iitid ulbera. Ciipt. Kurd dit*d in 
1H5.'». In 1793 lio nn<t aunu tr> OHwej-o, and froni WJii down to a Into periud 
liiH boon coimccliMl with tbo nuviKatlon of thin lake. Ilu wad coniiuiiHioneJ as 
ftuilingniiistor Mmcli 2^, ]slo, imil »«(>rv<>r| uiiclf>r Woulsoy. 



related ; the first shot from which was a nine-pound ball that crossed 
the deck of the '' Oneida" and passed through the body of Tom Garnet, 
at his post. He fell instantly dead, with the same smile upon his 
countenance that habit had inijircssed. This singular coincidence 
and verification of presentiment is so well attested by authentic wit- 
nesses that it merits the attention of the curious. 

A similar exj)erience, as connected with the English system of 
"pressing" men into the naval service, is related of Commodore 
Thomas McDonough. the commander of the American fleet at the 
naval action in IMattsburgh bay, September 11, 1S14. A few years 
previous to the war he was mate on board an American merchant- 
ship, and when lying in the harbor of Liverpool, England, he went 
on shore, and was captured by a "press-gang," and. in spite of his 
protestations that he was an American, was taken on board an English 
frigate, commanded by Commodore Bownie. He told them they 
would pay dearly some day for their insults to the I'nitcd States. JIo 
soon after managed to escape, and, when the war broke out, entered 
the navy, and eventually found himself in command of the United 
States fleet on Lake Champlain. Dowuie commanded the British fleet 
and was killed; the entire fleet was captured in the memorable en- 
gagement which followed, and McDonough was fully avenged. 

On the 2tJth of November the shij) "Madison" was launched at 
Sacket's Harbor, having been built in forty-five days. Fort Tomp- 
kins had been built during the summer previous, and stood on the 
plain fronting the bay, near the present ship-house. Temporary bar- 
racks had also been fitted uj» under the directions of Major Darby 
Noon. Late in November, the fleet attempted to gain the head of 
the lake, but was driven back in agale, the " Growler" was dismasted, 
and the fleet greatly endangered by the ice. Early in Deooniber tlie 
navigation closed for the season, and the winter was spent on both 
sides of the lake in active preparations for the ensuing campaign. 

*' In the course of the autumn the Americans had increased their 
force to eleven sail, ten of which wore the small .-schooners bought from 
the merchants and fitted with gun-boat armaments, without quarters. 
In addition to the vessels already named, were the ' Ontario,' 
'Sc'iurgc,' • Fair American,' and ' Asp." Neither of the ten were lit 
to cruise, and an ordinary eigliteen-gun brig ought to have been able 
to cope with them all in a good working breeze, in close quarters. At 
long shot, however, and in smooth water, they were not without a 
certain eflicieney. As was proved in the end, in attacking batteries 
and in covering descents they were even found to be exceedingly ser- 
viceable."t 

In the cabinet at Washington, a plan of operations against Canaila 
in the ensuing season began to be discussed early in February, and an 
attack ui)on Kingston was to make an early and prominent part of 
these movements. The general outline of the campaign was commu- 
nicated to (Jen. Dearborn, the commander-in-chief, on the 10th of Feb- 
ruary, which directed 4000 troops to be assembled at Sacket's Harbor 
and 3000 at Buffalo. The former of these was to be landed at Kings- 
ton, and, after securing that place and the shipping, to proceed to York, 
with the view of seizing the stores tliere collected, and the two frigates 
said to be there building. Towards the close of the month Gen. 
Brown received orders to call out several hundred militia, and Col. 
Pike, then stationed on Lake Champlain, was directed to proceed 
with 400 of his command in sleighs, by the nearest and best route to 
Sacket's Harbor. A portion of Gen, Pike's force arrived at Sacket's 
Harbor on snow-shoes. Several hundred pairs were deposited in the 
arsenal at Watertown, where they remained until destroyed by mice 
and decay. Capt. Forsyth, having bceu driven out of Ogdcnsburgh 
on the 22d of Feb., soon after joined the forces at the harbor. Had 
Chauncey arrived in season an attack upon Kingston, by crossing 
on the ice, would have been attempted; but he was detained several 
weeks in New York, and his presence was deemed necessary- in this 
enterprise. 

Gen. Dearborn arrived about the first of March, when ho was in- 
formed that Sir George Prevost, having adjourned the provincial par- 
liament and arrived in Kingston, was making active preparations 
for oflTensivo measures; that a force had been collected from Quebec, 
Montreal, and Cpper Canada, of from fiOOO to 8000 men, ami that an 
attack from Kingston might be shortly expected. 

By the 14th the apjtrchensiotis of attack had nearly subsided, and 
Gon. Dearborn apprised the Secretary of War of his belief to that 
cff"ect, and added, — 

"All the apprehension is now at Kingston. Sir George has visited 
York and Niagara, and returned to Montreal. Several bodies of 

t Cooiior's Xuval History. 



HISTORY OF JEFFP:RS0N county, new YORK. 



541 



troopa have passed up from Montreal ; but such precautions have 
been taken to prevent their number being iipcertained as tf> render it 
impossible to lurin any aceurate opinion of their forces, or even to 
imagine very nearly whiit they aniouiit to. From various ?ourees I 
am perfectly jfatisfied tliat they iirc not in suflicient force to attack 
this place, knowing as they do that wo have coHeetcd a fine body of 
tror»ps from (irecnbusli and Platlsburg, and that tlie militia have been 
ealleci in." 

On the 1 Jth of Mareh a council of war was held, composed of the 
prineiiml officers on the station, and the attack upon Kingston was 
formally abandoned until the co-operation of the fleet could be sc- 
eured. The naval pre|>:irations necessary for the aecomplishment of 
these )diins were actively prosecuted under the direetion (»f Mr. Kck- 
ford, the President having, on the .'id of March, directed six sloops- 
of-war to bo built on the lakes, and as many to be bouglit as might 
he needed for the service, and the sum of S9t)0,000 was Appropriated 
for this object. Several ships on the ocean were laid up in our At- 
lantic ports, and their crews transferred to the lakes ; the pay of sea- 
n.en was advanced twenty-five per cent., aud the chief energies of the 
nation appeared to be directed to this frontier as the probable theatre 
of momentous events in the coming campaign. On the 14th of April 
the enemy launched two large vessels, and their naval forces received 
large accessions from the British fleet.* 

On the 7th of April the brig ".Jefferson" was hiunched at Sackct's 
Harbor, and on the 10th the brig "Jones." On the ilth the keel of 
the "General Pike" was laid. The "General Pike" was said to have 
been built in one hundre<l days. The force on the 1st of March was 
said to number nearly 5000 regulars and twelve-months' volunteers, 
with i:iOO sailors anti 2000 militia. On the 2St)i of March the troops 
manoeuvred on the ice, and on the middle of April the ice had disap- 
pearcii from the lake. On the 10th the " (rrowlcr" sailed out to re- 
connoitre. Brig. -Gen. John Chandler had arrived early in the 
month, and the forces assemhlecl were thought sufficient to justify an 
attack upon the enemy. The jiost at York, at whieh j)laee it w&s un- 
derstood several vessels were building, was thought to offer an eligi- 
ble point for beginning operations, and, if taken, would give us the 
command of the lake, from whence our forees could proceed to attack 
Fort George by land and water, while the troops at Buffalo should 
cross over and carry Forts Erie and Chippewa, and join the army at 
Fort George, from whence the eombined forces might concentrate 
upon Kingston, without the apprehension of an enemy in the rear. 

April 22, about 1700 troops, under the immediate charge of 
Gen. Z. M. Pike, were embarked on board the fleet of Com. Chaun- 
ccy, the whole being directed by Gen. Dearborn. On the 2oth the 
fleet sailed, the destination being unknown to the most of those on 
board. 

York, now the city of Toronto", and tlien the capital of Upper 
Canaila, is situated on a small bay, formed by a low, narrow, sandy 
peninsula, stretching from the landing. Maj. Forsyth and his excellent 
and gallant rifle corps, who had been placed in two large bateaux, 
pulled undauntedly towards the clear ground, where he had been or- 
dered to land : hut he was forced, by the strength of the wind, a con- 
siderable distance below his destined point. The fire of musketry 
and rifles here comraeuced from the shore, the enemy being within a 
few feet of the water, and in a considerable degrte masked by the 
woods and copse. Here Maj. Forsyth ordered his men to rest for a 
fi'W moments upon their oars, and soon opened a galling fire upon 
the enemy. In the moment while Forsyth's men were lying on their 
oars aud jirimiug, Gen. Pike was standing on the deck, and impatient 
at the apparent pause of an instant, and seeing that the rifle corps 
had been driven by the wind be3'ond the jioint at which they were to 

have embarked, ho exclaimed, "By 1 I can't stay here any 

longer!" and addressing himself to bis staff, " Come, jump into the 

* The folliiwing extnict from tlie President's message of Ai)ril 1, 1813, sets 
forth Ihf coiuliiion of the country in the matter of dtTenses; 

"The militia whicli had I'cen drifted into service at SackelV Ilarl'or were 
also siipplifd with iml»lic arms. Previous to tlioir disehwrge direcliuns were 
given lu the brigade <inartei muster of tiiititiit to see to it that the State iirop- 
ei tj was MUTendered when the m litiu was disdiaryed ; and the 8ii|ieriotfiident 
of tlie arsenal at W;iterto«n was nntjticd thi-reof, and ri*(]uired to attend at 
the Harln.r in ]>er8t>n to receive tlie said property and i*ej)Iace it in tlie arsenal. 
This duly was performed, as will appear by invoice and snpcrintetidcnt':?! re- 
ceipt, recently received \>y me, and herewith transmitted, marked ' B,' and hy 
Qnnrteriiui.-<ter Conner's receipt?*, marked *C.' Independent of llic piuperiy so 
returned, three t-unipatiies of vidunteers, still in sei vice at SiicketV Ilarhor, are 
arniei) with State muskets. MuskeU and amnmnition have likewise been de- 
posited in tlie e.Nposetl t'i« ns of Ilendei'son, Brownville, and Cliampiun.'" 



boat," which they immediately did, the commodore having reserved 
a boat specially for him and his suite. The little coxswain was or- 
dered immediately to steer for the luitblle of the fray, and the bulls 
whistled gloriously around; probably their numlicr was owing to 
seeing so many officers in the same boat ! 

The infantry had, according to orders, embarked at the same time, 
and formed platoons as they reached the shore. The general took 
command of the first platoon he reached, and formed it below, and 
ordered the whole to prfjmrc for n chunj*- as soon as they reacheil the 
lop of the bank. They gained the bank under a volley of the enemy's 
musketry and rifle shot, but had not time to form the platoon com- 
pletely when the British grenadiers showetl their hacks. At the very 
moment the sound of Forsyth's bugles was heard with peculiar de- 
light, as it was the indication of his success. The effect of the bugle 
upon the nerves of the British Indian allies was electric, for they no 
sooner heard it than they gave a diabolical yell, and fled in all direc- 
tions. The Glengary corps skirmished with Forsyth's while the in- 
fantry were landing, aud Brigade- Major Hunter formed the troops for 
action as they landed aud reached the jiiain. The volunteer corps, 
commanded by Col. Machire, flanked the reserve, and the light 
artillery, commanded by Maj. Eustis, acting ns infantry, covered 
the left.f 

It is proper to state in this place the gallant and masterly eo-op- 
erntion of Com. Chaunccy and the naval squadron under his com- 
mand. He sent his schooners, mounting heavy metal, to cover the 
landing, and kept up so well-directed aud inees.iant a fire of grape on 
the woods as to eflectually cover our right flank and afford us great 
facility in forming our platoons, besides producing the utmost con- 
sternation among the Indians. A shot from one of the schooners 
killed a horse under the aid of the British general, hut, owing to the 
shallowness of the water, neither the ship nor the brig could bo 
hnnight in to participate in the action; but the commitdorc himself 
was, through the whole <d" the action, in his boat, eneournging and 
giving orders to the different schooners. The navy lost two gallant 
midshipmen, and about 20 seamen were killed ancl wounded. The 
troops ordered U* land liy Gen. Pike, when he went <»n shore, were tho 
three companies of Capt. Hopsock (who was mortally wounded in tho 
boat), Capt. Scott and Ca])t. Voung of the iJih Regiment, U. S. In- 
fantry, all under the command of Maj. King, of the same regiment 
(the same who galhmtly distinguished himself at Queens'own). 

Their orders were to reinforce Maj. Forsyth, and effevt a hitidintj^ 
and they were forbidden to load or use powder. The riflctncn of For- 
syth, as the infantry came up, oi>cned a heavy and effectual fire upon 
the enemy, and the three cumjianies landed in the most complete style. 
The enemy gave way before our troops could come to the bayonet's 
])oint, and were pursued up the bank by our troops. At the top of 
tho bank a fresh body of British grenadiers (said to be the 8th, or 
king's grenadiers) made a formidable charge upon this column, and 
compelled it, for an instant, to retire : but our troops instantly rallied 
and returned to tlic charge, and with the most complete success. Not 
a man of the grenadiers escaped our fire or charge; and our troops, 
just reinforced by the remainder of the liitb, remained undisturbed 
masters of the bank. This reinforcement brought the colors of the 
l.^th, which accompanied the platoon of Capt. Steele. The enctny 
jirescnted a fresh front ; the troops were instantly formed for the charge 
by Maj. King, who gave them Yitukce hmttllc : but the enemy did 
not like our music, nor our pikes, any better than our rifles ; they gave 
way, and fled in the utmost disorder. 

The American forces having all landed, formed into platoons, and 
marched towards the enemy's works, flanked by the rifle corps; one 
field-piece and a howitzer were placed at the head of the column, in 
charge of Capt. Fanning, of the .'Id Artillery. The general then or- 
dered a recounoisanee td' the enemy's works, and thereby ascertained 
their strt ngth, and the imjiortant fact that they were spiking their 
own guns towarcls the sbipjiing. 

The general immediately ordered Capt. Walworth, of the Ifith. with 
his company of grenadiers, to make the assault. Walwortli gallantly 
ordered his men to trail aruts, and advanced at the accelerated pace, 
but at the moment they were ordered to rrcrer, niitl vhunjc the enemy, 
the enemy broke in the utmost confusion, leaving several men wounded 
on the ground, which they abandoned. They proceeded in admirable 
order on a gradual ascent, when a fire was opened upon them of round 
and canister, from the quarters of the British governor. The gca- 



t The number ef Ameiicjin troops that landt^d wasatniut eight hundred. 



542 



HISTORV OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



eral ordered the troops to lie cluse^ while the artillery under Maj. 
EuFtis was brought to the front, and silenced the enemy's battery. 

The firing very soon cciist-d aUog»;ther, and the Americans were cx- 
]n-'cting a flag of surrender, whtn a terrible explosion of the British 
magazine took place. "^ The explosion was* stupendous and awful, and 
at the instant the common sujiposition was a subterranean mine. The 
general had just aided in removing a wounded man with his own 
hands, and sat down on a stump with a British sergeant, who had 
been taken prisoner, and whom the genural was examining when the 
explosion look ]>lace. The general, Capt. Nicholson, and the British 
sergeant were all mortally wounclcd. 

Brigade-Maj. Hunt, assisted by Lieut.-Co). Mitchell, of the 3d Artil- 
lery, formed the troops, ami were ready to give or receive a charge 
in live minutes after the explosion. 

The wounds of Gen. Pike were of such a nature as to disqualify him 
from all further service, and the command devolved on Col. Pcarcc, 
of the ]6lh Infantry, as the senior officer, who sent a flag demanding 
an immediate surrender at discretion. They made only one stipula- 
tion, which was granted without hesitation, — that private property 
should be respected. The British general made his escape, and a 
body of regular troops with him. 

When the surgeons were carrying their wounded general and his aids 
from the field, our troops, which had just formed, gave a tremendous 
huzzu ! The general turucd his head anxiously to inquire what that 
was for; a sergeant, who accompanied him, said. The Hn'tish union- 
jack ia comiuff ilotni, (fenenil ; tfit etnrs are yoi'iig up! lie heaved a 
heavy sigh of ecstasy and smiled, even amidst the anguish which 
must have been inseparable from the state of his wounds. He was 
carried on board the commodore's ship, accompanied by the commo- 
dore, who came to attend him, where his gallant spirit fled, another 
Montgomery in fate; not, indeed, perishing by the valor of a gallant 
foe, but falling, even in the arms of victory, by the barbarous revenge 
of a baftlcd and defeated enemy. 

As the general was breathing his last the British standard was 
brought to him. He made a sign to have it placed under his head, 
and died without a groan, though his sulTerings must have been ex- 
tremely severe. His body was embalmed at York, and conveyed to 
Sacket's Harbor, where it was interred in the magazine of Fort Tomp- 
kins with all the stately pomp of military honor, amidst the regrets 
of every good man. Capt. Nicholson, of Maryland (an inestimable 
young man, who was killed by his side), his beloved aid and pupil, 
was buried in the same grave, and at the same time, by order of the 
commanding general, in testimony of his respect for the deceased. 

Gen. Sbcuffe commanded the British troops, militia, and Indians. 
No resistance was offered after the explosion. 

The '* Duke of Gloucester," in port undergoing repairs, twenty gun- 
boats and 28 guns, with an immense quantity of provisions and naval 
stores, were the fruits of this capture. A large ship on the stocks, and 
nearly planked up, and a quantity of naval stores, were fired by the 
enemy upon their retreat. There not being a sufficient number of 
transports to remove the prisoners, about .^00 were releaseil upon their 
parol. Gen. ShealTe's baggage and pajiers fell into the hands of Gen. 
Dearborn, and a human nrulp was Inuiul suspendetl, with the mace, 
over the chair of the speaker in the legislative council-chamber. 

The following account of killed and wounded was soon after jmb- 
lished : 

By the Americans in the battle, 14 kilh-il and .12 wounded ; by the 
explosion, '18 killetl and 222 wounded; by the British, 20(1 killed and 
wountled ; "Ofl prisoners of militia and ."iO regulars. Of the navy, 
1 1 sailors were killed and 1 1 wounded. 

Gen. Boyil was soon after assigned the command of the brigade of 
Gen. Pike. The government barracks, etc., were destroyed. 

Having taken on board all the naval stores that could be trans- 
ported, the place was evacuated, and the army was taken to Niagara. 
Chauncey returned to Sacket's Harbor on the I3th of May, and hav- 
ing taken on board 350 troops, sailed on the 22d for Niagara, where 
he arrive<l on the 26th. 

The descent upon York provoked the resentment of the enemy, 
who, knowing that Sacket's Harbor had been weakened by the with- 
drawal of troops to the Niagara, planned an attack upon the for- 
mer, well knowing that the capture or destruction of the vessels there 
building, and the stores collected, would at once give them the supre- 



* The ningnziiie contnined 500 barrels of powder, many cartloads of stone, 

ami u'l iiiimeiis<' ^luiialily k>\ ii'nn t«lii-lls iiimI -hot. 



macy in the campaign, and effestually suppress any further offensive 
operations of the Americans for some time. 

Sacket's Harbor was at this time but poorly prepared for defense. 
Fort Tomjikins, occupying the site for the present residence of the 
commancling officer of the station, was manned b^' about 21)0 dis- 
mounted dragoons, under Col. Backus, 60 artillerists, under Lieut. 
Ketchum, and 70 infantry invalids, recruits, and parts of companies. 
A little east of the village was Fort Volunteer, a slight work that had 
been chiefly erected by a comjiany of exempts. Gen. Dearborn had 
written to Brig. -Gen. Brown to assume the command and make pro- 
visions for a defense. 

Between the village and Horse Island, a mile distant, vvas a thin 
wood that hacl been partly cut over, and was filled with brush, logs, 
and stumps. Ojjposite the island was a clearing of about four acres, 
and the island itself, which embraces twenty-nine acres, and lies at 
the entrance of the bay, was covered with a growth of timber, and 
at that time connected with the mainland by a bar that afforded a 
crossing, nearly or quite dry. The beach opposite was composed, 
then as now, of a ridge of gravel, which at that time made a natural 
breastwork four or five feel high. A short distance back, and farther 
south on the shore, a strip of woods extended, which had been ob- 
structed as much as possible several days previous, by felling trees 
in every direction. 

The enemy having made preparations at Kingston for an attack, 
embarked 1201) men, under Sir George Prevost. on the evening of May 
27, on board the ships " Wolfe," a new vessel of 24 guns ; the " Royal 
George," 24 guns; the brig ''Earl of Moira," 18 guns: and the 
schooners "Prince Regent," ''Simcoe," and "Seneca," mounting 
each several guns; two gun-boats, and about forty barges, under Sir 
James L. Yeo; and on the following morning (Friday, May 2S) a]>- 
peared in the ofling, having been discovered by the schooner " Lady 
of the Lake," that had been cruising on the lake to watch the motions 
of the enemy. 

As this vessel came in, signal-guns were fired, and ujiou her arrival 
Col. Backus dispatched an express to Gen. Brown, who, since the ex- 
piration of his six months' term, had been residing on his farm in 
Brownville, eight miles from the harbor. He immediately rejtaired 
to that place, and issued summary orders for rallying the neighboring 
militia and preparing the place for defense. Alarm-guns were fired, 
and dragoons dispatched in every direction to hasten the arrival of 
succor, and especially that of Col. Tuttle, who was known to be ad- 
vancing with several hundred regulars. No landing was attem|>ted 
by the enemy on the 28lh, their attention being drawn off" by a fleet 
of American barges from Oswego, of which twelve were taken, their 
crews having fled to the woods, and seven, by outsailing the enemy, 
got s.afeiy into port, thus increasing the disjiosable force of Gen. 
Brown. 

The militia soon began to assemble, and as fast as they arrived 
were armed and sent to Horse Island, the point at which the enemy 
were expected to land. The force by which the enemy were to be op- 
posed comprised 400 infantry and about fiHO militia, without disci- 
])line, experience, or organization. 

The night was spent by Gen. Brown in making dispositions for the 
attack, which circumstances rendered highly probable would be mado 
where the militia had been posted. During the night the enemy 
landed about forty Indians, under Lieut. Anclcrson, on the niainhiml 
in Henderson Bay, with the view of attacking the rear of the militia, 
and towarils morning Ihe militia were withdrawn from the islaiul to 
the shore ojijiositc. 

About 400 militia, with a six-jiounder, umler Col. Mills, were sta- 
tioned near the shore opposite the island, with onlers to reserve their 
fire until the enemy should a]ii)roach within pistol-shot. The remain- 
der of the militia, under Col. Gershom Tuttle, were jiosted in the edge 
of the woods, back of the clearing, and Col. Backus, with his dis- 
mounted dragoons, was stationed in the skirt of the woods near tho 
village, with orders to advance through the woods towards Horso 
Island tho moment it was known that the enemy had landed. Col. 
Aspinwall, with his men, was posted to the left of Backus, and tho 
artillerists, under Lieut. Ketchum, were stationed in Fort Tompkins, 
with no other armament than a 32-pounder, mounted on a pivot. 
The night was spent in making these arrangements, and all parties 
anxiously awaited the approach of day. 

The morning of the 2itih dawned beautifully clear and calm. Not 
a breath of air ruftled the jilaeid surface of the lake, and there existed 
that peculiar slate of density and uniformity in the atmosphere in 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



543 



which pounds are propngnted to a grcnt distance, as is sometimes 
noliccil before a storm ; and the report of sninll arms in the action 
which followed was heard with remarkable di-linctness on the hills 
in Rutliiiid, while the discharj^e of cannon echoed clear and far over 
the country to distances since unparalleledj and was heard through 
Lewis, and even in Oneida county. 

The calm prevented the enemy from liringing their vessels to co- 
operate in tlio attack, and was one of the causes that influenced their 
subsequent retreat. As soon as it was light the enemy were seen 
api)roaelnng in thirty-three large boats, under cover of gun-boa(s, 
directing their course to the outside of the island, where they hinded 
and formed without opposition; but in crossing the bar that con- 
nected it with the nniiiihmd they encountered a galling fire, and lost 
several in killed and wounclcd. whom they subsequently carried off. 
As the landing was being efl'ected. the heavy gun in Fort Tonipitins 
was brought to bear with considerable effect upon the enemy's column. 

The fire of the militia was at first well directed and deadly, and 
was answered by discharges of musketry and by two small cannon 
loaded with grape-shot; but Gol. Mills, who was stationed a short 
distance towards the village with his cannon, fell earl^' in the en- 
gagement, and his death, with the unaccustomed whistling of balls 
that cut down the branches of the trees around them, struck with 
terror the inexperienced militia, and without waiting to return the 
fire or recover from the panic, they turned and fled towards the town 
in the greatest confusion. Oen. Brown, finding himself nearly alone, 
with no support but this company, retired towards the village, 
directing those that could be rallied to annoy the advancing column 
of the enemy as much as possible. The enemy iiaving gained the 
beach and dispersed the militia, formed in good order and marched 
towards the town. They were soon met by the troops of Col. IJackus, 
who had advanced to dispute their progress, and who gallantly en- 
countered and returned their lire, retiring slowly before them through 
the half-cleared woods. Gen. Hrown hacl succeeded in rallying about 
100 militia, with the aid of Taleb AVcstcott. a citizen, and others, and 
had joined the detachment of liackus; but at this juncture, happen- 
ing to look towards the ship-yard, he was surprised to see huge vol- 
umes of sni()ke issuing from the store-houses that contained the spoils 
of York. Not knowing l)ut that the enemy might have gained his 
rear, he hastened to the spot and ascertained that the disastrous panic 
of the militia had been communicatee! to those in charge, and a re- 
port had reached Lieut. Chauncey, of the navy, that all was lost, and 
upon the faith of this rumor be had given orders to fire the buildings, 
an act which the most extreme and desperate igsue of affairs could 
alone justify. Learning the cause of the conflagration, and some- 
what relieved by the knowledge that the enemy were still but on one 
side, he returneil, giving directions to Lieut. Ketchum, in Fort Tomp- 
kins, to maintain that post as long as the heat of the flames would 
permit. The regulars of Col. Backus felt their courage renewed upon 
learning the nature of the accident that had given a natural alarm, 
and continued steadily to oppose the advance of the enemy, who had 
now gained the clearing next the village. Very soon after, Cul. 
Backus fell mortally wounded. 

The enemy had throughout evinced great courage and coolness, and 
were under the immediate command of Capt. Gray, who was advan- 
cing in front of the ranks, and walking backwards, waving his sword 
fur his troops to follow, and shouting, *' Come on, boys; the day is 
ours! Kememlier York!" when he suddenly fell, wounded, and im- 
mediately expireii. 

At (his moment the signal for ret rent was given from the fleet, and 
the enemy hastily retreated to their boats. This retreat is said to 
have been in part caused by hearing a report of small arms on tlie 
right, from the rallied militia, but which the enemy mistook for a 
reinforcement of regulars which they had learned was advancing 
under Col. Tuttle, and was then within a mile of the place. The 
enemy on their retreat removed a part of their wounded, and, having 
re-embarked, at about 10 o'clock sent a flag demanding a surrender 
of the place which they had been unable to capture, and were of 
course I'efused. They shortly after sent an<)ther flag requesting to 
send surgeons to their wounded, which was denied, as they still 
seemed not to have abandoned the attack, and were laying by in their 
barges ; but shortly after they juit off to the fleet, which lay about five 
miles from the town, and made sail for Kingston. Both Sir George 
Prevost and 8ir James Yen are said to have landed during the en- 
gagement. 

The loss of the British was ToO in killed and wounded, and .34 



taken prisoners. Our loss was 150 killed, wounded, and missing. 
The enemy took a few prisoners, and one man was found killed and 
scalped in the woods by the Indians. 

The flames of the burning stores were subdued as quickly as pos- 
sible, but not till they had consumed $jOO,000 worth of jiroperly. 
The ship ** Pike," then on the stocks, was saved. The prize schooner, 
the " Duke of Gloucester," was saved by Lieut. Talman, of the army, 
who boarded it, extinguished the fire, an<l brought her from under 
the flames of the store-houses. This heroic conduct will be apprccialc<l 
when it is known that a large quantity of tfiinpotcilcr was on board. 
The schooners "Fair American" and "Pert" cut their cables and 
retreated up the river, and several of the guns on Navy Point were 
spiked. Had it not been for this disastrous mistake, our success 
would have been complete. Col. Backus survived eight days, and 
hopes of his recovery wore entertained, but mortification supervened. 

Wo will close our account of this battle by giving the oflicial re- 
port of the general commanding of the American army : 

"Sackkt's IIarbou, May 29, ISM. 

" Dk.vr Sir, — We were attacked at the dawn of this ilay by a British 
regular force of at hast iHM) nun, most jtrolinbly lliOO. They made 
good iheir landing at Horse Island. The enemy's fleet consisted «d' 
two ships, four schooners, and thirty large open boats. ^Ve arc com- 
pletely victorious. The enemy lost a considerable number of killed 
and wounded on the field, and among the number several ofliccrs of 
distinction. Alter having re-ciui)arkcd. they s<iit a flag, desiring us 
to have their killed and wounded iitteuded lo. I irade ibcui satisfied 
on that subject. AmeyivuitM nill he tfiMtin>jiiinIii<i /in- fnuiuiuihf nud 
britrer}/. Our loss is not numerous, but serious from the great worth 
of those who have falltn. Col. Mills was shot dead at the commence- 
ment of the action, and Col. liackus, of the 1st regiment of light 
dragoons, nobly lell at Ihc hearl of the regiment as victory was de- 
claring for us. I will not presume to praise this regiment. Their 
gallant conduct of this day merits much more than praise. The new 
shiji, anil Commodore Cliaunecy's prize, the * T>uke of Gloucester,' arc 
yet safe in Jacket's Harbor. Sir (!curge Prevost landed and com- 
mauded in person. Sir James Yco commanded Ihc enemy's fleet. 
" In haste, your,«, 

•'Jacok Bitowx, 

"His Excrllkncv D, D. Tompkins." 

Two days before the battle of Sacket's Harbor occurred the capture 
of Fort (ieorgc; and, on the 1st of June, Com. Chauncey rcturnetl 
to Sacket's Harbor, where he remained two months, until the " Pike" 
was rea<ly to sail, the enemy meanwhile lording it over the lake 
with a much superior naval force. 

On June 14, Lieut. Wolcott Chauncey received orders from Com. 
Chauncey to proceed on a cruise: and having reached the vicinity of 
Prcsque Isle, in the schooner " Lady of the Lake," the morning of 
the Kith fell in with and captured the English schooner "Lady Mur- 
ray," from Kingston bound for York, and laden with provisions, 
powder, shot, and fixed ammunition. One ensign and fifteen privates 
were taken. The prize was taken into Sacket's Harbor. 

A socrtt expedition was fitted out, July 2, from Kingston, with the 
design of firing the " Pike" and the naval stores at Sacket's Harbor 
in the night. On arriving at the isthmus of Point Peninsula they 
drew their boats out, and concealed them in the bushes till circum- 
stances might favor them, but a deserter from their number having 
escaped to Sacket's Harbor, they returned back. Upon receiving in- 
telligence of this, a force was sent to intercept the detachment, but 
without success. 

On July 2, Maj.-Gen. Morgan Lewis arrived at Sacket's Harbor, 
and took the command. On the -Sth, (ien. Dearborn, whose health 
had been impaired, was succeeded by Maj.-Gcn. .James Wilkinson, 
the present command remaining with Gen. Lewis. 

Wilkinson was assisted by Gens. Morgan Lewis, .Tohn P.Boyd, 
Jacob Brown, and Leonard Covington. 

The owners, officers, and crews of these vessels were, by act of 
Congress of July 2, IS.16, allowed twenty-five didlars each for the 
sixty-nine prisoners, captured July li', 1S13, and delivered to the 
U. S. agent at Sacket's Harbor. 

On July 14, ISKi, the •* Neptune" and ** Fox," the former a private 
armed boat, under Capt. Samuel Dixon, mounted with one six- 
pounder and one swivel, and manned by t\venty-four volunteers; 
and the latter a public armed boat, under Capt. Dimoek, with a de- 
tachment of twenty-one men from the 21st Kegiment of Infantry, 
under Lieuts. Burbank and Perry, sailed from Sacket's Harbor with 
letters of marque from the deputy collector of the district, for a cruise 
on the St. Lawrence. This privateering expedition was fitted out by 
M. W. Gilbert and others, and had for its object the cutting off of a 
detachment of the em my 'a boats, that were expected up the river 



544 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSOX COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



liiden with stores. After touching at Cape Vincent and French 
Creek, they selected, on the morninf^ of the 17th, a quiet nook, in a 
creek, aniuug the Thousand Islands, where they landed for muster 
and review; and at 4 a.m. of the 18th saw a brigade of British 
bateaux, convoyed by his majesty's gun-boat, the " Spitfire," lying 
at Simmond's Landing, preparing to sail for Kingst<m. T'pon this, 
they pushed in for shore, and so completely surprised them that 
very few of the enemy escaped. The fifteen bateaux and the gun- 
boat were at once seized, without a shot being fired on either side. 
At 9 A.M. the fleet hinded in Cranberry creek in Alexandria, and, at 
11, sixty-nine prisoners were sent off to the harbor, under guard, in 
- charge of Lieut. Burbank. At sunrise on the 2l8t the enemy, to the 
number of 2o0. with four gun-boats and one or two transports, were 
discovered in the creek; these were met by thirty men, and attacked 
while landing, twenty more being stationed in different places to pre- 
vent their approach. A cannonade comnieaced, and was kept up 
some time; two of the enemy's boats were so injured from our fire, 
that most of their crews were compelled to leave them, and to cut 
flags from the shore to stop the shot-holes. At 6 a.m. the enemy re- 
tired to their boats, and sent a flag with the demand of surrender to 
tince the effunion a/ h/notl, whiL-h was instantly rejected, and the firing 
recommenced. It appeared that this was but an expedient to gain 
time, as the enemy hastily retreated, carrying their dead and woun<led. 
Their loss must have been considerable from the quantity of blood 
seen where they embarked. Our loss was three killed and wounded. 
On the afternoon of the next day reinforcements arrived, the boats 
which had been scuttled were repaired, and on the 2;id they left for 
Jacket's Harbor, where they arrived on the 27th. AVliile passing 
Tibbet's Point they encountered the "Earl of Moira," were pursued 
and hit several times by her shot, but not captured. The gun-boat 
and several bateaux were sunk without consulting Capts. Dimick 
or Dixon, and the owners ultimately lost most that was gained by 
the expedition. 

The " Pike" having been equipped, thus giving our fleet an equal 
strength with the enemy, Chauncey sailed, and arrived at Niagara 
July 27, The British fleet was then in this quarter of the lake. On 
Aug. 7 the fleet had attempted to come to^ action without success, and 
the next night was overtaken by a gale, in which the schooners 
"Hamilton" and "Scourge" were overturned and sunk, and every 
soul on board except sixteen perished. Lieut. Winter and Sailing- 
Master Osgood were lost, together with nineteen guns, by this dis- 
aster. 

On tlie fulluwing days a considerable nianu-uvring occurreil with- 
out coming to decisive action, and on the 'Jth ihe schooners "Julia" 
and " drowlcr" were cut out of our fleet by the enemy. Chauncey 
returned to Saekct's Harbor on the I3th, witii the "Madison," 
'"Oneida," " (Jov, Tompkins," "Conquest," "Ontario," "Pert," and 
*' Lady of the Lake," the " Asp" and " Fair American" being left at 
Niagara. 

The "Sylph," carrying 20 guns, and schooner-rigged, was built 
and ready for service in thirty-three days from the time her timber 
was growing. She accompanied tlic cunimodore'.s fltet in a crui.-e, 
which commenced Aug. 21. 

A direct tax of $3,000,000 was laid by congress, in Aug., 1813, to 
sustain the war, of which Jcn"erson County paid .'?1010. Gen. Wil- 
kinson arrived Aug. 20 at Saekct's Harbor. 

During the summer a plan of operations upon this lake was dis- 
cussed in the cabinet, the details and correspondence upon which are 
too voluminous for insertion. It was decided that Maj.-CJen. Wade 
Hampton, who was assembling a force at Burlington, should hold 
himself in readiness to make a diversion in the direction of Montreal, 
or to hazard an attack, if circumstances favored, while a powerful 
armament should be fitted out at Saekct's Harbor; that after 
i-trengthening Fort George and reducing the military Indian estab- 
lishments on the peninsula, should fall upon Kingston, and having 
reduced that place, descend the St. Lawrence, antl. in concert with 
Hampton, make a determined attack upon jMontreal. Some difl'erence 
of opinion was expressed upon the first point to be assailed, and Gen. 
Armstrong, Ihe secretary of war, in his letter of instructions, dated 
Aug. .t, advised the first jirincipal attack to be made upon Kingston, 
but left the plan and mode of attack, whether direct or indirect, to be 
decided by Wilkinson, as he might deem proper. On the 2l'ith of 
August, Wilkinson indi<^atcd the necessity of first gaining the su- 
premacy of the lake, and his apprehensions that the enemy would 
protract the campaign till a lale periorl in llie \ ear. 1'he garrison at 



Kingston had been recently reinforced, and was reputed at near 5000 
strong. Sir James Yeo hail sailed to the head of the lake, and the 
American fleet was to sail as soon as it could be fitted out. 

A council of war was held at Saekct's Harbor, Aug. 20, at which 
Maj.-Gens. Wilkinson and Lewis and Commodore Chauncey, and 
Brig.-Gen^. Brown and Swartwout were present. At this council it 
was ascertained that " the whole present effective force of the army of 
this district may be estimated at 7400 combatants, exclusive of the 
naval department, occupying the following places, viz.. at Forts George 
and Niagara, 3500; at Oi?wcgo, 100 ; at this place, 2000 ; and at Bur- 
lington, on Lake Champlain, 4000." Opposed to this force, the 
enemy had in Upper Canada a total of at least 9000 combatants, of 
which 850 were at Prescott, and 2000 regulars (besides militia and 
auxiliary savages) at the head of Lake Ontario, the remainder being 
located at Kingston. 

The relative force of the two ticlligercnts on the lake, on the 1st of 
September, was as follows: American — "Gen. Pike," Capt. Sinclair, 
34; "Madison," Capt. Crane, 24; "Sylph," Capt. Woolsey, 20; 
"Oneida," Lieut. Brown, 18; "Duke of Gloucester," 10; "Gov. 
Tompkins," G; "Conquest," ."i ; "Ontario," 2; "Asp," 2; "Fair 
American," 2; "Pert," 2; "Lady of the Lake," 2 ; "Raven," 1. 
Total, 12fi guns. /^iV/sA— " Gen. AVolfe," 32 ; " Royal George," 22 ; 
"Earl of Moira," 16; " Prince Regent," 14; " Simcoe," 12; "Sene- 
ca." i : " Hamilton" (late " Growler"), 5 ; " Confiance" (late "Julia"), 
3; besides several gun-boats. They were then building a 10-gun 
frigate and two sloo])S of war at Kingston. 

The secretary of war arrived on the 5th of September, at Packet's 
Harbor, the same day that Wilkinson reached Fort George. He was 
induced to take this position in order to consult more readily with 
the oflicers of the army, and save the delay that would attend tho 
receipt and transmission of intelligence at Washington. The army 
at Burlington under Hampton at this time numbered 4500 regulars 
and 1000 militia, who early in the month crossed to Pla*tsburgh, and, 
after making a feigned movement upon Can.ada, advanced westward 
to Chateaugay. Large bodies of militia were assembled at Brown- 
ville and other places, and the force at Saekct's Harbor amounted to 
2000 men, under Gen. Lewis. Reinforcements of regulars and mlHtia 
were on their march towards various points of the frontier, and the 
country was alive with the bustle of preparation, and the collection 
of munitions and men, which would seem adequate for the aecom- 
])lishment of great results, but which the chief manager and director 
appears to have had cither an incapacity, or a disinclination, to m^o 
to the greatest advantage. 

Sir James Vco appeared ofl" Niagara early in September, an'I on 
the 1 7th, Chauncey, favored with a breeze, stood out into the lake, 
and, not meeting the enemy, ran into Sacket's Harbor, whence in a 
few hours he again sailed for Niagara. On the 27tli, having learned 
that the fleet of the enemy was at York, he got out of the river, and. 
on the 28th, the "Pike," "Mailison," and "Syljth," taking each a 
schooner in tow, sailed for York, and as he approached that place 
he discovered the enemy's fleet under way. Here (usued an inde- 
cisive, manoeuvring, and running fight, in which the "Pike" sus- 
taiu'-'d c(msidcrable injury, and lost twenty-two of her men by tho 
bursting of a gun, which also greatly injured this vessel. The total 
loss in killed and wounded, on board this vessel, including Ihe loss by 
this accident, was twenty-seven. The "Madison" received a few 
shot, but no person was hurt; the " Governor Tompkins" lost her 
foremast, and the "Oneida" had her maintopmast badly injured. 

About the 20th of September a proposition was made by Gen. Peter 
B. Porter, Cyrenus Chapin, and Joseph McClure. in case the troops 
were withdrawn from Fort George, to raise a volunteer force of 1000 
to 1200 men, to be furnished with four field-jdeees, arms, provisions, 
and pay while in tho service, which offer was accepted, and about 800 
regulars were to be left lo garrison Forts (Jeorge and Niagara, under 
Col. Scott. Arrangements having been made for leaving, the em- 
barkation of troops commenced on the 2fith, and on the 30th the 
flotilla of bateaux, with the central army, left Fort Gcorgo for Sacket's 
Harbor, where they arrived on the 4th of October. 

The troops left at Fort George, after occupying the place several 
weeks, abandoned it, and, having burned the viliago of Newark, re- 
turned to the American side. This provoked tho retaliation of the 
enemy, who surprised the garrison at Niagara, capturc<l the fort 
without resistance, slaughtered a great number of its inmates, burned 
the villages of Black Hock and Bufl'ah*. and laid waste the Niagara 
frontiers with lire and .-^word. This desidating i^va^ion was witliout 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



545 



a purullel during the war. ami occasioned a distress among the pio- 
neer inhahitants tbat required and received the aid uf the lc;;islaturc. 
Ocn. McClurc, whose burning of Newark provoked this visit of the 
enemy, soon after published a vindication of his course, and stated 
that the act was done in pursuance of the orders of the secretary of 
war. 

As soon as the last of the flotilla bad left the Niagara, Cbauncey 
again sailed to divert or engage the eueniy, anrl on the .">th, when 
near the False Ducks, on the north sliore, recaptured the '* Growler" 
and the '* Julia" (named ** llaniiltou and *' Coutiance'* by the enemy), 
the "Mary Ann," the *■ Drumniond," and the "Lady Gore," gun- 
vcssels, and caused the enemy to abandon an 1 burn a sixth. The 
" Enterprise," a small schooner, was the only one that cscajicd. The 
prizes, mounting one to three guns each, were taken to Sackct's 
Harbor. 

Sackct's Harbor hail for several weeks been alive with the bustle 
of preparation for the approaching descent upou Canada. A great 
number of armed boats and transports were built, and large quantitiis 
of supplies were collected. Immediately after Wilkinson's arrival, 
he waited upon the secretary of war and remonstrated against mak- 
ing iin attack upon Kingston. The secretary differc i from this 
opinion, but aj^puinted a meeting on the 6th, to hear the opinions 
and arguments on this subject. The chief objection against this 
attack arose from the apprehension of delays and the lateness of the 
season. Much correspondence ensued, in which various modes of 
operation were proposed, and several days, in a season already too 
late for operations of this class and magnitude, \vere trifled away to 
no purpose. Gen. M'ilkinson had been sick at Fort George, and was 
still unwell. 

At this late i-eason of the year. when, with no other enemy but the 
weatlier, it would seem the extremity of folly to attempt the naviga- 
tion of the lake in open boats, from the peril arising from sudden 
tempests, it was decided to pass the enemy's fleet and army, and 
descend upon Montreal, allowing the enemy the privilege of attack- 
ing on his own territory in both front and rear, with an intimate 
knowledge of the country and its resources, and every advantage that 
a skillful commander could have desired had the selection of circum- 
stances been left to him. Viewed in its jiroper light, the expedition 
may be justly considered an outrage upon reason and common sense, 
and justly entitled to the odium which has been attached to it and 
its imbecile commander, and in its results it forms one of the darkest 
pages of American history. 

Our forces were first to be assembled at (Jrenadier Island, and on 
the IGth of October, Hampton was ordered by Wilkinson to advance 
to the mouth of the Chateaugay, or any other point that might better 
favor the junction of the two armies, and hold the enemy in chock. 

On the 26th of October, at noon, orders were issued for the heavy, 
light, and flying artillery, commanded by Colonels Porter, Eustis, 
and Macomb, and the fourth brigade, commanded by Brig. -Gen. 
Swartwout, of the infantry, to embark, and proceed immediately to 
liasiu Harbor, in Grenadier Island. At six i>.m. the whole embarked, 
and put off with a favorable wind, the transports mostly consisting 
of scows, Durham boats, common lake sail boats, and bateaux. 

The wind and weather favored until one o'clock a.m., when the 
boats appeared to be much scattered : some had landed on IMllar 
Point and Point Peninsula; some had entered Chauniont Hay and 
other inlets: others had landed on Cherry, Stony, and Horse islands; 
and others s-tood off for Khujthni, where one boat, with an oflicer ami ten 
men, is said to have arrived in safety. Several boats landed on Long 
Island, in IJrilish territory, and some safely reached their destination 
at Basin Harbor. It soon began to rain, and the wind increased to a 
gale, in which the boats and seows which had landetl were drifted and 
beaten on tiio shore, which In some places was rough and rocky, while 
others, still on the lake, made the first point of land they could dis- 
cover, to save tbeiuselvos. The morning disclosed a scene of desola- 
tion truly distressing. The shores of the islands and mainland were 
strewn with broken and sunken boats, and the day was spent in un- 
loading such as could be reached, and in endeavoring to save such per- 
ishable articles as could bo found, the gale continuing through that day 
and the following night. On the lS(h, the wind having abated, several 
boats were got otf from the rocks, and arrived at Basin Harbor, but 
on the next day the storm increased, and several boats that had at- 
tempted to gain their rendezvous were driven back u}ion the shores. 
On the 20th the day was favorable, and many of the sound boats 
reached Basin Harbor. 

35 



Tlu^ IjL'igiitles or (icns. liruwii, Boyd, and Covington, wbiub had 
encainpeij at Henderson Harbor, arrived at Grcuadicr island on the 
20(li. Of tlie llotilla that had left Sackct's Harbor, Dftccn large boats 
were entirely lost : many others, with several scows, were much dam- 
aged, and a large quantity of bread was destroyed. The troops re- 
mained eneani|ied on the island until the 1st of November, engaged in 
repairing the boats and making preparations to descend the St. ]<aw- 
renco. The weather meanwhile continued stormy, and snow fell to 
the depth of ten inches. ^lany of the regulars were fr<»m the .S<mlh- 
crn States, and unaccustomed to the severity of a northern winter, 
and in this ex])edition, especially at a later period, suffered cvtremely 
from the rigor of the climate, which produced a frightful mortality 
among them. 

On the 2Sth, 1*J(J of the sick were put on board a schooner and sent 
to Sacket's Harbor. Wilkinson arrived on the 27th, and finding a 
large body still in the rear, wrecked or stranded, returned to Socket's 
Harbor to order a sup]>Iy of winter clothing and shoes for the troops 
on the island, some of whom were nearly destitute. He observed 
many fires of troops along the shore, but the wind was so violent 
that he could not communicate with them. On the 2:id Col. Colo 
arrived with 200 men of the 12th regiment, and sailed for the ren- 
dezvous, nnd the ** tlrowler" was sent to Oswego for Cols. Randolph 
and Scott, who were expected there, and as many men a^' the vessel 
could carry. The general returned the sameday to Grenadier Island 
and arrived off the island at eight in the evening, the weather con- 
tinuing boisterous during this night and the day following, with Se- 
quent rains and heavy gales, so that a landing could not be effected 
until the 2olh. 

(Jen. Brown was ordered to take command of the advance and post 
himself at French creek, where the detuehments were ordered to ren- 
dezvous. The '* Growler" arrived at Grenadier Island on the IHst, 
with 2;iO men of the 20th regiment, ami November 2, Chauncey look 
n position to protect the south channel, where it was apprehended the 
enemy would enter and occupy Fort Carlton, which, with some re- 
pairs, would have effectually commanded that channel, and compelled 
the American army to winter on Lake Ontario, or run the gauntlet 
under the batteries of King.-tou. 

On the evening of Novemlier 1, the enemy, having observed the 
concentration of our forces at Krench creek, attacked Gen. Brown 
about sunset with two brigs, two schooners, nnd several boats laden 
with infantry. The encampment of Brown was a short distance up 
the creek, and ho had caused a battery of three IS-pounders to be 
erected on Bartlet's Point, a short distance above, which, from its 
elevation, gave it a superiority over that of the enemy. Tliis battery 
was under the command of Capt. McPherson, of the light artillery, 
and was served with such effect that the assailants soon dropped down 
the current beyond its reach. The ne.\t morning the attack was re- 
newed without success, and one of the brigs was with <liffieulty towed 
off by the squadron. Our loss was two killed nnd four wounded ; 
that of the enemy much more. On the .'ith, Gen. Wilkinson, having 
collected his tempest-toisscd flotilla, passed down the river to below 
Morristown and encamped. It is not in our province to follow the 
details of this disastrous expedition. The secretary of war iirocecdcd 
by land as far as Antwerp, from whence, on the 27th of October, he 
returned. The batteries at Prescott were passed in the night, and on 
the lllh of November was fought the battleof Chrysler's Field; soon 
after which the American llotilla entered Salmon river, and took up 
winter quarters at French Mills, now Fort Covington.* During much 
of this lime lien. Wilkinson was confined to his cabin, and, it has 
been said by some, was intoxicated. On the Uth, Gen. Hampton 
informed Wilkinson of his inability to meet him at St. Kegis, and 
announced his intention to return to Lake Champlain, which was 
done. February l.'i the camp at French Mills was broken up. Brown 
(who, Jan. 24, ISU, had been promoted to the rank of major-general) 
conducting a part of the army to Sacket's Harbor, and the com- 
mander-in-chief the remainder to Plattsburgh. 

This inglorious issue of events on the northern frontier excited the 
murmurs of the nation, and Gens. JIanipton and Wilkinson were 
arraigned before courts-mnrtial, the latter being removed from com- 
mand, and succeeded by General Izard. 

In the fall of I8l.'i, alter great peril, the fleet all arrived at Sackct's 
Harbor, excepting one vessel that was driven on shore in the Niagara 
river. Gen. Harrison, soon after his arrival at the harbor, resigned 
his command. 

• See History uf St. Ljwrencc County. 



54(; 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



The wiuter was devoted to tho prosecution of ship-building, which 
tho large addition made lo the British fleet at Kingston was thought 
to render necessary. The crews of the vessels employed themselves 
in erecting fortifications, under tho direction of Capt. Crane, who 
was left in command in the absence of Chauncey. Circumstances 
render it probahle tliat the enemy were kept informed of our move- 
ments hy spies, which led to an advertisement in April, hy Chauucey, 
offering $500 reward for the apprehension of each. The ingenuity 
and boldness of some of tliese informers was remarkable. 

The official returns of the department, March 1, 1814, gave the fol- 
lowing as the list of vessels then on this station, with the denomina- 
tion and number of guns of each, and names of commanders: 

Ship "General Pike," Isaac Chauncey, Commodore, .34 guns; ship 
"Madison," William M. Crane, Master, Commandant, 24 guns: brig 
"Oneida," Thomas Brown, Lieutenant, Commandant. 16 guns; 
schoooer "Sylph," Melanchthon T. Woolsey, Master, Commandant, 
14 guns: schooner '* Governor Tompkins," St. Clair Elliott, Midship- 
man, Commandant, fi guns: schooner " llamiiton," S guns; schooner 
•' Growler," 5 guns; schooner " Pert," Samuel W. Adams, Lieutenant, 
Commaniiant, '.i guns; schooner "Conquest," Henry AVells, Lieuten- 
ant, Commandant, 2 guns: schooner "Fair American," Woleott 
Chauncey, Lieutenant. Coniuianrliint, 2 guns; schooner "Ontario," 
John Stevens. Sailing-Master, 2 guns; schooner "Asp," Philander 
A. Jones, Lieutenant, Commandant, 2 guns; schooner "Julia," 2 
guns; schooner " Elizabeth," 1 gun ; schooner " Lady of the. Lake," 
Mervin P. Mix, 1 gun ; bomb vessel, " Mary." 

As soon as the ice broke up, the " Lady of the Lake" was sent out 
to cruise, and. on April 24, ran close into Kingston harbor and showed 
her colors, which were answered by the enemy's fleet and batteries. 
Their fleet appeared to be nearly ready for a cruise. 

On the 1st of May, the frigate " Superior" (Gfi guns), built in eighty 
days, was launched, and the day alter there occurred an incident 
which wellnigh led to serious consequences. The ship-carpenters 
and sailors, having no interests in common with the soldiers, had 
acquired a fueling of hostility, and on this occasion there had been an 
unusual degree of convivial excess in celebrating the launch. A 
dragoon, being assaulted by two or three carpenters, fled for protee- 
tif)n to a sentinel jilaced over a store-house, and, with the obstinacy 
and insolence of half-drunken men, they were persisting in the pur- 
Puit, in which one of their number was shot, and the remainder fled. 
This at once led to the most in'ense excitement. The ship-carpenters, 
with axes and adzes^, hastily rallied, with the sailors, armed with 
hoarding-pikes and cutlasses, who, forming in a solid body, marched 
in jnirsuit nf tho sentinel. The troops were hastily formed in a hol- 
low square around him, and drawn up in the street, where they stood 
prepared to meet and repel any attack ; and the former had advanced 
to within a few ^-ards, and were yelling and bramlishing their weapons 
in the wildest fren/y of rage, when Eckford, Chauncey, and Brown 
hastened to the spot, threw themselves between the parties, and by a 
well-timed and judicious ap]>cal checked the advance, and soon per- 
suaded the carpenters to desist, on the assurance that the sentinel 
should be impartially tried, and suitably punished if convicted. lie 
was taken to Watcrtown, an examination held, and he was sent to a 
distant station to bo out of their reach. 

Tho "Mohawk" and "Jones" were still on the stocks, the arma- 
ment of which, as well as that of the " Superior," must be transj)orled 
through Wood creek and Oswego river, as the roads through tho 
Black River valley were nearly impassable from mud. This tho 
enemy well knew, and were also informed that tlie rigging and arma- 
ment of these vessels was on its way to Oswego. To possess these 
supplies would he equivalent to the destruction of our squadron, as 
without them tho new ships could not appear on the lake, nor could 
the lleet of the previous year venture out in the presence of the gn-atly- 
incruased naval armament of the enemy, with the slightest hopes of 
success. This descent upon Oswego was therefore planned with 
great foresight, and had its execution been as successful as its con- 
ception was bidd and masterly, the beam of fortune uui.st have pre- 
])onderated with the Briti;!«h, and the results of this campaign might 
have been as disastrous, as those of the previous yt-ar had been dis- 
graeeful, to the American arms. 

Oswego had not been occupied by regular troops since the Revolu- 
tion, and Cnl. Mitchell had arrived at Saeket's Harbor Ajiril :U), with 
four companies of heavy and one ol light artillery, serving as in- 
fantry. Of cannon, tho fort had but five old guns, three of which 
hiid lost their trunnions. The jdaec was hastily |mt in as good a 



state of defense as possible, when the enemy appeared, on the 5th of 
May, with a force of four ships, three brigs, and a number of gun- 
boats. A cannonade was begun and returned with much spirit,-and 
a landing attempted, but not accomplished, when the enemy stood 
off from the shore for better anchorage. One or two of the enemy's 
boats were picked up, and guards were stationed at various points 
along the shore. 

At daybreak on the 6th the fleet again approached the village, and, 
after a fire of three hours, landed OIH) of De Watcrvillc's regiment, 
00)1 marines, two companies of the Gkngary corp.«, and 350 seamen, 
who took posseesi<m of (he public stores, burned the old barracks, 
and returned on board their fleet on the morning of the 7th. Tho 
land forces were under Gen. Drumnumd, and the fleet under Com. 
Yco. The naval stores were then at Oswego Falls, but Col. Mitchell 
having retired in that diret-tiun. destroying the bridges, and filling 
the roads with timber after him. the enemy thought it inexpedient to 
follow, and soon after the fleet returned to its station near the Galloo 
islands, to blockade the passage of the stores, which it was known must 
pass in that vicinity. These stores, under the charge of Lieut. Wool- 
sey, and escorted by Major D. Appling,^ of 1st rifle regiment, with a 
comp.any of 150 men, lett <.)swego on the evening of the 2Sth of May, in 
nineteen boats, in the h<ipe of gaining Stony creek unmolested, from 
whence there wouhl be but three miles of land carriage for the heavy 
ordnance and stores to Henderson Harbor. The brigade of boats 
rowed all night, and at dawn on Sunday morning met a ])arty of 
Oneida Indiuns, under command of Lieut. Hill, of the rifle regiment 
at Salmon river, and at no<»n. May 2D, entered Sandy creek, except 
one boat, which, from the misfortune or treachery of its pilot, fell 
into the hands of the enemy. This boat contained one cable, and 
two 24-pouhders: and from those on board the enemy learned the 
particulars of the expedition, and of the force by which it was es- 
corted. Upon entering Sandy creek, Lieut. AVooIsey sent an express 
to notify Com. Chauncey of his arrival, and couriers were dispatched 
in various directions to rally teams to get the stores removed by land 
to their destination. The boats were run up the south branch of tho 
creek, till they grounded, a distance of two miles from its mouth. 

On Monday morning, a lookout boat in charge of Lieut. Piereo 
discovered the enemy making for the creek, and eouimunieated the 
news to Lieut. Woolsey, who. at dawn, dispatched messengers to call 
in the neighboring militia, and mnde hasty arrangements to meet tho 
enemy, who were seen soon after sunrise to enter the creek witli three 
gun-boats, three cutters, and one gig. and commenced a cannonado 
with a 6S-poundcr in the direction of the flotilla of Lieut. Woolsey, 
the masts of which were visible in the distance across a bend in the 
creek. At nine o'clock, Capt. Harris, with a squadron of dragoons, 
and Cnpt. Melvin, with a company of light artillery, and two fi- 
jjounders, arrived. Meanwhile, the cannon were posted in a position 
where they couUl be used with effect if necessary, and the fences 
thrown down, that the dragoons might maneeuvrc without obstruc- 
tion. The enemy slowly advanced up the creek and lamied on tho 
south side, but finding it impossible to proceed, on account of the 
slimy condition of the marsh, they re-embarked and }>roceedcd on to 
within about twenty rods of the woods, where they landed, and 
formed on the north bank, at a place now occupied l)y a store-house, 
and which afl'orded the first solid ground for marching. The advan- 
cing column, headed by Mr. Jloare, a midshipman of the British 
navy, had approached to within ten rods of the aiuhush, when, on a 
signal, the riflemen of Maj. Appling arose from their concealment 
and firoiL Several fell dead, and their leader fell, pierced with eleven 
balls — some accounts say seven — in his heart. So sudden and eflfect- 
ual was this movement that it threw the enemy into confusion, and, 
after a fire of a few minutes, the order was given to rfianjc, upon 
which tho riflemen rushed forward with hmd cheers, holding their 
rifles in the position of charge bayonets. The result was the surren- 
der of the enemy at discretion. This was scarcely done, when the 
Indians, true to their character as savages, came furiitusly on, yelling 
and brandishing their weapons, and were with the greatest difficutry 
prevented from murdering tho disarmed prisoners; and, indeed, it 

* Danfel Appling was born Aug. 25, 1787, in Colunil'fa county, Ga. lie en- 
li'r*Hi the iirniy, and soon evinced uncommon cai>»cit,v; wa^ pn»niote») Capt., 
April, ISIJ; Miijur Ut Kille:*, April i:», 1H14 ; U.-Col.,Ma>-, 1S14 ; Bvt. Col., Dec., 
1SI4. At the ufTair in Sniidy creek, Hiiy *^ll, ISH, he reuilered hiuiseir ci^iitiipic- 
\uni» fur hiti pi-rsonal viilur. He sulmeiiuently lion* u proinirient imrt in the 
battle uf IMiittaburgh. Cul. Appling (lied at ^lont^oniery, AIu., March 18, lt>17. 
A ])o.it-uRlce iu Adams bore his uauie fur some yeunt subsequent tu 1836. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



547 



hns been generally believed that one or two British officers were mor- 
tally wounded after they bad yielded. The enemy were commamlod 
by Cupts. Pojihani and .S|uUbury, and tlicir loss was IK kilk'<l, JO 
wounded, and I.'SI! taken prisoners. A few hindedon the soul h bank an I 
fled, but were pursued, and nut one escaped to report their defeat. 
Among tlic prisoners were 2" marine;?, lOG sailors, with 2 post captains, 
4 lieutenants of the njivy, I captain of marines, 2 lieutenants, and 2 
midshipmen. Popbam is said to have been an old acquaintance of 
Woolsey's, ami as he came forward to surrender his sword, the latter 
exclaimed, "Why, I'ophani I what on earth are you doing in this 
creek ?" -After some indilfurent reply, and a survey of our force, he re- 
plied, "Well, WooUey, this is the first time I ever heard of riflemen 
charging bayonets!" Our loss was one Indian killed and one rifle- 
man wounded. On the morning of the battle, ('apt. Smith was or- 
dered on, with 120 marines, and Col. Mitchell, with .100 artillery and 
infantry, who did not arrive in time to participate iu the engagement. 
The Sitine was the case of the neighboring militia, who soon after 
arrived in great numbers. 

The conduct of Lieutenants Mcintosh, Calhoun, McFarland, Arm- 
strong, and Smith, and of Ensign Austin, who were under Major 
Appling, was especially commended in his official reports of the en- 
gagement. The dead were buried, the prisoners marched to Sacket's 
Harbor; measures were taken to erect shears for unloading the 
heavy freight, and, at 5 p.m., Woolsey was relieved by Capt. Ridge- 
loy, whom Chauncey had sent for the purpose. The official report of 
Lieut. Woolsey acknowledges the unremitted exertions of Lieut. 
Pierce, Sailniaster Vauglian, and Midshipmen Hart, Mackey, and 
Canton, in the afl'air. The ro ids were then new, and almost impass- 
able, ami the labor of removing tl»e guns, cables, and rigging was 
one of no ordinary magnitude. There were, when the flotilla left 
Oswego, twenty-one long .'!2-pounders, ten 24-pounder8, three 42- 
poundcr carronadcs, ten cables, and a quantity of sliot and other 
articles. A cable and two guns had been lost in the boat that fell in 
with the enemy, ami the prizes taken in the creek were one 24- 
]n)under, a 6S-pound carronade, with several smaller cannon, and a 
considerable amount of small arms and ammunition. Such was the 
industry displayed in this labor, that on Thursday there remained 
nothing but one large cable, which it was found extremely diflieult to 
load on any vehicle, as it could not be divided, and a sufficient num- 
ber of teams could not be advantageously attached to it. In this di- 
lemma the idea was suggested of bearing it upon the shoulders of 
men, and the ])roposal was cheerfully adopted by the citizens, who 
had asseml)led to assist in these operations. They were accordingly 
arranged in the order of their stature, and at the word of command 
shouldered the ponderous cable, and took up their line of march for 
Sacket's Harbor, about 20 miles distant, being as near together as 
they eould conveniently walk. This novel procession passed by way 
of Ellis village and Smithville, and on the second day reached the 
Harbor. As they approached the town, the sailors enmc out to meet 
tbem, and, with loud cheers, relieved them of their burden, and 
marched triurapliantly into the village.* 

On the day after the action, Sir James L. Vco was informed by a 
flag that his expedition had been cut off, but he continued to blockade 
the passage for some time. In about ten days, the coast being clear, 
the boats and prizes were taken around by water to Sacket's Harbor. 
During no time in the war was a more complete victory gained at 
less expense of blood than this. 

During the season the ** Saint Lawrence," a ship of tlie lino of 120 
guns, made her appearance on the lake. 

About the midiUe of May reinforcements began to arrive at Sacket's 
Harbor from the seaboard. The " Macedonian" was laid up in the 
Thames, and Mr. Rogers, her first lieutenant, with the erew, ar- 
rived from the llth to the 21st, and Capt. LUiott on the I2th of May. 
Capt. Trenohard reached the station on the Ijth. The enemy raised 
the blockade June 5, and on the llth tlie " Mohawk," a frigate of 44 
guns, was launched at Sacket's Harbor, having been but .14 days in 
building.f 

The crew of the " Congress," 38, repairing at Portsmouth, began to 

* Tliis cable i-* 8ai«l to have weijriied 9r,no pounds. 150 men a«'ted iis bearers. 
Otfier accounts say it wa-* partly carried in a wagnn. 

t Henry Kekfurd. the energ- tic ship Iiuilder. who directed this depirtment, 
ae«piiro(l a large fortune in the wiir. Imt was siil»si-<]uoiitly rediirod hy 8nme un- 
fortunate stock operations. He died nt Constantinople, Nov. 12, 18.12, where, 
for si'venil years, he had beeu chief director of the dock-ynrJs in tlie Turkisli 
Knipiro. 



arrive in the middle of June, an! the British fleet received largo ac- 
cessions to its naval force. The care that they evinced iu the selec- 
tion of officers for this lake indicates the importance they attached to 
its control, and the industry that both nations displayed in the fitting 
out of large vessels sceinetl to jiortend a mighty struggle for its su- 
premacy. There occurred, meanwhile, some operations on a minor 
scale that demand our notice. With the view of cutting off some of 
the detachments of boats that were ascimding the St. Lawrence with 
supplies, Chauncey, about the niidille of June, directed Jjieut. Fran- 
cis H. Gregory to take three gigs, with their crews, and secrete him- 
self among the Thousand Islands, to watcli for some opportunity to 
surprise and bring uS" or destroy some of these brigades of loaded 
boats. 

This expedition consisted of Lieut, Gregory, AVilli.am Vaughan.J 
and Samuel Dixon, sailing-masters, and 18 men, arineil with rifles, 
jiistols, and cutlasses. (Jun-boats were found stationed about once in 
six miles, and a system of telegraphs erected on the heights, ao that in- 
telligence could be conveyed with great dispatch. On the lltth of 
June, 1S14, the party were lying close under the Canada shore, four 
miles below Alexandria Hay, and nearer Buld Island, when a gun- 
boat was coming down under easy sail, but nearer the middle of the 
channel. Upon seeing the boats, an officer, with one or two men, was 
sent in a skiff that was iu tow to make inquiries of them, supposing 
them to be Canadians. Upon ajiproaching, Gregory hailed the 
strangers, demanding their surrender, which, from necessity, was 
obeyed ; but those on board seeing the movement opened fire, which 
was returned. The vessel was soon taken, and found to be the 
"Black Snake," or No. 9, Capt. Landon, with one 18-ponnder, and 
18 men, chiefly royal marines. The prize was taken in tow, and 
when a mile and a half below French Creek was met by a Brilish 
gun boat. Finding escape impossible, the prisoners and the small- 
arms were taken out and their prize scuttled. The enemy arrived 
soon after, but not being able to save it from sinking, pursued Greg- 
ory's party several miles. Night coming on, he escaped, reached 
Grenailicr Island late in the evening, and the next day arrived safe 
at Sacket's Harbor with bis prisoners. The commodore, in bis official 
report, warmly recommended Gregory, Vauglian, and Dixon to the 
notice of the department, for their activity, zeal, and success in the 
cruise. Congress, by an act passed May 4, 1824, awarded Gregory 
and bis men $3000 for this service. 

On the 2tith of June, Chauncey, fin ling that the capture of tbo 
*■ Black Snake" had created a considerable uneasiness with the enemy, 
resolved upon disturbing them in another quarter, and sent Lieut. 
Gregory, with Vaughan and Dixon, in the two largest gigs, to Nich- 
olas Island, to lie in wait for some transports, expected to he sent 
past that place, for York and Fort George. If they did not pass 
within three or four days, they were ordered to land at Presque Isle, 
and burn a large schooner, then on the stocks. Gregory failed to ac- 
complish the former, but landed at Presque Isle and set fire to the 
vessel, which was well built, fitted for 14 guns, and nearly ready to 
launch. He then re-embarked, crossed to Oswego, and arrived at 
Sacket's Harbor on the fith of July. 

On the 9th of Aug., Abram Shoemaker, with his brother and a Mr. 
Sergeant, in a boat bound from Oswego to Sacket's Harbor, was at- 
tacked off Stony Point by a British barge, under a lieutenant of ma- 
rines, and after a valiant resistance was eajjlured. After securing the 
prize, the lieutenant sent all his men to join another boat's crew, ex- 
cept four, which number he deemed sufficient to secure her. Seizing 
a proper moment, and without waiting for a concerted signal, Shoe- 
maker pushed the lieutenant overboard, knocked down a sailor, and, 
calling upon his comrades to help, soon found himself the master of 
the boat, but severely wounded by a cutlass. The movement being 
seen by the other boat, they were obliged to abandon their prize, and 
succeeded in reaching Sacket's Harbor in a small boat.J 



+ William Vaiiplian was l)orn Aug. la, 1770, at WilkeslMirre, Pa., and in 1794 
fir-t visit«'il Canada while Odwego, Fort Carllon, and Oswegatchie wen- held by 
tlie British, and m cm^sing the lake was renuir.-<l (o take oul a llritish |ms3port 
between Auierinm \KnU. In 171*7 he again returned, and soon aft*T engaged 
in lake navigntion. In 1S12 he was empluy^'d as sailing-nuisKr, and wad promi- 
nent and .ictive in that capacity through the war. He sulmequently resumed 
tiie mariner's life, and was successively uiasti-r of the steamers " Sophia," " Uu- 
tario,' " Bwwnville," "William Avery," '• Telegraph," and " Martha Ogdrn," 
on Lake Ontario. He has for many years resided at Sacket's Harbor, as miiling- 
master, nndrr pay of government. 

gThe English brought material for their war vi'ssels from England, an 1 in 
August, \Mi, tlie frames of two frigates arrived at Kingston. 



548 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW Y'ORK. 



While these minor opcrntions were occurring at this end of the lake, 
the Aineriojin army, on the Ntngara frontier, was actively engiiged in 
tho^e aggressive movements which gave celebrity to the names of 
Brown, Porter, Scott, Miller, Ripley, and others, and conferred honor 
upon our national character for valor. 

Gen. Gaines remained at Sncket's Harbor, from whom Mnjor-Gcn. 
Brown received word, July 2;J, that the tlcet was in that port, and that 
the commodore was sick. The riflemen and a battering train of artillery 
were much needed on the Niagara frontier, but the American squad- 
ron did not get under way before the close of the month. On the ^ilst 
of July, the *' Superior," 62 (Com. Chauncc3'), Lieut. Elton; "Mo- 
hawk," 42, Capt. Jones; "Pike," 2S, Capt. Crane; ** Madison," 24, 
Capt. Treuchard; " Jefl*erson," 22, Capt. liidgcly ; "Jones," 22, 
Lieut. Woolsey; "Sylph," 14, Capt. Elliot; ''Oneida," 16, Lieut. - 
Com. Brown ; and " Lady of the Lake," a cruiser, sailed, and arrived 
off Niagara Aug. it. On the 7th, his majesty's brig "Melville," 14 
guns, was chased ashore about four miles from Niagara, when she was 
fired by the enemy, and in a little time blew up. 

Gen. Izard arrived Sept. 10, with 41)00 men, at Packet's Ifarbor, 
from Lake Cbamplain, by the circuitous route of the Mohawk and 
Black River valleys, and on the lUth 3000 men embarked, but a galo 
prevented their sailing until the 21 si. On the next day tliey landed 
at the Genesee river, and reached Batavia on the 26th. By an order 
of Sept. 27, from the secretary of war, he was directed to take the 
command uf the Niagara frontier. A body of artillery, un<ler Lieut. - 
Col. Mitchell, and two battalions of infantry (the 13th, under Majitr 
Malcolm, and the 45lh, under -Major Brevoot) were left to defend the 
harbor. 

The command was soon after assumed by Gen. Brown. Sept. ilO, 
a gig belonging to the " Superior," with an officer and four men, 
captured several boats at the bead of the St. Lawrence, laden with a 
valuable cargo of goods bound for Kingston, and brought them into 
Sacket's Harbor. 

Great apprehensions were felt in the fall of this year for the safety 
of the harbor, which led to an application to the executive for aid. 
Col. Washington Irving, aid-de-caiup to the governor, arrived at this 
station Oct. 5, 1814, with orders to the commanding officer to make 
such requisitions on the militia as he might deem necessary. After 
consultation with Col. Mitchell, Gen. Collins called the militia en 
inaase from the counties of Herkimer, Oneida, Lewis, and Jefferson. 
The two former produced about 2500 men, the latter not more than 
400, which made the force at the harbor between 5000 an<i 6000 men. 
Great difficulty was experienced from the want of suitable quarters 
for so great a body. Many were quartered in dwellings and barns, 
and from twenty to thirty were often assigned to a single room. The 
discomforts attending these accommodations very naturally excited 
uneasiness, and at the expiration of the draft it was ap])rehendcd 
that the militia would be with diffirulty prevented from going homo, 
and that it would become necessary to supply their places by regu- 
lars. The aj)prehensions were not justified by the events that fol- 
lowed, and the militia were allowed to return home. Two ships-of- 
thc-line of the largest class were begun, — one on Navy Point, in 
Sacket's Harbor, to be called the " New Orleans," and another of the 
eame class at Storr's Harbor, farther up the bay, to be called the 
"Chippewa," — and their hulls partly completed, when the news of 
peace put a stop to the work. 

An agreement was entered into at Wa«hington, in April, LSI", be- 
tween Richard Rush, at that time secretary of state, and Charles 
Bagot, his Britannic majesty's envoy, to the effect that but one ves- 
sel, of not more than 100 tons burden, and armed with one IS-pound 
cannon, should be maintained on Lakes Ontario and Cbamplain: and 
this having been approved between the two governments, was noti- 
fied by a proclamation by James Monroe, President, dated April 28, 
1H18. The " Lady of the Lake," with 3 |)ivot guns on deck, and the 
brig "Jones," with 18 guns on deck, were kept up till this treaty, 
the " Pike," "Jefferson," "Mohawk," " Madison," "Superior," ami ! 
" Sylph" having been dismantled soon after the peace. The "Junes" | 
and fifteen barges were in 1816 reported in good order. Most of 
these vesselH were covered with a roof, but in the annual returns of 
the department were s^cces^ivcly marked " much decayed," " sunk," 
" useless," etc., until March 3, 1824. when an act was passed direct- 
ing all (he public vessels on Lakes Erie and Ontario (except the 
ships-of-thc-line" Now Orleans" and " Chijipewa, " then on the stocks 
undercover) to be sold, and the avails to be applied to the repair 
and building of sloops-of-wur. riilil this act, the "Lady uf the 



Lake,'' with one pivot gun, had been kept np. Of all this formidable 
fleet, the unfinished hull of the "New Orleans" now alone remains, 
having been preserved in the same condition as in 1815, by a house 
built over it. 

A history of Madison barracks is given in the account of Sacket's 
Harbor. (See ante.) 

The condition of the fortifications at this place at the close of the 
war is thus described by an English writer:* 

** A low point of land runs out from the northwest, upon which is 
the dock-yard, with large store-houses, ami all thr requisite buildings 
belonging to such an establishment. I'pon this point is a very pow- 
erful work, called l*'ort Tompkins, f having within it a strong blofk- 
house, two stories high; on tlu' land ^'u\c it i.- covered by a strong 
picketing, in which there are embrasures; twenty guns are mounted, 
besides two or three mortars, with a furnace for heating shot. At 
the iiottom of tlie harbor is the village, that contains Irom sixty to 
seventy houses, and, to the .^outhwanl of it, a barrack capable of ac- 
commodating two thousau<l men, and generaliy used for the marines 
belonging to the fleet. On a point eastward of the harbor stands 
Fort I'ike, a regular work, surrounded by a ditch, in advance of 
which there is a strong line of picketing ; in the centre of the princi- 
])al work there is a block-house two stories high : this fort is armed 
with twenty guns. Ai'out one hundred yards from the village, and 
a little to the westward of Fort Tompkins, is Smith's cantonment or 
barrack, strongly built of lugs, forming a square, with a block-house 
at each corner; it is loopholed on every side, and c:ipab]e of making 
a powerful resistance; twenty-five hundred men have been accommo- 
dated in it. A little further wcs^tward another fort presents itself, 
built of earth, an<i strongly pali.«aded, having in the centre of it a 
lilock-housc one ."tury high; it mounts twenty-eight guns. Midway 
between these two works is a powder magazine, inclosed within a 
very strung picketing. 

" By the side of the road that leads to Henderson Harbor stands 
Fort \'irginia. a S((uare work, with bastions at the angles, covered 
with a strong line of jialisades. but no ditch : it is arineil with sixteen 
guns, anil has a bluek-house in the midille of it. Fort Chauneey is a 
small (circular tower, covered with plank, and looidioled for the use of 
musketry, intended for small-arm defense only. It is situated a small 
distance from the village, and cumniands the ruad *liat lends toSandy 
creek. In addition to ttiose works of strength, there are several block- 
houses in different situations, that altogdhcr render the place very 
secure, and capable of resisting a powertul attack : indeed, (rom recent 
events, the Americ;ins have attached much importance to it, and with 
their accustomed celerity have spared no exertions to render it for- 
midable.'' 

The revenue cutter " Jefferson" was built by government at Oswego, 
for public service on Lake Ontario, in the summer of 1844. She waa 
152 feet long, 24 feet beam, pierced for 16 guns, with one long sixty- 
eight on a pivot on deck. She was built of iron, by Messrs. Knap 
»t Co.. of Pittsburgh, after the model of the '" Princeton," and to bo 
propelled by steam on the same principle. J She was to be commanded 
by Lieut. Charles W. Benuet, of the revenue service. After service 
on the lake one or two seasons, this vessel ]>assed down the St. La\v- 
rence. and has since been uj)on the high seas. 

At the present time the American and British Governments main- 
tain a single war vessel in the revenue service on the entire range of 
lakes. The steamer " Michigan," carrying one heavy gun, is em- 
ployed by the U. S, Government. 

BIOGRAPHY OF OFFICERS OF 1812-l.i. 
The following military biographies and notices of eminent officers 
of the last war with Great Britain are from Dr. Hough's History, 
published in 1854, with corrections and additions by the doctor. 

MAJOR-GKNKItAL JACOB BROWN' 

was born in Falls township, Bucks Co., Pa., and within sight of the 
city of Trenton, N. J., on the 9th of May, 1775, and was the fourth 
descendant of George Brown, an English immigrant, who had settled 
in the province two years before the arrival of Penn. The descent 
was by Samuel, John, and Samuel Brown, all of them Quakers, and 
by profession farmers. His father had married a daughter of Joseph 
Wright, a celebrated Quaker preacher, and she possessed a degree of 
intelligence and strength of mind seldom equaled : qualities which 
were <levelopcd in her son at an early period, and shone conspicuously 
through life. She died Fob. .t, 1830. 

• Donchette's Canaila, p. 620, 1815. 

t The liluck-housc nt Fort Tompkins was built by Samuel F. Hooker, upon 
the assttrnnre nf Ihe military officers of the wtation that tlu-ir inllueiice should 
be iiseii III gritillg Ihi? Work sanctiunetl liy tlie i;nverniiit'nt. whiili MJ19 »ul>f*e- 
t|ueiitly fullilletl. Migor Darliv Moore visited the ptjice the minie month, anil 
provided fi»r tlie gpet-dv rricli..n at" l<:irnirks uii ihr plsiin towunl the lake. 

J Screw pi-o|H^ller. 



HISTORY OF JKFFEruSON COUxNTY, NEW YORK. 



549 



The family consisted of John (afterwards Judge Brown, of Brown- 
ville), Jucoh, Joseph, Mary (Mrs. Newland, of Fish kill, deceased), 
Benjamin, Saiiiiict (Major Brown, formt-rly of Brownville), Hannah 
(Mrs, B. Skinner, slill living), M'illiam. Abi {Mrs. M, Evnn!=), and 
Joseph.* Samuel Brown, his fiithor. possessed a considerable estate, 
and gave his family the benefit of such instructions as the vicinity 
afforded, and for one or two seasons Jacob, with his brother John, 
attended an academy nt Trenton, and liis education was completed 
at the winter's tire, at home, where he kejit a small school for in- 
structing the younger members of the family. 

An unfortunato speculittion had deprived his father of the means 
of affording him a finished education, nnd at the age of sixteen ho 
found himself reduced to the necessity of looking out for himself, and 
he even conceived the idea of retrieving the fortunes of his family, 
and from that moment set himself assiduously to the work.f From 
eighteen to twenty-one, ho was employed to leach a large school in 
Crnsswicks, N. J.,and having qualified himself for the duties of a land 
surveyor, he spent one year in the Miami country, in Ohio, to which 
section his father had conceived the idea of removing, but he re- 
turned in 170S, and was again induced to take charge of a Quaker 
school in New York. It being a period of political excitement, he 
frequently took a part in these discussions, nnd in one of thorn he 
formed an acquaintance with Gouverueur Morris, which subsequently 
ri])ened into :i warm friend.'^hip. 

He abimt the same time became acquainted with Rodolph Tillier, 
the agent of the Chassanis company, wlio made with him a journey 
to his father's house, and concluded a bargain with S. Brown for the 
purchase of a large tract at two dollars per acre. In February, 1799, 
having given \\\> his school, he started for his future home, the loca- 
tion of which bad nut been definitely fixed, and arrived at the French 
settlement, at the high falls on Black river, between which place and 
Utica he made several journeys during the winter, and l>rought in a 
quantity of provisions preparatory to his final removal to a location 
he had decided upon forming, at the head of navigation of Black 
river. In March, as soon as the river was clear of ice, he launched 
a boat upon its swollen and angry waters, and floated down to the 
Ijctng Falls. From thence, in cnmpany with Chambers, Thomas 
Ward, and a few hired men, he took the route of the French Hoad, 
then nearly opened, and when he supposed they had gone far enough, 
struck ofl" towards the river, which he happened to reach at the 
present village of Brownville. lie was here so struck with the un- 
expected advantages otfered by the fall nt the mouth of the Philomel 
creek, then swollen by spring floods, that he residvcd to make his 
stand here, where the water-power appeared sufficient for every pur- 
pose required, and the river, with some improvements below, could 
be navigated by boats. 

On the 27th of May he was joined by his father's family, who 
came by the tedious navigation of the Mohawk, Oneiila lake, Oswego, 
and Lake Ontario. He commenced at once clearing lands, and the 
next year erecting mills, etc., the details of which are given in our 
history of Brownville, In September and October, K'.iy, he, with 
his brother Samuel, surveyed the townships of Hague and Cambray, 
in St. Lawrence Co., and until the opening of a land office at Le 
Raysville, in 1S07. he acted as the agent of Mr. Le Ray in the settle- 
ment of his hinds in Brownville and adjacent towns. He was mainly 
in:^trumental in jirctcuring the construction of the State roads, one in 
ISOI. from Redfii'ld by way of Adams, antl one from I'tica by the 
Black River valley. Of both of these he was apjxjinteil a commis- 
sioner for locating and opening, nnd he succeeded in getting them 
both to terminate at his location in Brownville, where himself, his 
father ami brothers, had opened a store, built mills, commenced the 
manufacture of potash, which found a ready market in Kingston and 
Montreal, and made extensive clearings for raising grain. In 180i, 
the question of forming one or more new countii^s from Oneida 
became the abyorbing theme, and a convention was held at Denmark, 
Nov. 20, IStU, to decide upon the application, at whicli most of the 
delegates are said to have gone prepared to vote for one county, but 
from the influence of Mr. Brown and Gen. Martin, of Martinsburgh, 
were induced to apply for the erection of two new counties. In 
locating the county-seat, the most active efl'orts were made in each 



* MHJor.I. Tbomns Brown, a son of S«mnpl Brown, died !n Naples, Italy, In 
.Tilly, 18.V», jiped 4!t. lie wiw an eniineot vngiiiecr on tlie N. Y. & E. R. I(.,)nid 
&nI)Sf<iiM-ntly ii> Unssiu. 

f Malional Porlr.iit (iatlcry of D)>tiii(:nl3heil AnH-ricans, part xx. 



county, Marttnsbargh and Lowville being the rivals in Lewis, and 
Watertown nnd Brownville in Jefferson, Mr. Brown was ihe princi- 
pal advocate of the latter, but the mass of settlement was then in 
the southern towns, and the portion north of Black River was known 
to be low, level, nnd (in a state of nature) much of it swampy. The 
settlements that had been begun at that early day at Perch River, 
Chaumont, and on the St. Lawrence, were visited by severe sickness, 
and the idea was entertained, or at least held forth to the commis- 
sioners who located the site, that it could never be inhabited. Mr. 
Brown next endeavored to procure the location on the north bank of 
the river, near AVatertown, nnd made liberal oflere of land for the 
public use, but the perseverance nnd intrigues of Mr. CotTeen and 
others succeeded in fixing the site at its present location. 

After the opining of the land-oflice nt Le Raysville, Mr. Brown 
continued for two or three years devoted to his private affairs, and 
meanwhile received, unsolicited, commissions of captain, and of col- 
onel of the 108th regiment of militia. His promotion in the line of 
military life is said to have arisen from his avowed aversion to fre- 
quent and expensive military parades in time of peace, calling off the 
inhabitants from their labors in the fields, and encouraging habits of 
intemperance, which in those days were too frequently the accompa- 
niment of such gatheiings. His views on the subject of militia or- 
ganizations apjiroached more nearly to our present system, and in se- 
lecting him for ofiice the peojde were convinced that while he omit- 
ted nothing conducive to the public safety he wouhl cause them no 
needless expense of time and money for parades. In his public and 
private conduct and daily life, they saw him in possession <d' sagacity 
and intelligence that led them to place contidcncc in liis resources, 
should emergencies call for their exereii^e, and the integrity of his 
private life convinced them that the public trusts with which he 
might be honoreti would be faithfully preserved. Our foreign rela- 
tions nt that time foreboded collision, and tlic cloud of war that dark- 
ened the political horizon, and tilleil the timid witii alarms, gave a 
well-grounded expectation that a crisis was approaching, although it 
was uncertain which of the two great powers of Europe would de- 
clare against us, and the parties that divided our jieople were far 
from being harmonious in opinions of the relative expediency of hos- 
tilities with cither. The opinion of Mr. Brown on this subject may 
be gathered from the following letter to the governor, written upon 
the receipt of his commission as brigadier-general of militia: 

" IlBOWNVlM.K, July 27, ISU. 
" Dkak Srn. — Having received nu' commission as general, for 
whicli I thank you, I have now to solicit your Kxeelleney, that in 
case u\ war your Excellency will order me upon duty. It shall be 
my humble endeavor not to disappoint the just expei-tations of my 
fricncls. Situateil on the confines of the British Empire, I have 
viewed with some solicitude the state of our relations with that 
power, and this solicitude induces me thus to adilrcss your Excel- 
lency. I am not one of those that believe a war with Great Britain 
is the best thing that can happen to my country. I believe that a 
war with the tyrant of the continent some lime past would have been 
prevented, and the honor of this nation preserved in an amicable ad- 
justment of the ditficulties with the nlan-^tca'ers of the ocean. As 
we are now surrounded by fogs an<l whirlpools, none, save God and 
theitilot, can say which eourse it is best to steer. But to my humble 
vision it appears that wc must light a battle with both belligerents, 
or cease to ]>ratc about national honor and national sovereignty and 
national dignity. Your Excellency will be so gt>od as to remember 
that I am the frontier general in the State of New York, Caiiaila- 
wards. I am serious in my applicafion to be up(»n duty if there is war, 
and your friendshiji will lay me under great obligations. 
*' Yours, truly, 

" Jacob Biiows. 

*'HlS EXCKLLKNCY D. D. ToMPKINS." 

On the declaration of war, (^en. Brown was appointed by Gov. 
Tompkins to the command of the militia on the frontier, from Os- 
wego to St. Regis, and spent the summer in organizing nud directing 
the military movements at Sackct's Harbor, Cape Vincent, and va- 
rious points along the St. Lawrence below ; nor did this season pass 
without incident to call into exercise those traits of decision, energy, 
and tact which were signally displayed at a later period in the war. 
His first duty was (o quiet the alarm which the first tidings of hos- 
tilities occasioned, for which purpose he traversed most of the settle- 
ments of the county, held little meetings of the inhabitants, nnd, by 
his representations and advice, succeeded to a great degree in restor- 
ing confidence, and procuring the adoption of measures calculated to 
be effectual in case of urgent need. Late in the season he was suc- 
ceeded by Brig. -Gen. H(Klge, and onlered to assume the eommnud at 
Ogdensburgh, tu which place he repaired by witter. He had scarcely 



550 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



taken up his quarters there when he was attacked, on the* 4th of Oc- 
tober, hy the enemy, but succeeded in repelling them in a manner 
that conferred much credit upon himself and his troops. 

The phm which he proposed was to take Prescott, and, by inter- 
ceptinjj the cummuDieations of the St. Lawrence and the Ottawa^ to 
deprive Upper Canada of aid, iind capture it in detail. His scheme 
was not adopted, and in the event the expenditure of vast sums and 
much blood on the Canadian frontier effected nothing. On the 2yth 
of May, ISl.'t, Gen. Brown was hastily summoned to defend Saeket's 
Ilarbtir from nn nttiick which the eneuiy planned against that place 
in rctaliatiun of our descent upon Little York, and the successful 
result of bis plans in this ci)g;igement led to his promotion »s a 
major-general in the regular service, and opened the way to that 
career uf victory which, in this nud the following year, distinguished 
the Ameriean armies under his command on the Niagarn frontier. 
Such W!is the lustre that his name acquired in these campaigns that, 
upon the formation of the peace establishment, he was retained in 
command of the northern division of the army, that of the south 
being under Andrew Jackson. The details of the military niove- 
ments of this frontier will be given in the following chapter; those 
of the Niagara belong to our general history, 

A series of resolutions wa? passed by Congress, Nov. ',i, 1814, the 
first of which was as follows : 

'* Rf.Kolcefif hy the Senate nnrl Jlmme of Rrprctrutntirrs o/ tfir Vn'ited 
Sttiten nf A)iicrif(i III Cntujrrfiif anHenifihff, That the thanks of Congress 
be and they are hereby iirescntud to Maj.-(icn. Brown, and through 
him to the othcers and men of the regular army, and of the miliria 
under his coniniaud. for their gallantry and good conduct in the suc- 
cessive battles of Chipj)ew!i, Niagara, and Erie, in l'[)per Canada, in 
wbieh British veteran troops were beaten and repulsed by equal or 
inferior numbers, and that the President of the Cniteil States be 
requested to cause a gold medal to be struck emblematical of these 
triumphs and presented to Maj.-Gen. Brown." 

This medal bears his profile, after a painting by Sully, upon one 
side, and upon the reverse it commemorates the battles of Chippewa, 
Niagara, and Erie. The New York Legislature passed a series of 
resolutions in December, ISU, expressing their approbation, and 
presenting a sword to Gen. Brown and the several commanding offi- 
cers in the late campaign. 

On the 4lh of Feb., IS 1 5, the corporation of the city of New York 
presented him the freedom of the city, in a g<)ld box, and directed a 
full-length painting to bo procured and placed in the City Hall. It 
is from this painting that our steel jiortrait of Gen. Brown, given in 
this connection, was engraved. 

In December, ISKi, Gen. Brown experienced a severe bereavement 
in the death of a son, named Gouverneur M., who was drowned while 
skating on the ice near Dexter. This lad is said to have shown an 
intelligence and sagacity far beyond his years, which naturally 
gainccl him the affection of those around him, and his father ha4l 
especially regarded these early manifestations of talent with feelings 
known only to the doting parent. It may well be irnagined that the 
heavy tidings gave a deep and lasting wound to his hopes, and 
desolated the heart beyonil the power of eont»ol«tion or reach of 
sympathy. 

In the discharge of his official duties (Jen. Brown removed to 
Washington in 1821, where ho continued to reside until his death, 
which occurred Feb. 2i, 1828, from the efleet of a disease ctjntraeted 
at Fort Erie. For some time previous his physical jiowers had been 
impaired by a paralytic stroke. His death was announced to the army 
by an order of the secretary of war, and the funeral ceremonies were 
performoJ with all the formality and dignity that his exalted rank 
required. 

A monument has been erectotl by congress over his grave in Wash- 
ington, having for its device a broken column, and upon the east side 
of the base the following inscription: 

SACRED 

to the memory of Major-Gcnoral Brown. 

By birth, by education, by principle, 

(levoted to peace. 

In defen-^e of his country, 

a warrior. 

To her aerviee he dedicated his life. 

Wuunds received in her cause abridged his days. 

tn reviewing the life of Gen. Brown, we cannot but be struck 
with the evidences of inicgrily. talent, and ability which he evinced 
in the various stations of jiublic life which he was called to till. 

In the course of n minute and ilelitiled in'|uiry in Jefferson County, 



while collecting the materials of this volume, the author has had in- 
numerable opportunities uf obtaining independent private opinions 
from those with whom he had been associated in vari<ms capacities, 
and he has yet to meet with the first person who had the ability or 
the disposition to detraet in the smallest degree from his character for 
patriotism, sagacity, energy, and ability as a military man, or of in- 
tegrity, honor, and probity as a citizen. 

Although Gen. Brown had not received a military education, 
and was at first ignorant of the discipline and usages of the service, 
he soon acquired a familiarity with these details, and with a happy 
facility availed himself of the experience of those around him, and 
met the emergencies arising from errors with a co«lness that proved 
him the possessor of a sound mind, and an unusual share uf pntvtiral 
common «e»»c, without which the most rigid professional training will 
fail to make a successful commander. 

Nor was the tenor of his private life less engaging than his public 
character. lie was a devoted son and brother, an affectionate hus- 
band and parent, an obliging neighbor, a warm-hearted friend, and 
an enterprising public citizen, foremost in every enterprise that had 
for its object the improvement of his village, town, or county, and 
liberal in his patronage and encouragement of objects of public utility. 
For several years he was an active member and officer of the county 
agricultural society, and from him the county received the most 
efficient aid for the opening of roads and the planning of improve- 
ments having for their object the general prosperity.^' 

The following in'ercsting letters from the correspondence of Gen. 
Brown relate to events connected with the county in early pari of the 
cuuipaigu of 1812, and will be read with interest : 

Ai.«ANV, June 21, 1812. 

Siu. — War is declared between the United Kingdoms of Great 
Britain and Ireland and its dependencies and the I'niled Slates of 
America and the territories thereof. This event will call forth the 
energies of every friend of his country, and more especially of thoso 
officers who are assigned to eomunnnl (ho military forces. You will 
have received the (Jcneral Order assigning you to the command of one 
of the brigades detached from the mililia of this State, in anticipation 
of the event which is now announced. Our militia-law makes jiro- 
vision tor calling out the brigade you now command, in ease of in- 
vasion, anl you are hereby empowered to reinforce Col. Bellinger 
with the militia iletachrnent from .leti'erson. Lewis, ancl Si. Lawrence 
c-'Unties, and to arm them an<i equip them at the State Arsenals at 
liusscll and at Watertown, if, in your opinion, the safety of the in- 
habitants, or any important object to be accomiili^hed. shall reejuiro 
it. I place mueh reliance on your abilities and valor in protecting 
our frontier inhabitants until the arrival of further troops and 
supplies, tvhich will be forwarded with the utmost practicable ex- 
pedition. 

I am respectfully your obedient servant, 

DaXIKL D. ToMI'KlXS. 

P.S. — Let Col. Benedict turn out with the St. Lawrence detachment 
immciliately, to guard the frontier from Ogdensburgh to St. Regis. 
Station them as may be best calculated for that purpfse. They may 
arm from the Russell Arsenal. 

Gkn. Jacob Bhows. 

Bnowxviij.F.. Jiine2.'i, 1SI2. 

Dkar Silt, — Your order of the 2.'?d instant was delivered me this 
day al>out ten o'clock. For this addititmal prouf ol your confiilence 
in assigning to me the eommand of a br gade, you have my earnest 
acknowledgments. 1 humbly pray (iod that I may do my duty. This 
county must be sacrificed, provided it should be assailed hy the forco 
now in Kingston, unless we are provided with the means of defense. 
AVe will try lo keep them at liay until the neecr^sary supplies arrive, 
which may Heaven and our country grant speedily. I am, etc. 

Jacou Bhuwn. 

His Exckli.kncy D. D. Tompkins. 

IlROW.NVii.i.K, June 26, 1HI2. 

Dkau Sir, — In the course of yesterday and last night I ascertained, 
as I am induced to believe, that the news of the Declaration of War 
against Great Britain had not been received at Kingston, and by my 
express I ordered the olheer at Cape Vincent to prevent all passing, 
an>I, if possible, all communication. Perhaps wc can keep the ucms 
from this post a ilay or two. 

Within one hour alter the arrival of Mr. Whigton, I had expresses 
on tlieir way to every colonel in the counties of L;*wis, Jefferson, and 
Si. Lawrence, excepting Col. Cox. ami his oriler.«i I sent by Whigton. 
The men of this county are now assembling : in the course of to-day 
and next day I trust that I shall have them at Saeket's Harbor. 
Thitse from the county of Lewis shall be on with all p4>ssible speed, 
and Col. Benedict lias the necessary <ir<lers for the county of St. Law- 
rence, and I know that he is of the stuff to do his duty. Our situa- 
tion as to arms and ammunition will be explained to you by Mr. 
Whigton : it will be concealed from the enemy as mueh as possible. 



• Tbe willow of (lie g<>neral is sttH living, ut a very advanced age. See his- 
tory of IJrownville (aiifr). 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



551 



. . . Ti)ur Excellency will hear in mind that this is a very new 
country; that the poimlation is light and generally poor, though very 
resiieolahle for so new a country, and that if any luore nun aie enllcd 
from their homes, the crops, ivhich now promise a very abundant 
harvest, must perish on the ground. I mention this to vour K.vcel- 
leney as the country expects it at my hands, and much more than 
my teeble abilities can accomjilish: but no consideration of this na- 
ture shall deter me for a moment from calling out every man in the 
country if its defense requires it, though I must for the i.rcsent liopc 
that the lorcc coming on will render such a measure unnecessary I 
pray (iod that our (iovernment will act with that decision and energy 
which becomes a gallant people. 

I aiu respectfully and humbly yours. 

T, « , Jatod IJhowv. 

J-.s.— 1 pray your txcellency to give Colonel (}ursliain Tutllc the 
command ol a regiment if it has not been done, and your Excellency 
can consider it for the good of the service. 

His KXCKLLEXCV D. D. ToMPKt.XS. 



T. c „ . ... Brownvilie. June 20, 181-2. 

UKAit bin,— Being solicitous to know with ceriaintv the slate of 
the preparations designe.l for the safety of this conntrV, I have dis- 
patched Hart Massey, Ks,,., for that purpose, he being a man in 
wliom you can place coiitidencc. lieing ilceplv impressed with the 
weight ot responsibility ihat rests upon inc. I am solicllous, anion" 
other things, ihat your Execlleucy will give me all the aid by instruc" 
tiuns that the nature of my situation will .admit. I almost assure 
m.v.sclt that the munitions of war are at hand so as to enable the in- 
habiiants ol this county to sell their lives, if they are to be lost: but 
this IS a subject ot so much iii<,nicnl that I cannot rest until the 
people actually have arms and aiiimiinition. .Many families are 
pressing on towards the old setlleincnts, and unless w'c arc immedi- 
ately supplied I cannot say to what extent this .lisgrace will extend 

lour I'.xccllciuy will pnd.ably be surprised at this inlelli.'ence. I 
am loth to state it, and my soul sickens to sec a gallant people thus 

Many of the guns from the arsenal arc in the most wretched con- 
dition, and many more totally unlit for use. What powder we have 
—which, by the way, is very little— is not lit for such a business as 
we arc engaged in, or for any other but to make squibs 

War IS not only declared, but aciually commenced, along this bor- 
der .Some of our people, without orders, and, in fact, without con- 
sulting With any per.son in the service, captured the little garrison on 
tarllon ishiii.l, and the prisoners arc now on their way to .-Jacket's 
Jlarbor. Jor the i.arliculars, I must refer you to Mr. Massey, who 
knows whatever has transpired in the counly. ... 

I have given thccommaud at Cape Vincent, fur the present, to .Tohn 
IS. bsselstyn, and I should be gratified if vour Execllcncv would as- 
sign hiui to a command as .Major, which rank he holds in" the militia 
at present. 

Your Excellency may count with certainty upon every Indian 
throughont British America being perfectly armed and i.reparcd for 
the combat. ' * 

Yours respectfully, 

Jacob IJkow.v. 

To Gov. TOMPKI.NS. 

BRnwNviLi.B, Julv 2, 1S12. 

Dkak .SiR,_It is with great pleasure that I inform vourExcellencv 
that the perturbation produced by the declaration of "war is subsiding 
lur the [»ro:?ent. * 

I ini.st take the liberty of again reminding your Excellency that 
I ape \ incciit and Og.lensburgh are. in my humble opinion, the fioints 
at which your principal force should be assembled. Sackefs llarbor 
13 too lar tioiu the line, as I can have no idea of our lloverninent de- 
claring war against Great Britain wilhuut the conquest of faimda 
Our honor and interest and everything demands it. For lleiven-s 
sake, let our country put forth its strength, and Canada must fall, and 
that at once, to Quebec, and we shall no longer be subject to the dis- 
grace ol delcnding our country against Cauada and the 
alarm of a savage foe. 



perpetual 



Col. Bellinger would, in ray humble opinion, be much more useful 
on Ihe M. I.awreiice; his force can at present have no active duty 
where they arc. They are now greatly wanted on 1 he St. Lawrence, and 
will be. until the arrival of rciuforccmcnts. .\s vet I have heard of no 
reiuforcemcnls being on Ihe way, and until lhis"inomeiit I have heard 
or no more arms or aninuinilion. By a letter from Judge ..Mtwaler 
1 have, whilst writing, learned that arms would probably be in Den- 
n.ark by 1,,-uiorrow evening: what quanlily. he does not'sav With- 
out ordiiaucc, your Exeellency will pereei-ye that Ogdensburgh and 
Cat e \ inccnt, and al our places along the .St. Lawrence and the Lake, 
will be in danger of being destroyed. I should suppose that ou^ 
country would not he willing to submit to such disgrace 
will "I'l l',™l",'''",'l "•'"''.''',"• "'"^u Lieut.-Col. Benedict's letter, together 
with tha o .lodge Hichards. arrived. I send a copy of llenediefs 
and he ,ru,lge s letter, that you may have a view of' the war in that 
qnarler. \\ h:itcver my worthy and gallant friend Benedict may say, 
1 '".v 'hat the British will not lake possession of Ogdensburgh with- 
out the loss of many lives. 

If the British make their approach with ordnance, Benedict will 
to be sure, be unhappily siliiated ; but in any situation, your Excel- 
ency m:.y rely upon his ,Iuing his duty, and l".hink all ho"norab!e men 
mu.st mourn that he cannot meet the enemy on equal terms. I will 
write your Excellency again when I see what are the amount of my 
munitions of war by the teams abont which Judge Attwater speaks, 
lours respectfully and sincerely, 

JAion Bkow.v. 



P.S.— W« are greatly in want of pistols and swords, and if vour 
Excellency could have some forwarded for Ihe use of men disposed to 
use ihem, on their paving for thcra, or giving good security, they 
would be essentially Useful. o ob } • '"'y 

Uis ExcEi.LKXc V D. D. Tompkins. 

Bkokstilie, July :i_ ls|o 

DeahSir,— Since writing you yesterday some of mv scouts brought 
in a man supposed by them to be a spy: he, howev'er, turns out to 
nc a gooil ^ aiikce, who was making the best of his way home. Ho 
was foun.l Ml the woods a little to the west of Indian river, and six 
or eight miles Iroin the ^;|. Lawrence. He stales that he saw the 
people who were taken from Ihe vessels that were burned, ihal there 
""*■■ •'",."' ""•'"> ""■' "'""■'»; ""i-"' several women and chiblren— parts 
of families moving-that everything on board the vessels, even their 
>cry clothes, were burned. This man's story is to be relied on, as he 
has respectable friends in this village who vouch for his veracity. 

Maj. .Noon has just been with me: he passed from Dgdensbiirgh 
to (^ape \ incent since this burning, and confirms Ihe whole account 
I appichend the British contemplate fortifying Ihe Narrows from 
isfand to island, so as to command the riier. This must be iire- 
venled, and for Ibis and other objicts we are greatly in want of ird- 
nance, and some uieii to use them with success. 

I have to slate to your Excellency that al the moment when tho 
greatest a arm existed among Ihe good people of this county. Capt. 
Lamp and company profl'ercd their services for the defense of the 
county for thirty ilays. I saw Ihat it could but have the most happy 
cfiect, and accepted their services. Had I any authority so to do"' 
At thai moment I supposed Ihat 1 had: upon r"etlcction, f fear that I 
have not. If I have exceeded my authority I trust your Evcellency 
will excuse me and inform me what is to be done with "such a business 
As I have not heard from Col. Stone, and as I consider it of tho 
hrst iiiiporlance to have more force on tho St. Lawrence, I have 
ordered Col Bellinger to dct.aeh 100 men to Cape Vincent under the 
command of his second major. It will be done lo-inorrow I feel 
inileh delicacy in interfering in any way with Col. Bellinger, but 
Albany is a great way ofl, and I am persuaded that our force will bo 
much more serviceable at the St. Lawrence. My opinion is decidedly 
for pressing to the line. ... ■' 

Upon the whole, 1 pray your Excellency lo sanction what I have 
done, and lo he more explicit with your orders in future. My object 
IS the complete and perlect defense of this country for the present 
and If I can but eflecl this I shall hojic to meet with the approbation 
ol the commanilcr-in-chief, though my conduct may be a liitio 
irregular. As I am collecting a considerable force on" the St. Law- 
rence, where an enemy may soon be met. 1 have taken the liberty to 
employ a surgeon on whom reliance may be placed. Dr. Amasa 
Irowbridge is the man. He is very respectable as a surgeon and I 
pray your Excellency to approve my choice and forward the tools ho 
wauls. 

Yours respectfully, j^^-^a Brow.v. 

His ExcEi.i.Kxcv D. D. Tompki.ns. 

Albaxt, June 211, 1812. 
Dkar Sin.— By Judge Attwater I forwarded the following articles 
tor the troops under your comm.md: IIIOO muskets: .520 cartridge- 
boxes: 1.5,000 muskcl cartridges. 1.S to the pound ; 10,IM10 do. IB^to 
the pound: a ton of lead: 10,:iil0 musket bullets. IS to the liound ■ 
5G riHes : 40 casks of powder: 1000 Hints: 2 brass ninc-i.oundcrs • 2 
pair staffs, spongers, rammers, port-Bre, stocks, etc. : 2 setts of hor<o 
harness; 1500 cannon balls for six-pounders: IJOn three-pounders 
and some camp-kettles, slow match, an.l buck-shot. In addition 
thereto, there is now boxing, and will leave before sunset, with .Maj 
Edmunds, a Kcvolutionary officer. lOOO muskets, 100 cartrid"-e-boxe» 
fixed aniuinnition, cain|,. kettles, powder, etc., and I have dh-ected «' 
pound balls to be east at the foundry in French Creek [supposed lo 
be laberg] I shall order these things on with the greatest expe.li- 
tion, ami sha I add some knaps.ieks. Tents have not arrived from 
«ew lork. Ihe want of them has distressed me beyond measure. 
The moment they come, you shall be supplied as fast as horses can 
carry them. When the whole supplies arrive, you will have ''000 
muskets, and ammunition, etc.. in your command— a supply for your 
post alone greater than Ihe whole United Slates possessed at tho 
commencement of the Kevolulion. 

Our han.ls will be full, but be in good spirit-s, cheer the inhabitants, 
and you may rely upon my devoting the exertions of every man to 
aid you. 1 on are at liberty to order Col. Stone with volunteers, or 
uetacbiueut from Oneida ccmnlv. 

In great haste, yours respcctfuIlT, 
Ge.v. Brow.v. y^^.,^, j, Tompki.vs. 

Brownville, July C, 1812. 

Bear Sir,— Y'ours by Mr. Massey was received on Ihe 4th instant, 
early in the morning. I am satisfied. My great anxiety was for 
arms and ammunition. Those by Judge .-Vtlwater have nearly all 
gone on lo .-t. Lawrence county. Those by .Major Edmunds I am 
expecting every hour. Since my tour among the inhabitants of this 
county their con.luct appears to be more manly. We have no 
divisions among us. Party with us is dead. 

As it was possible that Col. Benedict might be pressed, and as it is 
of the first importance Ihal what vessels we have shoubl be preserved, 
I have sent the detachments Irom Lewis [counly] to Ogdensbur.'h. 
And to keep them in as much alarm as possible at Kingston, I have 
stationed the detachment from this county at Cape Vincent, anil, at 
my request, a considerable part of the lorcc under Col. Bellinger is 
now also there. I consider ii of the first importance at present to 
keep Kingston, the scat of British power in Upper Canada, as much 



552 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



\: :;:;tnn,f Tl nr^^l >^rZi vessels 'rcnaiu .U K.ngston, and 
I a,l; r^m"a that they a,e aru.ing several others that are now 

have gone on to Ogdonslnirgh; the nines are here. 

Xot kn..win.'who all the olheers are that are assigne,! to mj 
bri -ade ": to re-iuest vour Exeelleney to order them t^o uu. 

Col- Stone has received my orders, and I take .t lor granted that he 

'" Z I'i-, ■::^lTn^vtS';^^r E.eelleney .ill por^ivc ho. mueh 
I , . nd in n 1 of mv nuartermas.er. Let hin. make h.s appearance 
Lr h«1t It Seyniou'r does not like h.s l.er.h, I wouM reeommend 
[^ -our Kvc-l enev a very valuable young officer, Gen Mar Un s aul, 
Ca rJohn Saflo d. i- if.here is any opening, he would be happy to 
t 't plo ed, and I should be happy to have such men wUh n.e. 
' "^ Yours rcspectlHlly, 

Ihs ExcE,.LENCV D. D. Tompkins. Jacob Bhown. 

BaowNvaLK, July ", 1812. 
D..n S.n,-Sinee writing you yesterday, I l^aye asc^t.in<^that 
the " Koval Oeor^e," " Duke ul K.-nt, '■ Prince Regent, and tar oi 
'Moiri'--wer^ all-iu the bight ot Kingston '-a.'- ";-'-,;' "3-/ ^ 
,n„rnin.' comnletely enuinpcd and manned; and that ini liiiu.n 
"r uTnig ;; ! L ,muA ^L.U, every bottom they eoulj -.nmiuid 
on the lake-, 'vour E.vcellency must not be -'I'"-' . '' "> f^'",' 
«..ni„.,i to destroy every vesse we have on the lake, and you »iu 

""colonel Stone has not yet arrived, nor one single field-officer, 
or one s n^k man sumh ol Lewis county. The detachment Irom 
Tewi" e, 11 "iv a e all with Col. lic.iedict. I intend to go to thecounty 
u, St. Lawience .he moment I can get hold of Col. Stone and get him 
aetlled down at his post at Cape Vincent. ... u , 1 „„ 

I will try and keep them alarmed at Kingston as much and as long 

as possible. 

Vours respcetlully, 

Jacob linow.N, Ihhj.-Gcn. 

U,S E.XCELI.F.N-CV D. D. TOMPKINS. „„^,,,^,„ ,,^ j,„, ,„, J,,!,. 

Hr'tLl^;;:n-;t^;i^r-hrx;::;dt;:r'^htt:^^ 

'alien. My object is to l/avc the vessels armed, it the governmeut 

You n'u su'^^ipose .hat I will pay no attention to county resolu- 
tions on the prcL'ut question. I sliall leave the good coui, V o . t 
fcrson in a tew days tor St. Lawren.,-e. The peop e ol that .0 .1 t.N 
are a... told, abandoning it in a most shame.ul manner Ih y 
"am firm as yet in .IclVerson. Will the government Jj'"'- Z"^, , ' 
dominion of the lake, or is Woolsey to be sacilh.cd .' av the good 
ncas to let mo know your Excellency's opinion on tins subject. 1 
the "Oneida" is .0 be preserved the government must speedily lurnish 
Euns to arm and men to man our other vessels. 
° Yours respectfully, 

Jacob linoWN. 

Ills EXCKI-LKNCY 1). D. ToMPKlNS. 



Sachet's IIakiwh, .loly 11, 1S12- 
Dk vu Siu.-I was called very early this morning by an ab'nn to this 
place. t was rumored that Woolsey, with the •'Oneida, '"-"■;_■■ 
Fnto the hands ot the enemy. I do not believe "■ a"! ''"^ . , ,/J;"; , 
seen no enemy. Some may suppose it iiiipru.lent foi Woolsiy to 
seen no tm m> i i ei.ance. Here he cannot 

shT; t'i ai, . i Twe have no bat'ery to shield him from a 
uero force. He may probably dodge their lUet on the broad lake, 
an 1 ke a shot atthen, ine at a time, lie, so tar, has my -"t-';^^ "" 
f, Inee and e-tceni, an.l 1 would to iJo.l it was m my power to give 
h 'Jhe'alii^tance i.e merits. I pray your l^-el^cy U, e. me know 
snccihcally what aid is to be expected lor W oolsey. lor until 1 kn v 
JLat he is to be abandoned, I will protect our other vessels to the 

"T'ha'r'uieTpound cannon at this place, but not a single 
,^, ,11 I shot I know and feel the elTccts of your Excellency s zeal 
fur e ho or and interest of the country, and I have written you so 
muJh on the subject of munitions ot' war that real y am aU,,,,. 
ashamed to trouble you any moie; but at .he -'"■>.'"'' ,"^ 
the inhabi.ants of this place I must again say, that, w ihoiit no 
means of Irming our vessels, the lake and rive r w.ll mo.t probably 

• The late l>r- J'bi' SallVoil, of Wut.rlowu, 



soon be at the command of the enemy, and in that case Oswego 
Oedensbrr.h, Sacket's Harbor, and Cape Vincen will be at the 
mfre'of -he enemy's shipping, unless we "- "'• -N; - . ». •>• 
ordnance lor the defense of these places. .•\nd I piay j o''^ f-xcil 
Ley "o believe me when I say that it will cost the nation twice as 
„uch to defend our Ironlier for twelve months as U would to conquer 
th« ('jinadiis to (Juchcc in six. . . • . i- . *\ „ 

Vhe on cers of the regular army are attempting to enlist the 
drafted men I have no Sbjec.ions if it is regular, and < -' P'--- 
„f the commander-in-chief; but with my F^^' ""l';"'; ""^J,;^ 
not nermit it unless niv consent is asked, and that ot my colonel., 
?or ki lov of no an,hor-itv that any officer in the regular service has 
com and me, or those under my command, short ol a general, 
n Zr s biect f prav your excellency to instruct me speeihcally. 
for I w sh to gi st'-aiglit! partieulaily on these subjects, and I shall 
evpceryour Excellency to' point the road It shall be traveled. 
^ Yours sincerely, 

Jacob Brown, /f//y.-t<e". 

His ExcELLENCv D. D. Tompkins. 

Albany, July 10, 1»12. 
Dfau S.R.-Mr. Thomas leaves this to-morrow morning, for the 

k ets o b; deposited at Mar.insburgb, with '•a'-'"Ji;-';--- ^'^'f'-g^", 
I deem any fear there, as in the towns on the north part ol that 
1 uecin any icai '" . t l>.,v.. aKo si nt '^JO muskets and ammu- 

There are now landing from sloops 711 pieces ol aitilleiy, K s, l. ., 
, .1 ri,.. «?,i,li I exi.eet will be forwarded on when Gen. 

?." ; " .1 s ;:^ i vlaci. ' .\ ow mc to remark that a less nnm- 
W ; r n: n b^lm, ;::coinmodations, good arms and amnuin. 
ti^n and Hgibmt officers lo discipline .lieni arc a '..-e «* - 

-:-io;:-t:i'^Sdi:rS;:-r-=:! :^' Mi^^ 
\^z ^n vis^Ki;;^.r^rii^ek iuv::^«f;: it-rrr ^y! 

I ain, dear sir, your obedient --»;- ^^_ ^ Tompkins. 

GKNEUAI, BllOWN. 

P « _I confirm your acee,,taiice of the services of Camp and his 
nv It 11 , ears to me that Bellinger's and Storr's regiments 

Sacket's Harbou, Aug. 4, 1812. 
Di.1. S..,-S.,...l C. K....1J. K.C1.. "' CM. ...nl.v. tm. IW ™- 

eomiianv have signed the articles of association, aceoiding '<"'"« 
quir'enu^t of the act. They expect to be armed and equipped by the 

government. , , 

" I remain yours, etc., t, ■ r- 

Jacob Buown, liriij.-Oeii. 

Ills Excellency the GoyEiiNon. 



SAeKEI's llAllBOn, AuR, ."i, 1812. 
BKvn Sir _I have the pleasure of inclosing your Excellency an 
J!r. ^an ;-;v..nes ;,f ,.he a.io,. b.dwe.. ^^^^^Jl 

i^Z^:rJ(i:X:^ ":m.".tery. The •! Jnlia'; is -^-;; '-••■- 'j; 

?f '^«•"■"^;:;:^^,^"tl:r;'nite;l^x iw.:i"n;: wuh "r::; .. »« 

^:m;;";Vsl;'L it i"not discharged a. the expiration o the 

1, m n hs Will your Excellency ins.ruc. me on this subject I 
^^;:;"his .he nn.. important station on -'"' ';;'-• -;' ^, ^'^ 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



553 



prefer. By the advice of the maj.-gcneral I have kept Capt. Camp in 
tlio service. His company is disb:in<lcd. and I have given him a sup- 
ply (»f men fn»in Hellingcr's reginifnt t:) nian:i);e thu canuun. This, 
1 trust, will nu'i't your KxcellfULry's apiirobatinn. W'v want siimn 
cnmpanios of Jirliiit-ry very much. It is n'>t pmpcr tiiat th<isc that 
have been dratted should Ite ordered into thu service along these lines. 
Yours, respectlully, 

Jacob Brown, liritj.-Gen. 

P.S.— The good of the service requires that Capt. Camp's company 
should be paid otl. Will your Excellency plcjse order it to bo done? 
I hope yi»ur Exoellency will take some notice of Lieut. Wells and the 
gallant crew of the ** JuUju" 

His KxrKi.i.K.NMV thk Governor. 

BRIGADIER-GKNERAL Z. M. I'lKK. 

The following notice of this worthy officer, who fell in the attnck 
upon York, now Toronto, is jirepared from a more extended article 
that was ])ublislied soon after his death. Through the munilicence 
of our govcruuieut, his memory has been honored by a monument at 
Sacket's Hurbor,^ that/ormt-r/y bore his name, with those of Covintf- 
ti>}i, iiacktiH, MUlaj and many uthers : 

ZebuloD Montgomery I'ike was born at Lamberton, N. J., Jan. 5, 
ITTlt, and at an early day reeeivetl a commission, became familiar 
with niililary life, and warmly attached to the service. Feeling the 
want of an education, he applied himself to the task of self-cnlture, 
and, without the aid of teachers, actiuired a fair classical and general 
education. lie cherished from an early period a habit of mental dis- 
eijiline, and the tenor of his thoughts may be inferred from a mem- 
oniitilaui written by him on a blank page of a favorite volume: 

"Should my country call for the sacrifice of that life which has 
been devoted to her service from early youth, most willingly shall 
she receive it. The sod which covers the brave sliall be uiuistened 
by the tears of love and friendship ; but if I full far from my friends, 
and from you, my Clara, remenibcr that 'the choicest tears which 
are ever shed are those that bedew the unburied head of a soldier,' 

and when these lines sliall meet the eyes of our young let the 

pages of this little bo<jk be impressed on his mind, as the gilt ()f a 
father who hud nothing tu betpieath but his honor, and let these 
maxims be ever present to his mind as he rises from youth to man- 
hood : 

'* 1. Pre nerve I/O ur honor /ree /ro in hfcintMh. 

*' 2. /ie u(ic(ti/H reudif to die fur if tut r country." 

In 1805, Pike was selected by government to explore the source of 
the Mississippi in the newly-acquired territory of liOuisiana, and the 
following year was sent for a similar purpose into the interior of 
Louisiana. Un the occurrence of the war he was stationed on the 
northern frontier, and early in 1813 was promoted to a brigadier- 
general. Having spent a portion of the winter of 1812-13 at IMatts- 
burgh, he was ordered to join Gen. Dearborn at Sacket's Harbor, to 
which place he marched, by the inland route through St. Lawrence 
county, towards spring. The sentiment of a letter written to his 
father near Cincinnati, on the day before he sailed on the expedition, 
is expressive of the finest sentiments of patriotism and honor: 

"I embark to-morrow in the fleet at Sacket's Harbor, at the head 
of a column of loOO choice troops, on a secret expedition. If success 
attends my steps, honor and glory await my name ; if defeat, still 
shall it be said: We died like brave men; and conferred honor, even 
in death, on the A^ikkican namk. 

" t>hould I be the happy mortal destined to turn the scale of war, 
will you not rejoice, oh, njy father I May heaven be propitious, and 
smile on the cause of my country I Hut if we are destined to fall, 
may my fall be like Wolfe's, — to sleep in the arms of victory !" 

A thirst for military adventure must be distinguished from pntri- 
otism ; and in forming an estimate of the merits of character, and in 
examining the motives which actuated the conduct and guided the 
life of Gen. Pike, we cannot withhold from him the credit of being 
influenced by the latter. It is a stain upon our national character 
that our government allows the graves of the officers who fell on our 
northern frontier during the war to remain unnoted by any monument, 
or other memorial of acknowledgment of their merit; not even by a 
tablet, which our humblest citizens afford as a token of affection to 
the memory of their dead. 

EUMUSD KIRBY 

was a son of Ephraim Kirby, an officer in the Revolution, a member 
of the Order of Cincinnati, and afterwards Juilge of the Supreme 
Court of Connecticut. He was born at Litchfield, Conn., April IS^ 



* Of pine boards. 



1791, and entered the army in 1S12 as lieutenant, and served during 
the war upon the northern and western frontiers. From ISl.S to 
1820 he was stationed at Petroit, and in the latter year he joined 
Maj.-Gun. Brown as an aid-de-camp. From 1821 to 1823 he dis- 
charge! the duties of adjutant-general at Washington, and in 1824 was 
appointed to the pay department, and again took post at Browuville. 
From 1832 to 1840 he was engaged in the Black Hawk, Creek, and 
Seminole Wars, in which he was actively employed, as well in the 
fulfillment of his duty as the exercise of humanity to the sick and 
wounded, for whom he voluntarily encountered many dangers. 
During the Mexican War he was chief of the pay dejiartmcnt, and 
disbursed many millions of dollars. A volunteer aid to (Jen. Taylor, 
at the storming of Monterey, and in like capacity to Gen. Scott, at 
Vera Cruz, Ccrro Gordo, Contreras, Churubusco, Chepultepec, and 
the Mexican cajiital, ho was ever distinguished for courage, bravery, 
and devotion to his country's cause. 

Returning with health impaired, from the hardships of a war in a 
tropical climate, he was received by the citizens of Jefferson County 
with demonstrations of regard as sincere as they were deserved; but 
the seeds of disease had been too deeply jdanted in iiis constitution, 
and he died at Avon Sjirings, N. Y., whither he had resorte<l for 
relief Aug. 20, 1849. His remains were brought back to lirownvillo 
and interred in the village cemetery with military honors, and a plain 
but durable shal't of Quiney granite has been placed to his memory. 

In the various relations of private life, ('ol. Kirby evinced those 
traits that elevate and adorn the human character, and the citizens 
of Jefferson County will long remember with gratitude tlie aid and 
encouragement which they received from him in promoting an interest 
in agriculture, manufactures, and internal improvements, to whirh ho 
was zealously devoted during many years of residence among them. 
The Agricultural Society received his cordial support, and he was 
one of the founders and an extensive owner of the manufacturing 
village of Dexter. He married a daughter of Maj.-Gen. Brown, and 
subsequently purchased his family estate in the village of Browuville, 
which is still owned by his heirs. 

The executive committee of the Agricultural Society have recorded 
the following tribute to his memory if 

" It is with feelings of deep regret and sorrow that we drop any 
names from our roll of brotherhood. One, however, has fallen frum 
our midst the present season. Col. Edmund Kirliy is one of those 
honored names that should not be forgotten. In 184.'I he was elected 
president of this society, and ever felt a deep interest in its advance- 
ment. His private virtues are writicn in our hearts, his public deeds 
will bear the scrutiny of all who shall peruse the pages of their country's 
historv. \Ve are justly proud of him as a member of this fraternity, 
as our countryman, and as a member of our community. He was 
one of us, and no interest of ours was of small moment to his benevo- 
lent heart. As regards our present i)rosperity, like the patriarch of 
old, he desired to see our day : he saw it and was gla<l. He has fallen 
full <jf honors, and lamented especially by th<ise who shareii the 
honor of his acquaintance and friendship. .\nd, lellow-citizens, when 
we have laboretl long and faithfully for the a^lvancement of the in- 
terests of our country, — our common country, — may we die as he died 
— at peace with God and all the world !" 

COLONEL COLDSHIDT. 

John L. Goldsmidt was born near Loudon, England, in Nov., 1789, 
of wealthy parents, and in youth entered the British army, with a 
commission as second lieutenant of cavalry, and was eventually pro- 
moted to lieutenant-colonel. He served in the wars of the Spanish 
peninsula, under Sir John Moore, and acted as aid to Sir Arthur Wcl- 
lesley (afterwards Duke of Wellington). He had his arm broken at 
the battle of Vittoria, and was present at the battle of Salamanca, 
and was several times wounded in other engagements. He waa 
knighted by John VI., then regent of Portugal, and served in the 
campaign of Waterloo, though at the time of the great battle ho was 
on detached service. 

Alter the peace of 1815 he went to the East Indies. He was taken 
sick, and sohl his commission, and returned to England in 1821, when 
he was troubled with fever for eight years. He subsequently traveled 
for ten years in various parts of the world. At his father's death he 
received $300,000, of which he lost half in French stocks, and, finally, 
in 1S29, found himself in New York with barely $3000. He removed 
thence to Champion in Jefferson County, where he subsequently mar- 
ried, and a few years later removed to Watertown, where he resided 
until his death, Dec. 8, 1853, aged 64 years. 

t Transactions of the State Agricultural Society, 1S49, p. 507. 



36 



.v. 4 



HISTORY OF .TKFFKRSON COrNTY. NEW YORK. 



THE KVKNTS OF ISST-I*. 

Th« followinjt chopter upon th* 0«n»<iiiui RcVwUion. or " Putriot 
W»r." »* it i» -•omctiiufs osUi^t. is fr\»H Dr. Iloujch's " History." So 
far M »«■ have bwn »blc Ivi l««rn. il gi\<-s the (<riiu-i|>»l f«c»s oon- 
i«vto<l with that rmmt. »nJ is thorwugh in it* dctsils of umllrrs 
which inv%>lvj^l the c\»uil.v of JciTcrson: 

•• Thf nWrtivf *ltcin|<l to ivvoliUioniio the t.'a«»>las h»s claims to 
our nolic*. from tho f»ct that .Icffcrsoii Oouuly was tho theatre of cx- 
citrmrnl. »n>i the scvno of follies »ini excesses that for some tiiue be- 
came the absorbiiij theme of disevission lhrv>«shoiil the ouuitrv, ami 
calle«l into exetf ise the military force of the coviulry to supprvss these 
iiulicalions of sympathy with measures that thrvatciieJ to ilisturb our 
amicable relations with a neighN'rinj g»>ver«ment. 

•• Without attempting a Jiscussion of the origin »t merits of this 
movement, we shall limit ourselrcs to a recital of the events that 
transpirvxl in the county, or with which our citiiens were Jirwtly 
inlerc*te\i. 

"The burning of the steskmer • (."aroline." near Niagara Kails, on 
Pee. S9, ISCiT, by a l»anJ of men from Oana<la, arouse^l a general in- 
liignalion throughout the country, and our citiicus everywhere, irre- 
S|>ecti» e of party, hcKl mi'etings to Jcnounce the act, and to call upon 
the extvutive to pr\»videfor the pr\>tectionof our shores against inva- 
sion hy subjects of a foreign power, 

•• In acovmlance with this feeling. Congress, Jan, .">l\ IJsiS, »pprK>- 
prialcvl $<>i^>,t*Oll fv>r the protection of the northern fr\>ntier. ami call- 
ing out militia or volunteers, or adopting such other measurvs as 
might be deemed necessary by the secretary of war. under the direc- 
tion of the Tresidcnt. On the same day a circular was issue*! at Water- 
town, signeil by six well-known citiiens.* asking c\>ntributions in 
money, provisions, and clothing, in aid of the political refugees from 
Canada who had taken shelter among us. They disclaimed any in- 
tention of aiding the revolutionary movements, and pr\>fc«scd to bo 
law-abiding and orvler-loviug citiiens. 

•' Meanwhile, secret clubs, known as • Hui\ter Lodges,' havi been in- 
slilutr*! in most of the villages, at which plans for invading Canada 
were discussed, moneys raise^l for prvx-uring arms and ammunition, 
comjvuiies enliste^l, intelligence communicate*! in circulars and by 
cipher, and an arbitrary system of names for the several officers in 
the prv^pt^sed s»erv ice was agree*! upon, to prevent detection. Prep- 
araliv<ns were made for an attack uiwn Canada while the St. Lawrence 
was still bridged with ice. and Kingston was selected as a point upon 
which an enterprise was to^be undertaken. 

"■ t>n the night of February IS. the State arsenal at Watertown was 
eater«*i. and *tW stand of arms were stolen by persons who were sup- 
p«vscd to be concerne*! in these movements, .\ rewarj of $2.i0 was 
offered for the apprehension of the authors of this outrage, but failed 
to procure the intelligence sufficient to warrant their arrest. .\ por- 
tion of the stolen pr\>perty was afterwards recovered. The arsenals 
at Balavia and Elital<ethtown were also plundered, and a supply of 
arms and ammunition sufficient for extensive military operations 
were collecte*! and concealol. On Tuesday, Feb. 20, in the afternoon 
and evening, forces began to arrive at Clayton, with a supply of arms 
and munitions, consisting of iO^O stand of arms. 20 barrels of car- 
tridges. iOO long pikes, and some provisions. Several hundrx^d men, 
under i«en. Van Rensselaer, arrived in sleighs, from various places in 
this and a4ioining counties, with theavowe*! design of making a lod^ 
meni at liananvM^ui, from whence an attack was to be attemptetl upon 
Kingston. The day following was intensely c*Md. and the men suffered 
unch fn^m exposure. There was little discipline and less or^uiia- 
tion among this prvroiscnous assemblage : and even among those who 
aflecle*i to command there was a mutual jealousy, and a want of that 
energy and decision which a c*>nseious sense of rectitude and high 
c*>nviclion of duty can alone inspire. A portion of these repaired 
on foot and in sleighs to Hickory Island, on the British side of the 
channel, about seven miles from Clayton. Il is said that McKeniie 
was here dissalisfie<l that Van Rensselaer was to command, which 
threw a damper on the whole affair. On calling for volunteers to 
procee^l, S5 apfveareit at the first, 71 at the second, and ^> at the third 
call : then, acting u]>on the maxim of ' everr man for himself,* this 
motley band dis|^rsed ; the officers, wiih the utmost difficulty, re- 
taining a sufficient number to remove the arms they had taken over. 



It would seem that very little was to be apprehended from suoh iHi-n- 
rinm»: yet the rumor of this movcuient, reaching Kingston, occasioned 
sxime uneasiness, and preparations were made to rx'sist any attack 
that might be made, or act on the o8"ensive should the occasion re- 
quire it. 

" Fr\»u» the Kingston papers we loam that t''ol. Cubilt, R, .\,, 
commandant, and Lieut. Col. Honnycastlc, commanding the mililia 
of that post, aide*! by the magistrates, organiic*! a force of |1>IH>. a 
part of whom took a str*nig position on Wolf Island. .Arrangements 
were made to attack the invaders at their rendeivou.«, hut before tho 
morning of the 2.1d danm-*! the patriot chieftain had SihI, like Ken- 
hadad the Syrian,t with no one in pursuit, and leaving in his haste 
a part of the weapons and supplies he had carried into the territory 
of his enemy, 

" This panic is .«aid to have b*-en enhanced by the dcelarnlion of a 
militia captain of the War of 1S12. Capt. Lyttle, who passed up and 
down the crowd, and pr*)claime*!, with a loud voice, (*«( ht/orr i«oriii»j 
rirjT iro«W ke nil mnttarml .' The thought of this awful fate gave 
wings to their flight, and. in an incredibly short space of lime, the 
new recruits were dispersed to their homes, and the village was re- 
lieve*! of their presence. The next day a British party visited the 
island, and found among other things a tjuantity of bmken iron, in- 
tended to have bevn use*! as slugs, instead of grape shot. 

••Two cititrns of Clayton (,Iohn Packar*! and tie*>rge Hulsenbrrg) 
were captured and K^lge*! in Kingston jail. 

••S*H>n after this affair, two companies of militia were called out 
and stationed at Cape Vincent, and about half a doten at Clayton, 
where they remaiue*l several win-ks. to intercept any other expedition 
that might be filled out against Canada. 

*• March H' an act was passe*! by Congress, empowering • the 
several collectors, naval ofl^*-ers. surveyors, insp*x'tors of customs, the 
marshals and deputy marshals of the I'nite*! States, and every other 
offii-er who might be specially empowere*! by the President, to seiie 
and detain any vessel, or any arms or munitions of war, which may he 
provided or prepared for any military expe*!ition or enterprise 
against the territory or dominions of any foreign prince or State, or 
of any colony, district, or people a*^ac*-nt to the I'uite*! States,* 

•• On the night !>elween the 'JSth and ."0th of May, ISoS, the Brit- 
ish steamer 'Sir Robert Peel' was plundered and burne*! at Wells' 
island, under the following circumstances. This boat was owne*l by 
David K. O. For*!, of BrvH-kville. Jonas Jones, of Toronto. William 
Bac*>n, of Ogdensburgh, Ginirge SherwiHv! and Henry Jones, trus- 
tees of the crv*!itors of Horace Billings i Co,, of Br*Kkville, She 
was built at the latter place at a c*>st of $»4,000, and first came out in 
June, l!*o7, and was commando*! by John B. .\rmstrong. She was 
then on her way fr*^m Presi-*>tt to Toronto, with ninet*>en passengers, 
and bad left Brockville in the evening, which was dark and rainy, 
and arrived at MctVonnel's wharf, on the south side of Wells' island, 
at midnight, for the purpose of taking on wihh!. 

'■ Threats of violen**e ha*l been intimate*!, and before the steamer 
ha>! left Brockville it was hinted to one on b*iard that there was d.in- 
ger of an att.ack. but this threat was not regar>!ed. The passengers 
wereasl*-cp in the cabin, and the crew had been engaged about two 
hours in taking on wiwd, when a company of twenty-two men, dis- 
guise*! and painted like savage.*, and arme.! with muskets and bay- 
onets, rushed on boar*!, yelling, and shouting • remember the Car\>- 
linc!' *!roTe the passengers and crew to the shore, allowing but a 
hasty opportunity for removing a small part of the baggage, and ti>- 
war*!s morning, having cast off the b<»at into the stream to about 
thirty rods" distance, set it on fire. The scene of confusion and alarm 
which this midnight attack occasioned among the passengers can bo 
better imagined than described. 

•' S*»me of them fled to the shore in their night-clothes, and a c*>n- 
siderable porti*>n of their baggage was K*st. .\fter the b*>at was fired 
in several places, the party, including Thomas S*'«<tt, a passenger (a 
surgeon, who had remaine*! to dress a wound), got into two long 
lx>als. am! steered for .\!>crs island, four miles from Wells' island, 
where they arrived about sunrise. He stated that there were twenty- 
two persons be*i*!e himself and the wounde*! m,an in the two tH>ats. 
These lu-igands were known to each other by fictitious names, as Te- 
comseh. Sir William Wallace, Judge Lynch, Captain Crocket, Nelson, 
etc. Several thousand dollars were taken from the boat, with various 



• TVot cftliai w*f* AlTia Hwwl. F. W. Wbit*. ClmrtM W.GiTea, KalkaaM 
Wiiev, JaSM* MrKeu^, aad TV<Maa C. Wul. 



t 11. Kin^ liL 



HISTORY OF JKFFERSON COUNTY, NKW YORK. 



555 



nrticloB of clothing. The only bonne in the ricioity of the wharf wu 
the wo«»lfnan*n Hhaoty, whrre the pasnengen" foun'l shelter unril five 
o'cWick in the morning, when the ' Onei'ln/ Capt. Smith, carnc flown 
on her regular trip, and fin'ling the diHtrcH^ed situalion of these un- 
fortunate perHOHH, returnel with them to KingrUm. 

" It iM Maid to hav<: been the intention oT tho»<e who took the ' Peel' 
to have captured with her aid the tttcamer ' tsrcat Itritain' the next 
day, and to have cruiffed with thexe ateamcr^ on the lake, and trans- 
port troops and Huppli<rfl for the patriot service. 

"The ai.-knowledged leafier of this infamous outrage was William 
Jobnst'fn, better known as Bill JifhunUm, who, since the war with 
Great Britain, had heen known on the linos as a vindictive enemy to 
Canada, and at a moment's notice ready for any bro'il that might af- 
ford him an opportunity for revenging the injuries he claimed to 
have received from that government. He was bom at Three Hivers, 
L. C, Feb. 1, 1782, and from 1784 till 1812 lived near Kingston, lie 
was here employed a.<4 a grocer, and at the occurrence of the war was 
connected with a military company, but was seized on a charge of 
insubordination, and lodged in jail, from which he escaped and fled 
to the American shore. He was soon employed as a spy, and on one 
occasion robbed the Britif>h mail, containing important official dis- 
patches, which he safely brought to the military commandant at 
Backet's Harbor. In another of his ailvcntures he was caitt on the 
Canada iihore, and his companions allowed to return ; but not wish- 
ing to run the hazard of a dinslotture, he concealed himi^elf, and 
finally e!>caped with mach peril. His familiarity with the geography 
of Canaila matle him particularly serviceable in procuring intelli- 
gence. 

"At a recent interview Johnston assured the author that he had 
been promised 150 men by a Cleveland committee, who had planned 
the capture, and that the axsailants numbered but \?, men.* 

"Gov. Marcy immediately ha.^tened to the county upon the receipt 
of the news, and on the 4th of June offered a reward of $500 for 
Johnston, $250 each for David McLeod, Samuel C. Frey, and Robert 
Smith, alleged to be concerned in the destruction of the ' Peel,' and 
$100 each for others who might be convicted of the same offen.«e. In 
a letter from Watertown, dated June 3, to the secretary of war, he 
advised the co-operation of our government with that of Cana/la, in 
pursuing the offenders. 

"June 2, the Earl of Durham, Capt.-Gen. of the British military 
furces in Canada, issued from Quebec a proclamation, offering a 
reward of £1000 fur the conviction of any person actually engaged in 
or directly aiding and abetting this outrage. 

" Several arrests were made June A, and on the 7th Wm. Anderson, 
James Ports, Nathan Lee, Chester Warner, S.*th Warner, Wm. Smith, 
Marshall W. Forward, Wm. S. Nichols, and Henry Hunter fall but 
Lee, Canadians), were in jail at Watertown, charged with having 
shared in this affair. Several others were afterwards committed, and 
for several days it was thought necessary to guard the jail contain- 
ing the prisoners, as threat^ of attempt at rescue had been ma^Je. 

"June 23, the trial of these prisoners commenced at Watertown, 
with that of Anderson, who was indicted for arson upon six count*, 
the first of which expressed that crime in the highest degree. This 
trial was conducted before John P. Cushman, one of the circuit 
judges, Calvin McKnight, Benjamin Wright, and others, and excited 
extraordinary* interest. When submitted to the jury, the latter, after 
a deliberation of two bourf, brought in a verdict of nor guilty. De- 
cember 13, seven prij^oners were, for want of witnesses from Canada, 
discharged from confinement, but not from indictment. 

"Immediately after news of this reachci Washington, Maj.-Gen. 
Macomb was dispatched to Sacket's Harbor, to take such measures 
as the exigencies of the occasion required. 

"On the 20th of June he sent word to Sir John Colbome. or the 



* William Johnston was a fjrm*r nvi lent of Wat^rtiwn, wbere, aboot 1815- 
10, lie ki-pt a st/rrp, ao'i bin wife ha>l a railliriTy shop in cmn'^iiuo. Th« fuN 
towioe a[i'M>lutc is t^M. illa*tratiT« uf the &jnra:;f of tb'' man. On on^orcamon 
a l«o<) '.f Itvliitn^ ha-l ff»cuni»M near hit pl^ce, an<l w<rre fQg%j;eil in ft'-lling 
briiunu, Laak*^U, and uthf;r articled. Inuring th«ir ftaj a youni^ Indian l>«CMme 
intoxicated, and re«rled al -ng th-* *tn?'--t». branliit'iin? a l<ig kntf*^. and daring 
every one to fi^ht him, thrvuteniog aud g««UcalatiDg fiercely. Johojfton ot>- 
•erved him fur a few momenta, wh«n be ^oddealy, aud without the appcaraoce 
of f«ar, approached the ludi^n, stmck him a heavy blow id the face, tbn;w him 
down, and wuold iukxt- givrn him a severe chaatisf-ment, had uot the savagv 
bej^ed for mercy, Jobiutoa t^x»k bis knif"?, threw it away, and allowed bim 
to go, which be speedily did, completely cured of his braggailocio. 



ofieereoinnianding at Kingston, ioTiiing bii eo-operation in a search 
among the Thousand fslan Is for the person* who had plondered and 
burned the ' Heel;' and about a week afterward)* a joint effort was 
mtule to arrest the partiei. After a search of several days their 
retreat was discovered; but in their attempt to take the outlaws, all 
but two escaped. The gang consisted of but eight men at that time^ 
of whom Johnston was one. They were well suppli<-d with arms and 
ammunition, and ha<l a fast-rowing boat. These efforts to arrest the 
leader of the expedition were frnitle"«, and he was not captured till 
after the affair at Prescott, late in the ensuing autumn, 

" The immediate command of the frontier was given, on the 2Hlb, 
to Lieut. -Col. Cummings, of the 2d Infantry, and subserjuently to 
Col, Worth. The sif.-ainer 'Telegraph' was chartered by our govern- 
ment, and several steamers were fitted up by the t'sna«lian authori- 
ties for the protection of the borders. Congress, on the 7th of July, 
appropriated $20,000 for the defense of the St. Lawrence line. 

"On the 11th of November, the steamer ' I'nited States' trmched 
at Sacket's Harbor, on her downward trip, having on board 150 male 
pas.^engers with little baggage: ani many circumstances occurred 
calcubated to excite suspicion that they were engaged on some mili- 
tary expedition. 

" Their number was here increased by twenty or thirty more, and 
at Cape Vincent by ten or eleven. On arriving a little tielow Milieu's 
bay she overtook the 'Charlotte of Oswego' and the 'Charlotte of 
Toronto,' two schooners that had left Oswego on the 10th, while the 
' United States' was in port, which vessels were taken in tow, one on 
each side, with which she continued down the river. As •'>on ap- 
peared, these vessels contain&l munitions of war, and the great nam- 
bcrs of men, who, with the passengers on board the steamer, were 
mostly destined for a descent upon Prescott. 

"It is not within our limits to detail the et'ents that en«ned, and 
the melancholy issue of the memorable battle at Windmill Point, f 
which revolutionized public opinion on the subject, by revealing the 
consequences to which these measures were tending. It als*^; had a 
salutary influence upon the public mind, by disclosing the cowardice 
and treachery of those who bad been foremost in promoting the ex- 
pedition, but who shrunk from the test of leaden bullets, and fled, 
leaving the unfortunate victims of their duplicity, the majority of 
whom were youth under age, to atone with their blood, or with long, 
bitter years of exile, for their indiscretion. J 

"Bill JohnsV^n was captored November 17, and conveye*! to Ao- 
bum, where he escaped. He was afterwards recaptured by William 
Vaaghao (about seven miles north of New London, and ten from 
Rome), by whom be was delivered to the United States marshal, and 
lodged in jail at Albany. He escaped from thence, and waa for some 
time obliged to avoid the pursuit of civil officers. After tranquillity 
had been restored he returned to qoiet life, at the village of Clayton, 
and by the present administration^ has been appointed keeper of 
Rock Island Light, that shines on the spot where the ' Peel* wa« 
burned. 

" The patriot prisoners, under the command of Von BebooUx, a 
Polish exile, who bad seen much military service in his native conn- 
try, were conveyed to Fort Henry, at Kingst'in, and tried by a court- 
martial, that begun \te session Nov. 26, A^Z^. The rule adopted by 
this conrt was to execute all of the officers that were known to be 
such, try and sentence the rest, reprieve the minors, and l>anish the 
remainder to the penal colony of Van Diemen's Land. It is probable 
that they were induced to relax somewhat from the rigor with which 
they began, from the feeling which the issue of the expedition had 
occasioned in the States, and the disposition that was everywhere 
evinced to discountenance further aggression. In Jefferson County 
meetiogf were held at Cape Vioeeot, Deeeabcr 18, at Saeket'a Har- 

t Thi« expedition is fully describni in our History of St. Lawrenre Onoty. 

X I>nring the mor\tb of Svpt«ml«er, ltCte,a stranger, callios binaelf Col. Scott, 
and churning to l^ea relative of G«d. Winfi'-ld .*^At, cane Vt Watertown and 
f 'med a clmm Cjr instruction in militar? discipline, inrlodtng fi»-td evol'itM^iM, 
the tuiag*^ cf the camp, and "word ex»rrci»e. Stany yonng m^n improT-d th« 
opportantty for l<4nning soro*-thing of a *cii^nc* of which ther* wa« th*-!! good 
prcwjien of ne«l. The ostennble porp>4e of Uiia system of iraioiog was to pre- 
pare a oorp4 far HBcient aid to the govemneat in eaae of emergeacy, which 
th'-o aeem*^ imminent. 

Tbe Cavoritc drill-ground was in tbe broken and rocky field on the aortb 
side of the river, oppu«ite tbe cascade and bri<lge, then an aDctiltiTat«d, balf* 
clrarrjd field. 

lostmctinns in fi>Dcing were givtm in a public ball in the village. 

gl(«4d-n3J. 



556 



HISTORY OF JKFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



bor on tbo 21st, at Dcpauville and Ellis village on the 27th^ and at 
La Fargevillc on the 31 st, at which contributiuns were ninde for 
supplving the wants of the prisoners, conciliatory speeches were 
delivered, and resolutions passed, and published in the papers, dis- 
couraging flny fnrtlier agitation of a question that threatened to em- 
broil the two nations in a war, and make their territory the theatre 
of a sanguinary struggle. Several gentlemen from abroad were es- 
pecially active in quieting this excitement, of whom Judge Gridley 
and Joshua A. Spencer, of Utiea. were prominent. The grand jury, 
nt the December term of the county court, as a body, published a 
short manifesto, deprecating the coutinuancc of the secret associa- 
tions, and a meeting was held at the court-house, in pursuance of a 
notice from the bench, on the evening of December IS, to promote 
the peace and harmony of the frontier. 

" Of this meeting the Hon. Calvin MeKnight, first judge, was chosen 
president; Daniel Wardwell, Kli Farwell, Thomas Loomis, Abner 
linker, Jr., and 0. V. Brainard, vice-presidents; Dr. Reuben Ooodale 
and Joseph Mullin, Esq., secretaries. Col. C. Baker, late sheriff, and 
E. G. Merrick, Esq., related their recent visit to Kingston to learn 
the condition of the prisoners. They had found the authorities dis- 
posed to give these unfortunate men all advantages, consistent, and 
the citizens of Canada generally active and determined in their pur- 
pose of resisting any attempt at revolution. They had employed se- 
cret messengers to visit the .Slates, gain access to the huntt r/otftfrtt, and 
keep them informed of every movement on foot, with the preparations 
uiaile, and persons engaged in these measures. The meeting was ad- 
dressed by J. A. Spencer, Esq., of Utiea, Judge Gridley, lion. Samuel 
Beardsley, Attorney-General R. Hulbert, T. C. Chittenden, E. Camp, 
AVilliam Smith, and Daniel WardwfU, who urged the importance of 
sustaining our laws and adojiting immediate hut pacilic measures for 
preserving tranquillity, arresting further agitation, and mitigating the 
fate of the prisoners in Kingston. At an adjourned meeting, held 
next day, the following resolutions were passed, which are believed 
to embody the sentiment of the majority of our citizens : 

"* Jieaoivetty That we regard the preservation of peace with Great 
Britain as all-important to the best interests of the American and 
British nations; hut that we have no reason to expect its long contin- 
uance unless our citizens refrain from hostile invasions of, or inter- 
meddling with, its territories. 

"' /itsolrctl. That we feel a deep-seated desire to maintain and pre- 
serve the greatest freedom of intercourse and the most friendly rela- 
tions with our neighbors of Canada; and that the best evidence we 
can give of our sincerity will be to do unto them as they do unto us, 
— leave them to enjoy the government of their choice. 

'• ' Hegiitved, That the inhabitants of our frontier are h»udly called 
upon by every consiileration of justice and sound poliey U* exert 
themselves to the utmost of their power to prevent all hostile inva- 
sion into the neighboring Canadian provinces by bands of armed 
men from our borilers, and that we pledge ourselves to our govern- 
ment and to each other faithfully and fearlessly to discharge this 
sacred and too long neglected duly. 

'* ' lirHnltf't/, that any inovt-mcnts injurious to Canada are open, fla- 
grant violations alike of international law, of the enactments of the 
Congress of the United States and of the Canadian Provincial Par- 
liament, and that our ministerial otlicers, civil magistrates, and judi- 
cial tribunals should be vigilant and prompt to arrest and ready to 
condemn any and every violation ul our laws. 

•■ • /ienutrciff That there is too much reai^ou to believe that many of 
our citizens have formeil themselves into secret lodges or societies, 
under the sanction of extra judicial oaths, for the purpose of promo- 
ting the organization and armament of bands of men to invatle the 
Cauadas, and that we earnestly call upon these misguided citizens 
everywhere anJ at v»nce to disband. 

"* lictnhrii, That we regard the late attack on Prescott as eharac- 
tcrized alike by rashness, weakness, and folly ; and that while we 
pointedly condemn and rebuke those engaged in it, we feel called 
upon to express our solemn conviction that most if not all of them 
were inllueneed by misrepresentation an<l acting under a tlelusiun 
as strange and unaccountable as it has been disastrous antl fatal, 
without any feelings of linstili(y towards our (Nmadian neighl>ors, 
but under th"' expectation and belief that instead of fighting with, they 
would be hailed hy them as the champions of liberty, and received 
with open arms and heartfelt greetings. • 

•• • lirHo/rti/, That we, in common with all our countrymen, feel a 
deep connniseration U*r our misguided citizens captured near Pres- 
coti, and now in confinement at Fort Henry, in Canada, and that 
while we acknowledge the right of the provincial authorities to con- 
demn acL'ordiiig to the laws of their country, in the exercise of this 
authority wc \u*\tv to see justice IcmpcrtMi wilh mercy, and expect to 
witness magnanimous treatment towards these unfortunate men, wor- 
thy of a brave and generous people.' 

" Delegations wore sent from various places to Kingston to obtain 
some mitigation of the fate of the prisoners, among which were the 
Hon. .lohn Fine and C. G. Myers, of Ogdcnsburgh, the persons above- 



named from this county, and numerous relatives of the patriot onp- 

tives, who were treated with civility, and shown all the indulgence 
that under the circumstances could be extended. Von Schoultz, Daniel 
George, Dorephus Abbey. Duncan Anderson, Christopher Buckley, 
Sylvester A. Lawton, Joel Peeler, Russell Phelps, Sylvanus Sweet, 
and Martin Woodruff were hung; eighteen were released, fifty-eight 
pardoned, sixty transported, three were acquitted, four turned Queen's 
evidence, and of ten we have been unable to ascertain the fate. 

" The court-martial adjourned from Jan. 4 till Feb. 2G. A mass- 
meeting, consisting of from two thousand to three thousand persons, 
assembled in front of the court-house, Feb. 23, under the impression 
that more executions were about to take place at Kingston, and reso- 
lutions less conciliatory than those of the former meeting were 
passed. 

'* On the Sth of .■\pril, 1839, the British steamer 'Commodore Bar- 
rie,* under the orders of Col. A. McDonnell, sheriff of Midl.and Dis- 
trict, Upper Canada, arrived at Sacket's Harbor, with 22 prisoners, 
pardoned by the lieutenant-governor. The magistrates of the village 
were sent for, and the colonel informed them what h.id been done for 
the prisoners, and earnestly hoped that it would have a happy effect 
in allaying the existing excitement. This was met by an answer ex- 
pressing, in warm terms, their sense of gratitude for this exercise of 
clemency, and the thanks of our citizens to their government. The 
pariloned prisoners, before separating for their homes, drew up and 
signed a paper expressing their obligation to the Canadian govern- 
ment for the clemency shown, and urging pacilic measures in future. 
On the 27th of April, 37 more prisoners arrived at Sacktt's HarV>or. 

*'0n the 6th of June, 1840, an infamous attempt was made at 
Oswego to burn the British steamer * Great Britain," by conveying on 
board a trunk, charged with explosive and combustible materials. 
The explosion took place, doing considerable injury, but the flames 
were soon arrested. Lett and Defoe, two Canadian refugees, wero 
arrested, charged with this outrage, and a confession was obtained, 
in which the design of burning the vessel was avowed, with the hope 
of renewing irritation between the two governments. The trunks 
contained copal, turpentine, nitre, and powder, packed in cotton, to 
which a fuse was attached. 

" With this closed the active me.isurcs of disturbance on our border, 
but the irritation was slow to subside, and restless spirits were found 
who labored to excite a broil between the two nations, but without 
success. For one or two years a steamer was kept in commission on 
the lake, and troops were stationed at Madison barracks still later. 
That some were honest and believed themselves patriotic in this 
afiair may be admitted, while it cannot be denied that the majority 
thirsted for power, wealth, or plunder, according as they were actuated 
by ambition or avarice. 

''Among the humbugs connected with this speculation was the plan 
of a hniik, the ostensible object of which was, first, to ' aid the cause 
of liberty,' by loans to the President of the Convention, for the pat- 
riotic service, after which loans were to be made to individuals, for 
private business. The capital was at first only S7.otHt,tHKl. in shares 
of $.J0 each, but it was designed to be extended, so as ' to allow every 
individual on the continent to hold one share.' The whole wealth, 
revenue, and resources of the patriot dominions (that they had, or 
that they may hereafter have dominion over) were pledged for the 
faithful repayment of the sum subscribed, with interest. Subscrip- 
tions were taken of sixpence a week, or half a dollar every two 
months. 

**The vignettes of the bills were to be heads of the late martyrs to 
the cause of liberty in Canada ; the head of Matthews on the left end 
of the bill, the head of Lount in the centre, with the words in a semi- 
circle over it. The Municreit ; Dt-nth or VicUtrtf ; and on the mar- 
gins of the bills the words LihcrO/, Eqnnlit^y Fvatrtnity. Tho name 
of the bank was to be the liipubliran Iluuk of (^attndu. 

" We have no statistics of tho dividends of this institution, but 
have been assured that there wero such, — tho capital being divided 
among a /vw. 

"On the 5th of Sept., 1841, the prevalence of the secret clubs called 
forth a proclamation from President Tyler for their suppression. 

'* NKILS SZOLTERTKI VOS SCHOI'I.TZ. 

*• The melancholy fate of Von Schoultz excited the commiseration 
of an extended circle; and his conduct from the time of his cajituro 
till the moment of his exit was such as to heighten our esteem for 
his character. He plead guilty of the charges alleged against him. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



557 



nnd made no cflort to screen himself from the consequences into 
which betrayed confidence had led him. An exile from unhappy 
Poland, u descendant from an ancient and noble family, and a witness 
of the oppression and tyranny of Russian despotism towards his na- 
tive country, he was too easily led into a sympathy for the alleged 
sufferings of Canada, and. from his experience in military affairs, 
was intrusted with the expedition which came to a disastrous issue 
near Prescott. He had landed in Xew York in 18.16, and after visit- 
ing numerous places without a settled pur])osc, chance led him to the 
village of Salina, where he became engaged in some chemical re- 
searches. 

** During the short period that intervened between his sentence and 
his execution, ho employed himself in writing A vindicatiun of his 
character, which closes with the following Innguiige : 

" ' Misrepresentation and deception led me to embrace a cauj^c which 
I then believed just and righteous, but }ioip find them the mere insti- 
gation of cowardly and designing demagogues. I could have been 
influenee<l by no motive but that love of libfrty, that desire to resist 
ojipression. which i:' innate in the hi*;irt of every true I'oU*. It is 
said I was led on by the hope of plunder: the promise of reward ! 
What were their paltry ncres and tlieir traitors' gold to me, who 
have more than enough of this world's wealth, since 1 have lost every 
object with whom it woubl have been my joy lu shiire it? We were 
told the p('o])i(' gro:incd undiir \\iv rod of ntilitary di-spotism. Had 
1 not stu-n in my native land the jieasant in his field, aye, and the 
noble in his hall, insulted, smitten to the earth, by a hireling soldiery ? 
Wo were told that the people waited to receive us, — thiit thousands 
would rally aioiind our slandnrd whenever it was unfurled in the hind 
which we eanie to liberate. The indignation with whieh we were re- 
pelled from these shores, the united bravery of citizeus and soldiers, 
is the best answer to the aspersion. . . . My trial is over; witnesses 
liavc been examined, and the evidence adduced against me is thought 
sufficient for my condemnation. In the eye of the world, my sentenee 
will bo considered just. Fallible man may err, but God kn()weth the 
heart! A brigaml ! a pirnte I these are hard names, which once 
would have aroused my soul to indignation; but that time is past. 
. . . To-morrow. I am told, is the time fixed for my execution. I 
would that I could die a soldier's death ! and yet it matters nut. I 
rejoice I have few who will bewail my fate, — none who can feel hu- 
miliated by my ignominy. I have but a short, very short, time to pre- 
pare for tliat hour and make peace with the righteous Being whom 
we have all otVended. 

•' * I shall dispose of my worldly effects so as to make the best repa- 
ration in my power for the evil I have unwittingly caused. To the 
families of the unfortunate men who were killed at Windmill Point 
I leave a legacy, though they suffered from a ciianec shot of the 
militia, not, as has been said, from our eoul and deliberate aim. I 
trust my memory will be cleared from the charge of inhumanity. I 
paid every possible attention to the wounded prisoners who fell in 
my power, and I ])laced sentries over the body of Lieut. .Tohnson, a 
brave anil gallant young officer, to protect him from indignity. I 
have ooe favor only to retiuest; it is thiit my poitr remains may be 
delivered to a friend whom I will name, to be buried on his own es- 
tate. The British government. I trust, have too much generosity to 
refuse this trifling boon. jNIay (lod forgive those whose evil counsels 
have brought me to this untimely end! I will die in charity with all 
mankinit. The miniature of my lost Therese. my first and i>nly love, 
still rests upon my heart, and in this dark ami solemn hour she seems 
to smile on mo as she was wont in ha])pier days. I pray that it may 
bo buried with mo !' 

" lie was 31 years of age. His father held a major's commission 
at the battle of Warsaw, and he had himself risen to the same rank." 

WAR OF THE REBELLION, ISGl-Go. 

Scarcely had the echoes of the guns fired at Fort Sumter, in April, 
1861, died away, when over the Northland rolled a wave of intense 
excitement, and men at once spr.ing to arms in defense of their com- 
mon country. Jefferson County, the scone of important events in the 
War of 1SI2-15 with England, was quickly stirred to her centre by 
the sound of strife, and once more her sons buckled on their warlike 
accoutrements, and began moving toward the "front." Her record 
throughout the struggle was covered with glory. 

From the first annual report of the Bureau of Military Statistics 
for the Stiitc of New York, issued in IS64, the following items have 
been gathered for Jefferson County : 

Total number of troops furnished for the first thirty-eight regiments 
(five towns reporting), 130; number furnished bet^veen that time nnd 
the President's call for 600,000 men. l.'iO : number furnished under 
the call for GOO.OOO, .371; total, 646. From the beginning of the 
war until the close of 1S6I the county had paid, according to the re- 
port of the Bureau for 1S6J, bounties to the amouut of $;J3;i,475.16. 
The entire number of troops furnished by Jefferson County during 
the war numbers nearly or quite five thousand, as will he seen by 
reference to the accompanying roster, copied from the muster-in rolls 



of the regiments, as published from the office of the adjutant-general. 
It is probable that names which should appear in this list are not 
found, owing to the imperfect facilities for securing them, but it has 
been (lur aim to furnish as complete a list as possible. Owing to eir- 
cumstances over which we could have no control, the descriptiyc-roU 
is unavoidably omitted, including the list of casualties. 

TWKNTy-FOUKTH INFASTRV. 

Company K of this regiment was organized at Ellisburg, Jefferson 
County, by Amlrew J. Barney, who became its captain. The regi- 
ment was organized and numbered by the State Military Board, May 
16, I86I, and on the 2d day of July it was mustered into the service 
of the United States, leaving Elmira the same day, fully armed and 
equipjied, and proceeding, riti Harrisburg and Baltinmre. to Washing- 
ton, where it arrived on the 3d of July, and camped on Meridian 
Hill till July 21. at which date it received long Enfield rifled mus- 
kets in exchange for the ))ercussion muskets with which it had left 
New York State. During the winter of 1801-02 the regiment was en- 
camjied on Upton's Hill. After being brigaded differently several 
times it was, in March. IS62, assigned to the 1st Brigade, 1st Division, 
1st Corps, and in September, 18(J2, the brigade was known as tho 
" Iron Brigade," commanded by (jjen. Hatch and Col. Sullivan. 
Col. Phelps, of the 22d Regiment, took command of the brigade 
Sept. 14, and continued in that positiim until its dis^oIution by reason 
ut' the expiration of the terms of service of the 22d, 24th, and :iUth 
regiments. 

After various minor engagements a sharp skirmish was had in 
May, 1S62, called tho battle of Falmouth. Aug. 10 they left Fal- 
mouth for Cedar Mountain (sometimes called Slaughter Mountain), 
where they stayed four days under artillery fire, the regiment losing 
one man killed in Company D. On the 28th of Aug. they were under 
fire at Grovcton, but were not engaged. On the 30th they were 
sharply engaged at Bull Run for about an hour and twenty minutes, 
losing several men. Between four and five o'clock of Sunday even- 
ing, Sept. 14, 1802, they went into the fight at South Mimntain, Md., 
to which point they had been moved via W.ashingtun, Rockville, New 
Market, and Frederick City. After several times changing position 
and being constantly skirmishing, they forded Antietam creek on tho 
morning of the 10th and moved to the right, abreast of the celebrated 
corn-field. On the morning of tho 17th they became hotly engaged, 
and lost several men, among them Capt. J. D. O'Brien, of Company 
A, and Ensign John S. McNair. The regiment next jiarticipated in 
Gen. Burnsido's unfortunate Fredericksburg battle, Dec. 13, 1862. 
In the battle of Chaneellorsville they were also engaged, and about 
the middle of May, sueeceding that engagement, were ordered home, 
and mustered out at Oswego at the expiration of ihoir term of service, 
— two years. 

TrilRTV-FIFTH INFANTRY. 

This organization, known as tho ".leffcrson County Regiment." 
was organized at Elmira, June 3, 1861. The following companies 
were raised in Jefferson County : 

Compauy A — recruited at Watcrtown; Capt. Stc]ihen L. Potter; 
accepted May 9 ; mustered into the service of the United States, at 
Elmira, July 9, 1861. 

Vvmpany C — Theresa ; Capt. George W. Flower ; accepted, May 
15 ; mustered in at Elmira, July 9. 

Company E — Watertown ; Capt. John Lacy ; recruiting commenced 
April 15, and ended Juno 11 j accepted May 9; mustered in at 
Elmira, July 10. 

Compnuif G — Adams: Capt. Sidney J. Mendal ; accepted May 7 ; 
mustered in at Elmira, .Inly 10. 

Company I — Redwood; Capt. Edgar B, Spalsbury ; accepted May 
20; mustered in at Elmira, July 9. 

Company A' — Brownville; Capt. Newton B. Lord; accepted May 
9; mustered in at Elmira, July 10. 

At a meeting of the State Military Board, held M;iy 24, it was, 
on motion of Lieut. -Gov. Campbell, — 

ReHtttredy That the companies commanded by the following named 
captains, viz. : Capts. Lacy. Lonl, Potter, Mendell, Angle, Flower, 
Spalsbury, Todd, Nutting (Co. D), and Ehvell, be organized into a 
regiment, to be numbered No. 35, anil an election fur field officers 
ordered to be held therein." 

June 11 the election of William C. Brown, as colonel; Stephen 
L. Potter, as Ucutcnant-colunel ; and Newton B. Lord, as major, was 



558 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



con6rnied, and on the 10th of July the field and staff were mustered 

into the service of the United States for the term of two j-ears from 
June 11, 1S6I. Flags were presented to companies as follows: Co. 
A, by citizcus of Warertown ; Co. E, ditto; Co. K, by citizens of 
Brownville; and Co. C, by citizens «f Theresa. The first regimental 
flag was obtained by subscription among the officers. Subsequently 
the regiment was presented, by Hon. A. W. Cbirk, with colors. 

July 11, 1861, the Soth left Elmira for the seat of war, arriving at 
Washington on the 13th, and encamping on Meridian hill. It was 
finally brigaded with the 21st. 2;id, and SOth (20th militia) N. Y. 
Volunteers, the brigade being known as the First Brigade, First Di- 
vision, First Army Corps. 

The regiment was commanded from June ."i until Aug. 2, 1S61, by 
Col. William C. Brown ; from August, 1801, to Feb. 10, 186.3, by Col. 
Newton B. Lord; and from Feb. 10 to June 6, 1863, by Col. John G. 
Todd. 

Soon after the arrival of the regiment in Virginia it furnished de- 
tails to work under Lieut. -Col. Alexander, U. S. Engineers, in form- 
ing abrtttis. Col. Alexander placed the work in charge of Col. Lord, 
and the regiment felled timber from the forests surrounding the camp, 
and formed abaltis several miles in length and four hundred feet in 
width. After this it worked on the lunette forts near the Arlington 
House, and built one seven-gun lunette furt. The forts upon which 
the regiment performed most of its labors were afterwards named 
Forts Tillingha?t and Craig. For five and a half months after this 
the regiment was kept on picket duty, losing iu the entire time but 
one man wounded and none killed. It captured two lieutenants 
and twenty-three men, and killed three men. 

In Jan., 18(32, the muskets supplied the regiment by the State were 
exchanged for Austrian rifles, calibre .'>4. From March until August 
the 3oth participated in a scries of weary marches and occasional 
skirmishes, and became greatly depleted by disease. At Rappahan- 
nock Station, Aug. 30, it was a support for Battery L, of the 1st N. Y. 
Artillery, which was sharply engaged. At the battle of Warrenton 
Springs it was exposed to a fire of artillery and sharpshooters. At 
Gainesville but two companies were engaged, and they as skirmishers, 
and after the battle was placed on picket duty, losing five men cap- 
tured by the enemy the next morning. At the memorable second 
Bull Run fight, August 29, 1S62, the 36th lost nine men killed and 
thirteen wounded. It was also fired into through mistake by the 23d, 
with a loss of five killed and eight wounded. On the second day the 
36th lay behind a stone wall, near the turnpike, where it lost 72 men 
in killeii and wounded, although it clid not fire a gun during the day, 
the position being upon the ground in front of the artillery. When 
the retreat commenced it was withdrawn and reached Centreville 
about seven in the evening. During the battle of Chantilly it lay in 
the rifle pits on the right of tho turnpike, and was not under fire. 
After this battle it marched via Fairfax to Falls Church, arriving on 
the 3d of September, and camping near its camp of the i)revious win- 
ter. On its arrival at Falls Church it had for music two drums and 
one bugle, the regimental band of 24 pieces having been discharged, 
and the drum-corps having lost its drums while attending the wounded 
at Bull Run. It was also without knapsacks, coats, or blankets, these 
having been left at Centreville and destroyed on the retreat. 

At the battle of South Mountain, Sept. 14, the regiment was de- 
ployed as skirmishers, one company being left at the foot of the hill 
with the colors, while three moved on the left and six on the right 
of the turnpike, under strong support. The three companies on the 
left lost, during the day, 19 men in killed and wounded. After tho 
enemy was driven from the hill the regiment was relieved, and reached 
its colors at the foot about 3 a.m. of the loth. On the 15th the regi- 
ment passed through Turner's Gap, and on the morning of the 16th 
reached the bank of tho Antietam, where it was exposed for an hour 
to artillery fire, and lost three or four in wounded. During the fore- 
noon it changed position, and in the evening, while moving across 
an open field, to take up its position in a belt of woods, received a 
fire from a battery of the enemy, losing three men killed and five 
wounded. On the 17th it was marehcd. with the 1st Brigade, to the 
right, across tho turnpike and into tho woods in the rear of Dunker's 
church, where it remained about one hour. It was then formed par- 
allel to tho turnpike, in the rear of a cliff, for the purpose of attacking 
the flank of a line of the enemy, which had advanced again::*t the 2tl 
and 3d Brigades. Here it lay down bidiind the fence and diteli of 
the turnpike, and opened fire on the enemy's line, which had been 
reformed ani reinforced, and kept it up until the line gave way. 



after which it moved forward its left wing and captured the battle- 
flag of the 7th Alabama. Just at this time the enemy formed a line 
on the right and rear, and opened a galling fire, forcing our line to 
fall back to the clifl". where it returned fire. Ammunition was soon 
exhausted, and the 3oth an4l 23d were marched by the left flank to- 
wards the rear of the army. On reaching the hill where the batteries 
were posted, the two regiments were halted and faced abuut in the 
edge of the woods, to give General French an opportunity to form his 
division. The fire from tho enemy became intensely severe, and 
French's division was again thrown into confusion. The two 
regiments then moved back for cartridges, and on being supplied 
were placed in support of two batteries, where they remained until 
the morning of the 18lh. In this action the 35th lost thirty-two 
killed and forty-three wounded. 

On the 19th the regiment went into camp a mile and a half from 
Sharpsburg, near the bend in the Potomac, where it remained a 
month, during which time it suffered much for want of clothing and 
shoes, and from disease occasioned by its occupation of a battle- 
ground and the vicinity of the mounds of the dead. Half its ofliccrs 
and men were unfit for duty. 

At the battle of Fredericksburg, Dec. 12 and 13, the regiment lost 
heavily, being exposed for six hours on the 13th to a tire from the 
enemy's artillery without an opportunity to refaliate. Not a shot 
was fired by it until subsequent to this on the 13th and during the 
14th, when it was placed on picket, losing, on the niglit of the 15th, 
six men prisoners. The duty of the 35lh after this was cimipara- 
lively light. The total number of men on the rolls of the regiment 
was 1250, of which number 593 were mustered out on the 5th of June, 
1863, at Elmira, N. Y. For the first time in four months the regi- 
ment assembled on dress parade on the 19th of May previous, and 
(iCD. Patrick shook hands with each man as an earnest of the feeling 
with which he bade them good-by. Tho next day they took the ears 
for Atjuia Creek, proceeded thence by transport to Washington, 
where they were received by Capt. Camp, of Co. K {then on detached 
duty as aide-de-camp to Gou. Martindale), with a full band. The 
regiment reached Elmira May 22, and, as mentioned, was mustered 
out June 5. It had lust 130 men killed in battle, 70 by deaths 
from disease, 90 discharged for wounds, and 140 for disability. Truly 
was its record glorious ! 

NINETY-FOURTH IKFANTRY. 

This regiment was organized at SackeL's Harbor to serve three 
years. The companies composing it were raised in the county of 
Jeflferson. It was mustered into the United States service on the 10th 
of March, 1862, and in March, 1863, was consolidated wirh the lOoth 
Infantry. On the expiration of its term of service the original 
members (except veterans) wore mustered out, and the regiment, 
composed of veterans and recruits, retained in service until July 18, 
1SG5, when it was mustered out in accordance with orders from the 
war department. The 94th was actively engaged while in the service, 
and but little time elapsed between the date of its organization and 
its first engagement. The regiment participated in the battles of 
Cedar Mountain, Second Bull Kun, Chantilly, Chancellorsville, South 
Mountain, Antietam, Gainesville, Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, Mine 
Run, Tolupotoniy, Bcthesila Church, Petersburg, and Weldon Rail- 
road, beside many skirmishes of more or less importance, and sufl*ered 
to a considerable extent. No detailed history has been prepared of 
the regiment, but its record is one of valiant deeds, and its scarred 
battle-flags and maimed and dead soldiers are covered with the praises 
awarded by a gratci^il peojilc to those who have made themselves 
famous. 

ONE HUNOUKD AND EIGHTY-SIXTH INFANTKV. 

The 186th Regiment was recruited principally in Jefferson and 
Lewis counties, and was mustered into service September 8, 1861 . 
It went out 9S0 strong, lost 130 in killed and wounded, 120 by dis- 
ease and discharge, and returned with 730. It was in the battle of 
Soulhside Railroad, October 27, 1864; formed part of M'arrcn's 
command in his raid to Nottoway. December 10; was in the charge 
on Fort Mahone, in front of Petersburg, April 2, I860; and finally 
joined in the pursuit and capture of General Leo. It was among the 
first to enter the rebel fortifications at Petersburg, and was highly 
complimenteJ by its brigade and division commanders for the gal- 
lantry shown in its charge on Fort Mahone. It was organized at 
Sacket's Harbor for the peiiod of one year, and was mustered out, 
in accordance with orders fr<)m the War Departmint, June 2, 1806. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



559 



ONE niNPREn AND NlNETV-TIIinD INFANTKY. 

This regiment was raised at Auburn, N. Y., to serve for one, two, 
ami throe years. Jefferson County furnished a considerahlo number 
of men for it, although it was filled up with lue-n from the counties 
of Cayuga, Oswego, On<»ndaga, Oneida, St. Lawrence, and Friinklin 
besides. It was mustered into the service of the Uniteil States in 
the spring of 18fi5, and mustered out of scrviee January 18, 1SG6, in 
accordance with orders from the War Department. 

SIXTH CAVAI.ItY — "sECONh lit A HAUIilS Gt'ARn.'* 

Jefferson County furnished a number of men for this regiment, 
which was mustered into the service of the I'nited States fr(mi Sep- 
tember 12 to December 19, 1861. The original members were mus- 
tered out on the expiration of their term of service, and the organiza- 
tion, composed of veterans and recruits, retained in service, and on 
the 17th of June, IStJj, cousolidated with the loth N. Y. Vol. Cavalry, 
the consolidated force being known as the Second New York Pro- 
visional Cavalry. Its list of engagements embraces the following : 
South Mountain, Antietnni, Fredericksburg. Spdttsylvania, Chancel- 
loi'sville, Ueverty Ford, iMiddleburg, I'pperville. (iettysburg. Brandy 
Station, Uappahaiinock Station, Mine Kun, Mechauicsville, Wilder- 
ness, Todd's Tavern, Ilawc's Shop, Cold Harbor, Deep Bottom, 
Opequan, Fisher's liill, Cedar Creek, Appomattox Station, Siege of 
Kiclimond. 

TIIinTKENTII CAVAl.nV. 

This regiment was organized at New York City to pcrve three years, 
and a detachment of men from Jefferson County joined it. It was 
mustered into the IJ. S. service from February, ISfi.'i, to March, 1864. 
On the 23d of June, 1865, the regiment was consolidated with the 16th 
N. Y. Cavalry, and the consolidated force known as the 3d New York 
Provisional Ca\alry, Its ])rineipal engagements were at Aldie, Fair- 
fax Station, Centrcville, Culpepper, and Piedmont, and its loss was 
comparatively slight. The men from Jefferson County belonged in 
four citmpanies of the regiment. 

KIOHTKENTH CAVALRY. 

This regiment was organized at New York city, to serve three 
years. The companies of which it was composed were raised in the 
counties of New York, Albany, Jefferson, Lewis, Franklin, Herkimer, 
and Erie. It was mustered into the service of the United States 
from July 18, ISO^i, to February .% 1864. On the I2th of June, 1865, 
it was consolidated with the I4th N. Y. Cavalry, the consolidated 
force retaining the name, — 18th N. Y. Cavalry. This force remained 
in service until May 31, 1866, when it was mustered out in accord- 
ance with orders from the War Department. 

TWENTIRTH CAVALRY. 

The 20th Cavalry was organized at Sacket*s Harbor, N. Y., to 
serve three years. Its men were principally from Jefferson County, 
although the counties of Lewis, St. Lawrence, Os^vego, Onondaga, 
and Albany were also represented. The regiment was mustered into 
the Tnitecl States service from September 3 to September 30, 1863, 
and afier a varied experience was mustered out July 31, 1865, in ac- 
cordance with orders from the War Department. It was known as 
the " McCIellan Cavalry j" went out with twelve companies, and was 
a fine body of men. 

T W E N T Y - Fo t' » T H ( ' A V A L H Y. 

This regiment wasorgani/.ed at Auburn, N. Y., to serve three years, 
and contained a number of men from Jefferson County. It was mus- 
tered into the service in Jan., 1864 : and, on the 17th of June, 1865, 
was consolidated with the 10th N. Y. Cavalry, the united force being 
called the First New York Provisional Cavalry. Its principal en- 
gagements were the battles in the Wilderiicss, Spotlsylvania, liuinea 
Statii>n, North Anna, Tolopotomy, Bethesda Church, Cold Harbor, 
Petersburg. Cemetery Hill, Weldon Railroad, Reams' Station, Peeble's 
Farm, Vaughan Road, and Bellefield; and in these the regiment lost 
to a considerable extent. A number of its officers were killed in 
action and others died of wounds, while the loss among the men was 
proportionate. 

TWENTV-SIXTH ('* FRONTIEIt") CAVALRY. 

Tliis regiment was organized in the Slate? of New York. Massachu- 
setts, and Vermont, under special authority from the Secretary of War, 



to serve on the frontier for one year. It was jirineipally engaged in 
protecting the northern frontier, and looking after suspicious charac- 
ters, " bounty -jumpers," rebel sympathi7.ers, etc., — one detachment 
being stationed at Sacket's Harbor. Five companies were organized 
in this State, composed of men from the counties of St. T>awrence, 
Jefferson, Lewis, Franklin, Clinton. Essex, and Krie. The regiment 
was mustered in from Dec. 29, 1864, to Feb. 22, IS65. and was mus- 
tered out by companies from June 20, 1865, to July 7, 1SG5, in accord- 
ance with orders from the War Department. 

FIRST REGIMENT " VETERAN" CAVALRY. 

This was organized at Geneva, N. Y., to serve three years, and 
mustered into the V. S. service from July 25 to Nov. 19, 1863. The 
17th N. Y. Cavalry was consolidated with it Sept. 17, 1863, and the 
new organization contained a considerable number of men from Jef- 
ferson County. The regiment was mustered out July 20, 1865, in 
accordance with orders from the War Department. 

FIRST .NEW YORK LltJIlT ARTILLERY. 

Compantf Cf Cnpt. John ]\'. Tanihlin, was organized in Jefferson 
County, and mustered in from Sept. 6 t<i Oct. 24, 1861. It partici- 
pated in the battles of Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, 
Rappahannock Station, Mine Run, Spottsylvania, North Anna, Tol- 
opotomy, Bethesda Church, Petersburg, and Weldon Railroad, and 
was mustered out, in accordance with orders from the War Depart- 
ment, June 17, 1865, after nearly four years of active service. 

Vomptmi/ /J, Vfipt. Thomna \V. Osborn, was in part from Jefferson 
County, and was mustered in from Sept. 6 to Oct. 25, 1861. Its list 
of important engagements is a long one, and tells a truthful tale of 
bravery and hard service. It took active part in the battles of York- 
town, Williamsburg, Seven Pines, battle of June 25, 1862, Peach 
Orchard, Savage Station, White Oak Swamp. Glcndate, Malvern Hill, 
Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Rappahannock Station, 
Mine Run, AVilderness, Spottsylvania, North Anna, Tolopotomy, Be- 
thesda Church, Petersburg, Weldon Railroad, and Chapel House. The 
battery was mustered out of service June 16, 1865. 

Cvuipni }f H, Ctipt. Joseph Spratt, was raised principally in Jeffer- 
son County, and mustered into the service of the I'nited Statcc from 
the 10th to the 28lh of October, 1861. It was engage)! at Yorktown, 
Fair Oaks, White Oak Swamp, Malvern Hill, Mine Run, Wilderness, 
Spottsylvania, North Anna, Tolopotomy, Bethesda Church, Peters- 
burg, Weldcn Railroad, Peeble's Farm, and Hatcher's Run, and was 
mustered out of service June 19, 1865. 

FIRST REGIMENT (GOV. MORGAS's) V. S. LIGHT ARTILLERY. 

Compauy H ot this regiment, Captain Charles L. Smith, was raised 
at Watertown and Carthage, for the term of three years, and mus- 
tered in July 24, 1861. This organization became a part of the 2d 
New York Liyht AttifUry. On the expiration of its term of service 
the original members were mustered out, and the regiment, com])osed 
of veterans and recruits, retained in service. It was consolidated into 
eight companies, and four companies of the 9th N. Y. Artillery trans- 
ferred to it .Tune 27, 1S65. The regiment was mustered out Septem- 
ber 29, 1865, in accordance with orders from the War Department. 
Its battles were: Second Bull Run, North Anna, Spottsylvania, To- 
lopotomy, Cold Harbor, Petersburg, Strawberry Plains, Deep Bottom, 
New Market Road, Charles City Cross-Roads, and Reams' Station. 
The 2d regiment lost S4l men in killed, wounded, and missing. 

FIFTH ARTILLERY. 

The third battalion of the " Black River Artillery," assigned to 
this regiment, consisted of several companies raised in the counties of 
Jefferson and Lewis, mustered into the V . S. service in September, 
1862. They were attached to the 5th Regiment, forming Batteries I, 
K, L, and M, to serve three years. On the expiration of its term of 
service the original m- mbers of the regiment (except veterans) were 
mustered out, and the organization, composed of veterans and re- 
cruits, rctaineil in service until July 19, 1865, when it was mustered 
out in accordance with orders from the War Department. The prin- 
cipal engagements in which the regiment participated were at Point 
of Rocks, Berlin, Sandy Hook, and Harper's Ferry. 

TENTH ARTILLERY. 

This regiment was composed of the First, Second, and Fourth 
Battalions of the Black River Artillery, raised in (he counties of 



560 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Lewis and Jefferson (Eighteenth Senate District). They were mus- 
tercl into the service of the United States from Scptcnilier 11 to 
October 27, 1S62, to serve three years. The original members were 
raustcrc.l out of service June 23, ISGJ, and the recruits consolidated 
into three companies and transferred to the 6th N. Y. Artillery, June 
27, ISOo. 

TlllRTEENTIl AllTII.I.EnV. 

Jefferson County furnished a number of men for this regiment, 
which was organised in the city of New York, and composed of men 
from various parts of the Slate. It was mustered in from August, 
ISIili, to September, 1864. On the 27th of June, lS6o, the organina- 
tiou was consolidated into a battalion of five companies, and trans- 
ferred to the 6th N. Y. Artillery. 

FOIIllTEK.NTH ARTILLEKY. 

This regiment was organined at Rochester, to servo three years. 
Jefferson County furnished a considerable number of men. The regi- 
ment was mustered in from August 2y lo December 17, lS6.3,and after 
participating in the battles of Spoltsylvania, Petersburg, Wcldon 
Kailroad, Poplar Spring Church, Cold Harbor, and Hatcher's Kun, 
was mustered out, in accordance with orders from the War Depart- 
ment, August 26, 186J. 

SI.KTEENTll AKTILLERY. 

This regiment was mustered into the U. S. service from September 
2S, lS6:i, To January 28, 1864, and contained a small detachment of 
men from Jettcrsou County. It was mustered out of service August 
21, 1865. 

INDEl'E.NUENT BATTEKIES NOS. 20 A.Vl) 28 

each contained men from Jefferson County, the latter having quite a 
detachment. The 2Uth Battery was mustered in December 27, 1862, 
and mustered out July 31, 1866. The 2Slh Battery was mustered in 
and out at the same dates as the 20th. 

orilEK nEUIME.NTS. 

Aside from those already mentioned, the following regiments con- 
tained men from Jefferson County : 

y„/,,«(.'if.-Thc 3d, a:id, d7th, 59lh (U. S. Vau-tiuard), 81st, 93d, 
<J7th, 102d, lOOlh. 

(■u,;dr^. — \st, nth (Scott's 900), 25th. 

And possibly the ci>unty was also represented in other regiments, 
of which we lind no acc.unt. Numerous individuals enlisted and 
were mustered into the service from other Stales. The foll.iwing list 
shows, from the " Index of Awards," published from the office of the 
Adjutaut-tJcncral of the State of New Yorli, the names of the soldiers 

of the 

WAR OF 1812-15 

who were living in Jefferson County as late as 1839-60. These do 
not include all who served, nor is it possible to secure a complete list, 
as manv participated less than si.xty days in the second struggle with 
England, and were not entitled to peu^ions : eonseciuently their names 
do °not appear. The post-office addresses at the limes the awards 
were made are given in the volume, and as many have removed from 
the county, this is another reason why the list cannot be made com- 
plete. 

K.VMK OF Ai'l'I.U'ANT .\N1) UKSIUENCE. 

HiiIlIo'IIii, Sewell, Ellisburg. 
ISiiIi'S, Wibiiiiii 8., ItullunU. 
lliixler, Ki>»»ill, liruwnville. 
lieariUli'V, fliauiicey. 
Hiill4., I'l'-tiT 1'., Cl.ijlon. 
llvelie, K. (I'y iitlniinis'trix), Ellisburg. 
lUlicbby, fhnstoplior B., Autwerp. 
Kt'titU*)',* Jiinies, b»' ItJiy. 
lll.ulgil, I.yiiiiiii, Le ll".v. 
IlluM.lKct.'tniiuun, l.ynie. 
Bo»nliiian, Kbii/.ir, I.e Kay. 
Ilodn'uii, Anthiiny, Uiill"ud. 
llojt.i:. (by lllbllih:sl|■•|^ix),Elli^burg. 
Itt>y>li'li, Snoiuet, Siu-kct's Huibor. 
llni/.fc, Jiic.ili, Urownville. 
Bri'wst.r, Elihmini, Klliaburg. 
BinnliMill, .M. (I>y aiiniin'Ur), l^layton. 
Briiwii, Aiir.iu, llniwuvilli!. 
BruiMi, gimrtus, Antwerp. 
Blown, 'I'hoiims, raiiiflia. 
Brown. WlUiion. 
Bulln.-k, J.M.pli, Ellisburg. 
Buriliik, IVriy, AU.iins. 
Burg", Mo«e», .)r., Aulwerp. 
Builiiignini', Iriel, Brownvilb'. 



Al.ell, .bibn, Oileiiiis. 

Ackirnuin. Ani I'., lirownvillo. 

AckiTuniii, l.ynmn, Brownville. 

Acliinis, ll.-nry, llr..wnville. 

Acluci..-i,J.ll'y i'doiini»'trix;, Ellisburg. 

Ailion-, .M.irk. 

Alb-li, J.'«f|>li, Elli«lmrg. 

Allison, ElKOieier, lirownvillo. 

Angt-1, .liilni'S, Cliiylon. 

AUBliii, .liicoli, ALilw<irp. 

B.il.cock, BiinU'l, Alexiinilllil. 

Bacon, Iwun-, Wuierlown, 

Buib'V, Isiihili, Antwerp. 

Bilker, Eiii»lu», borraini". 

Baker, Joniitlinli, Wiitertown. 

Bull, Elihu, Watirlown. 

Ball, bifiery, TlnTvsii. 

BiixliT, Mbbiiel M., All ■.xiin.lriii. 

Biirel.iy, E. C. (by lului'i), Wnlin town. 

But ns, Knoch, Sickvi's lliirbor. 

BaiMf y.Jobli, ElliHlnirg. 

Barniv, Willniui, Elllsoilig. 

B.inuLlungb, Tboiniis, ('npe Vincent. 

BiirlboliiiiK'W, llli\ir, lln)»nvill<'. 

B.iso'll, Bniukiidi, Abxaniiriii. 



Burnani, Stephen, Kntlind. 

llintoii, piiniel B.Anlwerp. 

Burton, .lolin. Roilniiin. 

Buskirk, Jos.pli I. , bynie. 

Ciindel, fliirk W , Wnterlown. 

Caipellter, Amos, be Ray. 

Carpenter, A.ta, Brownvillo. 

Carpenter, .lobti, Henderson. 

Ciirpenler, William, Antwerp. 

Carter, KarN, Wateitown. 

Carter, Carlos. Clayton. 

Carter, Isaac L., Clayton. 

Carter, Rowland, tlrlenns. 

Chiiinberlain, Benjamin, Ellisburg. 

Chepver, Ricliard, Ellisl'iirg. 

Clirlsman, Jacob, ElliRburg. 

Clyiie, James, Alexandria. 

Cu'bb, Jolin, Adams. 

Cole, Nathan, I. ■ Ray. 

Colon, J. (by n(lniiiiist'lrix\ Ellisburg. 

Colton, Henion, Xoitli Ailanis. 

Collon, Walter, rbiladelphiH. 

Clarke, Josbilii, Ailanis t'entru. 

Conway, Philip, Wilna. 

Cook, Benjamin, .\iitwerp. 

Cook, Caleb, Elli'bnrg. 

Cook, James It., Adams. 

Cooke, John, Clavtun. 

Cook, beavitt. Elli^burs. 

Cook, Rudolph R , Cape Vincent. 

Cook, Siiiiiuel, Antwerp. 

Coon, tJeorge, Orleans. 

Coon, .Iiinie^. 

Cork, John, Ellisburg 

Cornwall, J. (by ndiii'trix), Ellisburg. 

Cornwell, Seymour, Ell sburg. 

Canselman, Frederick, Lyme. 

Coilghlili, t^eorge L., Champion. 

Cmbt', Abijah, Antwerp. 

Crandatl, Con-tant, Cbiinipion. 

Ciandall, Willi.iin 1'., Theresji. 

Cra|)o, Jonathan, Jr. 

t'liitis, S. (by adiniliis'trix), Ellisburg. 

Biinby, Ziiiiri, Lyme. 

Beney, .S. (by admini8t'lor),Elli..*burg. 

Dexter, Zaduek, Henderson. 

Dilleiiback, Peter, Alexandria. 

Bisbrow, Smith. 

Bodge, Anson, Clavton. 

Dolly, William, \Mlna. 

Douglass, Salmon. 

llouiier, Avery, Ellishurg. 

Draper, Charles, Alexandria. 

Duel, Jacob, Theresa. 

Earl, .laiiiHB, Jr., Ellisburg. 

Eail, Willijon. Mannsville. 

Eddy, liiiocli, I'amelia. 

Edwards, .loliii I).. Ellisburg. 

Ellis, tJideon Clayton. 

Ellis, J. (by adniinistiator), Ellisburg. 

Ellis, Robert, Ellislmrg. 

Emerson, Jonatltan, Jr., Lyme. 

Emerson, Silas, Elli-bnrg. 

Everett, Austin, Wati-rtown. 

Every. Isaac, Palmyra. 

Fading, Wairen. Panielia. 

Earr, Stephen, Clayton. 

Felt, Henry, Adams Centre. 

Feliton, Matthew, 

Field, Laton, Rutland. 

Fikes, Itlichael, Le Kay. 

Finney, H. (by admintrix), Ellisburg, 

Fish, Samuel, Lyme. 

Flint, Maurice Iv., Piimelia. 

Fluno, tli'orge, Pamelia. 

Fobs, John, PHlnelia. 

Forsyth, William, Antwerp. 

Foster, Edward, .\ntwerp. 

Fo.-ter, John C, Antwerp. 

Fowler, Lester N., .\ntwerp. 

Fox, Robert, Lyme. 

Fox, Samuel, Adams Ctnitre. 

Francis, Thomas P., Ch.impion. 

Francis, Willi.iin, Sacket's Harbor. 

French, lOlkaimh, Wilna. 

Frost, Orry, Orleans. 

Fry, Jacob, Jr., Lyme, 

Fuller, Jacob, Paiin-lia. 

Fuller, Jiirob, Uiitlan.l. 

Fuller, William, Itnlland. 

tiaiiible, William, Rutland. 

tJardner, 11 ge, Antwerp. 

Gardner, Jacob, Hoiiii^lield. 
(jiirdner, Jolialban, Hrowiiville. 
tJarlock, Philip. Clayton. 
Garner, John (!., Orleans, 
(iurnsey, John, Clayton. 
Gules, Europe, Antwerp. 
Giddings, Joseph. 
Gillett, John H., Henderson. 
(Jhiyd, James, .Ir., Cape Vincent. 
Goldthnte, .Sylvester, Riitlaml. 
(niodenuugh, Levi, Ellisluirg. 
Gould, Orni, Pamelia. 
Graham, liov. M., ,Saikel'8 Harbor. 
Granger, William IL, Wilna. 
tirjives, Ira, Ellisburg. 
Graves, Salmon, Ellisburg. 
tireen, Henry, Ellisburg. 
Green, Isiuic (hy adnun.strator). 
Green, Paul, Adams Centre. 
Greene, Joseph. Adams. 
Griswidil, Joseph, Clayton. 
t;uernsev, John, Ellisl-nrg. 
Hiidley, 'Henry, Alexandria. 
Hull, Giles (hy wiilowj. 



Halloway, Samuel, Orleans. 

Ilauibliu, lloiuce, .\nlwerp. 

Hanson, Peter, Wilna. 

Hart, Jacob, Le Riy. 

Han, Willi.iin. LeRay. 

Ilaitnian, Jacob, Alexandria. 

Hasting, Lybeu", Le Bay. 

Halhaway, Joseph. 

Iliiwn, George, Orleans. 

Ilerrick, Fayette, Le Ray. 

Higgins, Jtnel. 

Hiil. Daniel, Ellisburg. 

Hill, llaniel, Antwerp. 

Jb.lley. J.dm M., Ellislmrg. 

Holly, Don A., Ellisburg. 

Hoover, Henry, Le Ray. 

Hoover, Richard, Thereaii. 

Hopkins, Thomas Champion. 

Ilorr, William, Brownville. 

Horning, Adam, .Mexandria. 

Horr, Oliver, Watertown. 

Hoisiiigtiin, Grout, Ellisburg. 

House, David, Pamelia. 

House, 'I'homas, Le ICiy. 

Howard, C. (by ailminist'r), Ellisburg. 

Howard, Daniel, Ellislmrg. 

Howard, .loba/a, Klbsburg. 

Howard, .lonatlian. 

Howard, Willis, Clayton. 

Howe, Ir.t, Anlwerp, 

Howe, Solomon, Alexandria. 

llown, John II., Ir-t. Clayton. 

Hnbbiird, Claudius, Adams Centre. 

Huldaird, .loliti, Henderson. 

Hnngeiford, Ania-a, Henderson. 

llniigerford, Seeley, Ueudereun. 

In^eison, Ezra, Lyme. 

Ingeison, John, 1 e Itay. 

Ingiahani, George, Antwerp. 

Irving, John (l.y executor), Orleans. 

Jackson, llaniel. Champion. 

James, Charles, Lorraine. 

Jenkins, Abial., Ellisburg. 

Jenkins, James, Oilcans. 

Jenkins, William, Pamelia. 

Jewell, Nathan, Hounsheld. 

Johnson, J. P. (by adnir). Champion. 

Jolinsoir, William, Henderson. 

Keerre, William, .Ir.. Bruwrrville. 

Keller, .lacob, Le Ray. 

Kellogg. Aaron, 11 dman. 

Kibliiig, John, Ellisburg. 

Iviinbiill, Wrlliarrr S., Pamelia. 

Koyl, Epbraim, Ellisbirrg. 

Laupher, Abel, Clayton. 

Luwlon, Josiali, Clayton. 

Lawyer, Ni. Iiolas, Brownville. 

Leonard, Isaac, Brownville. 

Lewis, Jeremiah, Ellisburg. 

Lewis, John, Hoirr'sfield. 

Lyon, Alanson, Theresa. 

McCi'oii, Isaac, Le Rav. 

McCumber, George W., Orleans. 

McDonald, L. W. (by wid.l, Ellisburg. 

Mcllowell, John, Sacket's Harbor. 

JbG.ven, llaniel, Eliisbur-g. 

Mclnlyre, Meiind, Wilna. 

ShNeal, Neal, Le Itiy. 

McNitl, Samuel, Jr., Clayton. 

Mack, Cliarmes, Antwerp. 

Mack, Solomon, Airtwerp. 

Mai Ide, Nallian, Orleans. 

Maishall, Jonalliaii, Orleans. 

Martin. Amos (liy widow I, Ellisburg. 

Mathews, Norman, Elliaburg. 

Mattliews, Thomas, Ellisburg. 

Maltoon, Charles, Theresa. 

Meigs, Jarrres U . Watertown. 

Melcilf, Henry, Horruhlield. 

Miller-, Ambrose, Rrrllaiid. 

Mitchell, Harlow, Rutland. 

Monroe, Ihirtoli. 

Moodv, Anson, Rodman. 

Morseiiian, M. T., .Sacket's Harbor. 

Murphy, J. Hires T , Ellrshuig. 

Myers, Henry I. H., Ellisburg. 

Nash, Ebene/er (hy exuc'r), Ellisburg. 

Nash, Henry S., Clayton. 

Kewtorr, Nicholas, Orleans. 

New loir, Siininel, Orleans. 

Nichols, Thoroa-s 11., Ellisburg. 

Norlhway, /.,na8, Sacket's llailwr. 

Noves, Nallian, Orleans. 

Nrr'lting, Leonird, Henderson. 

Oaks, George (by widow), Rrrlland. 

Oalluiui, George, Adams. 

Oalinan, Elijah, Adams. 

Orris, Ira, Clayton. 

Otis, J..hii, Kllisbiirg. 

Otis, Levi, Cl.iyioii. 

Overton, Nathaniel I!., Antwerp. 

Owens, Siiniiel II., « iliia. 

Page, Alllasi, Philadelphia. 

Page, .bibir. Clay ton. 

Palmer, /ebulun (by widow). 

I'arkins Asa, Rutlantl. 

Palchin, Ira W., Clayton. 
Patterson, Leniirel. Ab-xaudria. 
Pearcc, James, Theresa. 
Pearsorr, Berijamiii, Wilna. 
I'eai-soir, Jesse, Wilrra. 
Peck, Nathaniel, Brownville. 
Pelt, Jonathan, .\danis. 
Peiiiiock, Wilson, Cliamphm. 
Perry, Kli, Houitetield. 
I'crry, JustiH. 



IIISTOIIY OF JEFFERSON COUNTS', NEW YORK. 



5Ul 



Petrie, Christian, Orloans. 

pHttit, Daniel, CUyroii. 

Phi'lps, Barn-tt, Watortown. 

)'li«'I|»K, Uiinifl. Biuwnville. 

]»ji.-l|.H, D.ivi.i, Br.ittiivill.'. 

Ph.'lps J"Iin M., Ilniiri^ti.-ia. 

I'liitt [IS, K<hv;tMt, Uiithitul. 

}'liilIi|iH, Li-wis, L.viiic. 

I'i.'tif. Janiffi. CUiytcm. 

I'lyiniitoii, Willimii, Wilua, 

Piiol, B.iri)ii, Klli^bnig. 

P.Hil. DaVHl. Klli-btirp. 

I'.xil, Isiiali t li.v cXL'culnr), KllinlmrK. 

INior, riiriHt<»p)ii>r (hy widow;, Lu Ray. 

I'orlor, Ki;ini;is, Lo itav. 

P.-rtbr, JuhI, l>)iil;>il<>I|>'tiiii. 

Poitfi, ^;llwur^l. Ktliptbnrg. 

Port'-r, Jaiiu's, Klli-lmrg. 

Piiiti, Ltirt-ii/.o, Klli^liiii'g. 

Pri'sliir, Kiios, KlIisl'iirR. 

Piirdy, Il;irr.ri<>ii iby iMlmiirri, Atlams. 

Piitiiiini, I'liilij), Lymo. 

K:il)ili, Natliiitiiel, lludman. 

Kiw^i'ti, Asfi, Kurl itHl. 

Kwi ', Asalit'l, \urtli Adiiins. 

Rc'iil, Ihtiiiot, Siicket's Ilttrbur. 

Kfiiil, DytT, ll<»iti»fii-lfl. 

RetuI, Liitlii-r, Itruwnville. 

U'-ait, Simon, Iliiiiiiatii-ld. 

K-L'il, John, Lynit^ 

Uhinfs, Jutiri, Drloiri^t. 

Kirh irilson, Krecmiin, Kllishin-p. 

Jlichiir<l8»n, Stf|>h(>n. lIunii»f1eM. 

Riiler, .loscph, 1-ynifi. 

Kn:i;s, SoKuiiiin. \Viir8aw(?) 

Ripli-y, A. F., Piun<-liJi. 

K<>bliii)8, Oliver, Iluunsficld. 

R^.g.-i-s, Diinifl. 

RoK^'rs. JunK'"<, Lf Ray. 

Rugcfff, Ji»h[i, Aiitwi-rit. 

Roof, (Jonntd, Puni'-Iia. 

R "SI*, Joshnii (by mlniinV), Klliabnrg. 

RoH(?, Zorn (by nilniiiiisinilur;. 

RiiS'L-ll, .lolin, Chinipioit. 

RniiMi-ll, Jo->-|.h, KiithiiKl. 

IJu(.-k<-U, Will.xiii, Alcxtiirlria. 

S^irnlcin, J<>»f)>)i (bv t'x'm, Clmnipi-m. 

Sartwi-II, I>uMi.-l (by wiih.w), P;tfiu*Ii.i. 

Sauiidur!}, K^wcII, Adams CVntru. 



Sawyer Jaa. (by widow), Watertown. 

S«wyi>r, Nicholus, Bictwnville. 

Sn.Ib'bi. Alviib, Lc Kay. 

Scovilb', Smith, Piinieli-i. 

Scovilb', 8ti-ptifii, Orb'tris. 

Si-ymoiiri-, Kslier, Anrw»rp. 

Miai'p, BfiiJHniin, Antwerp. 

Shavwr, Ili'iiry (by widow;, Uc-IIcville. 

iShvd, Simon, Orli-antn. 

Slicpiird, Amos, Lynio. 

Shfpurdsori, l);irins, Ktlisbnrg. 

ShiTiiiari, Abel, ICnrlaiid. 

Sttf'i'inari, .lob, Klb^burg. 

Shipper, Jlcircy, Alexandria. 

Shiirk. Oliver, Lu lUy. 

SniiTh, Iianiel, Le Ray. 

Smith, Oliver, Kllinlmrg. 

Sniiih, Thiiddiiis, Lymo. 

Snell, (i.'orge I* , ,lr", Theresa. 

Snow, Jonu", Wilna. 

Snyder, R chard, KlliHbiirg. 

Sopef, Lawreit, 'riit-reaa. 

Spalding. Kvander. 

SpaUbuiy. .lolm, Alexandria. 

Sp -neer, John, Atlams t'entre. 

Spencer, Steph. (by admVj, Kllisbnr;;. 

Spieer, l)aniel. 

Spragne, David. 

Sipi res, Kle/.iii-, Pamelia. 

Stanley, Daniel, Sni thvillo. 

Stednian, Lntlier, Cape Vincent. 

Steele, (;«■<. rge B., Clayton. 

Sicniplar, Henry, Claytun. 

Sterling, D. F. 

Stelson, Nathan, Clayton. 

Stevens, Kbenezer, Claytun. 

Stewart, Walter. 

Stoiey, Pliny, \Val*TtowM. 

Storms, William, Ab-xandria. 

Stninalian, John, Wati-ito« ii. 

Streeter, Anms, Antwerp. 

Silts, Adam P., .Alex:«ndria. 

Tamldin, Abner, Kntbind. 

Tatman, Calvin, Adani^. 

Taylor, Cliarb-s J., Pann-lia. 

Ta'vlui, PhiletnBS.,p:ilisi'nrg. 

Taylor, Solomon W,, Wilna. 

Tliayer, B^'iij^unin, Wtlna. 

lliumas, Shubael, Wilna. 



Thompson, Arcliihald^ Le Ray. 

Thi'Nip-un, Lsaac, Aniweiii. 

Thompson, JanieH, ('Immpion. 

ThornpHon, Jot^eph, Alexandria. 

Tliomp.son, William, Wilna. 

Tifft, Tlieoph. (by wid.l, Maniidvillc. 

Tinicrm m, Adam, Orleans. 

Tompkinc, tiilberl, Theresou 

TniTy, Si.phen. Ilunn^field. 

Totman, I'alvin, Athinis. 

T-iwnseni), John, Philndelphio. 

Trenip'-r, J"hn .M., Lyme. 

Trevallie, Czar. 

Trnesdell. Siimn*d, Kllisbnrg. 

Tncker, .Amariah, Cjipe Vincent. 

Turner, David, Clayton. 

Van Alb-n, .\br. (by wiilow), Clayton. 

Van Brarklin, Nuhu'n^, Alexandria. 

Van Broeklin, John, TlicreMi. 

Van WornHT, Abram, Kllisbnrg. 

Van Wormer, Jacob, ElliHhnrg. 

Vai'nuni, .\bra)iani, Lyme. 

Victory, Kdmund, Ph Jadelpliia. 

Visgar. John (by executory, Orleans. 

Vroman, Jacob, ICodnian. 

Waflle, William, Clayton. 

Waf;ner, Jacob, Alexandria. 

Wag.iner, Jaciib, Le liny. 

AValralh, Jacob A., Pamelia. 

Waliod. Warner, L> me. 

^\■ilrd, Kliliu (by executor;, Orleans. 

Wan-, Knit fhy widi>w;, Le Ray. 

Waits*, Benjamin, Theresa. 

Watts. Daniel, Orleans. 

Walts, J. dm, Orleans. 

Watts, John J. (by administratrix). 

Weaver, Jusejdi S., Wilua. 



WonT^r, George, Philadelphia. 

W.ldeii, Jacob, Kllsbiirg. 

Wessel", Luke, Kllisbnrg. 

West, William, Ailams. 

Wi-viT, <;e«Mgc, Kllisbnrg. 

\V heeb-r, Joeihna, Kllisbnrg. 

Wheeler, Will. am, Le Kay. 

White. Jariic-a, Mender^ou. 

Wltiie. Lester, Orleans. 

While, Oliver, IIen<ierstm. 

Whittier, Jouiithan, Clayton. 

AViUox, Oliver. Lyni.-. 

AViIIm-iI, Abel.Chnton. 

AVilliai»s,\irhnhis, Le Rjiy. 

Williams, Reuben, Antwerp. 

A\ illiainsoii, (.hiistopher, lEudman. 

William-on, John, ^Vdna. 

AVil^on, Jacob, hi- Ray. 

Wil on, ReulK>n L.. Iluunsduld. 

AVinner, 4'lirtfttian, Rutland. 

Wood, Amos K.. Kllitbiirg. 

AVood, Jainos, Kllisburg. 

Wood, Jesse (by admin'x), Kllixbiir^. 

Wood. John, (!hampion. 

AVoodwanl. Kbene/.er, Le Kny. 

AVoodrnfT, K, (by admin'r), Klbsburg. 

Woodwanl, Rehlad, Antwerp. 

AVo.dward, Flat, Rntlind. 

AV.Kidward, Hmry, Rutland. 

AVotxIwanl, Ezra. 

AVoodwatd, James (by wid.), Rutland. 

AVri-ht, Matthew, Adams. 

AVright, Oliver (by adniiirx), Clayton, 

AVriiht.Selh, Waterbiwn. 

AVyle-, Knssell, Lorraine. 

Young, M.chael, Wilua. 



WAR WITH MEXICO. 

Jefferson County sent a number of men to the United States army 
during the war with Me.vico (ISlfi— IS), but it has been impos.sil>Ie to 
procure anything definite regarding them. The main body of the 
army lor that war was made up of volunteers from Indiana, Illinois, 
Michigan, and other western States. 



3D REGIMENT. 

COMPANY It. 

Taylor, Charles E., Private; enrolled April 20,1801. 
A'auderwaler, Fnincis K., private ; ear. April 2U, ISlil. 

24TH REGIMENT. 

CAPT. ANDKEW J. BAKNKV'S COMPANY (K). 

Rarney, .Andrew J., cajitain ; enrolled May 17,1801. 
Bmkley, John P., lieul. ; enr. May 17, ISlil. 
Ayres, Jonathan K., ensign ; enr. May 17, IS61. 
Oilerkirk, Simon V., 1st sergt. ; enr. May 17, ISGI. 
Ilolley, AVilliani II., sergl.; enr. May 17, lauL 
Hawley, Charles II., sorgt. ; enr. May 17, 1«01. 
L-e. Albert R., sergt.: enr. .M ly 17,'lSOI. 
>'ox,(;eorge W.,corp. ; enr. May 17, 1«01. 
Gardiner, S. Orson, Corp.: enr. May 17, ISfil. 
Wodell, Warren W.. Corp.; enr. May 17, isiil. 
Cook, .Albert R., Corp. ; enr. May 17, l«(jl. 
AVilson, Reuben, fifer; enr. May 17, 1S«I. 
Russell, Morris, drummer; enr. May 17, 1801. 
Ayres, Oliver, Jr., private ; enr. May 17, 1801. 
Aibru, Walter, private; enr. May 17, 1861. 
Alver.-on, Willa.d N, private; enr. May 17, 18G1. 
Rrown, C. Lyman, private; ear. May 17, 1801. 
JJranigin. J. Jerome, private; enr. May 17, I8C1. 
Bennett, Harb-y, private; eni-. May 17, ISOI. 
0>tter, K. Ja-|ier, pi ivate; enr. May 17, 1801. 
C^Htk, Cyru?, pr.vate; enr. 5lay 17, l>^01. 
l>de, Ilezekiah, private; enr. May 17, 1801. 
Dickinson, E. Ashel. pi ivate; enr. Slay 17, 1801. 
Decker, K. Benjamin, private; enr. <May 17, 1801. 
Diirfee, (Iforge, private ; enr. ,AIay 17, l*-*!!. 
Deiker, I^aac W.. private; enr. 31ay 17, ISOI. 
Dickinson, Mmiroe, private; enr. 3Iay 17, 1801. 
(lieen, Stewart J., private ; enr. May 17, 1801. 
Gnnn, Luther, private; enr. May 17, 1801. 
GlcJison. Geo ge W.. private; enr. May 17, ISGl. 
Gennell, Or<-n, pi Ivate ; enr. May 17, 1801. 
Goodenon':li, Calvin, private; enr. ftiay 17. 1801. 
ILimblin, William, private; enr Mav 17, 1801. 
Haslett, William, private; enr. .AIay'l7. 1^01. 
llnbbjird. [)wight. private; enr. .May 17. ISOl. 
Itawus, Cluiincey B., private; enr. May 17. 1861. 
Ilolley. Deren/.ie. private; enr. May 17, 1801. 
n>k". Kng.-ne, private; enr. Mnv 17, 1801. 
Hiwby, Elwird .M , private; enr. May 17, ISOl. 
Iliiiman, (ieoru'** W., p ivate; enr. May 17, I>i01. 
Hiiinian. James M , private; enr. May IT, ISOl. 
Hughs, Daniel D., private; enr. May 17, 1801. 
Hui^lis, Nelson, private; enr. May 17, 1801. 
Hunt, llannibHt D., private ; enr. May 17. ISOI. 
Ihiggins, Andrew, private; enr. May 17, 1801. 
Haght, Theron W.. private; enr. May 17. 1801. 
Ilnuhs. Smiuel. p ivate; onr. May 17,1801. 
Iluncerf ird. Anson H , private; enr. May 17. IfiCl. 
Jenniiii.'<. Hi am F.. private; enr. May 17, 1801. 
Liuie, Albert, private; enr. May 17, 1861. 



WAR OF THE REBELLION, ISfil-Go.® 

] Martin, Atanson A., private; enr. May 17, ISOl. 

Monch, George O., private; enr. May 17, 1801. 
I Nutting, Eugene, private; enr. May 17, 1801. 
( Oderkitk, Seaman, private; enr. May 17, 1801. 
' Oderkirk, Is.iac, private; enr. May 17, l«Ol. 

Pryne, S.dney W., private; enr. JLiy 17, 1801. 
I Pari'^h, Judsoii E., private ; onr. May 17, 1801. 
j Phdlipi, Reuben H.. private; enr. May 17, 1801. 
I Reilway, Hamilton R , private; enr. Slay 1801. 
' Re.ifieM, Lf-roy G., private ; enr. May 17, IHII. 
I R Minds, Newton H.. private ; enr. M'ay 17, 1801. 

Schniin, James, private ; enr. M ly 17, isGI. 

Si|nires, Nelson, private; enr. May 17, 1801. 
! Stnrdevant, Monroe, private; enr. May 17, 1801. 

Teear, Frank, private; enr. May. 17, ISOl. 
I Taylor, Don G., private; enr. May 17, ISOl. 
I ViiT'C, Montgiinierv, priv.ite; i-nr. Mav 17, ISOl. 
I Webb. Charles G., private; enr May 17. 1801. 

Wilson, George, private , enr. May 17. ISOl. 

W.iit, Lon, pri*'ate; enr. May 17, 18 d. 

Wiiljams. James J., private ; enr. May 17. 1801. 

AVilbur, Fobes ('., private; enr. May 17, 1801. 
I Wiiitney, Knight D., privati- ; enr. May 17, ISOl. 

Welch, John R.. privat •; enr. M ly 17, ISOI. 

Whitney. Myron J., private; enr. Ma> 17, ISOl. 

WillianiH, R dlin K., private; enr. Mav 17, 1801. 

Wh.tuey, William A., private; enr. May 17, 1801. 

35TH REGIMENT. 

Col. Newton B. Lord. 

FIKST DETACHMENT 

of A'olunteers for this regiment recruited by Liout. 

J. A. Iladdm'k. Te|-m of service, tliree years or 

during the war. Date of muster, Sept. 18, 1801. 

Agan, Patrit'k, j'rivate; enr. Sept. 10, 1S61. 
Arnold, Ph b». private; enr. Sept. 9, ISOl. 
Collon, En".|i, private; enr. S-pt. M, ISGl. 
C^irman, Wiltiatn, inns.; enr. S<-pt. 0, I80I. 
Cratsenberg, Adttm I., private; enr. Sept. 18, 1801. 
Cheney. David, private; enr. Sept. 10, 1801. 
Iterreanx, StHni-^laus, private; enr. Sept. 14, ISOl. 
Blair, Joseph, private; enr. Sept. 14, 1801. 
Pressor, George F., private; enr. S'-pt. 14, 1861. 
Eddy. Jinks, private; enr, Sept. 7, 1801. 
Forbes. William, privaf; enr. Sept. 14, 1801. 
(iardiier, Kbenez'-r. private ; enr. S-pt. 7, 1801. 
Gilman, Enistns H., mns.; onr. Sept. in, 1801. 
Greon, John H., private; enr. Sept. 14, 1801. 
Green, Daniel, private; enr. Sept. 10, 1801. 
Hogan, William, private; enr. Sept. 6, 1801. 
Ilnnter. Fninklm W., private; enr. Sept. It, 1801. 
Haddock, Samuel, private; enr. Sept. 2, 1861. 
Hare, Daniel, pr vate; enr. Se|it. 17. ISOl. 
Hyde. Kdwin. private; enr. Sept. 9, ISfil. 
Hogin. Jtdin D., pivate; enr. Sept. 9, 1861- 
Kuight, William M., private; onr. Sept. D, 1861. 



La Due, Alexander, p-ivate ; enr. Sept. ^. 1801. 
Lewis, Josopli A., priv.ite; enr. Sept. H, 1801. 
La Gnire, Peter, private; enr. Sept. lO, ISOl. 
Lago, Benjamin, piivate; enr. Sept. 10, 1801. 
Marks, Joseph, priv.ite; enr. Sept. 10, ISOI. 
Martin, Fnineis X.. private; enr, Sept. li, 1801. 
Mix, Lyman P., piivate; enr. Sept. 17, 1801. 
Monroe, (Jeorge W., private; enr. Sept. 0, 1801. 
Noyi-g, Frederick, piivate; etir. Sept. 16, ISOl. 
Pall^^^, George H.. p-ivate ; enr. Sept 0, isc.l. 
Plumb, Hinim C, private; enr. Sept. 10, 1801. 
Riitchfonl. Janu'S, private; enr. Sept. LI, 1801. 
Ramsdell, Franeis L., private; enr. Sept. 9, 1861. 
Roach, Peter, private ; enr. Sept. it, IStil. 
Rice. John, private; enr. Sept. 0, iSfil. 
Steison. Nathaniel W., private; enr. Sept. 9. 1801. 
A'an .\mberg, Frederjek, private; enr. Sept. 11, 1801. 
William-i. Stephen, privtte: enr. Sept, 18, 1861. 
A'odra, John N., mus. ; enr. Sept. 10, 1861. 

SECOND DET.\CH5IE\T. 
Same regiment. Terra of service, three years, unlest 
sooner discharged. Muster dating from Sept. 'iC, 
1861. 

Retts, William 11., private; enr. Sept. 19. 1801. 
Rjillard. Lyman, p; ivate ; enr. Sep. 20, 1801 
Itedell, Lucius M., nnis. : enr. Sept. 2.'i, Ist^l. 
De Coray, Jos-pli, Jr., mus.; enr. Sept. 24, ISOl. 
Dillenberk, William !L, mns.; enr. Sept. lit, 1861. 
Elmer, Chester S., mus.; enr. Sept. 24, 1801. 
Howanl, .lohn K.. private; enr. Sept. 20. isoi. 
Marshall, Gnvera H., muH.; enr. Sept. 19, 1801. 
M.»ri"le. A., private; enr. Sept. 24, 1801. 
Neil, (ieorge. private; enr. Sept. 20, istil. 
Otis. Helon N. private; enr. Sept. 2:!. 1801. 
Randall. Aitemas A., private; enr. Sept. 20. 1861. 
Riihardsun, John, mus ; enr. Sept. 24. ISOl. 
Shaw, AVilliam, private; enr. Sept. 9, ISiil. 
Trijip. William C, private; enr. Sept. 21, 1801. 
Wilcox, Eliaji. private; enr. Sept. 24, l«Ol. 
AVilliam^. Reuben, mus. ; enr. .Sept. 24. ISOl. 
AV right, Henry, private; enr. Sept. 19, isiil, 

THIRD DETACHMENT. 

Same regiment. For three years, unless sormer 

discharged. Sluster dating from Oct. 2, 1861. 

Reynolds, George AV., private ; enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Thayer, Walter P., privat-: enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Faulkner, John C , private ; enr. Sept. 20, 1801. 
Ilazer, Frederick, piivate; enr, Se|>t. 20. 1861. 
MeOmber, Theodore, private; enr Sept. 27, 1861. 
Matthews, Eugene, private; enr. S^-pt. 27, 1861. 
Poor. As;i C , private; enr. Sept. 27, 1861 
AVill-ams. .lames, private; enr. Sept. 27. 18G1. 
Runi", Peter, private; enr. Sept. 27. 1801. 
Lowe, Stephen, private; cur. Sept. 27,H61. 



• As far as ran be ascertained from facilities at our command, the list herewith given is a nearlv correct roster of the men from JelTerson County as they were 
mustered intt> the original regimi-nts. 



HISTORY OF JEFFEESON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



King, Cl.xrl.n E, rri'-nt^ ••'■■"■■ ^'•[U-';^*f;o5i 

Tli..iu^.», ll,M..y, private; eni'. J'l' ■ ;^*> J°' J' 
KHn.U.ll, N.-l>"", privit.-: ""-tK-^n'iir ' 
K.l.y..n, Jnn.vs. IHivaU-; onr. So,,., -ij. . S'' • 
l.„,.l«.l.nrK. .lohM, 1" .«u.o ; i-nr. fept 27, 1801. 

Yocke), A.laiii, privHtp; i-nr. Sep ^7, 1>61. 
Hart, I'eliT, piiviil,-; L'»i-. Sepl.i7,18(,l. 
Chirk. (•I,:..l.a K., privute; onr. Sept. i^,W6^. 
Cn,„pl-ll. <l.ri>..,pl,er, pr.v,.te; enr Sept. ^7 1861. 
June., WMlui... 11., private; enr. S,"-! ';,-,V, 
SegoviH, Oeorgc, private : enr. S.pt. 28, 18f.l. 
Punt.., OrsenMls, pnvMe; enr. Sep . 28, 80 . 
N,.rt.>ii, (ieurge, private ; enr. Sept .ill IJI'l. 

SpraKUe, C g« H., private; enr. '"'P'- ^'.;.'*,'^,.;, 

Kol.i.i—i, ■ri...i.Ku. 11., private; enr. Sep .2., 1801. 
B.rtlelt, .\l..n/..., private; enr. Sep. 27 'sr,! 
K.1.1.V, (ieurge W., p.iva.e; '•"•^'".if; >?;''• 
Wintei». AiLlreW. private; <•"'• S^P- '''• r^*"'' 
■Wiser, lliivini, private; el.r. Sep . ■2i.l5'>. 
Caswell, •rh..n.as. private ; '■"'„ ^,7 „■'',• '?.'"■ 
Vuiings, .Iiiliiis, private; enr. Se,. . 27, 180 . 
Fuid, IVIer K., private; enr. Sept. 2i , ISOl • 
llaOcrk, Matiluvv li.. private ; enr. S.^.t 28 18C1. 
Scull, I'al.i.l 11, private; '^'"■- ^''P'-.-f' .'"''• „ 
Spani.ling, Levi K., private; enr. Sept. ■! '. 1^0'. 
JlcBoiiaM, Krancis li., private; enr. Sept. JU, 1801. 

FOURTH DETACIIMEKT. 
Same regiment. Tliree years, unless sooner dis- 
charged. Dale of muster, Oct. 9, ISGl. 

Ballar.l, Samuel E., private; <••"■■ S''P«.;7,\«';'- 
diri.man, <:e.jrg,-, p.ivate; enr. Sl-i.i. 2J. 1801. 
Kii/./.ell. Ml'lieiis .)., private; enr. Sept. ., , 1801. 
Fiiizell, Uilliain ll.,l.r,vate; eiir. Sept. 2'J, 1801. 
Kelly,.!. .1.11, piivate ; enr. ""• I, »«!'\- „, 
Collins, Jul.n li., pmate; enr. Oct. 4, H^G'- 
Itichanls, Mnhl..n K., private; enr Oct. o, ISCl. 
KOner, .I.jlin, private; enr. Oct. f , H'Ol; 
El.ncr, August, private: enr. U*-'-', '»''•, 
Cunnally, I'atnck, private; enr. Oct. 8, 186 
Harrington, A.aliel 11., l"-"'",';! «'''■■ ^::^'- ^'*' ^'"■ 
Knller, (ieurge, private; enr. Oct. 8, 180 . 
Aiilt, llavid K., piivate; »"'■ Oi;!. 8, 18o'. 
Arnold, Daniel, private ; enr. Sept. f, Ifol- 
Harbor, Tliollias, private; onr. Oct. •>, '801. 
Lane, Edwin U , private ; enr. Sept. i'.l, 181,1. 

Peck, lieurge .1., private; enr. Sept :i". 1801. 
Spciuer, William S., private ; enr. Sep . ■«'; IS"- 

llaberer, llcniy. private; enr. *<;Pt; •'",'*;:';■ 

Coon,Will.aio 11., private; enr. Oct. 0, 1801. 

llHl.l.ar.l, i:/.ra 11.. liiiis.: enr. Oct. 1, 1801. 

Cnppernell, .K.l ms. ; our. Sept. 2.J, 1801. 

Cii pperiiell, Mariiii I.., mils.; enr. S.pt 211 1861. 

Barnett, Andrew, inns. ; enr. Sept. ■2'J, 1601. 

lliigan, .lames mils. ; enr. Uct. 2, 1801. 

1-atl James, mus,; enr. Oct. -,'801. 

Hjlher, \\ ilham K., miis ; enr. Oct. .i, 1861. 

Piene lleniy H.. limK- ; enr. Oct. :i, 1801. 

I'ierce, J..sepli, mus.; enr. Oct. a, 1801. 

Jolly, .lolin, mils.; enr. Oct. .i, 18ol. 

Elliott, Eilw in, mus. ; enr. Oct. o, 1801. 

Cianker,J..l.n, nms.; enr. Oct. i, L 01. 

Kinyon, liei.jaliiin, mns. ; enr. Oct. '; '™i- 

Simmons, l.a Kay.lte .M., ni««.; ""'• '-'i'- '•, f''^' 

Simm..ii.i8, .lames N., mus. ; enr. Oc_t. , 1801. 

Austin, Horace 1.., mus. ; enr. Oct. /, 1801. 

llavis, James, mns.; onr. Oct. 7, IHOl. 

Hall, John U us.; enr. Oct. 7, )801. 

I'ierce, Epliniini, mus. ; enr. Oct. 7, 1801. 



Allen, Harvey, private: enr. Oct.-ipSHl- 
Jlonnt, llavid Jl., private; onr. Oct. 1, 18C1. 
Weeks, llscar, private; enr. Oct. 1'. l';01. 
ItilliMEs, Krai.klin JI., private; o"!- "" 4, 1861. 
Wiight, Am..s, private ; enr. O.t 8 1801 
Giav.B, llext.r, puvat.-; enr. Oct. 8, 1801. 
ral.inli..ii. J..111I. privat..; enr. net N 18 .1. 
Pike, Le..naid W., private; onr. Oct. 8 1861. 
Klazior, Oeoige, private; enr. Oi . 1^. '80 
C.lton, Harvey V., private ; enr. Oct. 8 ISbl. 
Laidlaw, James, private; enr. Oct. 8, 180 
Van Uusen, Charles 11., drummer; enr. Oct. 8, 1861. 

SIXTH riKTACIIMENT. 

Same regiment. Term of onli.-munt same as regi- 
ment. Date of muster, Oct. an, 1801. 

r.ardnor, Sherman, private; our. Oct 14, 1801. 
ItetlenBor, Wallace, private; enr. Oct 1 1801. 
Itol.bins, .lol.ii, private; enr. O.t. 1, 180 . 
Ku.ler, John 0., piivate; ei.r. O.'l. i-. 1801. 
Spa.is, ■lh..mas. private; onr. Oct. H. l^"- 
Wilson. Jam.-s, piivate; enr. Oct. H, 1801. 
llarl.er,(;.oiK., private; onr •-'<;'■''■,"*,•,„,, 
Kobl.ins, Maitlai.d S.. l.iivate ; our. Oct. 1", 1801. 
K,.bl.ii.-. I-aac, private ; onr. Oct. 1, 1801 
Chi vor. N. Isoii, piiv..te; enr. Oct. 2.i, 1801. 
Van Allen, J.din, private ; enr. OC. 21 1801 
Whit.-,Uooigo W.. private; enr. Oct_. 2 1. 1801. 
Tutlle, CUarles, priv..te ; enr. Oct 1 ., 1801. 
Lane, Horace S., pnvat.-; onr. Oct 27, 80 
Hodge, Deinptor O., privale; enr. Oct. 27, 1801. 
Hodge, Jani.-sH., private; enr Oct. 2, 18(,1. 
Hart, Jiids..n C, pr.vato ; onr. Oct. -2, 1801 
Hubbanl, tieorge ('.. pi ivato; onr. Oct 1, 1801. 
Uixoli, John, private; onr. Oct. '.o, 1801. 

SEVENTH DETACIISIENT. 
Same regiment. For unexpire.l teim of said regi- 

menfs enlistment; dale of muster, Nov. 7, 1801. 
Austin, Wni. (;., private ; enr. Oct. ^^ 1801 
Waldron, J..s.ph, privaf ; our. Oct -20, 1801. 
Unigess, Herman G., private; onr. Oct. '25, 1861. 
Snell, John II, private; enr. Oct i, 1801. 
Histiiig" Nelson, l.rivate; onr. Oct. 2.., 1801. 
Teller, J.al K., 1 rivale ; onr. Oct. -20, 1801. 
Clnmiont, George W., private; enr. Oct. 25, 1S61. 

EIGHTH DETACHMENT. 
Same r.ginient. Same as Seventh. Date of muster, 

Ki,v.2;i, 1861. 
McNilt, Nelson, privat..; onr. Nov 21, ISO'- 
Mc.Nitt, Do Witt C, private; enr. N. .v. 21 1801. 
Jl.Nitt, Dnane N., pr v..to; enr. ^ov.21 1801 
l„...nii», G.-.TfO W., private; enr. Nov. 21, 1801. 
tni.inii'ell, l-;.hvar.l, private; onr. Sept. 4, 1861. 
Deioy, Dennis private ; onr. Sept. 11, 1801. 

KINTH DETACHMENT. 
Same regiment. Same as Seventh ami Eighth. Date 

of muster, D.'C. 4, 1801. 
niirdick. Elias J., private; enr. Nov. -26, 1861. 
Wakotlold, William, private; enr, Nov. 20, 1861. 
Itav, Kol.eil, iirivate; enr. Nov. -28, 1861. 
Fairbanks, James M., private ; ..ni . Di-e._4, 1801. 
Nutting, Edwin E., piivate ; .'ur. Nov. 1.., 1801. 



818T KEGIMENT. 



COMPANY B. 
Bullock, Ben.iamin, private ; enr. Sept. 12. 1S«';. 
Scranum, W.lliam 11., private ; enr. Sept. lu, 1801. 

CAPT. JOHN B. EDWAKDS' COMPANY. 
Blackman, Dennis, privat..; onr. Oct. 'J, 1861. 
Hovev, Oliver, private; onr. Sept. ill. 1801. 
Lacv,'Marl.n, private; enr. Nov 1 1801 
Uuchens, George, pi ivate ; enr. Oct. 11, 1801. 

93D KEGIMENT. 
CAPT. OnVILI.E L. COI.VIN'S COMPANY. 
Carpenter, Jos.-ph ('., private; enr. Sept. 2, 1861. 



FTFTII DETACHMENT. 

Same regiment. Three years, uiileaa sooner dis- 

Cliarge.l. Date of muster, Oct. 18, 1861. 

Bog..r», Nilos v., private ; onr. Oc-t. 1801 
Georg.., John B., pr.vate : enr. Oct 1, 1801 
Smith, Darius B., private; enr. Oct. 1 1, 1801. 
Liskuin, W.llaby, pr.vato ; onr. O.t. i, H^Ol- 
Bn.banali, Alo.xan.lor, private; onr. Oc . o 1801. 

W.nl , T ii>», private; enr. Ott , 8 . . 

fill in-ll, John, private ; enr. Oct. .1, 180 

Hll.kins, Henry A., private; '■"■■;;i; '• '• l*"'!- 
Bnchanan, James, private ; onr. Oct i, 1801. 
Ky.ler, Dallas, private ; onr. 0.t. 7, 180 . 
Fra-Aoll, Alpheus J., private; enr. Oct. .1, 1801. 
Smith, Newell, pr.vate; enr. O^'- ';."^': .'i 
M.. ore, John H., private; onr. Oct. .;180l. 

Biicli..n;,n. John, private: '•■>■• ^"■'•. '•„"',''. ■ 
Siiiilli George W., private; enr. llct. !l. 1801. 

Kl...k', Nathan, private; onr. Uct. H, 1801. 

l.,.,t,J,..MbA.. private ; onr. Oct. Ul.lKOl 

Kag T ithy, oiirign ; enr. Oct. II 801- 

Salsbniy, Al.XKlider, private ;enr()ct 1, 1861. 

Field, Milo II., priv..le ; enr. Oct. 9,180 

Sheimali, ll..njamiii, privale; enr. Oct. H, 1801. 

Aii«lii..lalvin, private; onr. Oct. II, 181,1. 

Fiel.l, J.iel A., private; elir. O"^'- »- ^ "'' ' ■ , 

Uipley, Calvin J., private; .-nr. (let. '.1, 1861. 

Wh.-oler, Hiram, private; onr. il, 1861. 

George Irving, pr.vuti-; enr. Oct. '.I, 181.1. 

Mclntyre, llanlel, private ; onr. O.t. 'J, 1801. 

Ciabb, Alon/,.,, pr.vale ; enr. Oct. 14, 1861 

Ci.yle, Patrick, J.rivato; enr. Oct. 12, 1801. 

(;e..rge Norman, private; enr. Oct. U, 1801. 

Llpha«., John, private; enr. "'^'- "• '"I''- ,, 

Slantoii, Franklin, piivate; enr. Oct. 4, 1861. 

Knowles, HilKiii, private ; enr. Oct. 1", 1»61. 

Kin-ley, Jam '8, private ; enr. Oct. 1, I8I1I. 

Wriiibl, Cho-ter, privale; onr. Oct. 1, 1801. 

C.pl.inaii, James, privale; enr. ll.t. I, l.sill. 

liiit.s, Helirv f., privale; enr. Oct. 1,1801. 



53D KEGIMENT. 



COMPANY D. 
Damon, Edward, private; enr. Oct. 24, 1861. 

57TH KEGIMENT. 

CAPT. N. G. THORP'S COMPANY. 
nan=on, Silas W., pi ivato; onr. Sept. 2:i, 1801. 
Tompkins, Charles I,., private ; enr. Sept. 2.i, 1861. 

TJ. S. VAN-GIIARD-59TH INF. 

CAPT. PHILIP W. SMITH'S COMPANY. 
GilToid, Milo E., 1st lieut.; enr. July 14, 1801. 
Wliitl..r.l, Amos II., Corp.; onr. July ••'..l^O'- , 
l.arnar.l, Benjamin P., private; onr. July ..I, ISOl. 
M..ri.,w, J..hn, private; onr. July ■;1..180I. 
Putter, George A., pr.vate ; onr. Jnlj .il. l«ol. 
Thompson, Francis D., piivate; enr. July .11, 18bl 

CAPT. GOULD J. JKNNINGS COMPANY. 
Clark, (lllvor. private; enr. Aug. 28, 1861. 
Hack, Will. am II., l.rivate; enr. Aug. 20, 1801. 
Er-kin.s Cballes W., private; enr. Sept. 2. 1801. 
F..rin.r, James P., private; enr. Aug. 24, 1801. 
Halt, Jose|.li, private; enr. Aug. '27, 1801. 
Johnson, Robert, private ; enr. Aug. 21, 1801. 
Mo.lkiff, lie.,. go II., lirivale; enr. Sept. Li, 1801. 
Nash, A.l..lpli.is, private; oiir. Aug. 28, 1801. 
O'N. il, I'liah J., privat..; enr. Sept. 11. 1S61. 
I'rall,l'barl|.s ll„ pr.vate; onr. .Sept. 1'2, 1801. 
Bo.kwell, Mirand.i, piivate ; enr. Sept. 12, 1801. 
Wil.'.ix, Henry S,, private; our. Aug. '27, IM'.l. 
Warehain, James, jirivate ; our. Sept. '27, ISOl. 

CAPT. MILLER MOODY'S COMPANY. 
Conn, ('barbs, inivate; onr. S.'pl.ll, 1801. 
Gbr/,is, R..ilb. 11, privat.'; onr. S..pt., 1861. 
Ran.lal, Orson, private; enr. Sept. 7, 1801. 

COMPANY I. 
Slater, Sylvester ,\.,corp.; enr. Oct. 22, ISOl. 



i.arpeiiiei, ....=. I i - .,■,,./, 

Clemens, Calv.n, puvate ; enr. Sept 2, 18bl. 
Farr, Dani..|. privat..; eiir. Sept. '2, 181.1. 
Green Georg.- W., pi ivate ; onr. Sept. H. 1801. 
Kn..w'llon, Aaron, piivate; enr. Sept. 2, 1K61. 
P.dlard, James, priv ate ; enr. S.-pt. :i, ISi.l. 
Kln.des, Nels..n, li.ivale; enr. Sept. :i, UOl. 
Williams, Geoig.., private ; onr. Si-pt. '2, 1801. 
Welch, Simeon, private ; enr. (let. 12, 1801. 

CAPT. GEORGE M.VOOUIIEES' COMPANY. 
Austin, Abrabaiu, private; our. Sept. 21, 1801. 

CAPl'. GliOIUiE B. MIISHIER'S COMPANY. 
McDonald, George, private ; .-nr. Nov. 18, 1861. 

94TH KEGIMENT. 

CAPT. W. K. HANFORD'S (A) COMPANY. 
Hnnford, W. R., capt.; enr. Sept. 27. 1801. 
Beebee 1 M, 1st licul. : enr. Sept. 2. , 1801. 
M..ftitt,S. A.,'2d li.-.it.; onr. Sept. 27 1861 
■luy S.ym.air 11., 1st sergt.; enr. Oct. 1-2, 1801. 
Angner, Julius, sergt.; enr. Oct. 9 1801. 
Hulbert, Charles E., seriit. ; enr. Oct. 17, 1861. 
Jewett, Eugene, sergt.; enr. Oct. 8, 1801 
Madison, G.-.,r,;e B., sergt. ; onr. Feb. 2. 1802. 
C ev..|alid, F. P., cor), ; enr. Dec. '24, 1801. 
Canipb.'ll. Bansuui, Corp.; enr. O.t. 14, 1861. 
Fairbanks, Janii-8 E.. curp.; enr, N..v. -24, 1861. 
Barter, Frederick, .-..ip.: our. Oct. 14, 1801. 
Bliss, Washingtun M , Corp.; enr. Nov. 21, 18(,1. 
Carpenter. Jeiemiali, corp. ; enr. Nov. 24, 1801. 
rurguBon, Charles J., corp. ; enr. Nov. 4, 1801. 
Hav, Alexander, Jr., Corp.; onr. Oct. .J, 1861. 
L.-ster, S.ilnu.l S,niiis. ; enr. Nov. I:i, 1801. 
Lyon, Jam.s M., mus. ; .nr. Oct. 9, 1801. 
Wal.ll.iirger, Jacob, wag..ner; enr. Jan. 10, 1802. 
Arnold, II. b.s, private; enr. Oct. 10, 1801. 
A.lani-, Kinal. .., private: enr. Oct. 17, 1861. 
Blair Mi Ivin E.. private; enr. Oct. 9, 1801. 
lirowli. Gill. .1.1, piivate; enr. Oct. 9, UOl. 
Bai.lon, William 11., private; enr. Nov. 4. 1861. 
Campbell, Jesse M., private; enr. O.'t. '24, 1801. 
Carp.nlei, William, privale; enr. Jan. 3. 1802. 
Cl.aliinan, S.inire. privat.' ; onr. Dec. 1, 1801. 
Clark, Za.l.icli, piiv..le; our. Oct. '2'2. 1801. 
Inirtlv, liyroii, I'livale ; enr, Oct. 9, 1801. 
Donaldson, Robert, private; onr. N'.iv. 1, 1861. 
Edv, Joseph, private ; enr. Nov. 16, 1861. 
F.'it', Wall.'r, piivate ; enr. Oct. 26, 1861. 
Freeman, Oreii E , private ; enr. Nov. 21, 1861. 
Fuller, t lark S., privale; our. Dec. 17, 1861. 
Glyn, John, privat.' ; onr. Oct. 11, 1861. 
Gralnini, J.dili, private; enr. Oct. 1(1, 1861. 
Goss, Hiiani, privale; enr. Oct. '2:1, 1861. 
Green, Denitur, private: onr. Oct. '2:5, 1861. 
Gardn.'C, Solomon C, piivate; enr. Nov. •2'2, 1801. 
G..U1.I, Abnor, privale: .'nr. March ;i, 186'2. 
Halt, Albeit K., private; enr. Oct. 4. 181,1. 
Hnr.l Isa.ic, private; enr. Oct. 11, 1801. 
Hitchco.k, J..»e| li W., private; enr. Oct. 22 IStjl. 

Hitchcock, Joseph F. A., private; err. O.t. lo, 1861. 

Hii-ks, David, pr.vate; enr. Nov 1'2, 1861. 

llt.rr, Le.inar.i, privale; enr. Oct. 4, 1861. 

Hon'. Henry 11.. private; enr. Oct. 4, 1861. 

H01I..11. J.din 11., private; enr. Jan. 21, ISO'i. 

Holtoii, 11. my, piivate; onr. Feb. 5, l.-iO-2. 

llariis, James, piivate; enr. Nov. 12,1801. 

Ingerson, Lew.s, piivate ; enr. Nov. :i, 1801. 

James, Samuel II., privale; enr. Oct. 10,1801. 

Kellogg, Albert, |. rival.'; enr. Nov. 7, 1801. 

Kill i.ril Kilwin, privale; enr. Dec. 1.'., 1801. 

Laikins, Is.ac 11,, ,.r,vate; enr. Feb. .% 1802. 

Lalkiiis. Allii..nson A , private ; onr. fob. ... l»bi. 

Moiril.lleniv II., private; enr. (let. 12, 1801. 

McCai.n, J..I111 S., piivate; enr Oct. 21, 181.1. 

M..rrill, Charles D., pi ivale ; enr. Oct. '26, liiOl. 

Messel, Frederick, private; onr. N..v. 12. 1801. 

Muckb', llavi.l. privat.' : enr. Il.'c. '20. 1801. 

Morrison, I'alwal.l F., piivate ; enr. Oct. 9, 1861. 

M.ire, Jerome, private; enr. D.'C. 17, 1801. 

McGrath. Levi, piivate; enr. Nov, 12, 1861. 

Neiir, Ibnianiin W., private; enr. .Ian. 0, 1802. 

Newel G.'..rge W., private; enr. Oct. l.'i, 1801. 

01is,.r.hn, piivate; enr Nov. 1'2, 1801 

Parker, Liviiigst..li.', private; enr. Oct. 14, 1801. 

Kichardson, E.nval.l, private; enr. del. 12, 1801. 

Kiilh, Tli..iiias, privale ; enr. Oct. 14, 1801. 

Iti.har.ls, N.ls privat.' ; onr. On. '24, 1801. 

Ki.'e, Kan.l.ll D.. piivate; enr. Jan. l:i, 1802. 

R,',lv,ay, llvvigbl, private; enr O.t. '22^ 1801. 

Rogers, Patrick II.. private; our. Oct. ., 1801, 

Soely.', Sebra S., private ; enr. Oct. 19, loi.l. 

Sterling, Lewis II., private; enr Oct. 14. 18'.1. 

SmlUi,llaiollce R, private; enr. N..v 14 1801. 

Sali.burv.Wurlis, private; enr. Nov 10, 80I. 

Seelyc, lliniin, piivate; enr, Dec. 10, 1801 

Soelye, Willi private; enr. Dec. 10. 1«01. 

Sloe/.er, Gclge li., private; enr Jan '21 180i. 

.slnimpine, llavi.l, private ; onr. Jan. 11, iw... 

!-t rliug, Ad'.lplius. private ; enr. F. b. .,, 180.. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



5G3 



Tifft. Itusw<-ll K„ private; enr. Oct. 22. 18fil. 
Tli..iii(wnii..!iUin-8, private; i-nr. Feli. o. ISfJJ. 
Vlcy, Willi III! S.. private; Piir. Oct.H. IHOl. 
AViiIt-, Kit. ill. piivaty; eiir. Oct.2M, ISUl. 
W.KxI. Hiiiiy II.. privati*; enr. Oct. 1«, '8(11. 
Yuurij;s, Iticlianl, private; enr. Nov. 4, Istil. 

CAI'T. LANSING SNELL'S (B) C03IPANV. 

Snfll, LatniiiK, rapt. ; enr. Oct. 1, I8(il. 
Gates, .Jac ill S., 1st lieiit.; enr. (let. I. IHHI. 
Rnn. It'll. Charlfs L , -Jii jiont.; enr. Oct. K, ISOl. 
Marslnili, A.Jn<l8nn, Istsergt.; enr. Oct. 1, iSlil. 
Masi.n. (»ilo J.. 2)1 scrgi.: enr. Oct. 'Jl, IM'.I. 
Killiitrn, Cliauin i-y W.. 'Ml Rert;t.; enr. Oct. :;, IHOI. 
Ji'.v, Ki.yal N,. 4th sergt. ; enr. Oct. I'J, l.siJl 
Kusc, Willi'iiii, Titli sergt.; enr. Nitv. I'.l, ]S0I. 
Ldnck-f, Walter, 1st curp.; enr. Oct. Hi, UOl. 
Ilnll.'y, J. I».. 2.1 Corp.; enr. Nov. .31), ISUI. 
Ilnnnynian, Willijini, -M a.rp.; enr. Oct. 10, ISOI. 
(Joiik, Will.inl L,, 4tli corji.; i-nr. Nov. li. lS(il, 
Foril, Waylanil. atlj corp. ; enr. 0<t. lO, IH^ 1. 
Spidell, Kzeki.-I, tltli cirp. : enr. (.>ct. :J1, isiil. 
Drake, F.»sti-r M., Ttli corp. ; enr. Oct. 21. iSOl. 
Wiliier, Clark, Sih c<.rp. ; i-rir. (let. It), iSlil. 
Tierc**, Cliarles, iiiU8c''n,; enr. Jan. ;i. I8t;2. 
Latlil, l>anifl, wag-nier ; enr. Jan. «, l.S(i-j. 
Bn>hn.-ll. AHkm-I, privati*; enr. Oct. h\, IHfA. 
Hahr, Frc-iici iek (.'., private ; enr. Nov. 2s, ItJUl. 
B,ur, (Ji'oiK"' N., private; enr. Nov. I, isiil. 
Kiiuni an, Sylve-.tui-, private; enr, Jan. ;i. 1802. 
Bail.y, Julm, private: onr. Nov. ■_';"), IHOI. 
liarn'T. John, pr.vate; enr. Oct. 12, iNdl. 
Itarner, Jacui', p.jvjitn; enr. Oet. 12. IHOl. 
Brnce, Oreii, privat<-; enr. Jan. IS, 18(i2. 
Cook, llorare S.. private; enr. Oct. «, IsiJI. 
Collins, Koli.Mt A., private; i-nr. Ocl. Hi, ISOI. 
Cari:*, William. pri%ale; L-nr. Oct. II, |s(;l. 
Ciil.', >Iosfs N., privati-; t-nr. Oct. 2 1, ISCI. 
('arlisi,., niilainifr, private; t-nr. Deo. M, 18GI. 
Gol.li. Kifay<-tte, private; enr. Jan. 2n, 18l»2. 
(litrlisle, Klier. private; enr. Jan. 22, I8(J2 
CV»U', Harve>, private; enr. Jan. 21, lH(i2. 
D.xon, AUiert K., private; enr. O.-t. I, IStJl. 
Dierrich, Henry, private; enr. Xuv. 28, ISlil. 
Kniorson, Charlew D., jirivate; enr. Oet. .'V, 18(U. 
Fort, Sylvester, private ; enr. Ocl. 19. ISUI. 
FonI, Hark, private; enr. Oct. 12, ISGl. 
Fnn.-h, Geor.,'e W., private; enr. Nov. 28, 18GI. 
Fn-ncli. Davni. private; enr. Feli. 2.'), 18()2. 
Gilli't. Will am. priv tie ; enr. 0«t. 1, IStil. 
GnnUlthrtr. Will am, pr.vate; enr. Jan. M, 1802. 
Hoover, John K.. piivale; enr. Oct. 1, ISUl. 
Hawes, Georyo W., | rivate; enr. (tct. 1, 1801. 
Ili'l.lt, (ieorye, jnivate; our. Oct. 1S», IS*)I. 
Howapl, Eiiti'-ne, private; enr. Dec 0. ISO*. 
Hildreth, Nathan, private; enr. Jan. 11, 1802. 
Hall. B'lijaniin T, private; enr. Oct. lU, 1801. 
Juiv, Franli, private; enr. Jan. 1, 1802. 
Jone.s, Lnren/.o D , private; enr Jan. 27, 1802. 
KMsel, An^iiist. private; enr. Oct. S, 1801. 
KntKlit, Martin V.. private; enr. Oct. lit, iSOl. 
Kepler, IVter, private; enr. Feh. 18, 1802. 
LiviiiH'tone, William, private; enr. Oct. 2M, 18G1. 
Lee, Kreehorn, private; enr. Fob. IS, 1802. 
March, Omiir, [irivate ; onr. Nov. 2, 1801. 
Mance, LewiH, private; enr. Nov. 10, Isot. 
MyeiN, GeoiKe, private; enr. Dec. :J1, 1801. 
Neville, llichartl, private; unr. Oct. 12, ISOI. 
Pliilli|is, 3Iarciis, private; enr. Dec.iil, 1801. 
Pierce, Franklin, private; enr. Jan.:!, 1802. 
Pierce. Jiiniet), pr.vatn; onr. Jan. 3, 1802. 
Quinzer, Martin, private; enr. Oct. lit, 18GI. 
(inin/.er, Michael, private; enr. Dec :j. 18GI. 
Knyter, Wilson, private; enr. Feb. 2r,, 1862. 
Konae, Isaac W., private; enr. Oct. o, 1801. 
UiiSKell. Alphens, private ; enr. Feli. .S, 1802. 
Itinera, Charles C. piivat-; enr. Feb. 20. 1802. 
Spicer, llirain, |n'ivate; enr Oct. 11, 1801. 
Smith, Willirtin S., private; enr. Oct. 11, 1801. 
Sniilli, Henry W., private; enr. Nov. :i, "801. 
Stone, ItealMon W., private; enr. Oct. 12,1801. 
Spnlsliury, Wesley, private; enr. Oct. 14, ISOI. 
Spalsbury, Kiiwin, private; enr. Oct. I'.i. 1801. 
Sargent, William, private; enr. Nov. V.i, 1801. 
Spragne, M. W,, private; ctir. Jan. ;i, 1802. 
Turner. A'-ner, piivate; enr. Nov. 151, 1801. 
Vodra. William, private; enr. Nov. l;l, 1801. 
Vanhnaklin. Jowejiti, private ; enr. Jan. 3, 1862. 
Wanl. L. Lampsoii, private; enr. Oct. 1, ISOI. 
Whititiir. Julin C., private; mu: Nov. 0. 1801. 
Witt. It h-v. jMivate; enr. Nov. 14, ISOi. 
Wuuiiy, Peter, private; enr. Fob. 27, 1802. 

CAPT. JAMBS EMERSON'S (C) COMPANY. 

Emerson, James, capt.; onr. Oct. 16. 1801. 
Searle>«. Hernard D,. Ut lieiit, ; enr. 0,t. 10. 1801. 
ParHons, Byron, 2ti lient. ; enr. Oct. 10. isoi. 
Boomer, O. F., Istsergt.; onr. Oct. 10, 1801. 
Edwanl-*. (\vrni*, sergt. ; enr. Dec. 4. 1801. 
Potfei, Franei-, sergt.; enr. Nt>v. 10, 1801. 
Halla.iay. KowlRn.!, sergt. ; enr. Dec. 9, ISOI. 
Allen, .Vniirew J., Miigt.; enr. Oct. 2X, 1801. 
Smith, All-eit, Corp. ; enr. Jan. 12, 1802. 
Plnmmi-r, W. H. H.. corp.; enr, Oct. 24, 1801. 
Kniei-si.n. Clandina, coip,; enr. Dec. IT. IsOl. 
Steele, William, corp.; enr. Oct. 28. 1801. 
Dickerson, Joseph |{ , curp ; enr. Oct. 28, ISOI. 
Bennin, Dnnoi*, corp. ; enr. Oct. 17, ISOl. 
Clevelaml. Oliver G.. corp. ; enr. Nov. l.'>, 1801. 
Spicer, Tlii.miis, corp. ; enr. Dec. 19. 1801. 
Harrintiton. Alinonil. ilrnm. ; enr. .Nov. 7, 1801. 
Past, Fninkliii. tifei ; enr. Jan. 4, 1802. 
Allen. W.lliam II . private; enr. Jan. 2, 1S02. 
Miirnh nil, Fniei'soti. p ivate ; enr. Oct. 10. 1801. 
Benton, Guilford, private; enr. Dec. 2J, ISOI. 



Babcock, Daniel, private; enr. Dec. 11, 18CL 

Ua-i^, Epiiraiin. |irivale; enr. Jan. 1. 1802. 

Babcock, Perry H., private; enr. Maich 7. 1802. 

Bas-in;;er, Deloss, private; enr. Oct. 10. 1801. 

Bean, Frunklin, private; enr. March 7, 1S02. 

('rof.8, James P., private; enr. Oct. 21, 1801. 

Cole, St-K-kwell, private; eiir. Nuv. 7, Isiil. 

Cleveland. Porter A., private; enr. Nov. li, 1801. 

Clem-iit, .Sidney, private ; enr. Jan. :t, 1802. 

Cole, James, private ; enr. Jan. :in. I 8«2. 

Curtis, Horatio, private; enr. March4, 18C2. 

Chase, Orliii, private; enr. March 4,1802. 

Diekinn n. Wesh-y, private : enr. Oct. "JO, 1861. 

Ellis, Daniel, jnivate; enr. Oct. 28, ISOl. 

Kills, l&iac, private; enr. Oct. 28, 1801. 

Fuller, Kngene \V., private; enr. Ocl. 25. 1861. 

Fuller, J.imes F., private; enr. Oct. 2.'>, 1801. 

Farnnm, Chester, private; enr. Nov. 12, isoi. 

Gregory, I<evi J., private; enr. Nov. ;iu. Isoi, 

Gailanl, Edward, private; errr. Jan. :i, 1802. 

Ha/.lewun.l, Henry, private; enr. Nov. ;in, 1801. 

Hou^htiiliriL'. Tyler, private; enr. Nov. 2n, isoi. 

Hughs, Henry, private ; enr. Nov. 20, 1801. 

Halladay, Cluiidim*, private; enr. Dec. 17, 1801. 

Halladay, Shnmviay, private; em. I>ef. 17, 1801. 

Hazlew.iorl, William, private; enr. Dec. 17, 1801. 

Hugli'. Jos ah. private; enr. Dec. :U, ISOl. 

Hatniiiori, Willi dn. jn-lvate ; enr. Jan. 20, 18G2. 

Klo.k. Henry, private; enr. Nov. 20, 1801. 

Lyon, William, i>r,vate; enr. Oct. 20, ISCI. 

Lyon, Abel ti., private; enr. Oct. lo, isoi. 

iMiller. John, private; enr. 0«;t. 10, 1801. 

Mclnlyn-, William, pr.vat-; enr. Jan. !t, 1802. 

McNitt. Albert, private; enr. Jan. it, 1802. 

Midilleloii, Warren, private ; enr. March ;i. 1S02. 
Nichols, .lames M., private; enr. Oct. 28. iSOt. 

Nichid.s, William, private; enr. Oct. lf», 1801. 

Nichols. William IL, piivate; enr. Jan. il, 1802. 
pool. Edwin, private; enr. Oct. 10, 1801. 
Petib-, Will.r.l A., piivate; enr. Nov. If., 1861. 
P<.oI, Alb.-ii, private; enr, Oct. 28. 1801. 
Pliunni'-r. James, private; enr. Oct. 28, 1801, 
Phi<e, J. dm W., privaf ; enr. Dec. 2S, 180L 
Poller, AnioM, private; cur. Dec. 27, 1801. 
Tooler, .\Ii*om M., private; enr. Jan. 2, lsfi2. 
Pease, Norman, private; enr, Jan. l.i, 18ti2. 
Ketem, Georgu H.. private; enr. Oct. 28, 1801. 
Kice, Frankhn, Jr., piivate; enr. Oct. 28, 180I. 
Scott, O. B., private; enr. Oct. 10, IhOl. 
Snyder, Daniel, privat- ; enr. Nov. 7, 1801. 
8 xbnrg, Steidien. private; enr. Nov, 0, iSOl. 
Seyton. William H., |. rivate; enr. Nov. I!>, 1801. 
Seyfon. William, private; enr. Nov, 27, ISOl. 
Tyler, William W., private; enr, Oct. 29, ISOl*. 
Taber, Lemuel M., private, enr. Dec. 2, 1801. 
Thompson, Jeremiah, private; enr. Nov. 12, 1861. 
Thompson, John, private; enr. March 7, 1802. 
Voodry, William, private; enr. Oct. 21, 1801. 
Voodry. Charles, private; onr. Nov. 12, l8(il. 
Vannnken, Lyman, i)rivate; enr. Nov, 2.'i, 1801, 
Wardwell, Almeion T., private; enr. Oct. 28, 1801, 
Washburn, Jacob, private; enr. Dec, 2, 1801. 
Williams, Andrew J.. i»rivate; enr. Dec. :t, 1801. 
Webber, Jamea, private ; enr, Jan. 2, 1802. 
Webb, Sidney, private; enr. Oc:t. 20, 1801. 
Webb, William, private; enr. Oct. 20, 18fil. 
\ViIIco.\, Oricar, private; enr. Jan. 2^, 1862. 

CAPT. D. C. TOMLINSON'S (D) COMPANY. 

Tonilinson, D. C, capt. ; enr. Oct. 10, 1801. 

Moore, J. din D., 1st lient. ; enr. Oct. 3, IsOl. 

Scuville, Charles E-. 2d lieut., our. Oct. 251, 1801. 

Sears, Dexter C, 1st sergt.; enr, Oct. 12, 1801. 

Carpenter, De Witt C , sergt.; enr. Oct. 24, 1801. 

Scott, John, jiergt.; enr. Oct. l.'i. 1801. 

Smith, John It., sergt.; enr. 0.1. 17, 1801. 

SIoNlier, Cliarle-, sorgt.; enr. Nov. -A-l, isoi. 

Fowler, Charles, corp. ; enr. Ocl. 14, iSOl. 

S.unlers, Henry, corp. ; enr, Oct. ;J, ISOl. 

.Middlet-ii, Seward B., corp. ; enr. Oct. :i, 1801. 

Blannitig, William, corp.; onr. Oct. 17, 1801. 

Wait, Ethan A., cap.; enr. Oct. PJ, 1801. 

Loan, W.lliam, coip. ; enr. Feb. 8, 1802. 

SloHt, Jaiii'-sM., Corp. ; enr. Oct. 14, 1801. 

Haines, < harles, corp. ; enr. Nov. 0, 1801. 

Cornwi-ll, Enistufl, inns ; eiir. Oct. 17, 1801. 

iLulge, James, wagoner; enr. Nov. 11, 1801. 

Brown, John B , private ; enr. Nov. 1. 1801. 

Brown, Allen, private; enr. Feb. 8, 1802. 

Bnlb-r, Th"nias H., private; enr. Ocl. 10, 1861. 

Bingham. Albert, private; enr. Nov. 14, 1801. 

Corey. AHitirt, private; enr. Oct. 16, 1801. 

Callaghan.Tliomaa. private; enr. Oct. 27, 1801. 

Cuyne, James, private; enr. Oct. 20, 1801. 

Cmwrord, Uiley, private; enr. Oct. 21, 1861. 

Chapin, Montrose 1)., private; enr. Oct. 21, 1801. 

tViok, Charles, private; enr. Oct. 14. 1801. 

Coon, Charles, private ; enr. Nov 8, 1801. 

Ciisler, Theoduie, private; enr. Nov. 19, 1801. 

(^ren, Willmm, private; enr. Dec. 2, 18*11. 

Vaai', Ricliard, private; enr. Nov. 2S, 1861. 

Chenney, Elbridge, private; enr. March 7. 1802. 

Diinlop, Edwanl. private; enr. Oct. 20. 1801. 
I Dema-ce, Gilbert, private; enr. Oct. 14, 1801. 

Fields, Josepli, private; enr. Oct. 14,1801, 

Fergu*on. Fntnklin. private; enr. Ocl. 14. 1801. 

Ferj;n-on, Orlando C, private; nnr. Oct. 14, IbOl. 

Fish, Merritt A., private; enr. Dec. l:i, isOl. 

Friizure. .lohn, private ; enr. Nov, 18, 1801. 

Green, Addi-*on. private; enr. Oct. IS, 1861. 

Gates. Jerome, jirivate ; enr. Oi t. 18, l^01. 

Gnives, William, private; enr. Oct. 19. 1801. 

Gotham. Darwin, private; enr. Dec. li, 1801. 
(;.ile.. .bdiii C.. private; enr. Oct. 19, 1801. 
i llubb.ird, Joel A., private; enr. Oct. 30, 1861. 



Ilowartli. Edmond, private; i»nr. Oct. 20, 18G1. 

Houghialing, Davi-I, private; enr. Nov. 2U, 1861. 

Hamlin, Eugene, private ; enr Oct. 21, 1801. 

House, Aaron, private; enr. Dec. 18, iSOl. 

Hogaii, Juhn, private; enr. Nov, 29, ISOI. 

Hytle, Noah, private; enr, Dec, Is, ISOI. 

Iva, Lawrence, private; enr. Dec. 20. 1801. 

Kirby, James P.. private ; enr. Ocl. :i. 1801. 

Ken.uni, Bnidrmd C, private; enr. Oct. 19. 1861. 

Kenyon. Henry, private; enr. N«»v. 14, ISGl. 

Le^^trr, George, private; enr. Oct. 20. ISOI. 

Lawrence, Frederick, private; enr. Nov. 29, 1801. 

Medinber, Melvin, private; enr. Oct. 18, isci. 

Mnnson, Henry, private; enr. Feb. 8, 1802. 

Martin. George, private; enr. Nov. 1, 1861. 

MnnstMi, Edward, private; unr. Feb. 8. 18f2. 

Mealns. William, pr.vah* ; onr. Nov. 7, ISOL 

Milntyre, Kthan. private; enr.Oet. 2.'t. 1801. 

Porter, John, piiv.tte; enr. Oct. 17, Isoi. 

Pearson, Bidieit, private; enr. Oct. 24, ISOl. 

Ph dps, Cyrus C, pr vate; enr. Oct. is, Iwil. 

Pliidps, Thomas, pi ivali- ; enr. Ocl. 14, isoi, 

Iteveir, S imnel T.. private ; enr. Oct. ;t, isoi. 
Keveir, George, private; enr. Nov. ;;'.;. ISOl. 
Slype, Joseph, private; onr. Oct. 2^1, ISOl. 
Satchwell, l>nrhnm. private; enr. Oct. 20, IfiOl. 
Spaiilding. Willi im It , private; eur. Jan. 25, 1802. 
Service, Hiram, private. 
Service, Stephen, private. 
Tripp, S. H., private. 

Taylor, Steadman, private; enr. Fob. 21, 1802. 
Triiax, Nelson H.. private; enr. O.t. II. ISOI. 
Tripp. Lawson, private; enr.Oet 17,lS01. 
Treadway, Samuel S, private; enr. Nov. 4. HCl. 
Therry, Charles, private ; enr, Nov. 10, 1801. 
Welle-, Judih S., private; enr. Nov. .% iSOl. 
Wescott, Philetns D., private; enr. Nov. I, 1801. 
Wescott, David, private; enr. Nov. 1.^ ISOI. 
Wescott, Orlando C, private; enr. Dec. 20, 1801. 
Wilson, John, private; onr. Nov, 29. 1801. 
Wright, Charles, private; enr. Ocl. 24, Isol. 

CAPT. SAMUEL PLACE'S (E) COMPANY. 
Place, Samuel, capt.; enr.Oet. 14, 1861. 
Timmerman, Calvin, 1st lient.; enr. Oct. 1, 18GI. 
Cheevr, Orli», 2d .serjrt.; enr.Oet. 1,1S01. 
(Hinklin, Myron, '.id sergt.; enr. Oct. 1'., 1801. 
De Mars, Samuel, 1st rorp.; enr.Oet. I.JSOl. 
Benjamin, William J., private; eu'*. ilcl. 28, 1801. 
Biggers, J. dm, privat«- ; enr. JaQ, 7, 1802. 
Bellinger, Diiniel, private; enr. Feb. 0, 1862. 
Cheever, AIoii/.o, private; enr. Oct. 14. ISlil. 
Clark, Hiram, piivate; enr. .Nov. ■J.'i, Isol. 
Christi, Ale.\ander, private; enr. Dec. 18, Isoi. 
Conover, Willmm H., Jr., private; en'-. Jan. 18, 1802. 

Conover, Albert, private; enr. Jan. 20, 1S02. 

Cnmniiiigs, Leonard, private; eur. Feb. 12, 1802. 

Cobb, David, private; enr. March 9, ]SG-.i. 
Derinisoii, Robert, pi ivat-; enr. Oct. 20, 1801. 

De Wolf, David O , private; enr. Oct. I, 1801. 

Duclin, Justin, private; enr. Nov. ;«), 1801. 

Donohue, Michael, private; enr. Jan. lo, 1802. 

Emmons. .Malery, private; enr. Jan. 18. 1802.* 

Elder, Henry J., private; enr. Feb. 1. 1802. 

Ander-on, Warren, pri%-ate; enr. Feb. 1, 1802. 

Fort, Chales E., private; enr. Oct. w, IHOl. 

F'airninii, William, private; enr. Oct. 14. ISOl. 

Fitzgerald, Michael, piivate; enr. Jan. 10, 1802. 

Gohlsmith. William, private; enr. Nov. l.'>, 180L 

Goldsmith, John, private; enr. Nov. I.i, 1861. 

Gotham, Wjllium, IL. private; enr. Jan. 8, 18(^2. 

Gibbs. Henry J,, private; enr. March 1>, 1802. 

Harris, Henry, private; enr. Oct, '>:>, 1801. 

Johnson. Kecetus IL, private; enr. Dec. IS, ISGl. 

Conklin, David, private; enr. Oct. L% 1801.' 

Knight, J. Rand-dph. private; enr. Oct. 1, 1861. 

Looby, George, private; enr. Oct, 21. 1801. 

La Patrje. Peter, private; enr. Nov. 1, Im 1. 

Lawton, Edward, private; enr. Feh. ;t. lsCt>, 

Mackey, Alexander, private; enr, (tet. 21, ISOl. 

Moreton, Hiram, private; enr. Oct. 19, Isdl, 

Merriam, Himron, private; enr. Oct. :io, isiil. 

Merrill, Benjamin, private; enr. Manli 0, 1802. 

Mullen, John, private; enr. Oct. 2o, Isoi. 

Norton, Charles IL, private; enr. Niiv. 7, isoi. 

Norton, Tliomas, pri%'Hte; enr. Feb. 6, 1802. 

Nichols. Ephraini, private; enr. Dec. 12, 1801. 

Partnenter, Charles, private ; enr. Ocl. •.'«, 1«0I 

Phillips, George C, private; enr. Oct. 29. ISOI 

Perry, Newton, private; enr. Ocl. 20, Isiil. 

Pickett, Jcdin. private; enr. Nov. 0, ISOl. 

Pickett, Richard, private; enr Nov. 12, 1861. 

Parmnr, Charles, private; enr. Feb. 22, IS62. 

Devondorf, Madi>un. private; enr. Doc. 10, 1801. 

Rose, Van ShultK. private; enr. Ocl. 14, 1861. 

Rose, Nicholas, private; onr. Oct. 14, 1801, 

Rogers, Amos, priv»t«; enr. Nov. :i, 1801. 
R(tger-, Nel'on, private ; enr. Nov. :t, Isoi. 
Sporry, Charles, private; enr. Nov. :{, ISOI. 
Swartz. Jumes IL, private; enr. Ocl. 2.^, ISOl. 
Swart, Edgar, private; enr. O^l. 28. iSOI. 
Sheldon, Peter, private; enr. Nov. I.>, 18GL 
Sanlord, Lo.val, private; enr. Dec. 2, 1801, 
S'mpsoii. William, private; enr. Nov. 29, ISOl. 
Toha^h, ,\iidiew, private; enr. Nov. 2:t, 1801, * 
Tvb-r, Wallace W, private; enr. (let. 14, 1861. 
Wilder, George D., private; enr, Oct. 29, isOL 
Wilder, William, piivate; enr. Dec. 2 t, isOl 
Wilder, David, private; enr. Dec. 21, 1801. 
Wanl, Harvey B.. private : enr. Jan. 2, 1802, 
Christi, Abnim, private; enr. Dec. 2 , 1861." 
Jer-iy, Joseph, private; enr. Jan. 1, 1S62. 
Bartlett, Barney, private; enr. Nov, ;io, ISGl. 
Conk, George, private ; enr. March in, 1802. * 
Rogers. G. E,, private; enr. Feb. I, 1802. 
Elder, Matthew, private; enr. Feb. 1, 1862. 



564 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Coiner, Alrxnnder, privnti*; t-nr. Ft-Ii. 1, 18G2. 
Chirk, Lp Uniml, iinvjiic; tiir. Fel-. Ifi, I8C2. 
Pl»-l«v, K. It., l»iiviiti>; iMir. Oft. ;;ii, ItSGl. 
niytlcn, »., inivalt-; fiir. Oct. 20. IHC.I. 
JIiucli, llftiiy, ])riv:it.-; i-nr. Vvh. 8, 18fi2. 
Calviti, AU-xmi(kT, inivali-; i-nr. Ftb. 1, 1«G2. 

CAPT. HARKISOX BIJiBIXS'(F) COMPANY. 

Bill!. in*, n:irii8'>n,rjti.t.; i-nr. Ort. 12, 18)11. 
Wiwhhurti, Lt'vi, 2(1 Hcri;(.; cnr. Oil. IS, 18(il. 
>VM...]anl,t;illi(Mt, ;ta wrgt.; enr. O.r. 14, ISCI. 
hoi'iiii-', John, 4ih KiTgt.; en r. Oct. lU, tistil. 
WnBliliurti, Aut^iistim, .')tli sergt. ; <-iir. Oct. 14, 18G1. 
IJilihin^i, ."chiiyler H., Isi cut|».; f:nr. Oct. 21, 1H(>1. 
liovingtoii, An>tiii A., 2il c.n j). ; cnr. Oct 20, 18G1. 
McDimiilil. Jiiiiic*', :M ctitp. ; ein.Oct. 8. ISGI. 
I'l'iinnns, Barney, 4tli curp. ; cnr. Oct, ItJ, ISGI. 
Coleman. Winficl.i, .Mh cniji. ; erir o.t. 2ii, ISGl. 
Powc 8, Churl.-.- K.. tltli c..!]!.; <Mir. Orr. 14, ISGl. 
Jmiip^, M;ircii-i K.. stli cm-p.; cur. Nov, 2, isdt. 
Tntvvlji jilgp, D« i;;lit, nui.s. ; ciir. Oct. 2l», ISOl. 
Callit, William II,, tuns. ; cnr. Nov. lil, ISGl, 
Brown, L'-wis P., prjvat.-; enr. Oct. 2ii, iSGl. 
Bloilgi'tt, Sanni.-I. piivah'; i-nr. ((ct. "i", lUtil. 
BlotlKctt, Liil.prn W., piivnic; cnr. Oct. IS, ISGl. 
BntilL-y, Calvin I., private; cnr. Dec. 24, IKGl. 
Bc'lell, (Jcurgc, jtrivatc; cnr. Mjirclt :i, lSG:i. 
Clc, Alfred, piival.-; enr. Oct. 2", ISGI. 
C'allirho, James, private; cnr. Dic.27,l-(n. 
Ci.lcnmn, tlcorge, prlvntr-; cnr. Kelt. 11, 1SG2. 
Chase, Stcplien, piivalc; enr. Fell. 11, lsG2. 
Kvcati", Onin, iirivate; cnr. Jan. 2n, 18(12. 
Kvcjins, (Jeiifge W., piivate; cnr. Jan, 2(>, 1862. 
Kiirrt'Stcr, Brnec, privare; enr. Feb. 1, 18G2. 
Orecn, K iwiini, pi ivatc; enr. Oct. IG, 18G1. 
(Jroer, l)iinii A, private; enr. Oct. 2S, ISCI. 
(iiilliii, Hamilton, privjir<' ; enr. ttct. 2(t, ISfil. 
Ilninplip-y, Jnliii (I,, privalp; cnr. Nov. '., ISGI, 
Heavy, Matlliew, private; enr. Nov. 12. ISGl. 
Holmes. Sinn-oii. privitte; enr. Nov. l.'>, ISfil. 
Hal lock, haniel l>., pr.viitc ; enr. Pec. In, ISGl. 
Humphrey, Charles S., private ; cnr. Feb. 11, 18G2. 
Hall, William S.. private; enr. Feb. I.-i, 1862. 
J.-uelt, Henry, private; enr. Oct. :iii, 1861. 
Kelly, Jiihn, piivate; enr. Jan.;m, l^&Z. 
Ke\ nion, Sanfttnl I,, piivate; enr Fei>. I, 1862. 
La (irnu-*, John P.. private; cnr. Oct. IS, 1861. 
M<»»rc, Allred, private; enr. Oct. 12, Isiil. 
Moore, KJwanl, private; enr. Oct. 12, ISGl. 
Morrison, TImoii s, [rtivalc; cnr. Nov, 12, 1861. 
McCoim, John, pi .vate : cnr. Pec. IS, 1861. 
M"oney, Ttavillii-r P., private; enr. Pec. 7, 18G1. 
Mooney, Pavid H., private ; enr. Pec, 7, ISGl. 
North, Ol.ver, private; enr. Jan. 1, 1SG2. 
Pattei-son, Andi-i-son, priv-t« ; enr. Nov 11,1861. 
!t>.ice, Ch.iiles A., pr.vate; cnr.' Nov. 16, l8iil. 
Unwell, Meren F., private; enr. Nov. 17, 1861. 
Kovvell, AdcUicrt, pr.vate; enr. Jan. li, 1SG2. 
llnvar, .John, private; enr. Feb. 11, 1862. 
Itceveri, Ahy-phitn, private; enr. Feb. lo, 1862. 
Spemer, Henry, private; enr. Oct. IG. 1861. 
Strong, Ilayden. private; enr. Pec, 7, 1K6I. 
Tubbs, John, private; e[ir. Nov. 17, 18G1, 
Whitney, p.- Krlin-:, private; enr, Nov. 14, 1861. 
WiUon, Samnel, piivate ; enr. Pee. K), 1S61. 
M riy^bt, Alpb'iis. private; enr. Feb. lii, 1862. 
Y'Tk, Levi, private; enr. Oct IT, 1861. 
York, Joihain V., private ; onr. Mar. 10, 1862. 

CAPT. AUSTIN IIORRS (G) COMPANY. 

Horr, Anatin. capt. ; enr. Oct. 21, 1S61. 
Lacy, John, 1st lient. ; enr. Oct. 21, 1861. 
Mayhew, Fdward P., 2d lient. ; enr. O. t, 21, IPGl. 
Comec, Chii-topher C, Isr ^el■gt.; enr. Oct 2), IBGI. 
Waring. Wllian, Hcryt. ; cnr. Pec. 12, 18G1. 
Horr, An-tiii M., sergt.; enr. Oct. 22, ISGl. 
Kofteboiini. Howjinl, sergt. ; enr. Oct. 21, 18G1. 
Sikes, Katon A.,serKl.; enr. Oct. 2!», ISGI 
Fitzgerald, John It., corp. ; enr. Dec. I't. 18G1. 
Wiue, Fayette M., corp. ; enr. Nov. 1:1, ISGI. 
Freeman. Pon A., Corp.; enr. Oct. 21. Is61. 
Pringle, Mavsliall S. B,, coii). ; enr. Oct. 21, 1861. 
McKen-lrey, William, Corp.; enr. Jan. 11, 1862. 
Bowhall, Fnuik, coip ; cnr, Jan. 1, l86i. 
Mctjiieen, .lanifs, Corp. ; enr. Nov. 22, 1861. 
Lin an, Henry, niU".; enr. Nov. 12, 1861. 
Lawrence, Henry, niiiH. ; enr. Pec. 12. 18G1. 
(iillett. Fierier ck S,, wagoner; enr. Pec. 2-'i, 18G1. 
Allen. Lewis W.. pri%'ate; enr. Nov. 6, 1861. 
Ard. Patrick, private; enr. Jan. G, 1862. 
Allen, Thonnis, pi ivaii- ; enr. Jan. 8, l»-62. 
Bedloid, Jiwepli, private; eiir. Oct 21,1861. 
BiMzee. Lawrence, private; enr. Pec. l.'», 18G1. 
Bill, Charles K , private; enr. Oct. 2], I8G1. 
B:tll, John, private; eiir. Jan. l;i, 18i>2. 
Blair, Joseph, privaU' ; enr. Jan, 16, I8C2. 
Blair. Samnel, piivate; enr. Feb, lit, 1862. 
Baker, FreelHirn. private; cnr, Feb. '^6. 1862. 
Cool, Orvill M., private; enr, Feb. 22, 18G2. 
Co- per, William, private; onr. .Ian. II, 18G2. 
Carroll. Peter, private; enr. Ort. 2U, 1S6I. 
Cimnelly. Thomiw, private; enr, Oct, 21), 1861. 
(Vinigan, Koberl. jirivate; enr. Nov, 6, 1861. 
Cough Biine, i»Hvate; enr. Jan. 2, 1862. 
Cli-menc. Williani, private; enp: Pec. LI, 18R1. 
Cornwell, Frmklln P., private; enr. Feb. 2ri, 18C2. 
Pelaney. .lann'S, private; enr, Jan. iJO, 18G2. 
Klnier. IHrnni. |>iivate; enr. Pec. .'i. 18G1 
Klni'-r. Ittndalt, ]H-ivale; enr. pec. :^. 1861. 
Kllsw-Tth, <'liiirlcM A., privulo; enr. Oct. 29, 1801. 

Franklin. Hiram, privnio ; enr. 

Fni/ier, (Jeoige, private ; enr. Ot I. 21, 1861. 
Foiinn. Nelson F.. private; onr. Oct. 21. ISCl. 
C.reenley, O. B , private; cnr. Feb. 2:i, I8G2. 
GhisicT, .Samuel, private ; enr. Oct. 2'J, 1861. 



Glft-^ier, Brayton, private ; enr. Nov. 2'', 1861. 
Giitlin, James L., private; enr. Pec. 9, 1861, 
Hnnlinglon, lliiam C , pr.vate; enr, Oct, 21, 1861. 
Haiiv, J.. hn, private; enr. Oct. 21. 1861. 
Hough. Prni*ai K., private; enr, Nov. 1, 1861. 
Ilnnible, John, private; enr Nov. 7, Ihtil. 
Howard, .^li<li..el, pr.vate; enr. Feb. :i, 18G2. 
Hill, Williani, pr.vate; enr. Feb. :i, 1862. 
Hoiton, O-car. private ; enr. Feb. 21. 1S62. 
Keyes, Richard l>,pri\ale; enr. Oct. 2il, 1861. 
Kearney, William, piivati* ; enr. Oct. 2t), 18GL 
Lacy. Michael J., prvale; enr. Nov. '.i. 1861. 
Laflin, James, private ; enr. Oct. 21, 1861. 
LaFlenr, Loiii-, private; enr. Pec. I.'), 1861. 
Lake, Theodon-, private; enr. Feb. '.il, l862. 
Lacy, Milo, privati-; enr. Feb. 5, l8i.'i. 
Lester, Th'-mas, pr vale; enr. Jan 21, 1862. 
Lester, Warr.-n, private; enr. Mar. 4, 1862. 
M Ib-r, Swecton, private; cnr. Pec. :J, 1861. 
Morii-on, Abraham, jir^vale; enr. Oct. 21, 1861. 
Mcl'ain, Pavid, pr.vate; enr. Oct. 21. IsGl. 
McNcille, Ale.\andei-. private; Mar. :i, 1862. 
Newman, J.dm P., private; enr. Dec. 16. 18G1. 
I'orier, Benjamin S , private; cnr. Jan. 21, 1862. 
I'ersnns, .\lbert J., private ; enr. Nov. 21, 1861. 
P!iel|»s, I'hibi. private ; enr. Nov. 29, 18G1. 
Ratigan, Ji-mes, private; enr. Feb. 6, 1862. 
Bbcitnan. .lohn, piivate; cnr. Pec. 16, 1861. 
Secure, Janns N., |«rivate; enr. Nov. ."i, 1861. 
Slieedy, Patiick, pr.vate; I'lir. Nov. 21, 18G1. 
Snninan, Thomas, pr vate; enr. Pec. 1, 18f>l. 
Tnmlile, Joseph, pi ivate ; enr. Oct. 21, 1861. 
Tnbbs, John, private; enr. Nov. 2o, 18G1. 
Vanhf'oser, Perley K., privat<^ ; enr. Jan. 16, 1862. 
Wall, James, private; enr. N<»v. 26, 1861. 
Walker, George W., piivate ; enr. Nov. i:^ 18G1. 
Woidun, Jethro, private; onr. Feb. I'J, 18G2. 

CAPT. J. E. BRIGGS'(H) COMPANY. 

BrigEF. J. E , cnpt.; enr. Oct. 10, 1861. 
Carpenter, Levi, 1st lient.; enr. Oct. 10, 1861, 
MctV.mber, George, 2d lient.; enr. Oct. 20. 1861. 
Smith, \Varren S., sergt.; enr, Oct. Id, 1861. 
StapIin,Uren P.,sergl.; enr. Oct. 1.5, 1>61. 
('lark, Charles, Mcrgt. ; enr. Nov. 1, 1H61. 
Sloat, Charlex W., seigt.; cnr. Oct. 2."i. 1861. 
Ba ley, Brayton C, sergt. ; enr. Nov. 0, 1861. 
CuHliman, John, corp ; enr. Nov. lo, If^Gl. 
Ames, Avery, corp.; enr. Pec 2.'i, 1861. 
Switxer. Nei^un, corp ; enr. Nov, 18, 18C1. 
Hart. Vincent L., Corp.; enr, Nov, 28. 1861. 
Staikweaiher, Wallace W , o-rp. ; enr. Oct.31, 1861, 
P'-nny,. Joseph, Corp. ; enr. Pec. 4, ISGI. 
Cole. John P., Corp.: enr. Oct. 16, 1.S61. 
Basinger, William, wagoner; enr. Oct. 21, 1861. 
Near, Benjamin ('., miis. ; enr. Feb, lo, 1862. 
Alger, A.-'a, private; cnr. Pec. 3, 1861. 
Babcock, KlmerE., private: enr. Oct. 21. 18G1. 
Bacon, Lvnian, private; enr. Nov 14, ISGl. 
Babcock, .lesse, private ; cnr-. pec. l."», ISGI. 
Babcock, (Jeor^ce, piivale; enr. Oct. 2 t, 1861. 
Bnwkei", S nieoii. piiv;ite; cnr Nov. 'SS, l8t;i. 
Bowker. Philander, privat<-; enr. Jan. 14. 1862. 
Babcock, Jnlm. private; cnr. Pec. :ji>, 1861. 
Clark, George L,, jtrivate; enr. Nov. 1, l^^Gl. 
Cninp.e, Puane, private ; cnr. <>ct. 20, 1861. 
Chase, !*laitin. piivate ; enr. Nov. 22, 1861. 
Chryler, J. Heniy. prvate; enr. Pec, 6, 1861. 
Pandley, (Jeorge W.. private; enr. Oct l.">, 1861. 
Pon"y,'HonuM\ private; enr. Oct. 17, 1861. 
Pilley, Geor;;e A., private; enr. Jan. 6, 1862. 
Pe Lap]>, Robert, private; enr. Jan. i:i,1862. 
Penny, Levi, private; enr. Fe' . .'). 1862. 
EnaK, I*awrence. private; enr. .Ian. 1, 1862. 
Ehb-r, James, private; enr. Feb. 4. Is62. 
Elmer, Lewis, private; enr. Nov. lit. 18'il. 
Ford, Lncins B., private; enr. Oct. :jo, 1861. 
Flaherty, Patrick, jirivate: enr. Nov. 20. 186L 
Finnerin, Patrick, private ; enr. Pec, ,'), l861.* 
Goslen. ('hri«ty, private; enr. Nov. 6, 1861. 
G islcn, Michael, private; enr. Pe<-. II, ISGl. 
Haines, Jacoli. private; enr. .Ian. 6, 1862. 
Hubbard, Eliphalet. private; enr. Oct. 27, 18G1. 
Hanley, John, private; enr. Jan. :i, 18G2. 
Hooey, George, private; enr. Feb. 6, 1862. 
Horth. Marcus, private; i-nr. Feb, 1, 1862. 
Hart, Reuben, private; enr. Peo. .'J, 1861. 
La Ravier, C'oreil, private; enr Oct. 28, 1861. 
McGuwp'n, Matthew, private; enr. Nov. Ill, ISGl. 
Morrison, Charles W.. priviitt^; enr. Pec. 1. 18GI. 
Prinn-an. .Joseph, private; enr, Oct. 2:t, 1801. 
Prior. Fred. A., private ; enr. Nov, 1. 1861. 
Relyea, Levi T,. private; enr. Oct. 27, 1861. 
SiminoiiH, J. Harvey, pt ivate; enr. Oct. lo, 1861. 
Starring, Isaac, private; enr. Oct. 2.% ISGl, 
Storring, Levi, piivate; enr. Oct. 21, 18G1, 
Stoning, .bdm .private; enr. Oct. 21, 1861, 
Stratton. John, private ; enr, Oct. 24, 1861. 
Shelniadine, John, private; enr. Nov. l."», 1861. 
Stone. Alvuh, piivate: enr. Nov. 1, 1861. 
Starkweather. Aaron IL. private; enr. Oct, 21, 18C1. 
Smith, Thoma-s, private; enr. Jan. 2, 1862, 
Sischo, John, private; enr. Feb. 20. 1862. 
T-chants. Chii.'^tiaM. priviite; enr. Nov. 16. ISGl, 
Tillotson, William, private; enr, Oct. 1.'). 1861. 
Tncker, E/ekiel ('.. private; enr, Nov. 16, ISGl. 
Taylor, Allen, pnvale ; enr. Oct. 1'., I86I. 
Turcott, Alfred, private ; enr. Pec. 22, 1861. 
Wood, John, private; enr, Jan.2-\ 1862. 
Yemean, Pavid, private; enr. Oct. 16. I.»t61, 
Yenieaii. CliarlcM, private ; enr. .Ian. 0, 1862. 
Wiley, Oscar, private ; onr. Nov. I.'i, 1861. 

CAPT, A, M. NUTTING'S (I) COMPANY. 
Nutting, Abel M., capt, ; enr, Oct, IG, 1801. 



Mansfield, J. Mnson, 1st lieut.; enr. Nov. 1, 1861. 
Lockl.n, A. W , nt sergt. ; enr. Oct. 19, 1861. 

Callnniii, Ebene/er, sergt ; enr. Nov. 6, 1861. 
Woi.lwortli, Jtdin 1., seigt.; enr. Oci. 16. 1861. 
Hawkins, John, ser^t. ; enr. Oct, 21, 18G1. 
Co.-I.-y, Horace, foi p. ; cnr, Oct. -lb. IJJGl. 
La Clear, Is:iac, corp.; enr. Oct, lit, 1861. 
Mvirrow, Lewis, corp, ; enr, Oct, 20, 186L 
Tripp, Willard, corp. ; enr. Nrtv, ;i, 1861. 
Olley. (Jeorge, drnni. ; enr. Oct. 16, 1861. 
Blodgell, Maii^hall, private; enr. Pec. H, 1861. 
Blod^ett, 0>car, private; enr. Oct. 20, ISGI. 
Canfield, Will am IL, private; cnr. i)ci. :;o, 1.^61. 
Cra.n, George, jirivatc; cnr. Oct. ■/4, 1861. 
Cbevally, Augnslns, piivute ; •nr. Nov. 2, 1861. 
Piaper. Chaib's, private; cnr. Nov. 24, 1861. 
Draper, SjuimicI, private ; cnr. Oct. 2k, 18G1. 
Piifl.-y, Patrick, private; enr. Nov. i;i. 18nl. 
Pavenport, J.imec, private : cnr. Maicli 4, 1862. 
Pnnlavy, Kdward, private; enr. 3Iai ch 4, 1862. 
Flanag.in, Kngene. private; cnr. Pec. 2s, isGl. 
Getmaii, Archibald, private; enr, Feb, lo, 1862. 
Hohlen, Charbs N., private; enr. Pec. 12, 1861. 
Harter, George, private; enr. March '.'>, 18(;2. 
Ingrnham. Simeon, private; cnr. N.iv. pi, 1861. 
Merrill, Frwin M,, private; enr, Oct. \r^, 1861. 
011-y, James, private; enr. Oct, 16, 1861. 
Pnimc, Jer- me, private ; enr. Nov. 21, ISGl, 
Pickctt, J-dm G., private; enr. P. c. 20, ISGl. 
Salter, John, private; enr. Oct. 10, 1861. 
Sch. .field, Prosper, piivaie ; enr. Maich 3, 1862. 
Van Antwerji, John, private; enr. Pec. 'JO, U6I. 
Wiiliam>oii, .Pacol., private; cnr. Oct. 28, 18GI. 
Weaver. William, private; enr. Mai ch :i, 1*62. 
Hory, J. C, private; enr. Nov, a, 186]. 
<;u-tiii. Byron, private ; i-nr. Nov, 4, isGl. 
Maiicbesier, James P., private ; enr. Oct. 30. UGl. 
Babcock, Perry, private. 
Servii e, Hiijini, private. 
Service, Stephen, private. 
Mnnson, Henry, private. 

CAPT. CALVIN LITTLEFIELP'S iK) COMPANY. 

Liltlcfi. Id, Calvin, capt. ; enr. Oct. 18, 1861. 
Coolev, A. E., 1st lieut. ; enr. Oct. I.'"!, 1861. 
Woodward, W. J. M., 2d lieut. ; em-. Oct. 14, ISGl. 
Wudell, Isaatr P., 1st, sergt. ; enr. Oct. :iO, l8lil. 
Jobn-sun, .Vlba II., sergt.; enr. t)ct. I'.i, ISGI. 
Miles, Jo-'iah, sergt. ; enr. Oct. 20, l8lil. 
Cob', JIartin L., .sergt. ; em. Nov. 1, l^6l. 
Klansburg, William, sergt.; enr. Jan, 2^ 1862. 
Sprague, Charles H,,corit.; enr. Oct.;io, 1861, 
Maxson, Charles B , corjt,; enr. Nov. 6, ISfil. 
Uamsdell, thnaldo, corp.; enr. Dec. Is, 1861. 
A\ alhiee, Hiram, coip. ; enr. Jan. 12. 1862. 
Miller, Fnuicis, coip. ; < nr, Oct, '^5, ISGI. 
Clark. Oliver P., coi p. ; enr. Nov. 6, 1801. 
Davis, Chiirlcs II., C4n p. ; enr. Nuv. 4, 1861. 
Brcwblcr, Byron A., nin^ic'n. ; enr. Ik-c. U, 1861. 
Hewitt, Liifayette, mnsc'n ; enr. Jan. -^4, 186J. 
Parker, Paac, wag->ner; enr, Ovt. 2:1, 1861. 
B.iiley, Jo-cpb, inivate; enr. Nov. 6, 1861. 
Bullock, Luvell, private; enr, Nov. 12, ISGl, 
Brewstci. John A., p ivate ; enr. Dec, Lt, I8G1. 
Br.'wn. llaivey. private ; cnr. Pec. 14, 18G1. 
Blown. Kli.sha, private; enr, Jan. i), 1862. 
Buck, Albert, pi ivate ; enr. Nov. 12, 18GI. 
Bariiuni, Elias, private; enr, Feb. 2. 1862, 
Backii-, George, private ; cnr. Feb. 2;i, 1862. 
Barkns, John, private; enr. Feb, 16, 1S62. 
lleckwiti:. Kiancis, private; enr. Jan. 21. 1862. 
Becker, William C, private; cnr Pec. II, 1861. 
Carl, Thomas, private; enr, Feb. 21, 1862, 
Clark, Le Grand, private; enr. Feb, 16, 1862. 
Clark, Sila--, private; enr, Jan, 12. 1862. 
Clark, Lynihn, piivate ; enr. Jan. 'J, 1SG2. 
Champlin, Oscar, [irivate; enr. Dec. 11. 1861. 
Canfield, Nelson, private ; cnr. Feb. 7, I8(i2. 
Curt 8, Fe.sseiideii, private; enr. Jan. L'l, IStili. 
Cronk, Reuben, private; enr. Jan, 21, 1802. 
C-.oper, Ei ban. private; em. .Jan. 26, 1-G2. 
t'ohiow, Alcvaiider, pr.vate; enr. Feb. I, 1862. 
Chamberlain, David, private ; enr. Ntiv. 4, 1861. 
CcMdi, George, private; enr. Dec. 16, ISGl. 
Dack, Alonzo C., private; enr. Dec. 14, 1861. 
Davis, Juhn M., piivate; enr. Nov, 4, 1861. 
Davis, Robert C, private; enr. Dec, 14, 1861. 
De Bnsia. William, piivate; enr. Pec, 14. 1861. 
DniiniT. tieorge, private; enr. Dec. 14, 18G1. 
Doiiiier, Lonw, piivate: enr. Pec. 14, l8til. 
Pryileii, John, private; enr. Oct. 2:i. 18G1, 
Pr.Mleii, Byron, private; enr. Pee. 10. 1861. 
Duman, Austin, private ; enr. Feb, 22. 1862. 
Ebbr, Matthew, private; enr. Feb. 1, I,H62. 
Farrall, IIu»;h, private; enr. Feb. I'.I, 1862. 
Franklin. Hnam, private; enr. Jan. 'J2, I!^62. 
Fairbanks, (ieorge L., pr.vate ; enr. Feb. 18, 1862. 
Grnfi', Israel, private; enr. Dec. 14, 1861. 
Green, Philo, privati*; enr.Oct, 26, 1861. 
llolb y. Cliaries L. private ; enr. Oct. ao, 1861. 
Hall, Lyman S., private; enr. Nov. 2", 1861, 
Hall, Mdion P., piivj.te; enr, Dec, 16, 1861, 
Hai;.:hi, Cliaries S., private; cnr. Nov. 12, 1861. 
Hunter. Samuel R., private; enr. Jan, l.*>. 18G-J. 
Harammin, Marin C,. private; enr. Fidi, 7, 1862. 
Hetiing, Peter, private; cnr. Feb. 6, 1862, 
Iligals, Samuel, private; enr. Dec. II, 1861. 
JarviH. Franc, s, private; enr, Dec. 28, l86l. 
Kenyoon. Ilosea, jirivate; rnr. Oct. 20,1861. 
Kmg, .lohn L., private; enr, Feb. IG. I8li2. 
Maliby, Dexter, private; enr. Oct. 18. 1861. 
Mack, Che-ter. pr.vate; enr. Dec. II. iSGl. 
Miirniin, James, private; enr. Feb. 18,1862. 
Nevill, William J., private; enr. Feb. is, 1>62. 
Nevill, John v., private; enr. Feb. 21, 1862. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



565 



rri'ali'v, rncia R., piiviitc; enr. Oct. 2n, 18lil. 
]*liillj]is, Fri'ciiiiin. itrivate; ciir. Kfli. ;J, 1862. 
Itogci-w, tlcuryr, piiviilt'; enr. F«.'li. 1, Istili. 
Kussill, WkIIiico K., privati.- ; enr. Oil. ill, 1801. 
IljiBc, Merritr, pi hftte ; enr. Def. ai, ISOI. 
Hiee, Kdwiiril, privule ; onr. Dee. U, ISlil. 
K.viin, Tli'jtiiii-*, private ; enr. I>ec. '.I, 18r»l. 
Kat;aii, .Miirrirt, private : enr. Jan. 24, 18(>2. 
Spirer, Wilii;tlii It., Jirivate: enr. Fell. 24, 1802. 
Smith. Ccoice, piivale ; enr. Oct. 2!l, 1801. 
Sniitli, Kraiili, private; enr. Xiiv. 28, 1801. 
Sliaw, Saniiiei, private; enr. Jan. 24, 1802. 

Si rville, .l.ilin, private; enr. Dec. 211,1801. 

Spencer, William, private; enr. Feb. 0, l(-02. 
ThiiiipMin, hnaiie F.. private; enr. .Ian. .">, 1802. 
Ti II. IturtHM K., private; enr. Nov. 12, 1801. 
Tiuiker, (;ei>r(;e K., piivnle; enr. Jan. 10, 1802. 
Teiilev, De.Nter. private; enr. Fil.. 1", 1802. 
Tnrner, Usear I.., piivate; enr. Fell. 10, IM',2. 
WiKiihvaiil. Ciiiistiiit, private; enr. Ilet. 12, 18C1. 
W.ir.lin, Aieliilialil, private; enr. Oct. 2.'i, 1801. 
Wiilteis, (;eiirKe. private ; enr. Dee. il, ISI.I. 
Wiiiiil, WiUiiiin A., private; enr. Fell. 2, 1802. 
Williunisuii, U»i iir, private ; i nr. Ilct. 21. IhOl. 

97TH BEGIMENT. 

CAPT. A. 1). PAUSOXS' COMPANY. 
C^inyne, William, priviite; enr. N'nv. l.'i, 1801. 
Smitli, liliver, private; enr. Nuv. l.'i, ISOl. 
Valenline, Mil,,, privale; enr. Oct. Ifi. ISOl. 
(Jiinliltliiile, Ihe-ter, private; enr. Dee. 111. ISOI. 
I'eiiiiiiik, Wil.,.iiri, private: enr. Dee. 1(1, 1801. 
I'mliKiek, Charles, private; enr. Dee. l,"i, 1801. 
I'ontii, .\iigiihtnrt, private; enr. Dee. 12, 1801. 

CAI'T. GUSTAVUS M. PAI,.Mi;R'S (K) COMPANY. 

Mieliiiel Kiile.v. Islsergt.; enr. Nov. 1,1801. 
Clark, lieiijaiiiin. private ; enr. .Inn. 2, 1802. 
Ui-h-eijnie, .Mai inn, private : enr. Jan. 2, li*02. 
Itesaeijnie, Suninil, pi ivale ; enr. Jan. 2, 1802. 

102D REGIMENT. 
CVPT. n. 31. ELMUltK.S (OMPANY. 
Boiiker. Eihvaril, :iil seigt; enr. Dee. l.'sKI.I. 
Ciitiniir, .loll II O., Ttli eoip. ; enr. Jan. 211, 1802. 
Ci.le, Pliilip, privale; enr. Jan. 2, 1S02. 
Fenloii, Kle.i/ur. private; enr. Jan. 2, 1862. 
Ilelelier. Orreii II.. private; enr. Dec. 15, 1801. 
Clregor, Seliiist an. private ; enr. Jan. lu, 1802. 
McDoniilil. Wni. Jnlin, piivate; enr. Fed. 1, 1802. 

CAPT. J. WODDRITF LEWIS' (K) COMPANY. 

Carlos, EiUvin. :i(leorp. ; enr. Nov. 0, 1801. 
liacon. Mill! A., 7th eoip.; enr. Oct. 21, ISOl. 
Keyji, .laeoli, private; enr. Oct. 21, 1801. 
Mills, Lloj-il, II ivate; enr. Nov. 8, I8lil. 
Styees, James, private; enr. Dec. :I, 1801. 

106TH REGIMENT. 
CAPT. .TK.^sr COCSWKIJ/S It;) OOMrAXV. 
Bjisc-uiii, Nflsun, privalf ; t-niv Aug. lil, 1«02. 

186TH EEGIM£NT. 

CAPT. WKLCirs (A) COMPANY. 
"WeV-h, H. J., capl. ; .-m-. }SGi 
K'tiimiis. C J . I«t li.-ut. ; enr. 1SG4. 
M;t«inul'LT, K.. .i'l lu'iit. ; enr. I»(i4. 
Ash, Uiin«.l, (.triviiti-; uiir. Aug. 17,1804. 
Ariii->ti-oitg, (ii-urtif, private; enr. Aug. 22. 1861. 
Iliitly, Y'shnnin, priviU'- ; f nr. .\ug. 20, 1SG4. 
llnnis, .lamcR, private; enr. Aiir. 17, lSli4. 
Bence, L>le, pi ivale; enr. An;;. 22. 18U4. 
lifiice, William, privute; enr. Ang. 2", lfiG4. 
Il)irn<-8, Homer A., private ; enr. An^. 22. 18G4. 
Hiii^hris, (Jeorjie, private; enr. Ang. 22,18(14. 
Bjicliiuiin, (.'hurles, priviite; enr, An{;.22. lS(i4. 
(\n)per, Abnini <i., private; »iir. Ang. 17, I8ti-1. 
(' .v.-y. I.nrrri/.i, private; enr. Au^. 2.', 18i;4. 
C)pp. .luhii M.. private; enr. Aug. 2n, 18G4. 
Claik. Micliiiel. private; enr. Aug. 2_', 1KG4. 
Clurlynian, Heniin, private; enr. Anp. 2S, 1804. 
(.Airy, Thoiniis, private; enr. Aug. 2ii. 18114. 
Commerfonl. John, private; enr. Aug. 2;{, 18(U. 
Ciireoran, Williain, pnvale; enr. Au^- V^. 1^04. 
Cn»tzen|.nryli. (Jcutge II., private; enr. Ang. 2 t, 'r>4. 
Chadwirlc, William, prival'S enr. Aug. 24, I8GI. 
("ruwuer, Silaj*. I'rivate; enr. Ang. 24, 18114. 
Cahhvell, l>e Witt C. priv.ite; enr. Aug. 2.'>, 1804. 
Doneline, DavitI, private ; enr. Aug. 22, \Hi'A. 
Farmer, Jani'M, private ; enr. Aug 20, 18G4. 
Krislel, Francis, private; eni'. Aug. 22, IS64. 
Farley, Thomas, private; enr. .\ng. 2.'>, lSf»4. 
Fra-zelle, Reorge. private; enr. Aug. 22. 1804. 
Graham, Kiiwin. private; enr. Ang. Is, 18(14. 
liated, Cronson O., private ; eiir. Aug. 2(t, 1804. 
Gruhani. Samuel, private; enr. Sept, 1, 1864. 
Unit, Volney O., private; enr. Aug. 17, 1801. 
Hunt, .\brani K., privale; enr. Aug. 20, 1864. 
Harris, Chrtrles, private; enr. Aug. 20, 1864. 
Hiser, I'liilip, i»fivatc: enr. Ang. 22,1864. 
Hotnies, Theoilore, private; enr. :Uig. 2o, 1864. 
Hunt, Lueian, private; enr. Aug, 24. 1S64. 
Johnson, Martin, private ; enr. Aug. 22, 1804. 
Leonari), Fayette, privale, enr. Ang. 2 1. 1804, 
Lake, Christnjilier C, private; enr. Aug. 17. 1804, 
Ijtnipltoar, II. Iv.. private; enr. Ang. 22, 1804. 
Laniphear, Orin P.. privatp; "iir. .Vug. 22. 1864, 
NichoLs. J. W.. private; enr. Ang. 2-1, 1804. 
North. Albert A., private; enr Aug. 2", 1804. 
Ornieslon, James, private ; enr. .\ug 2:t, 1864. 
Philip, Kbin, private; enr. Ang, 2(i,lS*U. 
Salter, Frwleriek. pr.vute ; enr. Aug. 22. 1864. 
Swirt, Jabex N., privati-; our. Aug. 22, 1864. 



Snmmons, .Johnson, privale ; onr. Aug. 24, 1864, 
Steele, Frederick, private ; enr, Ang, '14, 1864 
Ta.-ker. ("Irmeiit ».'., juivalo; enr. Ang. 20, 1804, 
Van Amli'-r. Is. lac, private ; enr. Ang. lii, 18U4. 
Wilcox. Charh-s. private; enr. Ang. 28. 1804. 
' Wll!^ll, James II., privale ; enr. Aug. :i(i, 18(H. 
Weed, Henry C., private; enr, Aug. 25, 1864. 

CAPT. E.J. MAItSirs (C) ntMPANV. 
Marsh. K. Jay. capl. ; enr. Aug. 13. 1K64. 
Yates. H<-nry, l^t lieut. ; enr. Sept. 7, 1^64, 
Swan. Kiiwm, 2il lient.; enr. Sept, 7, IS04. 
Birllelt, John W., private; enr. Aug !.'», 1804. 
ItaiMliiI. ()r>on. i)rivHte; enr. Aug. 1'.), 1864. 
Le«is, Charles II., jn ivate ; enr. Aug. 18, 1H64. 
(Jill. William H.. pnvale; enr. Aui.'. 2.'., 1864. 
Mn/./v, LawBon It., private; enr. Aug. '!.'>, 1864. 
Gillelt, Ell S., private; enr. Ang. 2'.» I8(H. 
SeaniauN. Uei-rge W., privat'- ; enr. Aug, 20, 18(j4. 
Sniivan, (;e«.rge I)., pr.vate; enr. Aug. IK. 18(4. 
Greene, Eilward W.. privjite; enr. Aug. 22. I8i;4. 
Parke, Franklin H., private; enr. Aug. IS, 1S04, 
Palmer, Juliu;* I.., private; enr. Aug. I."i, 1864. 
Austin, Palmer, private; enr. Aug. 24, 1804, 
Atls'-t. Elijah R.. privale; enr. Aug. 24, 1864, 
Itrown, Itra<Iley 11,, private; enr. Ang. 2!), 1864. 
Harher, (hailen, private; enr. Aug. 2 i, 1864. 
Ifcileun. Dennis G., private; enr. Ang. 24, 1864. 
Itoswortli, Lester A., private; Aug. :«>, 1864. 
Ilaith'l. Itniton II., private; enr. Ang. 22. 1864, 
Itahnm, .\loy M., private; enr. Aug 24. is04. 
Coates, I'aviil ('., privtite- enr. Aug. l.'i, 1864, 
(/o(in. .luhii II., I'rivate ; enr. Aug. 22, 1S04. 
Crusby, Kpliiaimr., private; enr, Aug, 22, 1864. 
Dealing. .Martin E., private; eur. Aug. l.'i, l8lvl. 
Evans, ('hiiifS T., privale; enr. Ang. 21. 1864. 
Fowler, Joiin. pr.vate; enr. Aug, 16. 1864. 
Fiwetl. Aloti/o W., private; enr. Aug. 20, 1864. 
Gage, William K.. private ; enr. Aug. 2'.i, 1864. 
Gregory, John K , private; enr. Aug. 2."j, 18W. 
Green, Kei train S, private; enr. .'Vug. l.'>, 1864. 
Green. Milo J , I'livale; enr. Aug. 20, 1«04. 
IIatr..nl, Jacob T,. private ; i-nr. Aug. 2-1. 1864. 
Ililchci)ck. William, private; enr. Aug. 2!», 1864. 
Ilinnian, William 11., private; enr. Aug. 2'.>, 1SG4. 
Jennv, l-ovctt A., private; enr. Aug. 27, 1864. 
Jayner, Koberl, private; enr. Sept. 2, 1864. 
Javiier, Alonzo W., private; enr. Ang. 24. 1864. 
Kilfi-ath'T, William, private; onr. Auu'. 18. 18(U. 
Loilor, Iliiani U.. private; enr Aug. 24. l'-G4, 
Lotvv.ll. l);ivi(i. private; enr. .\ng. •j4. 1864. 
McNi-il, Hoberl, piivale; enr. Ang. 2ri, 1864. 
MrKie. ri-car U., piivatr-; enr. Aug. 16. 1^64. 
Morehouse, Warren, private; enr. Sept. 6, 1864. 
Mai>ih, Luther M., private; enr. Ang. 16, 1804. 
Slarsli, W.-ilter p., private; onr. Aug. 16, 1804. 
Norton, William W., private; enr, Aug, 21, 1864. 
Otiarsnn, Artist W,, private; enr, Ang, 18, 1864, 
Oatinan, Ilrailfun.1 I)., private; enr. Aug. 2m, 1864. 
Hamiall, Norman, private ; enr. Ang. :il, 1864. 
Kolibins, John, private; enr. Sept. A, 1864. 
Ha-soin, Charles A., private; enr. Aug. 20, 18C4. 
Shaver, Jacob, private ; enr. Ang. 27, I8(i4. 
Stiles, Natiian (J., private; enr. Sept. 3, 1864. 
Treav, Charles J., private; enr. Aug, 2'>, 1801. 
Viriica, Francis E,, private; enr. Aug, l.'i, 1864. 
Wagner, James 11., private; enr. Ang, 2:(, 1864. 
Wbaley, (iiinlner, private ; enr, Aug. 2^1, 1^64. 
Waitc, Charles 51.. private; enr. Ang. 2.'», 1864. 
Weaver, Peter, private; enr. Aug, 27, 1804. 
Wrigh', William IL, private; enr. Ang, 24, 1804. 
Wilder, Allen J., jirivate; enr. Ang. IS. 1804. 

CAPT. RICIID R. McMCLLEN'S (I)) COMPANY. 

Philip-. Augustus J.. 1st lieut. ; enr. Aug, 22, 1864. 
Staplin. Di-los. 2«l lieut ; enr. Sept. 3, 1864. 
Adkins, William IL, private; onr. Aug. 2ii, 1864. 
Adkins, George W,, private; enr. Ang. 2'.i. 1864. 
Andrew, Mom-,-* J., piiviite; enr, Aug. 18, InOI. 
Adkins, Thomas S.. private; enr. Sept 4, istH. 
Arnold, George, private; enr. Aug. 2'.t, IS04. 
Arnold, Clifton, private; eur. Ang. 29, 1804, 
Ilnll, Jidinson P., private; enr, Aug. IS, 1804. 
Hell. Thomas W.. piivate ; enr. Aug. 21), 1804. 
llogarilus, Edwanl Q., jirivate; enr. Ang. 27, 1864. 
Iliitt-', Darius, private; enr. Ang. 2',», 1864. 
Ilezenas, Joel II , private; eur. Sept. 3, 1S64. 
Butterfiebl, Orin, private ; enr, Aug. 18, 1804. 
Iloynton. (Jeorge V., private; enr, .^uir. 18, 1804. 
Bettie. Ilohert, piivate; enr. Sept. 6, ls6L 
Carl, Danii-1. private; enr. Ang. 17, 1.''61. 
Clark, Lucius, private; enr. Ang. 18, 1864. 
Conger. Sipiire C., jirivate; enr. Sejit. 1, 1804. 
Ctiloii, Justus, Jirivate; enr. Ang. 31, 1^64. 
Chi-iili, Charles, ptivitle; enr. Aug. 2'.i, 1864. 
Dubois, Alexander, jirivate ; enr. Sept 3, 1804. 
Egulesiun. Joel M.. jtrivale; enr. Ang. 3it. I8i4. 
Earrus, Charles T., privali-; enr. Sejii. 1, 18ti4. 
Ellis, Walter G., private; enr. Aug 27, !S04. 
Foi"syth, Joseph, i»rivate; enr. Aug. 2.'*, 18(i4. 
Gillett, i)onaldson, jirivate; enr. Aug. 27, 1864. 
Grifliih, Walter, jirivate; enr. Aug. 18, 1864. 
Golbv, .Io8<'ph, private ; enr. .Viig. 2'i, }HVA. 
Grunell, George, private; enr. Sejit. 1. 1804. 
John>^on, Si hi'*, private; enr. Aug. 2'.l, 1801. 
Johnson, Harlow, jirivate; enr. Sept. 1, lft64. 
Klock, Henry IL, private; enr. Aug. 23. 1*^64. 
Kilary, Justin. j>rivate; enr. Ang. 2ii. 1864. 
Kniusinan, Chai lew, private ; enr. Aug. 20, 1864. 
Lee, (Jeorge W , j>rivate ; enr. Aug. 23, 186L 
Luiidon. 1 nmaii, jM'ivate; enr. Xmh. 17. 1804. 
Ijingeiif -Iter, Charles, jiiivatc; enr. .\ug. 27, 1864. 
M"sln*r, No; man, piivate; enr. Aug. 21), 1804. 
Nichols. Howard, private; enr. Aug. 2.*>, 1861. 
Ostruntlcr, LjiUicR.. private; enr. Aug. 22, 1804. 



OMaria, Michael, private; enr. Aug, 22, 1864. 
J'ool, MuiiNoii G , jii ivate; enr. Aug 2i, 18ti4. 
I'etkins, Charles, private; enr. Aug 2.'>, 18t"4. 
I'ariish, Charleu II. , privale; enr. Ang. 22, 1864. 
Petrie, Ileni>, private; i nr. Ang, 27, 1864. 
Petiit, Adelhiii, private; enr, Ang. 22, 1864. 
Pntnani, John \\ ., private; enr. Ang. 2.'>. 1864. 
Putnam, Albert W., private; enr. Ang. 2-'i, 1HG4. 
Putnam. John, |>riviite; enr. Aiii;. 2'>, 18(>|. 
Putnam, J., private; enr. Sejit. 4, 1864. 
Putnam, Jeremiah M., piiviite; eur. Sept. 4, 1864. 
Raw(k)n, George, j>: ivale; enr. Aug. 26, 1864, 
Reed, Marcuw, privitte; enr. Aug. I«, 18(;4. 
Robbiiir«, George, private; enr. Aug. 2o, 1864. 
Rogers, George, jirivate; enr, Aug 2<i, 1864. 
Shaijt, John C., private; enr. Ang. 20, 1864. 
Stanley. Fre.ler ek M., private; eur, Aug. 18. 18C4, 
Smith, Nel.Miii E., jirivate; enr. Aug. 22, 1864. 
Smitli, The. dore R., private; enr. Aug. 27. 1M64. 
Sjierrv. Albert, private; enr. Aug. 27, I8i;4. 
Slorie. I>avid. piivate; enr. Ang, 2il, 1864, 
Sloat, Edward A,, private; enr. Ang. 20, 1864. 
Thompson, Jjim<s, jirivate; eiir. Aug. 23, IHi'A. 
Tompkins, John 1. , jirivale; eiii. Aug. 2.', 1864. 
Tyler. Levi, pi ivate; enr. Aug. 2-1, 1864. 
Ihiderwood, .billies, private; enr. Ang. 17. 1864, 
Willaid, Martin L.. jinvate; enr. Aug. 20, 18(>1. 
Watson, Edgar, privale; enr. Sept. 1, 1864. 
Woobdge, Alfred A., juivate; enr. Sept. 1. 1864. 
Wernicke, Henry, jirivate; enr. Aug. 22, IK(i4. 
Wood, John H..Vn^iil<*; enr. Aug. 22, 18(^. 
Young, Edward, |trivale; enr. Aug. 2.'i, I8(i4, 
Zeller, John J., jnivate; eirr. Ang. 24, 18(')4. 

CAPT. LANSING SNELL'S(E) COMPANY. 

Stiell, Lansing, cajit. 

Abbey, Al«onp, private; enr. Aug, 29, 18(34. 
.Mien, Je8 Jill F., |i[ ivate; eur. Aug, 20, 1864 
Bahcuck, Gi'oige F., jnivate ; enr. Aug. 2'.i. 1864. 
Barton, Thomas, juivate; enr. Sept. 3, 18(M. 
Bunstodt, Charles, jii ivate ; enr. Aug. 2."», 1S64. 
Bogert. John, jirivate; enr. Aug. 24, 1861. 
Itartb-tt, Joseph A., private; enr. Aug, 2-'i, 1864. 
Chase, Enoch M., Jirivate; enr. Sepl. 7, I804. 
Clia|iman, Khiiiabla W., jirivale; enr. Aug. 21, 1864. 
Chajiinau, Henry D., jirivale; enr. Sept. 7. 1804. 
Chapman, George, private; enr, Aug. ;-;0, 1864. 
Curnwell, Eilwin. private; enr, Ang. 31, 1864, 
Chiijiman, Josejdi. private; eur. Aug. 3o, 1804, 
Carlisle, Eber S., private; eur, Aug. 23, 1864. 
(-'arjienter, James E., juivate; enr. Aug. 3(t, 1864. 
Curnwell, Nelson M., jirivate; enr. Ang. 2;i, IMlH. 
Carlise, Eber S.. Jr., privale; enr. Aug, 21, 1804. 
Cole, (ieorge M , private; enr. SejU. 1, 1804. 
Dickinson, Heiiiy, jirivate; eur, Aug. 24, 1804. 
Dajiper, John, jirivate; enr, Aug. 'Zh. 1864. 
Dailey, Sunou, Jirivate; enr. Ang. 26, 18t>4. 
Dead, George C, jirivate ; enr, Aug. 2o, 1864. 
Dickinson, Frederick S.. private; enr. Aug 21, 1864. 
Dodge, Henry I'., private; onr. Sejit. 1, 1804, 
Dilliii, Albert, jirivale; enr, Aug. 2'J, 1864, 
Delmais, Peter, juivate; enr, Aug. 20, 1864. 
l);iiley, Alon/ii S., j)i ivate; enr. Ang. :tO, 1864. ■ 
Evans, Albert, private; enr. Aug. 24, 1864. 
Fredenburgh, James, jii ivate ; enr. .■Vug. 10, 1864. 
French, George W., private ; enr. Ang. 2o, 1S64. 
Fnigget, James, jirivate ; enr. Sejii. 1, 1804. 
Fish, George W., jirivate; enr. Sejit. 1, 1801. 
Fredenburgh, Albert M., private; elir. .\ug. 29, 1864. 
Gregerich, John, jirivate; enr. Ang. 31, 1804. 
Gniliain, James E., private; enr. .\ng 30, l8tV4. 
Hart. Iliiam, jirivate; enr. Aug. 22, 1864. 
Hutchinson, Harlow, private; enr. Aug. 31, 1804. 
Hagan, Jaiues, Jirivale; eur. Aug. 23, 1804. 
Hall, Meriick, juivate; enr. Aug. 22, 18m. 
House, Jacb Jr., private; enr, Aug. 20, 1804. 
Hill, Alliridge, private; enr. Aug. 23, 1864. 
Ilildieth. Roswell, private; onr. Aug. 31, 1864. 
Henry, Philiji, jirivate; enr. Aug. 27, 1804. 
Irvin. Richard A., jirivate; enr. Aug, 20, 1864. 
Kiiiig, ,\usoii, Jirivate; eur. Aug. 23, 1864. 
Knight, William M., private; eur. Ang. 20, 1864. 
La<ld, .\le.\ander, jinvate; enr. Sejit. 6, 1864. 
Lewis, Llo\d S.. private; enr. Aug. 26, 1864. 
Markle, Frank IL, private; onr. Aug. 27, 1864. 
Maxon, Mattliew, private; cur. Aug. 22, 1864, 
IMarsh, Benjamin B., jirivate; enr. Sept. 2, lb64. 
Place, George, piivate; enr. Aug. 22, 1864. 
Peck, William K., private; enr. Aug. 22, 1804. 
Pierce, Bymn. jirivate; onr. Aug. 26, 1864. 
IVlrie, Benjamin, private; eur, Aug. 2t. 1864. 
Petrie, Martin, jinvate; enr. Ang. 27, 1864. 
Peck, Duane, juivate; enr. Aug. 2t, I8(i4. 
I'eatt, George A., jirivate; enr. Ang, 30, 1864. 
Powers, William II. , privale ; enr. Aug. 27, 1861. 
Uico, Urrin, jirivate; enr. .Vug. 30, 1864. 
Riley, Thoma-', private; enr. Ang, 24, 1864. 
Hiekett, Charles G., private; enr. Aug. 23, 1864. 
ltiiui;lit. Abram, jirivate; enr. Aug. 2:1, 1864. 
Rood, Lewellyri. private; enr. Aug. 20, 1804, 
Snell. Jac<ih, jirivate ; enr. Aug. 24, 1864. 
Smith, John F., Jr., private ; enr. .Aug. 14, 1804. 
Skinner, Hiram, jirivate; enr. .\ug. 2.'>, 1864. 
Sawyer, Cromwell, jirivate; enr. Aug. 24, 1864. 
Swan, Alfred, private; eur. Autr, 2-"i, 18(>4. 
Snell, JereniJaii, private; eur, Aug, 25, 1864, 
Swartwout, Ile^eekiah, jirivate; eur. Ang. i;2, 1864, 
Smith. Freeman B., private; enr, .Vug. 20, 1864, 
Swan. Albert B., private; enr. .Aug, 27,1864, 
Te-'i>ening, John, priviite ; enr. Aug. 2^1, 1864. 
T\ler, .James, jirivate; enr. Ang. 10. 18(J4, 
Thrasher, Geo.ge, private; enr. Aug. 18, 1864, 
Tayhir, Benjamin, private; enr. Aug, 2-1, 1864. 
Tuttle, Aaron K , jtr.vate; enr. .\ng. 20, I8li4. 
Taylor, James A., private; enr. Ang. 22, l8tV4. 
Watkins, Eraamua D,, private; enr. Sept. 1, 1804. 



566 



UISTOUY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



White, .lospph P., private; enr. Ang 30, 1061. 
W;ilr..th, AI..U11-., private; elir. Aug. 2ii, IS04. 
Wnlnitli, \VutM,ii K., private; enr. Sept. 4, IKO*. 
Warren, (ii-.trtfe, privnt..; enr .\»g. i'l. Isiil. 
Waiien, Cliiiles. private: enr. An;;. 1\ l.^M. 
Walt-, Nelsuti, private; enr. Ana. i", I«04. 
■\ViwU, Marsliul W , private; enr. Sept. a, 18G4. 

DETACIIMKST KORWARDED DY CO. K. 

Benlun, K. A., private; enr. Sept. 7, ISW. 
Bull.ick, William \V., private; enr. Aug. ii, 1804. 
liniinar.l, Henry II., private ; enr. Aug. 17, 1SU4. 
C.iinJtmk. Elisli.i 1'., plivate; enr. Aug. il, 18M. 
Fullmer, Theoilore H., l)riviite ; enr. Aug. 21, 1804. 
Kittirly, Steteelle, pr.vnle ; enr. Aug. I'J. 18C4. 
Gleu^slier, .luhn, private; enr. Aug. 19, l«f»4. 
Hilts, GiKirgc W.. private; eiir. Aug. il, 1804. 
lliiskel, Kmiry, private ; enr. Sept. :l. 1804. 
II.Hlge, Cliailnci-y !>., private; enr. Aug. 2J, 1864. 
Hall, Warren W, private; enr. Aug. iJ. 1804 
Hall, lieiijaniin C , private; enr. .^ug. 14, 18lH. 
Heeler, William II., private; cur. Aug. :ill, 1804. 
Luther, William, private; enr. Aug. £>, 18li4. 
Lamphere, Eugene, private; enr. Aug. "Jt, 18G4. 
Jlitiliell, Henry H., private ; enr. Aug. -^4, 1804. 
N.iah, Pavid. (.rvate; enr. Aug. in, 1*04. 
Neil, Peter, p ivale; our. .\ug. ii, 1804. 
Snviler, Murgan, privat"; enr. Sept. II, 1804. 
Serriee, Charles A., private ; enr. Aug. il, lofrl. 
Suyiler, Eilwin, piivate; enr. Aug. 24, Iko4 
Turtles, Uerm liu, privmo; enr. Ang. fl, I8G4. 
While, Eilwaiil, pr vate ; enr. Aug. il, 1801. 
Winner, Daviil, private; enr. Aug. 22, 1804. 
Wiiiiil, Arniill \Ve!.«t..r. private; enr. Aug. 22, 1804. 
WilKiu.;liliv. I.eaiiiler. piivat..; enr. Ang. bl, 181.4. 
Warner, W'illiain W., private; eur. Aug. 28, 1801. 

OAPT. PASIEL B. ROOP'S (II) CO.MI'ANY. 

B'.oil, Paniel B, eapl. ; enr. 1804. 
Cutler, (trv.lle L., id lieut.: enr. Aug. 17, 1804. 
Allen, Aiuwi K., private; enr. Ang. 2:1, 1801. 
Allen, Allred T., private; enr. Aug. 2 i, 1804. 
Andrews, Cliarleii, private; enr. Aug. 22, 1804. 
llarher, Tlnmms J , private; enr. Aug. 2'J, 1804. 
narllell, .1 leoli A., privat ■ ; enr. Ang. 18. 1804. 
lleiiwiv, Zilia, private; enr. Ang. 2.''>, 1804. 
Campli.-ll. William A , private ; enr. Aug. IS, 1804. 
Campbell, Hiram K., private; enr. Aug. 20, 1804. 
(jirter, Charles 1)., private; enr. Aug. il, 1804. 
Cuurta. Nieliidas, private; enr. Aug. 2:1, 1804. 
i:|ark, Patrick, private ; eur. Aug. 21, 1804. 

Kit/patriek, Celestia, private; enr. Aug 2(1,1804. 

Hewilt, Clark J., private ; enr. .\u'i. :lil, 1804. 

Hewitt, li iirg" I) , priv.ite; enr. .\ug. 17, 1804. 

HungiTford, Miirr s C., private; enr. Aug.2i, 1801. 

HainUMnd, Chester, private; eur. Ang. 2:!, 1804. 

Kimhall, (ieorge W., private; enr. Aug. 17, 1804. 

I'ciwell, .lames A., private; enr. Aug. 2:1, 1804. 

Puller. Meriitt, private; eur. Aug. 2), 1»IV4. 

Selluk, Edgar A., private ; enr. Aug. 2.'), 18il4. 

Van Pelt, Spencer S., private; enr. .\ug. 24, 1804. 

Wiekea, .lames, private; inr. Aug. 22, ISM. 

Wculworth, Elijah M., private; enr. Aug. 24, 1804. 

Wheelock, Edward W., jirivate ; enr. Aug. 30, 1864. 

CAPT. CHARLES S. MLSGER'S (I) COMPANY. 

Bc-t, George, private; enr. Ang. 2.'>, 1864. 
Ooniwell, Peinaslis, private; enr. Aug. 27, 1804. 
Pinhani, Oa.ai, pr.v.ite; enr. Ang. 19, 1804. 
Durliani, Henry I)., private; enr. Ang. 19, 1801. 

Kl r, Klien, priv.ite; enr. Aug 18, 1801. 

Klnnder, Reuben W., private ; enr. Aug. 20, 1801. 
Haniiiioud, llraltnn W., p'ivate; enr. Aug. 10, 18G4. 
Keisel. Aibini. private; enr. Aug. 2.'., 18IH. 
Miller. William II , private; enr. Ang. 18, 1804. 
Marsh, J.imes, private; enr. Aug. 24, I8IH. 
Manili. Daniel, private; enr. Aug. 29, 1804, 
llobertson, Charkii C, private; eur. Aug. 17, 1804. 

CAPT. JOSHUA M. MANSFIELD'S (K) COMPANY. 

Hoes, .lames G., 2il lieut. ; enr. Aug. 181V4. 
t'nry, .liiliu. private; eur. Aug. 19, 1804. 
B'lWe, Tliiuiias C, private ; enr. Aug. 10, 1804. 
Spenre , Pliilauder A., private; enr. Aug. 2ll, 1804. 
Tripp, Scrauiiis II., private; enr. Aug. 10, 1804. 

193D EE3IMENT. 

COMPANY 0. 

Alhecker, .laculi, private; our. Mar. 20, 180."i. 
Berry, Paniel C., piivato; enr. Mar. 14, 1805. 
Butlerllel.l, Janes B., private; enr. Mar. I.i, 180.i. 
Chi'lest.r, Paviil, pr.vate; enr. \\<r. .'>, IM,.-.. 
Es^eWvii. Jnliii It., priv.ite ; em. Mar. 14, I80.'i. 
Ealy. William H., private; enr. Feb. 18, I8I1.,. 
Kilw,ir.l«, Tlii.uias, private; eur Apr. :1. 18l,.>. 

Gadiles, W.lliam, private; •. Mar. 14, l»0.i. 

Hunt, J-diii, private; enr. M-ir. 14, 1805. 

llo.ie Peter, piivute; enr. Feb. 14, 180.'». 
King, William R., private; enr. Miir. I , 180.1. 
Lniid.in, tle.irge A., private; enr. Mar. 1.1, 18U). 
Marvin, Simiiel, piivate; eur. Mar. 28, ISOfl 
Niirlhri>|., William, private; eur. April .'., l8Co. 
Dflin, lleiij iinin, private: eur Mar. 2, 18i'>.'>. 
INitter, Aniii.*, private; enr. >Iar. l."», I8O.1. 
Renier. Geiirge. private; enr. M ir. !.'•, ISlW. 
H.iwe, Franklin, jiiivate ; eur. Mar. 4, ISU'i. 
Rowe, Timiithv, .Ir., private ; enr. Mar. 4. 1805. 
II.P1U, N ■rinanW , pr.vale ; eur. Mar. 0, 1805. 
Siiilh, lloraie, jrivate; eur. Feb. A'l, 1805. 
Tiuiiiw in, John, private ; enr. Mar. 17, 180 p. 
W..st, Andrew J., p-lvate; enr. Mar, 20, 1805. 
V.irk, Eilson P., private; our. Mar. 14, 180.'). 



COMPANY H. 

Arnold, George W., (irivate ; enr. Mar. 24, ISM. 
Anderson, Rsiyner E., private: eur. Mar. 15, 1865. 
ljigiie.js, Zebhy, private; vm\ Mar. 14, 1865_ 
Biittuu, Darwin, private ; enr. Mar. 20, 1865. 
Bniwii, John, piivate; cur. Feb. 21, 180.".. 
Itenett. Tliom;iS B., pi ivate ; enr. F<.b. 17, lS6.i._ 
Bingham, James H., private; i-nr. Mar. 10, 1805. 
Biussetl, James C, private ; eur. Jlar. 4, 1805. 
Craig, Henry, private; enr. Mar. :i. 180.'). 
Carter, Daniel, private; enr. JIar. 4, 1861. 
Chase, Willis B , private; enr. Mar. 10, 1805. 
Chase, John, private; enr. M.ir. 14, ISlVi. 
Dillon, Thoiiuv. private; enr Mar. 20, 1805. 
Klanigan, Tlioiuas, private; enr. Feb. Ill, 1805. 
Flaherty, ttwcn. private; eur. Feb. 20, 1861. 
Franklin, Willinln. piivate; enr. Feb. 14, 1805. 
Forii, .\nilres, private; enr. Fell. 28, 1805. 
Fris/.ell, Piiiiel. private; enr. Mar. 7, 1805. 
(;illespie, Svlvaiiins, private; enr Mar. 6, 180.->. 
Godanl, Leivis W., private; eur. Feb. il. 180,1. 
Gonlilthral, Beuoni, private; enr. Mar. 1.1, ISG5. 
Hall, Thomas, private; eur. Mar. 22, 1801. 
Hunter. Eugene, private; enr. Feb. 14, 1805. 
Henry. Theodore, private ; eur. Feb. 25, 1805. 
Hammond, Lewis, private; enr. Mar 22, 1805. 
Ilibbaril. Hem in A., private; enr. .Mar. 21, 1805. 
Havs, Jidin, private ; enr. Jlar. :l, 1805. 
Hollywood, William, private ; enr. March 20. 1805. 
Inge'rson, ()-car T.. private ; enr. Feb. 25, 186.1. 
Jodd, I.avil 1, private; enr. Feb. 7, 180.1. 
Knapp, lleiirv, private ; enr. Mar. 7, 1805. 
Lunn.-y, John, private; enr. Mar. 21, 1805. 
Laport'ni, Joseph, private ; enr. Star. 0, 180i. 
Lawb.ii, Melviii, priv.ite; enr. Mar. 11, 180.1. 
Lamener, David, private; enr. Feb. 2.1, 1865. 
Moran, John, private; enr. Feb. 27. 1801. 
Meyers, Isaac, private ; enr. Feb. 21, 1805. 
Mar-hill, Joseph, private; enr. Mar. 14, 1805. 

McCann, Patrick, private; enr. Mar. 20, 1805. 

Pettv, Peter, private; enr. Mar. 15, 1865. 

Pr tiie, Thomas, private; enr. Feb. 16, 1861. 

Prittie, J.-hu, private; enr. Feb. 16, 186:1. 

R.ach, Thomas, private; enr. Mar. 14, 1865. 

Rivera, Alexander, private ; eur. Mar. :i, 1805. 
1 Roiuain, Charles, private; enr. Feb. 17, 180.1. 

Rn-lnw, Thonuus, private; enr. Mar. 15, 1805. 

Ruslow, Joseph, iivhate; eur. Mar. 1 i, IS05. 

Robenson. Andrew J., pr.vate; enr. Mar. 15, 1805. 

Rea, William J., private ; eur. Mar. 9, 1865. 

Rounds, /,enas M.. private; enr. JIar. 28, 1865. 

Shoen, Ilenry, private; enr. Mar. 9. 1805. 

Sanborn. Edward, private; enr. Mar. 9, 1865. 

Stniit, Oreii C, piivate; enr. Mar. 9, 186.1. 

Socket, Hoswell. private; eur. Feb, 17, 1865. 

Slack, Walter, private; eur. Mar. 15, 1805. 

Siinman, Tho-iias, private ; enr. Mar. 21, 1805. 

Steward, David, private; enr. M irch 20, 1805. 

To'dn, Martin, private; enr. Blar. 14. 1865. 

Taft. Braiu;ird S., private ; enr. Feb. 19, lS(i5. 

Townsenit, Julius S., private; eur. Feb. 21, 1865. 

Truman, Evan, private; enr Mar. 8, 1805- 

Vaii Camp, David, private ; enr. Feb. 28, ISC'). 

Washer, Joseph F., private; enr. Mar. 2:i, 1865. 

West. Matthew E, private; enr Mar. 11, 1861. 

Whitiker, Ervin, private; ear. Feb. 27, 1865. 

Wollord, Christoplier, |.rivale; enr. JIarili_24, 18G5. 

Yemo, Joseph, private; enr. Mareli I:i, I8(vi. 

Zimuieron, Eugene, private; enr. JIarch 0, 1&65. 

1ST CAVALRY. 

CAPT. JAMES CROMWELL'S (D) COMPANY. 

McCailley, Thomas, uius. ; enr. Oct. 4, 1801. 

CAPT. JOHN W. nORRS (E) COMPANY. 

Ash, William, farrier; enr. Oct. 11, 1861. 
(Jowan, Edwin R., private; enr. Oct. II, 1801, 
Crosselt, George, piivate; enr. Oct. 22, 1801. 
Howell, Nelson, private; enr. Oct. 11, 1801. 
Illingsworlh, Alfred E., private; enr Oct. II, 1801. 
Mi'Cauna, Patriik H., private; our. Oct. II. 1801. 
McCollops, Samuel M., private ; enr. Oct. 11, 1801. 
Nevills, James C, private; eur. Oct. 11, 1801. 
Sherman, Henry, private; enr. (Jet. 11, 1801. 

2D lEd HARRIS GUARDS (6TH CAV.) 

CAPT. WILLIAM E. IIARD.SLBYS COMPANY. 

Phelps, Edwanl II., far. A black. ; em. Sept. 1:1, 1861. 
Fergerson, James, private; eiir.Sept. 21, 1861. 
Fryer, Richard B., private; enr. Sept. 18, 1801. 
Polaskie, Edwanl. private; enr. Sept. 21, 1801. 
H'lrton, .\uilrew. private; enr, Sept. 18, 1861. 
Horton, Biley E.. private; enr. .-ept. 18, 1861. 
Byder, Walter, private; enr. Sept. 18.1861. 
York, Ed.son D.. private; enr. Sept. 24, 1801. 
Y>-rk, Horace J., |ii ivate; eur. .^epl. 21, IsOI. 

IITH CAVALRY (SCOTT'S 900). 

CO.MPANY H. 

Afforler, Frederick, Corp.; enr. Jan. :il, 1862. 
Potter, Cleveland, Corp. ; enr Jan. :ll, 1862. 
Pitt, John, corp ; eur. Jan. ;n, 1802. 
Cummiugs, PaliieU, pi ivale; enr. Jan. 13,1862. 

30TH CAVALRY. 

CAPT. JAS. p. PATTERSON'S (II) COMPANY. 

Baird, Ilenry, Olli scrgl. ; enr. July 5, 1861. 
Neville, George, 4tli Corp. ; cur. July 8, l.Sti3. 



Mair, Elvrard, 5tU (»rp.; enr. July 24, 1803. 
Flvun, Patrick, 6tli curp ; enr. June 27, 1863. 
Allen, Jt>s -ph, private ; enr. Juno 24, 180:1. 
Bassinger, Willi am, private; eur. July 9. 1803. 
Bigelow, .lohn, private; eur. July 7, 18.1:1. 
Browu. .loliu, private; enr. July II. 1801. 
Bontwell, Euos E, private; enr. July 18, 1863. 
Caullielil, Patrick, private; eur. July 10, 1803. 
Doty. George, private; eur. July .1. 1861. 
Flviin, -lohn, private; enr. July 16, 1801. 
Flynn, Michael, private; enr. July 18, 1803. 
Ijiwton, Theodore, private; enr. .Iillio 9, 1863. 
Montanilo. Duff, private; eur. July 7, 180:1. 
Porch, William, private I eur. July 9, 1801. 
Sluilb, Kicharil, private ; eur. July .1, LSfll. 
Williams, W illiaul A., private; eur. July 9, 1865. 

CAPT. WM. P. HALLETT'S(I)COMPANY. 

Manigold, Peter, private ; eur. .\ilg. '25, |S0:l. 
Tanner. Milo J., private ; enr. Sept. 1, 180 1. 
Wells, Robert, privaR' ; cur. Aug. 29, 1863. 



18TH CAVALRY. 

CAPT. WARRKN' S SMITH S illl CllMPANY. 
Smith, W'arren S., cipt ; enr. Aug. 10, 1863. 
Kelts, John H., 1st lieut.; enr. Aug. 10, 18BI. 
(^ummings, Albert, 'id lieut. ; enr. Aug. 10, 1863. 
Clark, Geoigo P., eur. Aug. 24, 180:1. 
McNiel, Floyd A , eur. Aug. 10, 186!. 
Danahy, Paniel, enr. Aug. 10. 186:1. 
Clark, Janus, enr. Aug. 13, 186:1. 
Ferguson, Charles J., I'ur. Aug. 12, 1863. 
Washburne, Alolizo. enr. Aug. 21, 1861. 
Ilaminoud. Alvaro. enr. Aug '27. 1801. 
Dodge, Lewis T., eur. Aug. 27, 1S6:J. 
Lane, William, eur. Sept. 7. 1803. 
Tavbir. Allen, enr. Aug. '211, 186 1. 
Gayer, Richard, eur. Aug. 1.1, 1861. 
Kevser, Pelevan J., eur. .\ng. 27, 1863. 
McNeil, Oren S., enr. Aug '22. 1863. 
Ivorv. Joliu W., enr. .\ug. 2'2, 1863. 
Waffle, J.imes, cur. Aug. 5. 1801. 
Prato, George, enr. Sept. 14, 1861. 
Waffle, William, eur. Aug. .1, 1801. 
Ansliii, Freeman, pr.vate; enr. Sept. 21, 1863. 
Banks, Lewis P., private; eur, Sept. 28, 1863. 
Bl.iir, Willis J , private ; cur. .Vug. 14, 1801. 
Burns, Edward, private; eur. Sept. 25, 186:1. 
Baioii, Geoige W., private; enr. Aug. 27, 1863. 
Barber, Frederick, private ; enr. Aug. 15, 1863. 
Bowman, Charie-, private; eur. Aug. '2", 1861. 
Davenport, Edwin, private ; enr. Sept. 28, 1803. 
Demell, Fred. E., private; eur. Aug. 31, 18(>:i. 
Corev, William C, private; enr. .\ug. 21, 186:1. 
Coni'ns, Alonzo, privat-; enr. Aug. 11, 1863. 
(Jarr, Smith, private; enr. Aug. 14, 180S. 
Cataract, James, private; eur. Sept. 14, 186:1. 
Ferrill. Peter, pi ivalo ; enr. Aug. M, 186:1.^ 
Fairmau, Nelson, private; enr. .\ng. 7, 1863. 
Garri.son, Peler, private; eur. Aug. 14, 186:1. 
Gardner, Richaid, private ; enr. Aug. 15, 1803. 
Graves, Lysander, private; eur. Aug. '2'i, 1863. 
Iliiies, John, private; enr. .\ug. 31, 186:1. 
JacksDn, James II., private ; enr. Ang. :ll, 1803. 
Kellogg, Eli, private; enr. Sept. 28, 180:1. 

La Breck. Joseph, private ; enr. An-'. 31, 186:1. 

Lashar, Edwiu S., private; enr. Aug. 15, 1863. 

Lowery, James, private ; enr. Ang. 12,1861. 

Lonctol, Alphonso, private; enr. .-iept. .1, H'03. 

Maxwell, William, private : cur. Ang. 19, 1861. 

Morcier, F. St. Fnincis, private; enr. Ang. 9, 1863. 

Malier, Martin, private; enr. Aug. In, 1861. 

Moffalt, Tlionias, private; eur. Aug. 7, 180:1. 

McBride, Thomas M.. private; eur. .\ng. 27, 1803. 

McVaugh, James, private; enr. Aug. 11, 18(H. 

Nash, George A., private; enr. Aug. 2.1, 1801. 

Nellis, Janus, private ; enr. Aug. 18, 186:1. 

Norris, Thomas, private; enr. Aug. IS, 1863. 

Norris, John, private; eur. Aug. 18, 1801. 

Bipley, Josiah, private; eur. Sept. '28, 1803. 

Siiuiison, James I., private; enr. Aug. 1.1, 180:1. 

Servia, Henry, private; enr. Aug. ill. 180:l. 

.shew, William, private: enr. Aug. 15, 1803. 

Steadinau, John D., prnale; enr. Aug. '2(1, 1803. 

Thompson, Williain. ]>rivate; enr. Sept. '22, 18(tt. 

Wood, Benjamin V., piivate; cur. Aug. '24, 180:1. 

Wooilard, Geoige O., private ; eur. Aug. '25, 18(.:1. 

Winche.-tor, Merritt, private; enr. Sept. II, 1863. 

CAPT. BROCK IIOLST L. POWERS' COMPANY. 

Barlow. Eli, private; enr. Nov. 2, 180.3. 
Knight, Kr.derick, private; eur. Nov. 1.1, 180:1. 
Loouiis. Frederick, private ; eur. Nov. Ill, 186:1. 
Russell. R ihal-il. pr vate ; eur. Nov. 3, 1861. 
Russell, Ithniei. private; eur. Nov. 14, l^iB. 

Kiveis. Tl hire, private; onr. Nov. 2, 1801. 

Rogers, Miles v., private; eur. Sept. 2'<, 18(.:l, 
Thiiuisou, Jiillies. private; enr. Nov. 14, 18i'..t. 
Wint.-rs, Elijah, private; enr. Nov. 18, 180:1. 

CAPT. WILLIAM DAVIS' COMPANY. 
Becker, Charles I... private ; enr. Nov. 3, 1803. 
Barn lid; llarthtt. private; enr. Dec. 12, 1863. 
Biweii, Francis, private; enr. Dec. II, 1363. 
Clyde. Charles, private; enr. Dec. 4, I80:l. 
Elliott, Andrew, private; eur. Dec, 4, 18B1. 
Heath. Calvin, private; enr. Dec. 7, 186:1. 
Jiiii.-, .sheldeii. private; enr. Dec, 8, IS61. 
Mc(;uire, John. privat." ; enr. Nov. 14, 1803. 
Place, Ferdiuaud, private; enr. Dec. 2,1863. 

CAPT. JOSEPH L. SIMPSON'S (L) COMPANY. 
Simiwoii, Joseph II., aipt.; cur. Jan. 30, 1804. 



HISTORY OF JKFFEKSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



5G7 



FhUa, Ira J., iJit Bcrjit. ; enr. Dec. SO, 1863, 

KviiiiB, Clniiiii, q m.-wrpt. ; eur. Nov. 2H, 1863. 
Wilrox, Miles S., ciini.-«fr»;t. ; crir. IHt. 17, 1803. 
AVorthiTiK'oli. HMijiuiiin, H<n^'t. : enr. Ih-r. 20, 1863. 
Sloiit, .liiiri'-M M., cur|i. ; i*iir. Por. 17, 1«03. 
Bi.r.tli, Willi.irn K , r..ii.. ; enr. Nuv. 13. 1803. 
Huhintt. Miiitliuid L., corp. ; ctir. 1)<-C. 18, 18^3. 
IlaiiiM.U'II, Fraiu-is ii., InmiiM-tf r ; enr. I)«'C. 21, ISM. 
(VmiHtork, IJi'iiJiUiiin F., Mjulillfi- ; enr. l>ec. 2a, 18(53. 
I>e Mart*c, Ilfiny, tiiiTier; enr. Dec. '22, 18ti3. 
Itiifll, Kohrit, i-iiviUe; ciir. Dec. 17, 18t!3. 
ll.own, .I.-lin, i.ii\;itr; enr. .liin. 1, 1SC4. 
Hiirnett, William, priviite ; «iir. I»i-c. 21. 180:1. 
run.. 11, WiJIiaiii, [.rivjitc: enr. I><-c. 17, 1^63. 
Ihintlv. MuvMu.i. i.rivHte; eiir. Dee. ]8. I«(i3. 
Jliiinlui, .IiMiirs M., i.iiviite; enr. Dec. HI, 18(i3. 
.)e(*siuan, Friimis, private; enr. Dec. 21, lS(j3. 
J^hn^^»n. UMIinni, iHivute; enr. Dec. 30. 1863. 
Milsyn, Alltcrl, private; enr. Dec. 2i», 1803. 
Wright, Seaman, private; i-nr. Dec. 14, 1803. 

20TH CAVALRY. 

CAl'T. CHAltl.KS F. SMITH'S COMPANY. 

Smith, ClmrleB F., capt. ; enr. Sej.l. 3, \iHX,\. 
Leunuid, Freileiick M., 1st. lienl. ; enr. Sept. .3, 1863. 
Aveiy, iSitiniiel I., pt ivate ; enr. Anj:. 18, l8tki. 
l*<».-8unt, Leaniler K . private ; enr. Jul> 'J, 1803. 
Diinihnni, Loriti (>., priviite; enr. Aiik- 7, 18(i3. 
Burton, William, piivate ; enr. July 22, lst;;l. 
ItuHSunt. Fifilfii>-k, private ; enr. Aug. 2.'i, I8G3. 
Cottrel, Charles, piivate; enr. July IJ*, luiiJ. 
I)niper, CliaileH, piivale ; enr. July 7, UOi. 
Fuller, JaMies F., private; enr. July 11, lh6;J. 
F*ili«r, ,luhn, piivale; enr. Aug. 2(5, I8li3. 
OuiitleuMUKh, .Milton il., private; our. Aug. 24, 18G3. 
lugntham, Siiueun, private ; enr. June 31), I8G:J. 
Lanioiik, .John, piixate; enr. Aug. 7, 18)13. 
Lampliear. NelB.Hi W., private; enr. Aug. 2.'i, 18G3. 
Miller, Kussell A., private; enr. Aug. 17, IbiW. 
iMilh-i, Milton H., private ; enr. Aug. 17, 18tl3. 
MiDonal.l, Kamlle, private; enr. July 24,1863. 
Niihli'-, .loliii. private; enr. Au^. 25, ISill. 
Tarker, Ltnrin I*., I'r.vnte; enr. July 2.*>, 1863. 
lliickwuocl, Fi-rnamJo L., private ; enr. Aug. 20, 1863. 
Spahimg, lleorge, private; enr. Aug. 1, 18113. 
Shatlnv. TlmniaH, private; enr. July 13, 1803. 
Slowel.'Klias H., private; enr. July 25, 1863. 
SheUIt-ri, Kiliuon J., private; enr. July 2.'), 18G3. 
Seeley, Cliailes, pr.vate; enr. Aug. 17, 1863. 
Siowel, Gi'orgy H., private; enr. Aug. 2i, 1863. 

CAPT. JOHN O'lIARRA'S (Bj COMPANY. 

O'llarra, John, cnpt.; onr. Sept. 3, 1803. 
Allen, Ueuige W., private; enr. July ti, 1S63. 
Allen, Harvey J., |>rivate; enr. July 27, 1863. 
Ault. Oaviil, private; enr. July 3, lMi;(. 
Ault, .Inines, private; enr. Aug. 22, I8f>i. 
Amis, Heiny, private ; eni'. Atig. :i4, l86;i. 
Ainniit, ileorge, private; enr. Aug. 2'2, 1N63. 
Beattie, William M., piivate; enr. July 3, 18G3. 
Baldwin, Sidney D., private; enr. July 6, lft63. 
Bruwn, Aino!», private; enr, June 22, 1863. 
Baity, Frederick, private; enr. July H. 1863. 
Barney, Dehts A., private; enr. Aug. 1, 1863. 
Cadweil, Holcunili, piivate; enr. Aug. 2, 1^(W. 
Clatlin, Newell B., private; enr. Aug. In, 1863. 
Convei^e, tJnrdon T., pnvute ; enr. Aug, 2(», 1863. 
Cumhinan. Chmle.-*, private; enr. Aug. 211, 1863. 
Cmwlnid, Morriii, juivate; enr. July 3, 1863. 
Oostello, .hmies, private; enr. July 20, 1863. 
Cleary, John J., private ; cur. Aug. 2.'i, 186 J. 
Donaldson, Henry, pr.vate; enr. July 2r>, 1!'G3. 
Dcnni.suii, Charles E., priviile; enr. July ;», 1863. 
l)ingnien, Daniol, private; enr. July 1, isti-t. 
Durliam, C'hauncey, private; vnr. Aug 2'i, 18G3. 
EllMworth, William H., pr.v.ite; enr. July 2", 1863. 
Eninion", Samuel M., pi ivute ; enr. July 27, 1863. 
Forward, Mamein, private; enr. Aug. 6, 1863. 
Fall. Samuel, private; enr. Aug. 24, 186.J. 
Fecker, Andtuw, jirivale ; enr. Aug. 27, 1863. 
Fecker. Oeurge, private; enr. Aug. 27, 18(i3. 
Fenton, Eleazer, private; enr. July 2o, 186.3. 
Farrell. Patrick, piivate; enr. July 8, 1863. 
Flack, John, private; enr. Aug. 8, 1863. 
tiuernsev, James O.. private ; enr. Aug. 1, 1863. 
(;|oyd, ("harh-s K., private; enr. Aug. 24, 186 t. 
Hendei-stui. Hirani, private; enr. July 27, l«6;t. 
Holvwarth. Chiinlian, pr.vate; enr. Aug. 24, l86;i. 
Hirt, William, private; mr. July 17. l»^6.t. 
Hardie, John, i>rivate : enr. June '.:4, 1863. 
Horner, .hdm, private ; enr. July 2, 1^63. 
Jetlers, Orville, private; enr. July H, 186;*. 
lieuiiaril, Charles, private; enr. July 4, 186 1. 
Lemniiiii, Levi, piivate; enr. .Aug. 2.», 1863. 
Laill-I, Jiide A., pr.v.ite ; enr. Auir. 27, 1H63. 
Lane, Stephen ti., privat-': enr. Aug. 1:4, 186.1. 
Bee, Jaiiie- A., private ; enr. July 6, 1863. 
MaiHn, Michael, private; enr. June 3n, 18ftl. 
aiar>hall. Kdniipud, private; enr. Aug. Ti, 18(3. 
Munnt. W'll^Mii, private; enr. Aug. 2o, 1863. 
Malone. Henry, private: enr. July 1, 1863. 
WcUmber, Ceorge, private; enr. Aug. 4, 1.^63. 
Marks, Frank, piivate: enr. Aug. ."i, 1863. 
McNeil. Denioiit. private; enr. July 2.'>. 186.3. 
Parnahm, (ieorge, private ; enr. July 14.1863. 
I'limer, Joseph, juivate; enr. .Inly II. 1.N63. 
Betrie, Thomas, private; enr. Aug. ^7. I^r.l. 
Potter, S\lvester D.. private; enr. Aug. 2!», 186:1. 
Repvfs. .\!/aphin B.. private; enr. July 2n, 1863. 
Bice, W.lliam M., private; enr. July 7, l.-^t^t. 
Kol>in«, Kiig.-ne, private; i-nr. Aug. I, 1863. 
lletl.Julin, pr.vate; enr. July 2T, I8ti:j. 
B-hins, Frank, priv.tte; enr. Aug. ill. 1863. 
Kaltei, Kdward, private; enr. Aug. 17, ISl^J. 



Stark wealher, Henry, private; enr. Ang. 7, 1863. 
i-tilett, ficorgp, piivale; enr. Aug. 1, 1863. 
Srott, l»avtd, private; enr. July o. lS6;t. 
Stokes, JoBeph. private ; enr. Aug. 24, 1863. 
Smith, CorneliuB, private; enr. Aug. 24. 1863. 
Tyler. Heluit. private; enr. Ang. 4. 1S(;:( 
Thomas, Jnlm, private; enr. Aug. 22. 1863. 
Van H.Mt^er. Juhn P.. private; enr. July 16, 1863. 
Van Allen, Cliitilcs. priviile; etii . .Inly 2.'', Isihj. 
Van .\llen, Jiilin, private; enr. July 1«, luf^i. 
Wiilianw, J>'hii, piivate: enr. July" I, 1mk{. 
Weld', Hiil-erl L., piivate ; cm. July 6, ls(}:t, 

CAPT. JOHN CLDWOUTH'S COMPANY. 

Cudwortli, John, capt.; enr. Sept. 3, 186.3. 
McAllaster, William P., 1st lieul.; enr Sept. .3, 1R6.3. 
Bytlor, William Krecl., 2d lient.; enr. .*tept. 3, iMkJ. 
.\naldi'. 1,'vi F., hvrtiX. ; enr. Ang. 4. 1863. 
Ihiiwn. William li,, private; enr. July 2I>. I86:i. 
Brown, Haivey (;.,pri\ale; enr. Aug. 2o, 1m;3. 
Beadle, .Inhii, privdte; enr. .\ug. l.*>, iNt^i, 
Harnett, Benjamin F., Hergt. ; enr, .\ug. 1*», 1863. 
Ci'o>s. Samuel P., piivate ; enr. .Inly 1 1, I^^ht. 
Cox, ThoniMB, piivate ; i>nr. July IS. lMi3. 
(Iiaumont, Leuis, private; enr. July 1, 186.3. 
Cnihh, .Viirton D , private ; enr. Ang. 4. IK63. 
Cuok, Williani II., piivnle; enr. July 31, I8G:I. 
C*Mik, nenrv. piiviite; enr. Aug. 4, 1x63. 
Class, William, private; enr. Ang. 31, 1863. 
Crow den, JiinieH, private; enr. Aug. 2", 1863. 
Chswi'II, Tlmninn, sergt. ; enr. July 2."), 1863. 
Christian, Henry L., tird, ser^t. 
Deiiii, Cliurh'i-, private; onr. Ang. 12, 1863. 
Diiy, Nels'in V.. private; enr. Aug. 17, 1863. 
Dilienheck, John, private; enr. Aug. J7, T 63. 
Dunlap, Samuel, private; enr. Aug. l:i, 1863. 
Diai'ei, Kdnioml, private ; enr. .Aui:. 12, 1863. 
Davis. JanieH. piivate; enr. Aug. 1.% 1863. 
Dowlin, Juseph. piivate ; enr. 1863. 
Karl, Homer, privuto; enr. Ang. 31,1^63. 
Flick, Alexander, private; enr. Ang.2I, 1863. 
Furlony, ThomnB, roip. ; etir. Aug. l/i, 1863. 
tintes, Charlert, private; onr. Aug. l.""!, 1863. 
CJiUeit, Frank, private; enr. Ang. 20, l8t;3. 
(Jardner, .lames G,, coi p. ; enr. Aug. l.'i, 1863. 
Oillett, <.ieoige, private: enr. ,\ng. 1, 1863. 
Hunt, .loliii, private; enr. Ang. 17. 186*. 
Hunt, Henry, private ; enr. .Xug. 27, ls63. 
links, William, iirivate; enr. Aug. 20, 1>G3. 
Housi-, Juhii M,, private; enr. .\ng. 2n, 1863. 
Hancm k, l.utliei J., private ; enr. Aug. 1.'), 1863. 
Harris, William II., private; enr. Aug. 14. I8ti3. 
Holme.-'. (Jeorge H.. coip. ; enr. Aug, l.'i, 1863. 
House, Cliarles, private; enr. Aug. 18. \nG3. 
Klock, Lewi", piivale; enr. Auu. 2-'J, 1863. 
Lany, Itoger, i)rivale ; enr. Aug. lo, 1863. 
Lain, Wesley, piivate; enr. Aug. 15, 1861. 
Lennix, Alfred, wagoner; enr. Aug. 16, 1^63. 
McCunnell, Julin, sergt.; enr. July 3, D>6:i. 
Muckle, Jidin J., hugler ; enr. July 27, 186:*. 
McCidh-m, Fnmcis, private; enr. Aug. 1, 1863. 
Mclntyre, Newlun, private; enr. Aug. 3, 1H63. 
Moshtpr, (.'( arleri F., juivate; eiir. Aug. l.">, I.Kii;(. 
Mclntyre, Christ. ipher. jirivate; enr. .\ug.7, 1863. 
Murphy, lten.iamiii, private; enr, Aug. 12, 186.1. 
McDaiiielp, Cliarles, private; enr. Aug. 11, 1863. 
Manchester, Charh-s, piivate; enr. Aug. 24, 1861. 
Meluiiz, Jcdin, private ; enr. Aug. 28, 1863. 
Jlyers, August, private; onr. 1863. 
Orini'^ton, Tlionia-^, private ; enr. Ang. 2ti, 1863. 
Puwei-s, Morris, private: eur. Aug. 24. I86;t. 
Palmer, Jaiiien 11., private; enr. Aug. 7. 1863. 
Perrigo, .hdin, private : enr. Aug. 8, 1863. 
Perri;:o, Henry, private; enr. Aug. 8, 18C»:J, 
Prindell, Nelson, com. sergt. ; enr. July 1, 1S63. 
Byan, Stephen, private; enr. June 24, 1863. 
Bfidstlale, .lamed, private ; enr. Aug. l.i, 1863. 
BuHsel. William II., private; enr. Ang. 1, 181^.3. 
Huiiyer. Charles, private; enr. Aug. 1o, 1863. 
Kohh, Walt'-r, ii.m.-S'-rgt. ; enr. July 16, 186:J. 
Smith, William, private ; enr. Aug. 2ii, 1863. 
Stanton. Henry M.. private: enr. 1863. 
8prngue, Murcellns, private ; enr. Aug. 13, 1863. 
Sprague, Levi, private; enr. Aug. l.'i, 18113. 
Siiuninnds, LalayelteM., saddler; enr. July 3, 1863. 
Se.MiK'ur, Levi, private; enr. July 31, 1S63. 
Smith, Wrils B., private; enr. Aug. 4, 1863. 
Siiell, Duaiie, piivate; enr. Aug. 15, 186:1. 
Smith. .lames, private ; eiir. June 24, 18(bi. 
Spiakrr. W.lliam J., ci.ip. ; Aug. U, iStiA. 
Trnml.iill. Charles, piivate; enr. Ang. l.\ 186.3. 
Trnman, James F., private; enr. July 2."i, 1863. 
Tail, Thomas, privjile; enr. July 16, i8i;3. 
Taylor, Henr> L'., private; enr." Aug. 18, 1863. 
Van Duseii, Charles H., private; enr. Aug. 1,1863. 
Van Namee, William 1'., Corp. ; enr. July 2, 1863. 
Welch. Osuian, sergl. ; enr. Aui.'. 8, 186.1. 
Wright. Henry J., cnrp ; enr. July Id. 1863. 
Wtuid, Alon/(i, pnvat'*: enr. Aug. n, 1863. 
Wright, SaiiUud, private; enr. Aug. 18,1863. 

CAPT. JACOB S. GATKS' (D) COMPANY. 
Gates, Jacoh .**.. capt.; enr. .\ug. 3, 186t. 
Joy, Seynemr H., I.stseigi.; enr. Aug. 12, 186.3. 
Bandall, Will. H., enr. Aug. 12, 18(>(. 
Cook, H..i:(ce S., ..nr. Aug. 24, l8i;3. 
nn.wM, tJeorge M., eiii. July 31, 1863. 
Curii^, Honitio (t., enr. Aug. 2-*, 1861. 
Hull, AuKtin W., . nr. Aug. II, 186:1. 
O'Coiiner, John, enr. Aug. in, I>63. 
Rnshn-ll, Lester, enr. .\ng. 1!(, 1S63. 
Woidever, .lolin, i-nr. Aug. lu, 1,*'63. 
Noyes. Fr--d., enr. July ',). 186-t. 
Hall, Uiilns C , enr. Ang, '.i, 1863. 
Schnmi, William H., enr. Au;:. 26, 1863. 
.\ds.t, Daniel C.,enr. Aug. 6, 1863. 



Baldwin, De|pvnn R., trnmppter; enr. Ang. ^S, 1863. 
Ilorlon, Cliarle-, trumpeter; enr. Ang. lit, 1863. 
J'dinrion, Levi, riirritT; enr. Aug. 11, l86:t. 
Wood, Iti-n.ianiin U.. larr:er; enr. Aug. 2.''», 1863. 
Allen, Lewis W , private; enr. Ang. I.', 1863. 
-Vyer, Henry, private; enr. Ang. 24. 186:1. 
Arnold, Jacnh, private ; enr. Ang. 21(. iKrkt. 
Bacon, All.ert, private; ear July 0. 1863. 
Poiilyrr, W itiiam. private ; enr. July 21. 1863. 
Brunuui, .loseph M., private; enr. iMIt. 
Biriiey, Michael, private ; t-nr. Aug. 4, 1S63. 
Itubhey, (Jn-tave, private; enr. Ang. Tt, 1861, 
Boivy. Andrew F.. pr vat-- ; enr. Aug. 14. 186.3. 
Burton, Milvm T.. pi Ivate; enr. Aug. 24. 186:*. 
Bicknell. John, private ; enr. Aug. 24, lHi:i. 
Blarknier, Hiiain. ptivate; enr. Aug. 24, 186.3. 
Cronk, Uith»nl, piivate; enr. Ang. 10. 1863. 
Cornwall, K/.ra H., private; enr. July :j(t, 1X6.3. 
Crunk, Will. am, private; enr. .\ug. in, l8f».L 
Clark, Cliarlef<, private; enr. Aug. 8, IH63. 
Cook, Menonis F., private; enr. Aug. 21. 1863. 
Caipenter, Jtdin, private ; enr. Aug. 22, 18li;i. 
('line, .loMcph K., private ; enr. Ang. 21, 186:1. 
DeaniiHon, John, private : enr. July 27, I8(i3. 
Itaik. William H., piivale; enr. Aug. 28. 1863. 
Dunn, William O., private ; enr. Aug. 24, 186;j. 
Khli-, Bichard D., pr.vate; enr. Ang. IH, I«6;i. 
Kggle-ton, Jani'-N E., private; enr. Ang. 24, 1863. 
Fox, Charles, private; enr. June :i(t, I86;(. 
(Jinldanl, K. P.. private ; -nr. Aug. l:i, lH6:i. 
Oarner. Hiram .M., private; enr. .\ug. 24, 186:1. 
H.d.lridj:e, IL-nry. private ; enr. Aug. 10, !K6;i. 
Hoilh,CliaileS It., Jir.vare; enr. Aug, 24, IKi;3. 
Hinckley. D'dos, private; enr. Aug. :i!, 1X61. 
.leiikins, .Jack^on, private ; enr. Aug. 24, 1863. 
Kimson, William, private; enr. Ang. 21, 186:i. 
Lewis, Jfitepli A., private; enr. Ang. 21, 186:1. 
Lr.iklin. Jamef, private; enr. Aug. 2", ^sl'^^. 
Mayo. (Jeoi^ie W., piivate; enr. Aug. Ill, I^tl3. 
Mertili, Charles, pr.vate; enr. Aug. i:{. 1863. 
Moorly, Theodore, private ; enr. Ang. 28, 1H6.3. 
IHartiii. AIaiiM>n. private; enr. Ang. 26, 1863. 
Martin. .losejih H.. pr.vate ; enr. Aui^, 24. 1863. 
Miller, Andrew, private; enr. Ang. 24, 1M'>3. 
Nutting. S nieon. private; enr. Ang. 24, 1863. 
Newell, Willmni, juivate: enr. Aug. 27. 1863. 
I*r ce. James B., |iriv:ite ; cur. July 21. 186:1. 
Pooler, William, prival" ; enr. Aug. 14. i86:i. 
Parish. We^tel, private: enr. Ang. 24. 186;i. 
Price. Wotern M.. privat- ; enr. July 24. 18fi:i. 
Itol.iii'on. Charles B.. piiv..te; enr. Aug. in. 1803. 
KediMond. Joseph, private; enr. Antr. lo. Isili. 
Kaiidall, *_»sc;.r F,, privaf ; enr. Aug. 2!'. isilK. 
Bjtiidall, Daniel C., private; enr. Aug. 2:i. 1863. 
Pterlint;. Alnlphn-, piivale; enr. Aug. 14, l86:t. 
Smith, John, private ; eur. Aug. 12, 1S63. 
Sheeley, Frederick. privat<' ; enr. Aug. 2.'<, 186.3. 
Sihisnn, David, private; enr. Aug. 24. D<ii3. 
Smith, James N., private ; enr. Aug, 2<', 1863. 
Tiihhs, Charles, private; enr. Aug. 13, 186:1. 
Voilni, William H., private; enr. Aug. 24, 1863. 
Wiiitt.nian. Frank A., private; enr, July 7. 1863. 
Wehh.n. Hams.. n. private; enr. Aug. in, 1^63. 
W.ilt/, t h;incey. private; enr. Atig. 24, 1S63. 
Waltz, Andrew, private; enr. Aug. 24. 186:1. 
Warn-n, William, jtrivate ; enr. .Aug. 18, 186:1. 
Williams, .lames, i)rivale; enr. July 2:i. 1863. 
Williams. Allen L,, private ; enr. Aug. 24. 1863. 
York, Nathaniel, private ; enr. Aug. 2. IH63. 

CAPT. N. M. CAUTEUS (E> COMPANY. 
Carter, Norris M.. capt. ; c\iy. Sept. 3, 18t«. 
Budd. Joseph P., private; enr. Ang. 24, 1>;G:1. 
Burne-', Thomas, private ; enr. Ang. 6, 180:1. 
Bradway. Clark, ptivate ; enr. vViig. o, l86:i. 
Carter, W'eltoii 11., pr.vate; enr. Aiig. 17, 1«63. 
Castles, Williiiui, piivale; enr. An-r. 3. 1S6;J. 
dine, W.lliam, private; enr. Aug. 24. 18(V(. 
Covey, David 1.., private; enr. Aug. 24, 186:1. 
Covey, William, private; enr. Ang. 2(>, 186:i. 
Daney, Denuuiis, private; enr. Ang, 8, 1^6:1. 
Diochen, .lohn, private; enr. Ang. M, 1863. 
Ford, Alonzo, i>riVHle; onr. Auk. 8. 1x63. 
Furgason, Orlando, private; enr. July 23, 1863. 
Farr, Viment L., private; enr. July 24, 1803. 
Oowen, Lewis, private; enr. Aug, 4, IMVI. 
Hewitt, Oanteir, private; enr. Aug. il, 18t'.;t. 
Hall, Vincent, private; enr. Ang. IS. lxt;;t. 
Hnngeiford, KH'crt V., private; enr. Ang. 24, 1863. 
Ingalls, John, piivate ; enr. .\ug. \s, ISOf. 
Luther. Martin, private; enr. .Aug. I'.l, 1H6:1. 
l.ang.-tafl. Naihaniel, private; enr. Aug. 2", 1863. 
Luther, ll> ron 51., private; enr. Aug. In. Is(;:i, 
Laigett, S.\Ivi-Ier, private; enr. Aug. :i, ls63, 
Laurence, William, private ; enr. Ang. 2", 1H6.3. 
La Clear, Byron, priv.tte ; enr. July 2'.t, 1S61. 
SIcNally, Jamr K J., private ; i-nr. July '.», 1^6:*. 
Moiiahan, Thomas, private; enr. Aujr. :t, 18tKl. 
McCallop", David E., private; enr. July .">. 1863. 
Market, John, pi ivate ; enr. Ang. 10, ISta. 
3!i(ioWaii, Andrew, piivate; enr. Ang. 24, 1863. 
McGowan, Michael, private; ear. Aug. 14, istut. 
Mnriny. .lanns, pr.vate; enr. Ang. 24. IJ^I^J. 
Neil, lieorge, piivrtle; enr. Aug. 8, lt*63. 

Orniitnii, William, private; eur. Ang. 14, 186:1. 
Bape, Thomas, private ; enr. July 31, lKi«. 
Hape, James, private: enr. Aug. 24, 1x61. 
Bajie, .\ntliony, private; enr. Aug. 24, 1863. 
BjindaU, Watson, pr vate; enr. Ang. 24. 186:1. 
Schnylel. t>rv He, private ; enr. Aug. 12, 186:1. 
Servois, ti'-orge, pr.vate; enr. July :il. 186:1. 
Smith. Michaid. private ; enr. Au;;. In, iwVl. 
Snyder, Alln-rt tL, pr.vale ; enr. Ang. 14, 1863. 
Taylor, George It., pr vale; enr. July 24, 18113. 
Thomiw-.n, Ephniini, private; eur. Aug. 3, 186;t. 
\un Pelt, Samuel, private; enr. Aug. 6, l8l>.t. 



568 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Vrom.n, Cl.«rl»«. rriv»l<- : enr. AiiE. 2". 'Sf^- 
Vi.n Anil.iT, I...n-ii, privale: enr. Aup U, l^fiS. 
Wiser. Ilirjni. i.rivate; em. July », '^[■^•,__,, 
Wii ,,l, Ctsirc-- \V„ |.riv..le ; ciir. Mif. 1 ., IWU. 
W.-nvir, finiitli. priimo: enr. July ;U, 1S63. 
W.««l, Leouant, private: cur. .\ug. 31. ISftt. 
Wilbur, CImrles, liriviile ; enr. Aug. li, i»6;j. 

CAPT. H. II. CARPENTER S COMPANY. 
Canienter, Ilinim H., 1st lieuf. enr. Sopt. S, 1863. 
Lee Luther. Jr.. il lieut. ; enr. Sept. 3, 180.!. 
Acer. Mark, [.rivate; enr. July ■-ti, 18B3. 
A'Ikins. liavi.l A., piiviile; enr. Aug. 24, 18fi3. 
Adams John T.. pr.vate; enr. Aup. M, 180'. 
Alexander. E<l»»r>l, private; enr. July i, 1803. 
Anilrns, Joliu. pr.vate; eur. Aug. iS ISO I. 
Alik's. I hri"l an. private: enr. Aug. ii, 1803. 
Bi'iijaluin, Jarub. private; enr. .\ug. 8, 1803. 
Basset. John, private; enr. July 7, 1803. 
Itaker. Ueor^-c W., pr.vate ; enr. June 3U, l'<«3. 
I haumont. UiKjrge \V., p:ivate: enr. Aug. 27, 1803. 
Cater, Jinies, private: enr. July :!i 180:1. 
Cater, <Je..rge, private ; enr. July i!, 1863. 
CnBB, AutliMuy, pri>ate; enr. July 27, 1803. 
Cranker, George W., private: enr. Aug. 31, 18l«. 
C.untryman, Joeepli, (.rivate; enr. Aug. 24, 1803. 
Cwinan, Tli"iuas, private ; enr. Aug. 24, 180:1. 
CroiSJint, E.l«anl, private; enr. Aug. 29, 1801. 
Cnusani, Lewis, private; enr. July 20, 180:1. 
Class, J.-fferSKU. private; enr. Aug. 3U, 180:1. 
Kiah-r, Slepllen R , private; enr. Aus. 28, 1803. 
Farrell. J'lin, private ; enr. July 22, 18W. 
Gilletl, Phenius II., private; enr. Aug. 27, 186.3. 
fieorge. Henry U., private; enr. Aug. 24. l-W. 
l|..gab.»in, Archal.le, private: enr. Aug. ■.;». 1803. 
Harri.*, Patrick, private; enr. .\ug. 24, 186:1. 
Hartnion, lieniy, private; enr. Aug. 21, 180:1. 
ILiriler, Charles I., private ; enr. July .•>, 1803. 
Johns, Janii-9, private; enr. July 7, 1803. 
Jura, Juliu., private ; enr. July 27, 1803. 

Lee, .liihn, priv.ite ; enr. July 1", 186:1. 

L- wis, Janii'S I., pi ivate ; enr. July 0, 1801. 

MiHire, Martin D., priv.ite; enr. July 2li, 1803. 

Jliller. llaiiiel 1>., private ; enr. Aug. 28, 180:1. 

Jlel'ann, Ceorge W., private; enr. Aug. 22, 1S03. 

Neinyer, Harvey, pr.vate ; enr. Aug. 24, ISOt. 

I'r.mly. Ileury A., private; enr. .\ug. 21, 186:1. 

Ried.Cliailes, |>rivale; enr. July 27, 1863. 

Kipley, Calvin C, pr.vate; enr. July 21, 1803. 

Rcvfoid, Andrew, private; enr. July 28, 186:;. 

Riiy, Lewis, private; enr. July 2a, 1861. 

Ke..<l, Eugene, private; enr. July 22,180-3. 

Kilter, Jlalthias, private; enr. .\ug. 24, 1803. 

KuH..el, Lemuel, priv:ae; enr. July 21, 1861. 

Keeil, Jemitin, private; enr. July -ill. 1861. 

Ryan. John J., private; eur. July 18, 1801. 

Kiynol.ls, Willam, private; enr. July 18, 1803. 

Slaek, Jjl« ani S., private ; enr. July 20, 186 •. 

Saff.ir.l, William H., private : enr. July 2 i, U6:l. 

Siinuns. Diiaue E., private: enr. July 2", 180:1. 

Sherman, B.nj.iinin, private; eur. July 2", 186.3. 

Swan, Clark, [.rivate ; enr. Aug. 31. 186:1. 

Sayli-s, lleujaliiin, pr.vate; enr. Aug. 27, 1863. 

Smith, Darius U., pr.vate ; eur. Aug. 2'.l, 1861. 

Shannon, Andrew, private; enr. .\iig. -U, 1861. 

Sim|»>n, Truman, private; enr. Aug. :ll, 1^0:1. 

Thonili-on, Charles A., private; enr. Aug. 24, 180.3. 

Tuvlor, Riifus C, private ; eur. Aug. 24, 1861. 

Ta'rrey, Jo-eph A., private; eur. July 20, 1863. 

Towsley. Eli. p ivate; enr. July 2.'i, 1861. 

Towsby, James, private ; enr. July 27. 1863. 

Warner, Silvauus, p ivate; enr. Ang. 1(1, 1863. 

Wagner, Nonuaii, private; enr. Aug. 24, 1803. 
Wright. James, private ; enr. July 7, 186:1. 
WashlKiurn, llir.im, private ; eur. Aug. 20, l.tK. 
Wilkenson, Henry, private; enr. Aug. 2*J, 1803. 

CAPT. HENRY C CHITTENDEN S COMPANY. 
Cliitlenden, Henry C, ciptan ; enr. Sept. 3, 1863. 
lluller, Thonia- II.. 2d I.eut.; enr. Sept.:!. ISlil. 
Ilaillev, lleniy, private; enr. Aug. 2.'i, 1801. 
ArresenI, Joa.pli, private; enr. Aug. 24, 180:1. 
Broum, Allred G., private; enr. Aug. :i, 1801. 
liniwn, James M., pr.vate; eur. Aug. 2.'>, 186:1. 
Hi'tls, Willi.ilu H.. private; enr. Aug. Ill, 186:1. 
Hanks, George H., private; enr. Ang. 2.1, 1803. 
Brown, J.ihn, private ; eur. Aug. 24, ISO!, 
lleebee, Sardis, private; enr. .\ug. 24, 180!. 
Brown, .Matthew M., privale; enr. Aug. 21, 186:1. 
Ciaie, Alfred J., private; enr. Aug. 2.1, IS61. 
Cunuofs, John, pr.vate; enr. Aug. 8, 1861. 
Cfluntryman, Jaeob, private; eur. Aug. 24, 1803. 
Odlin-. Wm. II.. p ivate; .nr. Aug. ij, 18IU. 
Coiintrvman, Alirahani, private; enr, Aug. 24, 1803. 
Connor, John, private; enr, Ang. 24, 186:1. 
Ihi 1. Jaiue*, privale ; enr. July 18, 180:1. 
Peiiinler, Amos, jirivate; enr. June '2.1, 180:1. 
Empni'-y, Job E , pr.vate; enr, Aug, i>, IstKl. 
GuuM, (liarle*. privale; enr, Aug, 24. ISIWl. 
Gniv, Thoma.i. privale; enr, Aug. 24, 1861. 
Gregor, SelMStiau, private; enr. .\ug, 24, 1863. 

Hiniuan. Waller «'., iirivale; enr, July 18, 1861. 

Ilaniillon.tiiiiige, priv.ite: enr, Aug. lu, 18i£l. 

Ilunilin. Williiini, privite; enr, Aug, 2".l, ISIWI. 

H illou. John, iirivate; eur, Aug. i'l, 186!. 

Il.-rth, iMiir'iulss, private; enr. Aug, 21, 1803. 

Jones, Ahraiii, Iirivate; elir. Ang, 2,i. 18ri:l. 

Leonard, .MI'erl, privale; enr, Aug, 21, 180:1. 

I.a|intrie, Joseph, private; enr. Seid, I, 180:1. 

1,01 k, Alanson, private; enr. Aug. 24, 1861. 

Maloliev. Thomas, private; enr. Aug, 20, 180:1. 

Ma-ter-', William, privale: enr, Aug, 20. 1863. 

P.-piHT, Edwanl. private; enr, Aug. 24, 1863. 

Powell. Alvin, priv.ite; enr. Ang. 21, 180:1. 

lUy, Cliarles, pr.vate; enr, Aug, 24, 1861, 



Spencer, Joseph, private; onr. Ang. 28, 1863. 
St John, Pel'r, privale; enr, Aug. 24. 1>6!. 
Tooliy, Patrick H.. private ; eur. July Ifl, 186:1. 
Tewell. George L., private; enr. Aug. o, 18l«.l. 
Tibliii-s. Will am C. private; enr. Ang. :i1. 1863. 
Tinieriiuin. John, private ; enr, Aug, 24, l^^'- 
Van Wallok. William, private; enr, Aug. IS, 186.3. 
Walker, Lewis, private; enr. Aug. 2.1. 186:1, 
Wilson, Henry II.. private; enr, Aug. M, 1863. 
Wilson, John, private ; eur. Aug, 24, 1803. 

CAPT, J. BOWER PRESTON, JRS, COMPANY. 

Preston. J, Bower, Jr, capt, : enr. Sept, 4, 1803. 
SlHMicer, James M,, 2d licul. ; enr. Sept, 4, 1861. 
Bloilgett, Samuel, private ; enr. Aug, il. l.'<63. 
Biiscue, Charles, private: enr. .Vug. 8, 1863. 
CI06S, John Il„ private: eur, Aug. 28, 1863. 
G.HSiene.iigh, William H,, private ; eur. July 18, 18C3. 
Houk, Thomas, private : enr. Aug, 31. 1803. 
Legate, Edward, private; enr. July 18, 18<»1. 
Legate, Harvey P., private; enr. July 18, 1803. 
Morgan, Lviuan, private; inr, Aug. 18, 180:1. 
Piikil, Earl, privat ; enr, .\ug, 31, 1863, 
Reynold, Gilbert, private ; cur, .\ug. 28, 1863. 

CAPT. J. J. CARROLL'S (I) COMPANY. 

Aspinwall. Jiweph A., pi ivate ; enr. Sept. 1, 1803. 
Ault, llirHin, private; enr. Sept, 2. 180:! 
Andrew, Slieriiiati, privale; enr. Sept, 17, 1863. 
Barrett, Michael, private ; enr, Aug. 27, 1863. 
Bailey, Harvey, jirivate ; eur. July 9, 18t>!. 
Biiltou, George H,, pr.vate; enr. Sept, 16. 1863. 
Br..«u. Reuben, private; enr. Aug. 14, 1803. 
Cadw. 11, Eilwanl J.. private; eur, Aug, 2, 'SOS 
Canieiiler. Samuel W.. private ; enr, Aug. 22, 1803. 
Cutler, Deforest, pr.vate; enr. Sept, 4, 186:1. 
David, James, private ; eur. Sept. 7, 186.3. 
Dewey, James, private; enr. Aug, 21, 1863. 
iKine, Ileiirv, private ; eur. Sept. 11, 1863. 
Davis, John S., private; enr. Si-pt. 7, 1S6.3. 
Eaton, Edward E., piivate ; enr, Aug, 23, 1863. 

Farmer. Peter, privale ; enr. Sept, 10. 1803. 
Ferguson, llenrv S„ private; enr, Sept. 12. 186:1. 

Kit7.1«tiick, Pan ick, private; enr. June 2o, 1863. 

Heald, Ila\ wiaid H.. privale; enr. Sept. 4, 1863. 

James, Isaixh H., private ; eur, Sept. 10, 1863. 

Jury, Ferdinand, private; enr. July 10, 1863. 

Jones, David, private; enr. Aug, 0, 1863. 

Mishow, Joseph, private; enr, Aug, 27, 1863. 

Pai ker, John, pr.vate ; enr. Aug. s, 1863. 

Parker, Dewitt H., private ; enr. July 25, 1863. 

Patrick, Marcus, private ; enr. Sept, 10, 1861. 

Strattoii, John, private; enr, Sept. .1, 186:1. 

Simpson, Robert, private : enr. Sept. 4, 180:i. 

Smith, Edward 11., private; enr, Sept. 14, 1863. 

Sypher, George, private; eur, Ang, 7, 1863. , 

Smith, Newell, private; enr, Seld. 3, 186:1. 

Wilcox, Samuel B,, private; enr, Aug. 24, 186.3. 

Washburn. George, private: enr, Aug. 20, 1863. 

Welsh, Joseph, private; enr. Aug, 8, 1^6:1. 

Veeder, Bvron, private; enr, .Vug, 29, 1863. 

McGrath, Levi, private; enr. Sept. 4, 186:1. 

CAPT. S. L. BRIDGEFORD S (K) COJIPANY. 

Armstrong, John, private; enr. Ang, 22, 1863. 
Brooks, Thaildeus, private; enr. July 31, 180:1. 
Babcoek, John K., priv.ite; enr, Sipt. 15, 180:1. 
Chuichill, Cyrus, pi ivate ; onr. Sept. 4, 1861. 
Dene, Robert, private ; enr. .\ng. 19, 1803. 
Elkins, William H., private; enr, Sept, 12. 1863. 
Elderkin, George E., private; enr. Sept, 14, 1863. 
Elkins, George .M., private ; eur, Sept. 12, 186.3. 
F.sher. Eiekiel, piivate; enr. Sept, 14. 1861. 
Gislil. Eilward. private ; enr, Seid, 15, 1861. 
G ff-.rd, William 11,, pr.vate; enr. .Sept. 14, 1803. 
Gardner, Erwin, j.rvate: enr, Sept. 17. 1861. 
Hadsele, Kliab, j.rivate; enr. Sept, 14, 1863. 
H.ill, Willi.im. privale; enr. Aug. lu, 1863. 
Horo, Williiim (i.. peiv.ite; .\ug, 22, 1861. 

Ilo'idav, Sherbone, private; enr. Sejit. 1, 186.3. 
Jackson, John J„ private ; Sept. 14, 1863. 

Leslie, George, piiv..ite ; enr, S<'p!. lo, 1863. 

Larkin, Edward D,, private; eur, Aug, 18, 1863. 

Lane, .Vdson, private ; enr. Sept, 1, 1-63, 

Mar I in. Enos, private ; enr. Sept, 7, 1861, 

Myers, Peter, private ; enr, Aug, 20, 1863. 

Moore, James, private; enr. Sept, 12, 1863. 

tVHara, Peter, private ; enr. Sept, 15, 1861. 

Ilsborne, Sihuyler, private; enr, S.pt, 9, 1863. 

Pinker, George, privale; enr, .Vug. 29. 1863. 

Rider, Ellis, privale; enr, S.pt, 8, ISltl, 

Reynolds, Daniel \., privale; enr, Aug, 24, 1863. 

K\an, Maurice, privat-- ; enr. Sept. D'>, I81VI, 

Risal, Aaron M , private; enr, S«pl. 14, 1803. 

Reed, James, private; enr Sept, 10, 1861. 

Scott, Egbert, private: enr. Aug. 20, 1863, 

Shaul, t^hauncey, pr.vate ; enr. Sept, 14, 1863. 

Strait. John, privale; enr. Sept, 14,1861, 

Shoefelt. Jefferson, piivate; eur, Aug. 18, 1863. 

Tasc.tt. Henry, pr.vate; enr, SepI, 1, 186,1, 

Thomln-jn. Alb. rt. private ; eur, Aug, 24, 186,3. 

Van Antweni, .lac..li. private; enr, Aug. 20, 1803. 

WatU, Edward, pnvale ; enr, Aug. 1.1, 180.1. 

Wrighl. Henry, private ; enr. July il, 1861. 

Winnie, Walter, privale; enr. Aug. 20, 1803. 

CAPT, J, FLOYD THOMPSON'S (L) COMPANY. 

Austin, Charles, priv.ite ; enr, Aug, 28, 1861, 
Aldiick, Wat,s .n, private; enr. Sept, '22, I8l'i:l. 
Cunimii.s, nrvis, private; enr, S.pt, 12, 180:1. 
Colter. George, private ; enr. Sept. 22, 1803. 
Cnmmiugs, James, private ; enr. Aug. 23, 180.3. 
Goltlanil, Jaiuis, private ; enr. Aug. 2U, 1863. 



Graves, Joseph, priTBle; enr. Ang. il, 1803. 
Hart, Heliiy II., private; enr. Sept. 12, 1863. 
Hafl, Jacob, private; enr. July 8, 186:1. 
Hawley. Deieiizie R., private; enr. Sept. 15, 1S63. 
Uoni Leonard, private; enr. Aug, 2o, 180:1. 
Ingerson. L. M., private; enr, Aug, 2U, 1863. 
IngliBS, Hiram, pr.vate; enr. Aug. 211, 1861, 
Lyons, Alb.-rt, pi ivate ; enr, Sept. 16, 1861. 
Lang, William \V,, private; enr, Selit. 11. 1803. 
Narv, Bernard, privale : enr. Sept. 12, 180:1. 
Phiili|<s. Richaiil, private; eur, Aug. 1:1, 11-63. 
Rood, (ieorgc W,. private ; enr. Aug, .1, 1861. 
Spring, Michael, piiv.ite; enr, Ang, 24, ISO!. 
Thurston, George, private; enr. S<pt. 4. 186.1. 
Thonitou, Daniel, private; enr. Si'pt. 18, 1861. 
Ihaver. Henry, private : enr. S.|it. 17, 1861. 
Tripp, Rns-iell, privale ; enr. .Vug, 211. 1861, 
I'tlev, William S„ private; enr. Sept. 16, 1863. 
Waril, George, private ; enr, Si'pt. 2U, 1S6:1. 
Wescott, D. P., private; eur, Sept. 21, 186:!. 

CAPT. FRED, STEWARTS (M) COMPANY. 

Stewart, Fred, capt.; enr, 180:1, 
Albertson, Josiali, private; eur, Ang. 29, 1863. 
Anderson, Henry, private; enr. Sept, 2, 186:1. 
Brown, James J,, private ; enr. July 28, 1803. 
Bricknell, James Jl., private; eur. July 28, 1863. 
Biirpinger, Jam. s, private ; eur. Jnue JO, 1803. 
Beale, Fred,, private; eur. Ang, :!o, 180:1. 
Colboun, John, i.rivnte; enr. M-pt. 7, 1803. 
CiKik, William J., (irivale ; enr. Sept, 2.1, 1863. 
Chapmiiu, Austin, private; enr. Sept. 2.1, IStB. 
Chapman, llai man, private; eur. Sept, 29, 1863. 
Dodge, Warren, private ; onr. Sept. I'J, 1863. 
Finuegan, Dav.d, piivate; enr. Sept. 20, 186:1. 
Ford, F. Wayland, private ; enr. July 1, 1863. 
Fort, Peter, private; enr. Aug. 15, 1861. 
Golden, William, privale; enr. Sept. 21, IfC-l; 
Goodeuough, Melviii, private; enr. Sept. 14, 1863. 
HoiTinan, George B,, private; enr, .Vug. 27, 1863. 
Hnglu*, John, private; enr, Aug. In, ISO-l. 
Hubt.anI, William, private; enr, July 14, 1863. 
Hough, Nelson, pr.vate; enr. Sept. ;'J, 1S61. 
HnKhe>. William W,, private; enr, Aug. lu, 1863. 
Kipler, Franklin, pi ivate ; eur. Sept, 23, 1803. 
Kipler, William, |.iivale; enr, Aug. 6, 1503, 
Leslie, Jos ph, privale ; enr. Sept. 27, 1863. 
Muiiroe, David A., private; enr. July 1", 1863. 
McCue, Alolizo. private; enr. Sept, 2'.l, 1863, 
Matthew, Josi-lh, i.rivate; enr, Ang, 17, 1863. 
Nutting, Omllc, private; enr. Sept, 4, 1863. 
Nutting, Eugene, privale; enr. Sept. 26, 1S63. 
Noble, ( hiiries H,, private; enr. Sept. l,i, 1803. 
Newell. GiHirge, pr.vate ; enr. Sept, 2(1, 1863, 
Pfisher, Michael G., piivate; enr. Sept. 14, 1863. 
Penigo, David, private; enr. Aug. :!, 1861. 
Rexlord, Daniel, privale; enr. Sept. 15, 186). 
R..I1I., John, privale ; enr. June 2s, 1861. 
Routhwell, William, pr.vate; em. Sept. 29, 1863. 
Sterling, Joseph, piivate ; enr. Sept. 28, 18t>3. 
Smith, Frank, |.riv.ite: eur. Sept. 21, 186:1. 
Stuilh, Chiis. J., private; enr. Sipt- 27, 1863. 
Smalley, George, private; enr. Sept. 27, 1863. 
Slate, Chester, private; enr. Aug, 10, 186:1. 
Smith, George W., private; enr. Sept, 30, 1863. 
Tilt, .Vlv.n. privale; enr. Aug. 25, 1861. 
VaiiWormcr, Austin, private; enr. Sept, 26, 1803. 
Watkins, Pliilo, private ; enr. Sept, 22, 1861. 
Weldou, Edson, private ; eur. Oct. 7, Iso:!. 

24TH CAVALEY. 
CAPT. N, W. PALMER'S ^B) COMPANY. 

McDonald, Frank, private ; eur. Dec. 21, 1861. 

CAPT. CAL\IN BLBCirS COMPANY. 
Howe, Dudley G,, 1st serg, ; enr, Dec. -22. 1861. 
Baker, lainiunt .M„ Corp. ; enr, Dec. 28. 186:1. 
lliist 1, Eugene, private; enr, Dec. '25, 1863. 
Cox, 1-oren T,. private; enr. Dec. 28, 186:1. 
Gardner, Nathan C,, ]irivale ; enr, Jiin, 1, 1864. 
James, Harvey, private; enr, DiK-, 27, 1*'61. 
Keiiyon. I,evi" 1.,, private ; enr, Dec, 25, 1863. 
Jliles. Luther, private; enr, Jan, 1, 1801, 
Morri-1, Eugene M,, private; enr. Di^:. 31, 1863, 
Wilt-ox, Malcolm W.. |irivate; enr. Jan. 4, 18('h|, 
Day, Henry C. (killed uil the care, Iirivate; eur, Dec. 

24, 1863. 



25TH CAVALEY. 

CliMl'ANY II, 

Flvnn, William, private ; eur. July 5, 1864. 
McMullan, James, iirivate; enr. March 24, 18G4. 

1ST EE3. VETEEAN (1-TH) CAVALEY. 

CAPT, J, WHITLEY, JIfS., (B, COMPANY. 

Ilinii nn, George W., sergt. ; enr, Ang. 19, 1863. 
Huggins, Andrew P ,, con' ; I'nr. Aug, 14, 1863. 
Webb, Ihari™ O., c..ri>, ; enr, July 17, 1863. 
Hiislett, William, cor]'. ; enr, Aug. 6, 1861, 
Heath, tlrvive, tiumiK-ter; enr, Aug, 12, 1863. 

Wright, Ijiusing, wagi r; enr, Ang, 11, 1801. 

Bndl.iug, Klias J,, iirivate; enr, Aug, 19, 1861. 
Dickinson, Monroe, privale; enr. Aug, 19, 1803. 
Earl, Aloli/,o, private; enr, July :i(), 180:1. 
Gre.n, Denning, private; enr, Aug, 11, 1863. 
Horr, t.>tis 1... private; enr, Aug, 1, 1S0.1. 
Hitchcock, Jos.ph A,, private; enr, Aug, 1.1, 1863. 
Harr.s, Daub I S,, piivate; enr. .\ng, 12,1861, 
llur,b'WiM>.l, Eilwanl, private; enr, July 17, 1803 
Hunt, llaunikHl D., private; enr, July 10, 1863. 



HISTORY OF JEFFKRSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



5C9 



Kilbunif Joseph, private; enr. Aug. 7, 1861. 
Lee, AllMjri R., privnic; enr. iiqit. •*, HtK. 
Mngoveni, Tliunia-. p ivate; enr. Anp. |0, 186:1. 
Mfiizifs, Uohurl, priviit-; t-nr. Aug. 17, lJSti-1. 
McCfiy, Patrick, privaip; enr. Aui. 'l'\, IKiJt. 
fllcCuri.v. (ic'iirt;;!*, privnitf ; enr. -Ang. 'i^;, lS*».t. 
O'Uri^Mi. KicliiiKi. priviit*-; enr. Aug. ID. lt$<>l. 
I'risJley, .M;u>li;(ll U., priviit- ; enr. Jnty IK. 1863. 
Potter, <;eurgi- A., pr.vati.-: (-nr. .Vug. In, l»o3. 

CAl'T. KDWIX I). COMdTOCK'S (K^ OtSirAXY. 
Harmon, Uilbert J., st-rgt. ; enr. Sept. 17, l8tU. 
Hanitilin. William U., nergt.; enr. Sept. 14. \WA. 
Ituudrt-llc, Ktlwaiil, private; enr. ^^t•]>t. dfl, I8UJ. 
t'nrtis, Kilwjinl. jiriv.tio; enr. Sept. Ij, l^tW. 
FHtni'T, William F., pr.VHl*-; enr. Sept. 17, 18C3. 
Ktirmer, JanieM C, jirivato; enr. Sept. ■.i4, lhG3. 
Foley, Patrick, private; enr. Sept. 24, I8ftj. 
McKiine, Milo, priv.ite; enr. S«'pt. 'Zi\, l8i;-(. 
Xicliols, Colonel C, private ; enr. Sept. Ill, 186:i. 
Plietteitlace, Ani:w>i, private ; enr. Sept. 'J. '., IKO-J. 
Stedman, Wjirren U., private; enr. Sept. IS, 1801. 
S'iniri*, XelHMii U., private; enr. Sept. I9,l8(i.t. 
Seymour, Ail>lpliufi, private; enr. S-pt. ".iti, l8(;.t. 
Wilson. Willard W., private ; enr. Sept. 14, 186(. 
Wtuslilmrne, Wens. V. V., private ; enr. Sejit. 7, 1803. 
IJcHU, Kranklm, pr.v-ite ; enr. Sept. 'Id, 18*a. 
McOillunt. Iianiel, private; enr. Oct. 3, 18ttt. 
Sharp, Janien L., jirivate ; enr. Sept. 24, 18G1. 
Freeman, Jii^eph, private ; enr. Sept. I'J, 18*>;i. 
Nai^h, Charles 1!., ]trivate ; enr. Sept. 24, l8(Jt. 
Oderkirk, Siniou, private; enr. Sept. II, isia. 
Wright, Orlando, private; enr. Sept. 19, 1kg;, 
Tliompson, William, private; eur. Sept. 20, 1863, 

26TH EEG. FEONTIER ) CAV. N. Y. VOLS. 

*;Ai'T. H. K.TLUNEUS INDKPKNUKNTC0.(Nu.2). 
Turner, Henry E., capt. ; enr. Feh. 22. I8<ii;>. 
Allen, Wiiliam A., private; enr. Feb. 14, 1865. 
Riird, t'liriHtupher, private ; enr. Jan. 31, 1865. 
B.-cker, Marcus C, piivate; unr. Feb. 17, 1865. 
Itaxti-r, William, private; enr. Feb. 2, ISOJ. 
llenbll. Van Keiisiielaer, priv.ite; enr. Feb. 9, 18G5. 
liirton, Wll.ani, private; enr. Feb. 7, 1805. 
Itowen, Ah-i, private ; enr. Feb, y, 1K6,%, 
Bowen, Levi, private; enr. Feb. If, 1S6.J. 
Cliius, Asa H., private ; enr. Jan. 31, 1805. 
CU-nmn^, i)ri*». priv;ite; enr. Jan. :il, ISO.'). 
Clemomi, IJeorge, i»riv.ite; enr. Keb. 2, 1805. 
IJefore, Charles E., ]»rivate; enr. Jan. IT, 1805. 
Devendorf, Ervvin U., privat*?; enr. Feb. 21, 1865. 
>^lick, Jacob II., private; enr. Jan. 17. 1K4».'>. 
ENwTth, .Vsa A., jirivate; enr. Keb. U, ISC^. 
Farrell, Michael, private; enr. Feb. 14, 18<"o. 
Farr, Perley, |»nvate: enr. Feb. 15,1805. 
Orimn, Albert W., private; enr. Jan. 17,1^05. 
Morton, (lliver, pri*'ate; enr. Jan. 2 ', 1805. 
Hays, S doin.in E., private; enr. Jan. 17, 1805. 
ilazelton, Oliver V. V., private; eur. Kel». 12. 1865. 
Ilerrick, Wallace H., private; enr. Feb. 14, 1865. 
Klock, Litui, p-ivatc: enr. Jan. 31, 1805. 
Luc;u3, Menort I)., private ; enr. Jan. 17, 1805. 
Lariby, Pitt U.. private; enr. Feb. 4, 1865. 
ljO-*ii*, William I., private; enr. Feb. 22,1865. 
Nariurt". Lewi'*, private ; enr. Feb. H, l8(l."i. 
Porter, David, private; enr. Jan. 28, 1865. 
Parker, Antuine B., private; enr. Jan. 17, 1805. 
Paj'ne, Eugene S., private; enr. Feb. 9, 1865. 
Roiiinaon. Uaac .\., j'rivate; enr. Felt. 13, 1865. 
Itydor, tJeurge, M.l).. privsite ; enr. Fell. 14, 1805. 
Sutter, Henry C. private; enr. Fob. 15, 180.i. 
Some-, Wright E., private; enr. Keb. 2, 1865. 
Smith, Albert T., private; enr. Feb. 1>, 18(;5. 
Smith, Tliounis, private; enr. Feb. 'J, 180^. 
Safford, Bestir S., private; enr. Feb. 10, 1865. 
Taliiwli, William, private; enr. Keb. 7, 1805. 
Weller. Anioi*», private; enr. Feb. 2, 1805. 
William-, <; -urge W., Jr., private ; inr. Feb.^>, 1865. 

1ST REGT. N. Y. LIGHT ART. VOLS. 

CAPTAIN JOHN W.TAMBLIN'StC; COMPANY. 

Tamblin, J.diu W , capt.; enr. Aug. 4, 1S61. 
Barnes, AIniout, l^t li>'Ut.; enr. Aug. 4, IKOI. 
C Mip.T, Williiini S., 2d lient. ; enr. An;:. 4, 1861. 
PliiiJipS William H.. 1st sergt. ; enr. Aug. 4, 1861. 
Ing raon, William K., «i.-m.— ergt.; enr. Aug. 4, 1801. 
MiincUfBtt-r, Oeorg-* N., ser^t. ; enr. .\ug. In, 1801. 
HH/.lelnn, J-imesi B , 8<"rgt ; enr. Au_'. lil, ISOI. 
D.Klge, Horace tl., Si'rgt. ; enr. .\ug. Id, iKOl. 
Thierry, I*ouis C, i»ergt, ; enr. Aug. 4, isoi. 
Blown, Ab-.xander, Corp.; enr. .\«g. 10, iKOl. 
Mngsey, Wdl am C, Corp.; enr. .\ug. 15, 1861. 
Ganliier. Cliatbs E., Corp.; eur. Aug. 15, 1861. 
Coelinin>-, Wallace L., Corp.; enr. Aug. 15, 1861. 
Ciiblwt-ll, Albert W.. c-irp. ; enr. Aug. 20, !801. 
Allen, Kr-**lerick .\ , corji. ; enr. Aug. 21, 1861. 
Barbry, W.ilt-r. crp.; enr. Aug. 24. 1861. 
Barnuni, Miltoi, corp. ; i-nr. Sept. 25, IKOI, 
Si>per, Jame-' R., bugb-r; enr. Aug. 2((, IKOl. 
Beeboi-, Eugene, bugler; enr. Aug. In, 1861. 
tJorniley, Matthew, artift.er; eur. Aug. 15, 1861. 
Bennett, George T , art licer; enr. Aug. H», 1801. 
Bnssiiot, John \V., wjigiuier: enr. t>ct. I. 1801. 
Buckley, John, pr.vate ; enr. Oct. 1, 1801. 
Brown, John, private; enr. Aug. 20. 1861. 
Brown, Levi, priv^ttf ; enr. .\ug, 2(f, 18i;l. 
C**8e, Alfred J., priv ite ; enr. Oct. 10, 1S61. 
Clark, John, pr.v.ite; enr. .\u^. in, IsOI. 
Clark. Montgomery E., private; em. Oct. 1, 1861. 
Cole, David. privat-; enr. Oct. lo. 1801. 
Chi-«b<dm, .\lexander. prvati- ; enr. (Kt. 18, 1861. 
('roi«ant, Edward, priv.ite: enr. Oct. !». 1801. 
Cniig. William, private; enr. Oct. 9, 1801. 

38 



Deifthnn. Edwnrd, prirate; enr. Ani?. ID. 1861. 
Diitcher, Ot^irgr H , privalo; enr. Ort. I'l, I8C1. 
Dyer, <l8niari, priviicc; enr. Auk. 1", IWJI. 
Hiirl, .Kilili 1. , priviili'; I'lir. Aug. In, Dull. 
EckiT, Loreiiz.., private; enr. (»<■(. 5, 1K|;I. 
Kvrri'tl, llui ill. piiviHe; enr. Kvpl. 29, mcl. 
Kelt, llriins.<n, piivsite; .nr. Anc. 15, IWU. 
Koriii.t, lie WillC, primle; enr. 0.1. I, Isr.I. 
GiilloWHV, CImnii. ey .M., private ; enr. Aug. 17, 1H4J1. 
tJale", \Villjaiii T., jirivale; enr. Aug. 17, IW.l. 
Cfhoca, (ieorge W,, private; enr. Oct. 1, Isiil. 
4ji[itH>ti, Ji'hti C., privare; enr. Aug. U>, IKI'il. 
GilluKpie, tieiirge (;.. private; enr. Aug. lU, IMJl. 
(jt^ty, J"-epli, private; i-nr. Oct. I, IsCiI. 
tjuiiinnp, Thoniaf, private; enr. Oet. :^ IKOl. 
Ilart>ini««>ii, Ije.irge W,, ]ti*ivute ; enr. Aug. lit, 1M!I. 
Hanvenniil), Diiaiie, private; ■■nr, Oct. 1, 18fil. 
Hauvernittii, Charlfn, private; i-nr. ftct. 1. ItMJl. 
Heath, Jiinie^ 1,., private ; eui'. Oct. b. IHtil. 
Heath, Charlea, private ; enr. Oct. •'», Isill. 
Hoyzer, .luhn, private; enr. Aug. 10, l«lil. 
Hoover, tienrge D., private; enr. Aug. HI, 1861. 
IIulchinMtn, Henry, private; enr. Oct. 1, ISCl. 
IngcrHun, lieorge N., private; enr. Oct. 1, 1861. 
Kelley. William P., piivate ; enr. Oct. 8, 1861. 
Kinihall. Karley, private; enr. Oct. 8, 1861. 
I«iril»y, Jusepli, private; enr. (.let. 1, 1861. 
Laurence, W illiani, private; enr. Aug. 1(1.1861. 
Li Febiire, Cheiy, piivate; enr Oct. 10, 1861. 
l.ee. John, private; enr. tK't. :t, 1861. 
Lnndernian, Eilwartl, private; enr. Sept. 28, 1861. 
Marrelln-, .lohii W., private; enr. Oct. 18, 1861. 
BIcLei-h, .hiseph K , pr.vate ; enr. Aug. 2u, 1861. 
McOniher. Ufavitt., private; enr. Oct. 1, 1861. 
MrCrea, Janied H., private ; enr. Oct. 10, 1S61. 
Jliller, John, private; enr. Oct. 10,1861. 
Morrow, Henry, private; enr. Oct. 1, 1861. 
Bloree, Fniiicii I.., private; enr. .\iig. lo. 1861. 
M..nl.l. Henry D.. private; enr. Oct. 5, 1861. 
Miiqili.v, Gi^jrge H, private; enr. Aug. Ill, 1801. 
NapHa, John, [irivate ; enr. Oct. .S, 1861. 
OJlierl, Klelclier.privale; enr. Oct. 1, 1801. 
Oilell. Ceiirge, private; enr. .Vug. In, 18l'il. 
Parhani, (ieorge W., privati-; enr. Aug. 1", 1801. 
ituiiiTi, Biirnartl, private ; enr. Oct. 1, 1861. 
Keed, Henry L., private; iiir. .\iig. lu, 1801. 
Revi»-re, Knincia J., private; enr. .Aug. 10, 1861. 
Kliiner, Charle;!, private; enr. .\iig. In, 1861. 
Khuhart, .lohn, private; enr. Oct. 1, 1861. 
Rhulurt, ll-nry H., private; enr. Oct. 1, 1801. 
Bohert", Georte \V., private ; enr. Oct. 1, 1861. 
Seymour, t.'harles H., private; enr. -Vug. In, 1801. 
Spriiig..lien, Franiin W., private; enr. Aug. 10, 1801. 
Talnian, Amo< (*., private; enr. .\ug. 10. 1801. 
Tliomai:, Coleman, private; enr. Oct. 1, 1861. 
Towsley, Eli. private ; enr. Oct. 10, 1801. 
Tousley. Uirani, private; enr Oct. 12, 1801. 
Tripp, i'hoinas, private; enr. Oct. 1, 1861. 
SVager, Clinton H., private; enr. .\ug. Ill, 1801. 
Ward, Philemon II., private ; enr. Oct. 3, 1801. 
Weaver. George K., private ; enr. .\ug. In, 1861. 
Webst«'r, Hiram, pr.vate ; enr. (Jet. o, 1861. 
W.wd, Kli J., private ; enr. Aug. 10, 1801. 
Woodward, Elon .\., private; enr. Oct. 1, 1861. 
WrtudwanJ, Oscar, private ; enr. Oct. 1, 1801. 
Wri;;ht, Marcus 1)., private; enr. Aug. 10, 1861. 

CAPr. THOMAS W. OSBORN'S (D) COMPANY. 
OstNirn, Thomas W., capt.; enr. .\ug. 10, 1861. 
Doling, Aiha B, sergt. ;enr. Aug. 18, ISOl. 
Davis, Ilenry W., sergt.; enr. Aug. 30, 1861. 
Fallet;, Geo'rgell., «ergt. ; enr. Aug. 29, 1861. 
Sterling, Rochester H.. corji. ; enr. Aug. 27, 1801. 
Wood, George W.. corp. ; enr. Oct. 8, 1861. 
Johnson, .Alexander W., corp. ; enr. Aug. 29, 1861. 
Andenton, William J., Corp.; enr. Aug. 29, 1801. 
Hills, Ezra !>., cor|> ; enr. Aug. 16,1861, 
tenant, Frederick W., crp, ; enr. Aug. 17, 1801. 
Kusli, Horace K.. Corp.; enr. Aug. 26, 1861. 
Swartoiit, I«iac R , hiiiler; enr Aug. 29, 1861. 
Moray, Ilenry A . art li er ; enr. Aug. 10, I'^Ol. 
Kvielstiiie, Will.ani, aitificer; enr. .\ug. 10, 1801. 
Itaker. Ge Jig.. E., private ; enr. Aug. Ill, 1861. 
Coal, llelos, private ; enr. Aug. 28, 1801. 
Criss, l{.>iijaniin, private; enr. Aug. 2^1, 1861. 
Dennis, Albert W., private; enr. Aug. 16, 1861. 
Diil'-y, (Vlestei-, privatH ; enr. Aug. 17. 1861. 
Knos, Lawrence C., private ; enr. Sept. 1, 1861. 
Foit, Andrew, priv.ile; enr. .\ug. lU, 1861. 
Gage, Willinin H. H., private; enr. .\ug. 30, 1861. 
Hill, Marvin, private; enr. .\ug. 17, 1861. 
Hilts, Duane, private ; enr. .\ug. 10, 1861. 
Kiefter, John, private ; enr, Aug. In, 1861. 
l^ang, Michael, priv.ite; enr. Aug. 17, 1*01. 
Slyer?, .Ldin. private; enr. Aug. 10, I8iil. 
Niniz, AugUf-t, priva e; enr. Aug. 16, 1861. 
Palmer, ,\bner .\., private : enr. Aug. 29, 1861. 
PliiliilKi, John, p'-ivate; enr. Aug. 27, 1861 . 
Porter, Einniet E.. pr vate ; enr. .Aug. 29, 1861, 
Saiideriion. James F., private ; enr. .\i|.^. 29, 1861. 
Stovvell, Ol.ver G., private ; enr. Sepl. 17, 1861. 
Wesrcolt, Geo ge ()., private ; enr. Si-pt. 2-">. 1861. 

CAPTAIN JOSEPH SPU.KTT S (H) COMPANY. 
Spratl, Jo-eph. Ciipt. ; enr. Aug. 29, 1861. 
S-abury, Thomas K., 2il lieiil ; enr. .Ang. 29, 1811. 
Balicock, Volney M,, 1st sergt.; enr. Oct. 2, IsOl. 
Hudson, Cliailcs D., i^ergt. ; enr, Oct. 2, 1861. 
Nugent, Edwanl. serg. ; enr. Oct. 2. 1.S61. 
Zeroii. Jiisi.ph W.. oirp. : enr. Oct. 2, 18i)l. 
Sloody, Anson, corp. ; eur. (X"t. 2, 1861. 
Woodwanl, Theophilus M., cotp. ; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Craig, Richanl A., corp ; enr. Oct. 2. 1861. 
Dingman, (.'ornelins, Corp. ; enr. Oct. 2. 1861. 
Calkins, Henry F., Corp.; enr. Oct, 2, 1K61. 
Maiden, Joseph, bugler ; enr. Oct. 2, 1801. 



HaHe, George B., artlAcer; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Nash, Levi, wagoner; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Harlow, Junius, private; enr. l.ict. 2, 1861. 
Itroxo. Ji..i . piivate ; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
lironsoti. Walter, private ; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Carter, Fiazihi ('.. private; enr.lKt. 2, 1881. 
Clark. David P, private; enr. (Kt.A 1901. 
Col... Nicholas, pr.vate; enr. Oct. 2, Isc.l. 
Ciiniiuiiigs GiHirge, private: enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Dei 1m, G...irge W., private ; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Diiiid', William W., private; enr. Oct. 2, 1801. 
Dowsev, Jiis. pti, pr.vate; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Fj.H, lleiirv, private ; enr Oct. 2, 1801. 
Ferguson, iiaviil, private ; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Frea-e, I'll lip. private; enr. Oit. 2. 1801. 
Gage, John P., prvate; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Hall, Stephen L , privat-; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Hare, William J,, p ivate; enr. Oct. 2, 18(;l. 
Ileaton, Airie<l, piivate; eur. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Hrslges. Henry 1... private; enr. Oct. 2, 1801. 
Kilboni, Edward C, pr.vate ; enr. tjct. 2, 1861. 
Laiton, Ch»rli.ii F., private ; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
I.orrirTiin, I'll ic C, private; enr. t>ct, 2, 1861. 
Mcl.aughlin. John 11, private; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
>lillotl, .Augustus, priv.ite; enr. Oct. 2. 1861. 
Mais .n,.Ioliii, private; enr. Oct 2,1801. 
Morrs, James A., piivate: eur. Oct. 2, 1801. 
3l'irrow, Jaiies, private; enr. Oct 2. 1801. 
31orrow. Jo.epli, private; enr. Oct. 2, 1801. 
Nott, Cyrus I.., piivate; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Page, Kniico v.. private; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Peck. .Aiigilsiiis C, private; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Phelps. Fnink, pr.vate: enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
I Plenche. ( harl.s C.. piivate; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Ilislev, Eilsar L , private ; enr. Oct. 2, 1.^61. 
Robinson, Charles (.'^ private; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Saiiford, llenr>', private; enr. CIrt. 2, 1861. 
.'haw, Delos, piivate; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Spicer, Riley S,, private; enr. Oct. 2, 1861, 
Stone, Ezekiel. private ; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Taylor, lleinv, private; enr. Oct. 2, 1861. 
Webb, Eilwar.l P., private ; enr. .Aug. 29. 1861. 
Wilc.'X, Nathan, private: eur. Oct. 2, |86l. 
Wo.«l. George W , private : enr. Oct. A 1861. 
W.saj, J.seph. private; enr. Oct. 2, 1801. 
With. William H., private; enr. (Kt. 3. 1861. 

GOV. MOEGAN'S 1ST EEG. U. S. LIGHT 

AET.— 2D N. Y. LIGHT AET. 

CAPT. CIIAKLli< L. SMITH'S (Hi COMPANY. 

Smith, Charles L , capt.; enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Rulison, Wm. S., l«t lieut.; enr. Sept. 20, 1801. 
Waters, Thonnus, 21 lient ; enr. Sept. in, 1861. 
Aaldeiiel, Galencoiiib, Isl sergt ; enr. Sept. SI, 1861. 
Lyman, Lucius, 4. m--ser;;t. : enr. Sepl. 2ii, 1861. 
Powell. Wesley, »eri;t.; enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Miller. U.ten, sergt.; enr Sept. 20, 1801. 
Goodwin, William W., sergt.; enr. Sept. 20, 1801. 
Lamb, John B., sergt.; enr. Sept. 2n, ISGl. 
Ormisteii, William II.,corl).; enr. Sept. 'iO, 1801. 
Loonii-, Stewart, Corp.: enr. Sept. 2ii, 1801. 
Simons, .Alexander, corj).; enr. Sept. "20, 1861. 
Harris, Philander A., con'.; enr. S-pt. 20, 1861. 
Corey, James W., c in'. ; enr. Sept. '20, 1861. 
Porter, Saninel, corp.; enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Wood, John, Corp. ; enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Williams, Clark- F., con'. : enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Loomis, GiMrge, miis. : enr. Sepl. 20, 1861. 
Saddler, John, nius.; enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Torr<v,John F., artificer; enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Tornv, Georte H., artificer ; enr. Sepl. 20, 1861. 
Farr, Franklin B,, wagoner; enr. S<pt. 20, 1861. 
Adams, Keiidri. k S.. private; enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Blanclianl, Charles F., |irivale; enr. Sept -20, 1861. 
Iliiel, Foster A,, private; enr. Sept. 2ii, 1861. 
Ballard, Thomas F., private; enr. Si'pt. 2ii, 1861. 
Burns, Matthew, piivate ; eur. Sept. 2ii. 1861. 
Bateman. Silas, private; enr. SepL 211, 1861. 
Broderick, JaniM, private ; enr. Sept. 2o, 1801. 
Concklin, Henry, private; enr. Sept. JO, 1861. 
Corbin, G.«rge G., private; enr. Sept. '211, 1801. 
Cllne, Robert, priv.ite; enr. Sept. '20, 1861. 
Gimstock, George >!., private; enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Carl sle, George, private ; enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Carter, William, private ; enr. Sept. 2", 1861. 
Davis, George, private; enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Deacen, James A., private ; enr. Sept. 2o, 1861. 
Devlin, John, private; enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Eagan, Put rick, private; enr. Sept. 20, 1801. 
Fjirlv, Joseph, private ; enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Farliy, Jidiii, private; enr. Sept. 2", 1861. 
Francis, Joseph, private; enr. Sept. 'io, 1861. 
Gorman. Charles, private; enr. Sr-pt. 2o, 1801. 
Grev, George, private; enr. Sept. 2o, IsOl. 
Green, Bi-rtraiid, private; enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
HoUmann, Cliarh.s, private; enr. Sept. ^n, 1861. 
Ileiirii|iies, Daniel, private; enr. Sept. 2ii. 1861. 
Helirv, trt'orge. private; enr. St'pt. 20, 1.861. 
Highland, William, private ; enr. .s..pt 2ii, 1861. 
Jessotel, John, private; enr. Sept. -li, 1801. 
Kelivon, Sinfonl J., private; enr. Sept. 20, IfCl. 
K-li.i'g, Ilenry C, private; enr. S«-pt. '20. 1861. 
Le Clere, Oscar, private: enr Sept. 20, 1861. 
Jleister, John A., private; -nr. Sept. 20, 1K61. 
OmUirne, Dan el W., private; enr. Sept. ill. 1861. 
Orslsirne, Hart, piivate; enr. Sept. 2o. 1861. 
Ori-lwme, Williiim. private: enr. Sept. -20, 1861. 
Oriiiiston, Ge<irge H., private ; enr. Sept. 20, 1861. 
Poiilo, Eber, private; enr, S*M't. 2n, 1801. 
Peck, .li«<eph S., private; enr. Sepl. '20, 1861. 
Potter, lleniy C, private; enr. S-pt. '20, 1801. 
' Riigg. Heiiiy F.. private; enr. Sepl. 2t), I81.I. 
Rude, S las, priv.ite; enr. Si'Pt. 20, 1861. 



IIlSTOllY 



JEFFERSON CmUNTY, NEW YOUK. 




KU8..H. nHvi.1 n.,rriv„t..; -n:;f';i"--'J',if' ' 

Tonntr, Kich..r.l It., plivilo ; '••"■'"■>''• f,'' },„, Km 

W,lli,.n.», Clark F., p.ivnt,-; '■"■^•„*';,V'-.,f VhiI 
Willi,.,,,*.". ll"»>^^"c, i,nv«le; o'";:*;'-!' ;,,-' vit 
Wris;l,I, Ue,ibon. rnv«le ; «nr. bci.t. 2U, 181.1. 
5TH (BLACK RIVER REG. OF ART.- 
K. Y. VOLS. 
C.\PT. FRANK E. ROOTS COMPANY. 
McIlLvli, .loh". private ; en.-. Sopt 1, 1802 
l'„»t, Willi:.... W.. pvivalo; .-.,.. '^"'f ■»«•>''';->., 
W,.ln,ll,, George H., privaH- : el.r. Au«. 21, 1862. 



CAl'T G W.miBnAUI>'SCO.(l)),:'.D BATTALION 
B. U. AKTIl.l.KRY. 

Bn.« n, Willi....,, private ; en.-. ^"6. ^L ISl'-^- 
B.-,.«„, Cl,:,.l.'» N., vnvate; c„r. A,.r 1', If- 

B...kli„, .1. K., pr.vate ; en,-. .\. K. 20, 8b-. 
]„sall», Il.™„, private; enr. A„g. -t, M,-. 
Miller, l>an,el, p.ivnte: en.-. AUK '2 , 18-. 
Pa.-...eter,.lol,n P., private: «"J- A"K- ^.'j, .f'^' 
rra Tie, Nel,..,., private , e..r. A.IB^"'. If-- 
Pftssino, Nelson F., pnv,,te; '"- /\"f ..V'-.S'- 
R„n,l,.ll, Mu,U A.,l.,-,vate-, "■'''■-*'>- f ■},'*'- 
Boot, R..f"» S., pr.vate -, enr. A.'g.^l, 1«^- 
Spen.-er, J..l.„, pr.v..te ; en,-. *<»;- ;'■ l''''-- , 
S^,xton, \Villian.,l.r.v..te; e„r. '^"«- -l'/""-,; 
Slater, Charles A., pr vate ; e,.r. Am.. 1, 18 2. 
Slater Cl.a,-le» G., p.ivate ; e..r. -^'f ,''• 1^' ;V,„ 
White, F.,-.le.-ick L.,p.-.vale; en.. An- l-,^'^-- 
Weatl.erl.ea.l, Emerson, pnvate; enr. Aiii,. -1, 18"-. 

lOTH (BLACK RIVER) ARTILLERY. 



OAPT. El>. 1'. WKBB-S C... (A) 2l. UATTALIoN 
Welili, Edwaril P., lapl. 
T.,l»-y Elisl.a II., 1st lient. 
Uisi"!-', Le,-n,an A., 1st l,ent. 
K,-e.l, Morris A., Ist lieut. 
WI.eelock, A.l.lison W., 1st l.eut. 
KicLards, A. I>»iKl.t, l«t sergt. ; ';"'■/' >/l:^- 
llarLer, Kgl.ert L., c ,,. sergt ; , l, . AnK._4, 18b.. 
l>.,rlt, William, 8e.-Kt.-, enr. Anj;. .1,^181,.. 
Gates, Vineent R., »e,-gt.; ""'■''"f- ''J^''- 
Clark Silas M., set-gt. ; enr. J-'V, 'i',! isfi-' 
KeKec, Ra„*,n. J., sergt. ; enr. .M.g. 18, 18fi-2. 

I 1,^1, s, Civilian, sergt.-, <•■"■- ^''K- ^'-J^Jp., 
.I:r,,'.-Geo,ge,J.-.,»erg..-, enr.Angl.,1802. 

Pav ,,.-, Hen, > D., Cl-p. ; enr. Ang. 17, 1»''- 
.i,-ke;.on, l..vma., I,., Corp. ; <■'"•/;''-'- "vf"^- 
K,.n..-8, I'a»iel J., Corp. ; e.,r. A..g. 18. 18.2. 
Tow.ier, .John F., Corp. ; enr. Ang. -';'":-.., 
Unnroe, Fre.ler ek A., c-orp. -, ear. A..g b, l".-. 
C,,„„ns .hillingw-r.l. C, ■^"^V-^^"-^"^^; '"<''- 
Oar.l.,er, .losepl. P.,co,p.: e..|-. Ang. 1-', l"''-- 
(,verock,-r,CI,:,.-l- II., corp ; e..r. .\ng. U, 18b2. 

I'ollv, Melv,n, Corp. ; enr. .\ng. 4 18b-. 
Kn.l'.l, Wilbur, corp. ; enr Ang. N '8''- 
(base, Elins, Corp.; enr, A..g. », l";''-- 
I,o,-,l, TI,o..,a«, Corp. ; enr. Ang. 1.', 'J '- 
.1i lett, .lol.n J., wagoner ; enr. .\ng. 21 180. 

jl s,II,.gh ll.,arlilleer; e..r.J.,l)- .1", 1802 

(V,n,i„gs, Patrick, ,i,-tiflcer ; enr A,.g. 1, 8«,i. 
Wilson, llir.,.n,urtir,eer; enr. A..g. 8, l^b-. 
Matthew. ILo,,,,.., arliti.er; e.,r. Ang. 4 18(.-. 
)„.,„„, F,-..nk, nrt,B.-er; enr. .\,.g. '.■ l" '-.., 
S„,il..v. .I.,n,.-s, a.-titieer ; enr. Ang. 21 , I8b2 
Kor.e.ter. John W., lm.:ler; .nr Ang IMfO- 
Docker, II.-t,r.v J., hngler; enr. Ang. b 18b. 
A.nlrews, I.a.vIo,., privaie; '"'■-/"*-':,''',".'•-■ 
An.h,.«s, llenrv, private; enr. A„i^. ^1.1"^^.; 
Artnstrong, .lol,,,, private ; enr. .Inly IH, IRW- 
Ans.in,.Io.eph F.,pr.vate; '""•- A"g. «, 1«02. 
]l<,«e„, F.ii.,kli.,, pi-.valc; enr Aug. 4 181.. 
Benway, .Ian..-9, private; enr. Ang. 4 1»«- 
B,.|U..,i. r, .loseph A.. priv,.te; e.,r Ang. 4 8fi2. 
Br„.lsha« . .la.nes, privaie ; enr. J., v 22 180 

neiieng.r, Frcierck »• 1" ","';••.;;";„•': '^ '^''•"^■ 

Blair, .la.nes, private ; enr. Jnly ^^i, 1«"-- 
11,., veg.n, Peter, private ; enr. Aug. 21, 180 
«ro»-,u-ll, G.-"rg.- W., l.r.vale; enr. A g. 21,1802. 
lln.w.., .lames K., private ; enr. Ang. 1-. 18b2. 
B..1I, Cl.anncy 11., pr.vate; e.,r. A..g. !«■ •»'"'- 
Bain, William, private ; enr. Ang. .., 80.. 
llelknan. S.-th, priv,>le; enr. A..g. 1», '™-.- 
Cs.l, Walter K.. p.ivate; en,-. Aug. 18, 18t,2. 
Corey. I>e,.nis,prval,-; enr. Ang. 18 18b 
,l.a,nplin, Cha.les G., p.l>"te ; e,,r Ang '21, 1802. 
Cha.np, .lol..,, p.ivate ; enr. A..g. 21, 8. 
(•olcl....tb. S,'m,.el. pt-ivate; e.,r. A.;/. U. 18C.. 
(l.ase, .I..1... C, p.ivate; enr. Ang. in, ^»\ 
.hatle.lon. J..seph, private ; enr. Ang. l", 180.. 
l.,.l»„.., Kgherl W., phvat . ; ,.,.,. Ang. U, 1 «-. 
l,n.ke, A„.l..,w y... private; en.-. Ang. l-.- l""-- 
I».,-ker,on. Clark II., private; . .„ Ang -I, 1802. 
l)..»«...,Corm hns. p.ivate; enr. Aug 2, UO 
mmarc-e. .lo-.pl., private ; ,.nr. A..g. -2", 18 12, 
Kekle,,, lol.n .1., p.ivate; ,...r. Anu. '«. l^O;.- 
El.rliger. Geo^K.s prival..; <•'"■ '";'':;^\\f. 
Fox, Willlan, K., private; .-nr. .I,ily -1". 1«"- 



Fee. Mi,l.«ol, pr:T«te: enr. *<•/• "; "f^;., 
Kile, , .lames B., private ; enr. A..g. -"•/°"r ,,g., 
Gn.vha.n. Tho.,.as G.. private ; -«'^^■^^''-■ 
Ureeniso.,, Jacol;, pr.vate; '-■"'■- A"8;^f'j,J8li-' 
U,-,.e.,»...<l. .lan.es, pr.vate; '""^-/"l^- '•*• 'f^ 
«a„l,.e,-, Peter. I., P'ivate ; enr Ang 8 IM 2. 
ll„„ve,-. Samnel, p, ivate ; enr. July 22 18b 
Howard, K..»a.U,p.-ivate: en.-. A»g. <• l"'-;., 
Urret., Tl.on.a., U., private ; <""-- A "if- •*• '^«- 

o» a..l, Tlo n.,.s, ptivate ; enr. Aug 21 IXb.. 

..nr-, F.-...,eisJ.. 1" ivate ;..,.. •^"g.:^;, l*-*"- 
l|„-/.,.i. J..1,,., p.ivate ; en.-. Aug. H, 18b-. 

ll;r::;■^lVl^^^u^/r;;T4;e;.Jr:-A^;Ji.02 
--:\;r^ir.^:i.j;^^:ien-rA^5-F' 

Harris, Kola-.t, p.ivate; ,„r A"i-j- -. ^{802. 
J,.w,-lt,TI,on,a- J., pr.vaf; "■""-.■'"'-',-'',1,;., 

t-"'''^'>;re:.w''iaiv;ie;':;;r.A;^.v;;,'i;:;^. 

:^;r::w;;^;n'ii:.'i'rivat,;;e„,^An^n^;2. 

Jo ,.»on, Robert, p.ivate; .-..r. Aug. 1. 181, . 
J ,d,l, An-a.„.l. C. p. ivate ; et.r. A..;.. 1 , 18'- 
J „..; Willia... P., private ; e„r Aug. 1., 18b-. 
K ,i.7., Charles, priv-ate ; enr. Aug. ., 18b2. 
K,.r„8 Pat,iek, piiv,ite; enr. Ang. 1-. '?'•-■ 
K . g t, Josial, A., p. ivate ; ->>- A"»-.l-. l'"^- 
Kelj , John, private ; e..r. A..g. lU, 181 2. 
L,;wt:,n, Lewis, priv,.t..;e,,r.Ang_b 181^^ 
Looini-, Nelson, pi.vj.te; en, . Aufc. l, i "- 

bsirsr,!T^;;a;^Trj^-i>02. 

K-j^r-pJirre^rAjg^i-io. 

Ks^™^^^t:;:ri.X;3:^;r^;-. 

^i";:;^'^e;;f!::'r'p:v.;t™'e.;r"i^^.'.?:i^^ 

Mi . 1 .0° W,mer S. private ; e..r. Aug. 6, IMS. 
M .a,.nr.;, Ranson,, p.ivate; e"; A"g^J, Wb2. 
Miller .antes, private ; .-nr. Jnly .Jl, 11^02 
M . I, -'ws, Adelbert, pr vate; et.r. Aug. 4 J8C2. 

K;;;::::=-,':;.=;;rg.i: 

tol,i„s,.n Lor.-n B., prtvate ; "•"^-A-'P- »•'"''- 

l-i,^!:!;;;:'w':;n:(;a;,.Ven^'^; : Sjo2. 
&^^;rs^na:;:;\r-^:;^.'t.5^ ,,. 

Smmons, A.leli.i-.t M., ptivate; e.,r Aug b, U02 
St,-ong, .lan.es M., I'riva'- t e,,, . .\^.g^ 0, l"'-^ 

^i:;:;o;;:i^':;i;a;;;:p^:-r^n"'^^''^^^ 
^i-^:;;;tfi;-;^;^:r:;:;;;:,;^ei£.:^^02. 

Scovill. Si.n re C., pr.val,.; et.t. J, ly -i", i'"-- 

b0feLI^r;ril^;.^™;^Al^^^ 

^"•■'••^•■l:^^;'.:V;i^;;e;r;J^:;^lf;'«^- 

tCv.; i, mi p.va'e;,-,.r.J,.IyW.1802. 
. - . .; Row, t 'A-ivate -,' ,-.,r. July 2.t, 1802 
V ..liwalker, George, priv,.te; '""■ A '--'-l' '™2- 
Wiln.o,l, Cl,..u,.e,-y, priv,.t.- ; ,->„-. A 'f- l->- 1^^- 
Warne.-, Cl.a,.nc,-y, pr.v,.te; '■"^- /"l-^y""- 
Wil.ler, J.-epb. 1-vale; eur- A"f - • V,''^;^,,, 

^o::i;;^;;;nii!;^d'^\:";t^-^.^A;^s:;r- 

Wilson, Leona.-d S., pr.vate; en.-. N-pt 2. 1802. 
Y.^nng Rnfns W., pr.vate; enr. A"g^l», 1^0;=:, 
Yont.g ( l.a.-le8 II., pr;Va e; enr. A,,g. IJ, 181 -. 
Knsscdl, Artl...r A., p,,vato; «■"■■: fl',';,^',^^;!;- 
Johnson, George, pr.vate; enr. Jul) 21,181... 



Glaea, Albert, 7lh coip.; enr. Aug. ", IfO;- 
uSek. Albct, 8th Corp.; e..r. A"g- 21, Jf 2;^ 

5r-^:^r^::i.:^:-r;:?qrS'^"^ 
K:i;ri^b;e;vi^V2;h e.^;:v^r 5.-.1-. 

Bntt-, F.-ancis, arlitie.-r; ••"■■• •'"'>-'^' '"'- 
Fisb, Martin, artitici-r; enl. Sept. 4. 18b2. _ 
K n-hardsot., k.lwi,. O., bugler; ,-nr. Aug. ,,1802^ 
1. is e-s, Ue.,ja..,.l, F , bugler; enr Aug^ U., 18b2. 
Allen, .Mf.ed 11, p.ivate; "'r. Ang •, 1»02. 
Abloes, iien.y. private ; e..r J. J 2 J 1 b2 
Burtlelt, William T, private; '•■"^- ^-"8 J- ''*',- 
S"el.e, Syn.ourM., private; e.ir Aug. ,,1802. 
B„,8, William B., private ; e..r. Aug- N 1^0-. 
Bal.cock, Willis A., private ; -'"-^Ang. 8 18... 
Brown.ll,llir..m, pr.vate; •'n"^- A"b; -y ™--- 
Bntle,-, Francis A., private; '■'"•, A"^:-':.^"^-- 
Butts, Chai les C.,,1.. ivate ; >-"'--^"6-J',\'"'f80-' 
Bi-ooks, Cl.ailesE., pr.vate; enr. A g. 14, Ibb-. 
liabcock. El as, p.ivate -enr. Aug, -1, IXb-^ 
Bntt.i.i, James R., |.rivate ; enr. Aug. 18, 1^-. 

"'l.i.ll, William R.,p, ivate; enr. Au.B.^l, 18C2. 
Calk ns, Mnith I, , private ; enr. Aug- lb, IfO-. , 

i-l. ..«.....; -e W l.r vate; enr. Aug 18, 18U-. 

;';;•/!:: En;o;^W.,p,\vnte; en,- Aug. 2... 1802. 

Cole, .lesse, private ; enr. Aug. - , 18b-. 
Call,,, diaries, private; enr. Aug- ^ ', If -■ 
,, <.,.„,„,. r. nrivate : enr. Ang. -I>, lot. 



CAPT. -MI.KS F. KITTS- COMPANY <I», 1ST BAT- 
TALION (CO. B OF InTll RKGT). 
Kit.-, (lih-s F.,n.pt.;.-.,rA.,g^L 1803. ^^^^2 
She, ...an, F.a.ikbn O., 1st '>'"-■ '"'.-'^'^.^.a 

|-!::.^;::;b:;'.:!-2^iirnur^^^D2:8^; 
!]s:i:-J;a;ni;;:^e.;it:;;::ryi;:^5:"-^'- 

F,.lt, Jami-8 F., sergt.; enr. Aug. 7, 180- 
ilall. AI..II7.0 P., sergt.; enr. .\iig. 7, 1802. 
llei.l, 1l..|l.y I.., sergt.; enr. A..g. 1, 80 

la... Truman W., sergt.; enr. A..g. U'. 1«02; 
C,„per, llealt.... W., serM.; enr. A..g. 8, 18ti2 
U,l.'.-ock, 0,e»tes C, 1-t '•-■P-; enr. Aug. 4, 1802. 
Segu.-, Ab.„»., 2.1 eorp. ; e.,r. Aug. 8 18 .. 
J'"""."™ ;! I.arb sVl 4t c... p ; . nr Ang. 21, 1802. 

A "kl-v. Will Pill.f.lh .-.■i-p. ; e.... Auu. 18, Ub-. 

Runes Levi, (-.11. cotp. ; enr. Ang. 12, 18b2. 



Catlin, diaries, p.ivate ;e..r. ■■v"P- "■■ ;, ".-g-, 
Conatit, George G., private ; enr. A.,g. -0, 18C-. 
Cory. James, private ; enr. Aug. 8, 18C2 
l-l.,rk, Fr.-.leri.-k, privaf ; enr. A,.g. 9, If-- 
( l.atii,, Willi,,... II., prtvate ; enr Aug. 11, 18b2. 
Catl v, Adn.-y, privat.- ; enr. Aug- H, 1'*'-- , 
Carley, Louis P., privat.-; '-"^Ai g. H, 18b-. 
Davis. Patrick, private; '">[- A"K- -i'. If ■^- 
Dnrfee, Asa, private ; enr. Aug. 2", f -i- 
Dealing, Fo'ster M private; e,.r .\..g. 4 1M2 
D.ln.er, Tbon.as J., private ; enr Aug. .1, 181 .. 
Fox, llnane W.,I.i-iv..te; enr. A,.g. 18 I8b.. 
Gh.ss, Willian., private ; enr. Aug. -U, 18b.j^ 
Ui-unl, Uodolphus, pnvate; ™;- A»g- I';.;'"'- 
Gal.-s, John M., private; enr. Aug. .,1»0-- 
Gree.;, An.lrew J., private ; '-"r. Aug. 8, 180 
Gr.in.nio,,, Am. s P., p.iyate; >•""- A"*-."',}^!;- 
GriBin, James M.. pr.vate ; enr July .11, Ub 
Gardner, Cl,„k D., private ; enr.July .i , 18-. 
Gr.-eii, L.n„,n 1>., private; •■>"-,A"P; ';'•, .f 
G,-i-..v, Willian,, private ; enr. A.,g. 8, 181... 
1, rliogton, Jiiilsoti, private ', '•»;-.A"g^ ^1, 1802. 
lln..li.-.s,I).-los. private; .-nr. Aug. 21, 18b-. 

pkin; Willi,.... W., private ; enr. Aug. 18, 1802. 
„'bl„.r.l Willia... A., private- enr. Aug^ 21, 1802. 
Hang, Micl,a,-1. private ; enr. Ai g. 8, 18b-. 
Hill, iieorge K., priv,.te; enr. A»g- N 1" "- 
Hainmon.l, Wyatt, pnvate ^ f- A'^j'^'' ; Jf - 
Hay,b„. Eilwiii. pnvate; ™' -,! . -M li, -. 
ll«z.M, Henry, piiv,.te; enr. Aug. 2', If -• 
Halel, Henry 1,., private ; <••"■- AbK-l;, 1^0-;, 
Isliani, Geo.ge F., private ; e,.r A. g. 21 18b-. 
Jones, Sell. C, private; enr. Aug. 14, If- 
iamiiierson, James, priYte; ™--- A"/;, 3-,;^^^^'^- 
J,„kins, Manfopl pnvate ; "''; '^"x-,- "'l, j^ij. 
Kill..irn, Geol-g.- W., pnvate ; •■'";*"?,-,'■,•„.,'" 
Jan.is, C-barl.s E., private; enr. Aug- -^L I'-';-- 
t kmiV, tber, Thomas, private ; enr. Aug. 18, 180-. 
I K .ig, Dennison, private; cr. Aug. 8, li*-^ 
i Lyimn.l-alel.N., private; ent. Aug. 18, l8b 
L,ir, lloniii.iekW.. private; ">];-, A"B- "i'^-- 

Miller, AnsiMi, pnvate: enr. Aug. -i. le - 

M riek, Austin R.. private; >•»;- A^'Sj 'j.,'""- 

M -eks, N.-1S...I, private; enr. Aug 8 18b 

1 M..rti.;, K'-™.-" -priv;'- ;';"•■- ;\"f-j"'iJ,K.- 

1 Moulton. ll.iiiy, pnvate ; enr. A't- 4, 'Y^^., 
' Matt....... Nathan, privat..; .-nr. A. g. H- '7--„ 

I M l,v M o.- C, private; enr Aug. 1 -If 2- 

' M tl.i-'llenry C.. privat.;: ';■"■■ .t".«A,tu'l'l802. 

Mi.ldlet.ni, Jani.s .«.. prtvat.- • •'"■ A"^- -';,^.f 

MeClisl.r, Will am, pr.vate - '^^ A"*-- -"i^',? 

McCartv, J..l,i. <;., I',"™': •"■„„"*:,,,' 13 1802. 

M.-rrill, lVi.jan,i„ v.. P"vate; .-nr. Ang. M,i8 

^vr'^bi^ii'ifTiv-r-A^gTioi'^oi. 

^;;::^:pn^bIn:^ivate^.n.^Aug.2.802. 

Oil', Lester A., private; et... Aug. 2 U8'.2^^ 
01,1s Jerotne R, private ; e.,r. A"»-^^'' 'f/isf,... 
Oat,...in, Panfoid G.. pnvat. ; .'"^■•^"*^:, -h'im-..^. 
IVlti.igale, Alon-.o A.,.pnvat. ni. A" . IK, l 
Patterson, William, linvate: ''/- ^ ''■\-",V .^ 
l-orter, Willar.1 C.. private ; ""^- A"f -^^V^SO^' 
Presley, Samuel W., imvate ; enr. Aug- ".l""-. 
Pvttingal.-. Manfoid A., pnvate; enr An-. H, 
!.l"ket^ Riel.ar.1, Private ;...- A.lg^ bt. 18b 
Pnnly, llnane >., p, ivate, ear. Aug . , 
Pi.U.-t, Walter, private; enr. Aug. -<•, IXb-- 
Potfr I!..n.ia,i.in, private; enr A. g. -M^O-. 
P„tt,r Bailev, privat..; enr. Aug. -1, ,f- ,, 
. .llkK-k. « iiliam, p.-ivate: en.; Ang. 2", 1802- 
Roale, Eli, private; -.ir. A"l-'- /= • 18.2 

iiip;i:y?=.rpr;;;r'; ;;'»-,„, 
^;;:r;J;:-g:i.^i.i^«ieV;.:^^2juf2. 

Spi .-r,l!...j"mi.i D, privaie; '"[■''"'■ ^^l^'^' 
1 s,!.n..r.i, Hiniln S.. private; en,. A'^'. 8, lW;f- 
1 S.,ni.e., J... k«..n, priv,.te; e..r. \W. 8. 180..^ 

S gnr, Wesley R, private; el... July -9,1812. 



UISTOllY OF JEFFEUSON COUNTiT, NEW YOUK;. 



571 



Siilmorf!, Franklin, private; cnr. July 3n, 1862. 
Smith, Cuiuiclic, private; enr. Aug. 11, 1»G2. 
Tyler, Charles D., piivute; enr. Aug. 21, 1802. 
Wiishburti, Isuic H., privati^; enr. Aug. ■J4, 18G2. 
Wright, Jiuin-jj SI., private; enr. Aii«. 10, lKii.i. 
WhitforJ, Xatliaii, privatf ; enr. Au-. 21, 1802. 
W.'si-ott, Oliver, private; enr. Aiu. 19, 1802. 
Wedi, William II., private; enr. Aug. It, lst;>. 
Wright, .John 1*., private; enr. Aug. U, 1802. 
Wutxlanl, Siilm-y, privatt-; enr. Aug. 12, lSCi2. 
WoodarJ, Ileiirv, private; enr. Aug. 12, 18)12. 
Walker, Marcus J., private; eur. Aug. 1 (, 1802. 
Weaver, .Ii)hn G., priviite; enr. Aug. It, IS02. 
Wiight, Jariih, private; enr. Aug. I.J, 1802. 
Webster. Dean S., private; eur. Aug. l.'», 1802. 
W*hltforil, AUaulurt, private; eur. Aug. '21, lS02. 
Whitftini. Irving, private; enr. .\.ug. 21, 1802. 
WoiKliird, <;e .rgf W., private; enr. .\iig. '.I, 1802. 
Waite, Luvi J., private; enr. Aug. 21, iHiJi. 
Yerden, Franklin, private; enr. Aug. 0, 1802. 

CAPT. CHARLES C. ABELL'S COMPANY (C). 
20 BATTALION. 

Ahell, Charie* C„ rapt. ; enr. July 2\ 1802. 
Kennefly, Alexander, lieut.; enr. Aug. 4, 1802. 
Aekermaii, Timutliy B., liout. ; .nr. July ;il, 1862. 
Com^tuek, William M., lieut.; enr. Aug. 8, 1802. 
Miller, Kiigene. lieul. ; enr. Aug. 8, 1802. 
Elliot, Kutene, Istsergl.; enr. Aug. 8, 1802. 
Swilt, M. II., <|. m.-sergt.; cnr. Aug. 21, 1802. 
Wig-pCoiiH. Miltui), Berift.; enr. Aug. .'i, 1802. 
Slype, Williiini, 8ergt.; enr. July ;W. 1802. 
Fike.s, .\ilani, sergt.; enr. Aug. 4, 18C2. 
Will. Peter, '♦ergt.; enr. An,'. 1, 1802. 
Oriltin, Morrison, eergt. ; enr. Aug. 0, 1862. 
Miller, Man^hatl M., sergt.; enr. Aug. 8, 1862. 
\iMtin, Perry. Corp.; eur. Aug. 0, 1802. 
Mosher, Alie, Corp.; eur. Aug. 10, 1802. 
Pi>tt«T, A. W., cor]>.; t'ur. Aug. 0, 1802. 
Wooley, William, (kirp.; enr. Aug. 0, 1862. 
Lynde, Janie^ C, corp. ; enr. .\ug. 4, 1802. 
Strickland, Charley, corp. ; eur. Aug. 18, 1802. 
Kecd, Alhert U., eurp.; eur. Aug. 12, 1802. 
Sheldon. U. Franklin, mrp.; eur. July :io. 18C2. 
Merrick, lUibert L., cnrp. ; enr. Aug. 7, 1802. 
llaupf John G., corp.; eur. Aug. 21, 1802. 
Gn*eu, Newton E., corp. ; enr. .\ug. 4, 1802. 
Soulta, Julin M., corp. ; our. Aug. 4, 1862. 
Arlow, Samuel, artificer; enr. Aug. 21, 1«62. 
Sizeland, Ahr.im, artificer ; enr, Aug. 4, 1802. 
Sullivan, Edward, ariiflcer; enr. Aug. 2, 1802. 
Gillespie, Jeremiah, artificer; enr. Aug. U, 1862. 
Letter, Milo A., I'Ugler; enr. .\ug. 4, 1862. 
Ilouten, l8iutc, wagoner; cnr. Aug. 8, 1862. 
Bacon, Juhn J., private; enr. July ;J1, 1802. 
Bacon, Jeremy, private; enr. .\ug. 16, iSOi. 
Baird, B:irnev M.. private; enr. ,\ug. 8. 1802. 
Brotherton, Nathan, private; enr. Aug. 18, 1802. 
Brown, Ili-riry, private; enr. Aug. 19, 1802. 
Britton, John U., private; enr. Aug. 19, 1862. . 
liurhauN, David, jtrivate; enr. Aug. 8, 1862. 
Burns, John, private; enr. Aug. 8, 1802. 
Burhautt, Otiear E., jjrivate; enr. .\ug. II, 1802. 
Checney, Elhridge, private; enr. Aug. 0, 1862. 
CloAS, Bichard, privnte; enr. Aug. 1, 1802. 
Conhcll, John, private; enr. Aug. 2, 1862. 
Crahli, (Ji-urge W., private; enr. Aug. o, 1862. 
Crahlt, .\nsoti I>., p:iv;ite; enr. July :il, 1862. 
('i-alib, .\iidn-w J., priv.itf ; iMir. .\ug. .J. 1862. 
Chapiu, Charles E., private; enr. July ;U, 1862. 
Coller, John \V., private ; enr. Auj;. 9, 1802. 
Cotton, Knuici-' I>., private ; erir. Aug. 8. 1862. 
Childs, Lewis J., private ; enr. Aug. 7, 1802. 
Coiuatock, Chester, privat*; enr. Aug. 16, 1862. 
Conway, Jerome \V., private: eitr. Aug. 14, 1802. 
Conway. Theodore, priv.ite ; eur. Aug. 6, 1862. 
Csme, Willi.im P., private; enr. Aug. 5, 1862. 
Chnnhil!, i'|i;iriey, private; enr. Aug. i:t, 1862. 
Orinuiiius Jam '^, private: enr. Aug, 19, 1862. 
CVioper, Kob -rt M., private; enr. .\ug. 19, 1862. 
Dwyer, James S., private ; eur. Aug. 18, 1802. 
I)'>akin, Erwin A., private; enr. -Vug. 19, 1802. 
iKirsey, Natli III, private ; enr. .\ng. 0, 1802. 
I>»tr«L'y, Henry, privatw: enr. Aug, 2i». 1862. 
1> innelley, Jam-'S. private ; eur. Aug. 8. 1802. 
Hmke. Charles F., private ; enr. .\ug. 20, 1802. 
Epiugton, Itoheit A., private; enr. Aug. 1^, 18G2. 
Evans, K«lgar, private ; enr. Aug. 20, 1802. 
l-ist'll, D.ivid. private ; cnr. Aug. 21, 1862. 
Fikes, Etiwin F., private; enr. Aug. 8, 1862. 
Furt'st. Joim, private; enr. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Filming^, Andrew, |>rivate; cnr. Aug. 29, 18G2. 
Gleason, Calvin, private ; enr. Aug. 20, 1802. 
Gates, Fmucis S., private; enr. Aug. 18, 1862. 
Garrison. Silas, private; enr. Aug. 6, 1802. 
Ganliuer. Smith K., private; enr. Aug 11, 1S62. 
Green, Ch irle-s A., private; enr. Aug. 8, 1802. 
Ilnrlhnrt. J -el B.. private; enr. .\ug. 11.1802. 
Hungerf.-rd, Thoiniw It., privat-; enr, Aug, h, 18G2. 
Ilauvermiu, tin^r^e W., privatv ; enr. Aug. 8, 1862. 
Hull, Merritt, private; enr. Aug. 19. 1S02. 
Hull, Elwin G. W,, private; enr, Aug. 9, 1862. 
Huntley, Scnecit I>.. private ; enr. Aug. 6, 1862. 
Howoil, George W,, private; enr. Aug. 10, 1862. 
Hewitt, Hinim, private; enr. -Aug. 8, 1802. 
Hewitt, Lop'ti7..i, private; enr. Aug. 8, 1802. 
Hart, James K., priv.ile; cnr. Aug. 8. 1862. 
Howe, Charles SI., private; enr. .\ug. 8, 1862. 
Hewitt, Jtdin G., private; enr. Aug. l:t, 1862. 
Jerron. William II.. private; enr. .\ug. 16, 1862. 
JfMies, James, private; enr. Aug. 9, 1802. 
Klork, I'*a.ic, private : enr. Aug, 8, 1862. 
Keelen, Je-'Se P., private; enr. Aug. 11,1862. 
Kearney, Jamc^, |>rivate ; enr, Aug. 9, 1862. 
Lynde, Elliott, private; enr. Aug. 25, 1802. 



Lawton, Eugene L., private; enr. Aug. 8, 1802. 

Levi-, Albert F., prlvat?; enr, Aug. 6, 1862. 

Leahey, Jamctt. private; eu"", .Vug. 16, 1862. 

Lewiit, William, private; enr. .\ug. 9, 1802. 

Leashun, Alexitt, privare ; enr. Aug, 4, 1862. 

L'jike, Henry, privat--; eur. Aug. (*, 1802. 

Lvman, Peter, private ; enr. Aug. 18, 1802. 

Mclutyre, William, private ; enr. Aug. 8, 1862. 

Mclntyre, Daniel, privat-; enr. .\ug. 1 t, 1862. 

.Mclntyrn, John, private; eur. Au^;. 8, IS62. 

SIcCatui, Daniel, private; unr. Aug. 18, 1862. 

Slonahan, Thonia^ private; enr. .\ug. II, 1862. 

McCrery, Kobert, private; enr. .\ug. (►, 1K02. 

SIur|ihy, John, |>rivale; i-nr. Aug. 19, 1862. 

Mutt-anI, William, private; enr. .\ng. Lt, 1862. 

Montondo. Anthony, private; eur. Aug. 2", 1862. 

Milli'^au, James K., private; eur. Aug. 19, |Kii2. 

Mitchell, Chester, private; enr. .■Vug. 20, 1802. 
1 North, L-vi, private; enr. Aug. 8, 18''.2. 

North, Slartin, private; enr. Aug. o, 1802. 

North, Linus, privatt?; enr. Aug. 2, Iko2. 

Payne, Welcome, private; enr. .\ug. 4, 1802. 

Payne, .loHeph, private; enr. Aug. 0, 1862. 
, Persons. Boarduian, private; enr. Aug. 15, 1862. 
I Patton, John, private ; enr. Aug. I9, 1862. 

Perkins, Himm L., private; enr. Aug. <», 1862. 

Pickar*!, Jonathan, private; enr. .\ug. 8, 1862. 

Quinn, William, private; enr Aug. 14, 1862. 

Kickerson, John, private; enr. Aug. 4, 1862. 

Rickerson, t'harles W., private ; eur. Aug. 5, 1862, 

lleymdds, Einers »n, private; enr. July '6U, 1862. 

Roberdieu, Oliver, private ; enr. Aug. 6, 1862. 

Riley, Thomas, private; enr. Aug. li>, 1862. 

Huse, Evelin, private; enr. Ang, 6, 1862. 

Rhuba-t, Samuid, private; enr. Aug. 18, 18ti2. 

Spnii:ne, De.\ler, private; enr. Aug. 8, 1862. 

Souihwell, L. Wilson, private ; enr. Aug. 8,1862. 

Stro'*ee, Thomas, private; enr. Aug. 20, 1862. 

Simpson, Jolin, private; eur. Aug. 9, 1802. 

Swift, John, private ; enr. Aug. 7, 1862 

Sterling, Jtdin, private; enr. .Aug. 18, 1862. 

Spaulsbnry, Edwin, privato; enr. Aug. 8. 1802. 

Strimnnd, Alexander, private; enr. Aug. 7, 1862. 

Steinhilhir, George W., private; enr. Aug. 19, 1802. 

Smith, Kansom, |irivate; enr. .\ug. 8, 1862. 

Scott, Nets m It., private ; enr. Aug. 8, 1862. 

St. John, Peter, private ; eur. Aug. 20, 1862. 

St. John, Ale,vander, priv.ite ; enr. -\ug. 15, 1802. 

St. John, Jeremy, private; enr. .\ug. 10, 1862. 

Stark, David W, private; enr. Aug. 8, 18*12. 

Taylor, Slarcus G., jirivale; enr. .Vug. 8, 1802. 

Turu'-r, Charles, private; enr. .\ug. 19. 1862. 

Vee, Olivfu-, priv.ite ; enr. .\ug. 18, 1802. 

Van .Mien, Peter, private; enr. Aug. 7, 1802. 

Van Allen, I'harles A., private; our. .\ug. 7, 1862. 

Varley. John, Jr., private; eur. .\ng. 27, 1862.' 

Walker, Slichael, private ; enr. Aug. 21, 1802. 

Walker, Thoma-, private; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 

Woodcock, Isaac, private; enr. .\ug. 8, 1862. 

Williams, Seth It,, private; enr. Aug. 18, 1862. 

Weed, Allen T., private; enr. Ang. 8, 1802. 

Wehstei', Nathan (1, private ; enr. Aug. »», 1862. 

Wliipple, Franklin, private; enr. Aug. 19, 1802. 

CAPT. SENECA R. COWLES' (D) COMPANY. 

Cowle-4, Seneca R., capt. ; enr. 1802. 
Carter, Lucian E., 1st lu-nt.; cnr. 1802. 
Salter, tieor>;e.B., Ut lieut.; enr. 1862. 
Horr. Walter A., 2d lieut.; enr. 1802. 
Wanl, James S., 2d lieut.; our. 1862. 
Cook, Edwiird E , 1st sergt. ; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 
Buchrnan. L'-wis, ipm-ser^t. ; enr. Aug. ."i, 1862. 
McSI alien, John B., duty sergt. ; enr. .\ug. 20, 1862. 
Scott, Chrisloph'-r E., 2d sergt.: enr. Aug. 20, 1802. 
Wood, Alon/o, ;id sorgt.; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 
Hinds, Danforth. 4th sergt.; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 
Thurher. Cullins K., 5th s-rgt. ; enr. .Vug. 5, 1802. 
Weaver, Houston, 0th sergt.; enr. Aug. 25, 1862. 
SimmoiiN, .\rthnr J.. 1st corp.; enr. Ang. 4, 1802. 
Blanchard, D.iniel W., 2d corp.; enr. Aug. 5, 1862. 
Coll'urn, Amos P., 4tli corp. ; enr. Aug. 11, 1802. 
Vibber. Hinim, 5ili corp.; unr. Aug. 2". IS02. 
Way, Daniel, 0th c rp.; enr. Ang. 11, 1802. 
Carter, Fn-derick C , 7lh corp. ; enr. July 31, 1862. 
Oberly, Frederick. 8(h c irp. ; enr. Ang. 11, 1862. 
Salter-*, Edwin D , 9th corp. ; enr. July Mi, 1862. 
Carpenter, Egbert, lorh corji.; our. .Vtrg. 21, 1802. 
Covey. Charles P.. lllli Corp.; enr. July 28, 1862. 

Becker, George, 12th corp. ; enr. Aug. 2ti, 1862. 
Schrue, Fred'k A., Isl ariiticor; enr. Aug. 14, 1862. 
Sigsland, John, 2d artificer; enr. Ang. 18, 1802. 

Ives, Newell E,. ;td artificer; enr. Aug. 20, 1862. 

Bates. Wetitley E,, Ist hngler; enr. .\ng, 5, 1802. 

Lewis, Henry M., 21 bugler; enr. Aug. 5, 1802. 

Adncr, Charles, private; enr. .\ug, 9, 1862. 

Ashcrnft, FraTtklin E.. jirivate; enr. -Vug. 11, 1862. 

Avery, tJardner, private ; «'nr. .Vug. 9. 180 i. 

Ballanl, George, private; enr. Ang. 9, 1862. 

Barlett. Henry J., private ; enr. Ang. 21, 1802. 

B.issi'tt. Sloses, private; enr. -Vug. 1, 1802. 

Bentley, George, private; enr. Aug. 21, 1802. 

Beach. Isaiiili S.. private; enr. Aug. 11, ls02. 

Bengh, Dieterich, private; enr. Ang. 11, 1K02. 

Ben -01, Itufus B. private; enr. July 20, 1802. 

Becker, <"hirbs D., priv.ite; eur. Aug. 9. 1802. 

B-issnot. .\Iun/.o .\ , private ; enr. Aug. 21, 1862, 

Briiland, 4Jeorge J., private ; enr. .\ug. 21. 1862. 

Br.iss;iiil. Kug<-ne, )irivate ; enr. .\iig. 19. 1862. 
I Brown. {;iark T., private: enr. Aug. 2u, 1862. 
I Bushnell, Charles O., private; enr. Aug. .7, 1862. 

Bascimi, Nathan L., private; enr. Aug. 14, 1862. 
1 Bissuot, James, piivate; enr. .\u'.;. 11, 1862, 

Carpenter. Charles A., private ; enr. .\ug. 6, 1862. 
, Carpenter, John H.. private; enr. .\ug. 9. 1862. 
1 Covey, Albert, private; enr. July 28, 1862. 



Covey, Georgip, private; our. July 28, 1862. ' 

Cownu. Edwin R., private; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 

Cmn<bill, Geurge F., private ; enr. .Vng. 9, 1802. 

Crowtier, Jefitme S., private; enr. .\ug. 15, 1862. 

t'hapin, Alfred. i>rivate; enr. Aug. II, 1862. 

Oowner, Sda-, private; enr. Aug. 7, 1862. 

Clinttman, Levi C., private; enr. Aug. 20, 1862. 

Cunuingbani, William, private; enr. .Aug. 8^1862, 

Chun-hill, George M., priv.ite; enr. 19, 1862. 

Cowan, John, private; enr. Aug. 15, 1862. 

Davis, Philip, pr<v.tte; enr Ang. II. lw;2. 

Dawson, John, private; enr, Aug. 20, 18<i2. 

Detamble, John, jtrivate ; enr. Aug. 0, 1802. 

Doyle, Juhn, private; enr. Aug. 8, l8r.-2. 

Dyer, Georgi-. private; rur. .Vug 21. |802. 

I>odi;e, Ltirrinlon, private; enr. Ang. 21, 1802. 

Dehiucy, Gaylonl, private; enr Aug. II, 1802.. 

Eldred, Albert II.. private; enr. Aug. H, |H62. 

Exfnnl, tieorge W.. private; enr. Aug. 21, 184;2. 

Kvaiis, Roselle, private ; enr. July 28, l8t;2. 

Everett, .VnioM, private ; ear. Ana. 7, 1862. 

Fox, Henry S., private; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 

Fox, Benjamin F., private; enr. .Vng. 21. 1802. 

Fraucii*, Gilbert E , private; enr. Aug. 20, 1862. 

Galloway, John W., private; enr. July 29, 1802. 

Galloway, Francis M., private; enr. 'Aug. 5, 1802. 

Gndiam. William, private; enr. .\ug. 18, 1862. 

Green, John, private; cnr. Aug. 21, 1>*62. 

Hastings, Edgar, private; enr. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Hastinjis, Henry T. private; enr. Aug. 19, 1862. 

Haller, Audrew, private; enr. .Vug. II, 1862. 

Ingriiham, iieorgo E , private; enr. .Vug. 7, 1802. 

Jabas, Frt^ierick L., private; enr. Aug. 18, lsr>2. 

Keating, Thonia", private; enr. Aug. 7, 1802. 

KlJngner, Hendrick, privnte; enr. .Vug. 5, 1«02. 

Kelmer, Joseph II., private; enr. Aug. 9, 1802. 

Leo. John N., private; enr. Aug. 9, 1M02. 

Leach, Slartiu, private ; i-nr. Ang. 21, 1862. 

Legacy. Wdliani, private; enr. July 26, 1862. 

Lewis, Wdliam .1., private; enr. Aug. 20, 1862. 

Lord, William .M., privato; eur. Aug. 21. 1802. 

Mead, John F., private; enr. Aug 9, 1862. 

Slallen, Kol.erl, private ; enr. Aug. 9, 1862. 

SIcLane, John, private ; enr. Aug. 21. 1862. 

Mulvany, John, private; enr. Aug. 9, 1861. 

McC^jruiick, Peter, private; eur. Aug. 21. 1862. 

Mould, Henry, private; enr. Aug. 9, 1862. 

O'C'Onner, Patri.-k, private ; cnr. .Vug. II, 1802. 

Ormasiun. Hugh, private ; enr. Ang. 20, 1862. 

Panlee, William E.. priv.ite; enr. Aug. 9, 1862. 

Petty, Hii-am J., pnvate; enr. .Vug. 11, 1862, 

Rogers, Daniel, private; enr. .Vug. 21, 1802. 

Rogers, Eli J., private; enr. Aug. 6, 1862. 

Samlers. Roselle, private; enr. Ani:. 11, 1862. 

Scovill, Henry L.. private; enr. Ang. II. 1862. 

Scott. Byron, private ; enr. .Vug. 21, l8tV2. 

Scluyer, Nicholas E., private; enr. Ang. 21. 1862. 

Shattock, C^dvin, private; enr. Aug, II. 1802. 

Simmer, ('harles J., private; enr. .Vug. 11, 1862. 

Stevens, Lnther N., private ; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 

Sweet. I^orenzo, private; cnr. Aug 2it, 1862. 

Shult/., Charles, private; enr. Atig. 11, 1862. 

Sanders, Fninklin, private; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 

Townsend, Charles H., private; enr. .Vug. 20, 1862. 
I T<iwnsend, Hiram, private; enr. Aug. II, 1862. 
! Tift, llenrv .V , private; enr. Ang. 4, 1862. 

Tascott, William E , private; enr. Aug, 18, 1802. 

Tilloison, Charles G., private; enr. .Vug. 21, 1802. 

Vanamber, Melvin W., private; enr. Aug-21. 1802. 
Wiesseman. George, private ; enr. Ang. 19, 1802. 

Walter, Crtrl, private; enr. Aug. 21. Is62. 
Williamsiui, William, private; eur. Aug. 11, 1862. 

Weaver, Slaitland. private; enr. Aug. II, ls62. 
Weatherhead, Henry, private; enr. Aug. 9, 1862, 
Winch, William, private; enr. .Vna. 7, 181.2. 
Winner, IticlianI, private; enr. Aug. 2o, 1862. 
Yallan, Georgi*; private; enr. Aug. 7, 1862. 

CAPT. ADAMS CLEGHORN'S 00. (A) 1ST 
BATTALION (CO. E OF REGT). 

Cteghorn, .Vdauis. capt,; cnr. 1862. 
Tvler. Elm an, 1st lient.; eur, Aug. 0, 1862. 
Wheeler, An.lrew A., 1st li.-ut,; enr. Aug 6. 1862. 
Jones. Rus-sell M., 2d lient.; enr, Ang. 4. 1802. 
Co.ik, Slaladm G.,2d lieut.; enr. Ang. It, 1802. 
Johnson. F. Byron, 1st sergt. ; eur. Auf .4, 1862. 
Hard, De Wilt C.,2J sergt.; enr. Ang. 8, 1862. 
Foreman, Albert, sergt.; enr. Aug. 8, 1802. 
Eggbston. Edwin L., sergt.; enr. Aug. 8, 1862. 
Potter, James E., sergt. ; enr. Aug. 8, 1862. 
Lu<-as, tJeorge. sergt.; enr. Aug. 7, 1862. 
Wilkin«i>n,John L., ^'ergl.; enr. Aug. 6, 1862. 
Swan, Slartin D., sergt.; enr. An;:. 19, 1862. 
R^indall, Sylvanus, Corp. ; enr. .Vug. 9, 1862. 
Abbott, George, lorp, ; enr. Ang. 8, 1862. 
Bullock, Alonzo SI., cor|». ; enr. .Vug. 8, 1862. 
Moody, Henry H., con»- ; enr. .Vug. 8, 1862. 
Church, Rollin *'., corp. ; enr. Aug. 5, 1802. 
Harrington, Fmnk, corp,; enr. Aiig. 9, 1802. 
Gl-ascm. Nathaniel N, c.rp.; enr. Aug. 0, 1802. 
Littlefield, Miles C. Corp.; enr. Aug. 11, 1862. 
Oates, Slichanl. corp.; enr. Aug. 5, 1802. 
Mailbtnd. William I!., corp.; enr. Aug. 20, 1862. 
Brown. Thonia* J., corp. ; enr. Aug. 2o, 1862. 
Kennedy. Edwin T.. Corp. ; Aug. 20, 1802. 
Kilby, Fninc s N.. bugler; enr. Ang. 21, 1802. 
.Vllen, Loren/o B.. bugler; enr. Aug. 19, 1862. 
Lawr .nc-, A. G.. artificer; enr. Aug. 20, 1862. 
Joiner, F. D., artificer; enr. .Vug. 20, 1802, 
Woodw aril. Ezn. artificer ; enr. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Owens, William, artificer; enr. Aug. 8. 1862. 
IVleni. Elias. .artificer; enr. Aug. 8, 1802. 
Comins. J'diu, artificer; enr. .Vu^. 6. 1862. 
.Vllen, Jani'*s, private; onr. Aug. 21, 1862. 
Albro, Warren. privat"; enr. Aug. 11, 1862. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Ah-rn, Con>Mliw, pnvate; onr. Aug. 8, J8«2. 

B,.rk.r, Hi. liar,!. ,.r.v»t.-, inr. A-S-f. '""•„„ 
Ikichfl .r. <i.-org.- K., pri.«te; onr. A'"B^9 }8ff-. 
Bar...v, George M. D., priv,.U-. '-r^ A"? flli 
l>..r...-j Pni.iel 1-., private: ""f, A"8- -^^ *'*■ 
Be..t..M, Kil.-.v K., private; '>"■• ■'"I''. -^^ 'f- 
B„v, .-, Skinner, private; enr. Aap. «. l«Of • 
Bri..kL. «ie..r;;e W., private: enr. Aug. 8, l^ra- 
Br... ", d. .rles >1.. private : enr. Ang n.lw... 
Bri.t..!, ltan».n.. priv.,te ; .nr. Ang. IJ. 1»0. 
Biunhin,, (.liver W.. pnvate : enr. Aui.-. 4 \^^i. 
C>n-nler,J«hn, Jr., p.iv.,te; enr. Ang. il, 1^C.. 
Carler, John M., private : enr. Ang. il,_18b2. 
Dialer, John, private: enr. Aug. -1, 18<'- 
C„..k, ClmrlenS, pnvate: e.ir. Aug. jl, 1862. 
fr .ft, Alonzo, private : enr. Aug. h, Wh 
C..l.nrn, Clmci™, private : enr. Ang. 8 180.. 
C.l.l.. P.n-.v. pr.vate; enr. Aug. 8, 180. 
Clafln. Henr.v, private; .nr Ang^8 186. 
Cn-hinau,Lliane., pr.vate; enr. Aug. 8, 180.. 
C..lli^^ AL.nzo I., pnvat.-: enr. Ang^A 186.. 
l)«v, Joseph, pnv.le; enr. Aug '."«■-• 
I>ay, Alf ed L . pnvate ; enr. Aug. 7, 1862. 
Damon, Albert, private; enr. Aug 7, ISC'- 
Diugni .n, Ljni.n, pr.vate; eirr. Aug. 11, 1862. 
D,)wner, A. J., private; enr. Aug. 8, 18r... 
l).,„nel...n. Henr.v. privale ; enr. Aug If", I*"'- 
Dye, U. Volney, privai.- : enr. Aug. il, 180.!. 
K.rr, llnvia, privajc ; enr. Aug. ., 1861. 
F,lli.iore, UlyssOT, pr.vate; enr. AuR. 8,180.. 
Killniore, Willi .n., pnvate; enr Aug. 11, 1»^... 
Kinney, Svlvest.r. pr.vate; enr. Aug. 6, 186.. 
Finnev, «e..r.e W.. pnvate; enr. Aug. 0, W,' 
Fra/,ier,Ge..rge M., private; enr. An.:. 9, 186.. 
(;nnnell, Janiea, private; enr. Aug. ]i.W(.i. 
Crave*, Jesae B.,p ivate; enr. Aug. J. 180-- 
IJreen, Henry J., private ; enr. Ang. i' . ''f^- 
Green, Chartea N .p..vate; enr. Ang_2«^18C.. 
(:r..lT, Martin, private ; ei.r. Aug. 1^, 180;-. 
llateh, Kli A., pii'ate; ear. Ans:. 21 , 186.!. 
llarter. P. f., private: .nr. .Vng. 21, 180-. 
Hen.lee, ll.m.. r X., pr.v..te; enr. Aug-!'. 1862; 
Hininan, Willi.m M.. pnvate ; enr. Aug 8, 180.. 
Hinn.an, Samuel I), pnvate; enr. A.is^l, 186-2. 
llorr, Warren, private; enr. Aug. 8, 18(?2. 
Horr, Biley, private: enr Aug. 18, 18M. 
Ho.r, Austin W., pnvate: enr Au,: 18. 18C-. 
Hovev, George, private: enr. Aug. 4, 1862. 
Hunter, Aaron E., private; enr. Ang. ■♦'1862. 
Jackdon, Cliarles C, pr.vate ; enr Aug. 20. 1862. 
Jackson, Thon.a9, private; enr. Aug. 9, 1862. 
James, Svlv.ster I,., private; enr. A. .g. 2", 1862. 
James, Alouzo T., private; enr. Ang. 8, 1862. 
Jeffers, T. L., private; enr. An? 9, 1802. 
Johnson, Uavhl, privale; enr. Aug. 21, 18'.-. 
Keye, J..hn W., private; enr. Aug. 12, 18.2. 
Kemp, In., Jr., private; enr Aug 8 J802. 
Kill.y, K. B,. privale; enr. Ang. 21, 1862. 
laing, Willi.ini, private; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 
Lane, Amos, private ; enr. Aug. 0, 1802 
Larkins, Seth, private; car. Ang. o, 1802. 
lairkin.", Henry D , p ivate ; enr. Aug- 8, ISO-. 
MHyn..rd, (ieorge N.. pilvale; enr. A.lg. 18, 1862. 
Maitli.nd, K..l.ert, private ; enr. Ang. 2(1, 1862. 
Metcalf, liyron. private; enr. Aug. 8, 1802. 
Mcl).inalil, Ilarv.y, private: enr. Aug. 9 1862. 
M.lilpin, George, piivnte ; enr. Aug. "> l"''- 
Mel,'.iml.e.-, Cl.aries, private; enr. Aug. II, 1862. 
MotI, Wllliain, private; enr. Ang. 11. 180-- 
MoiHly, Seymour B , private; enr. Aug. Jl. 18'>-. 
Newell, Henry W. private; enr. Aug. 12, 1862. 
Nestle, Oliver, privale ; enr. Aug. 5, 1802. 
Nutting, Allwrl, pnvate; enr. Aug. 0, 1802. 
Oti', J.'hn P., privale; .nr.Aug.S, 1802. 
Parsons, Ersk.ne I), private; enr. Aug. 21,1802 
Parker, John, private; enr. Ang. 5, 1862. 
Penny, Amiil, private ; enr. Aug. 0, 1862. 
Pennv, Sell. H., privale; enr. Aug. 21), 1802. 
P.nny, Enistus II., private; enr. Ang. 8, 1802. 
P.ilter, Chari.s A , priv.te; enr. Aug. 6, 1862, 
Pre-ly, Francis M . private; enr. Aug. 4,1802. 
Kiin.lall, Hil.l, private; enr. Aug. 8, 1802. 
Uichanls. Si.lney S , private; Aug. 21, 1862. 
Kickett, G.-..rge N., private; enr. .\ug. zl, 1862. 
Kipley,'rhart..s A., privale; enr. Aug. .1, 1862. 
Ke...l,J..hn P., privale; enr. Aug. 8, 1862. 
R<jlil.erts, Albeit, private, enr Aug. 8, 1862. 
Kobb.rl«, Frank, private: enr. Aug. 9. 1862. 
Koaoh, Robert, piivale; enr. Aug. 9,_1862. 
Sweet, G.'orge K., privat.-; enr. Aug.", 1862. 
Seat.in, I.e..nar<l. Jr., private ; enr. Ang. 21, 1802. 
8..aton, ILyington ('., private; enr. Aug. 21, 1862 
Sortwill, Waller, private; enr. Ang. 8, 1862. 
Shannon, K.lwar.1, private; enr. Aug. 18, 1862. 
Spragn.., Alni..nt J., private ; enr. Ang. 6, 1802. 
Sprague, Newlon A., private; enr. Aug. 12, 1802. 
Stan.li.<h, S.«tiai I.., piivale; enr. Aug. 11,1802. 
Smith, NelK.in, private ; ear. Ang, 0, 1H62. 
Snyd"r, "rin S, private; enr. Aug. 8, 1862. 
Spi'ncer. Alfred II., private ; enr. Ang. 5, 1862. 
gt..rr», William, privale; enr. Aug. 21, 1802. 
Sturtevant, Andrew, private; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 
St.irtevanl, David, privale; enr. Aug. 0, 1862 
Tilfl, Fmnklin D., privale; enr. Ang. 0, 1862. 
Tifll, Jainiu H.. privai..; enr. Aug. 9, 1802. 
Taylor, lliixham P., private; enr. Aug. 2", 1E62. 
T.ir.iy, Thomas K., privale; enr. Aug. 9, 1802. 
lli.deihill. Krvin, private; ..nr. Aug. 9, 1802. 
Van W..rmer, .\n»tin, private; ear. Ang. 0, 1802 
Ward, (Iw.n S.. private ; enr. Aug. 8, 1862. 
Washburn. J M., private; enr. Ang. .'u. 1802. 
Wheehr, Jo»eph A., private; enr. Aug. 16. 1862. 
Whitlier, Davi.l, priv..te; enr. Ang. 6, 1862. 
Whipple, Fardon, private; enr. Aug. 26, 1862. 
Worden, Luther t'., private; enr. Ang. 7, 1862. 



Wilcox, A. J., private : enr. Aug. •■ 1*'62. 
Woo.1, Danford. private; enr. Aug. S, W62 
W.s.l. William A., private; "-nr-, A"g- "• J^" 
Zulell, Joseph J., private: enr. July 29, 1802. 



CAI'T. J. S. VAXDKRBI:RGHS CO. (D), 2D BAT- 
TALION— <CO. F OF BEG.). 
Vanderburgh, J..hn S., . apt.; enr. 1802. 
Iluntingt...., l..aac L., 1st Ueut.: enr Aug. 9, 180.. 
Ctman' Eli..8, 1st Meat. ; enr. Aug. 9, 1802. 
McKniKht. K..bert,2d lient.: enr. Aug. 9,1802. 
B, It. rlebi. Levi A., 2d lieut.; enr Aug. 6 1802. 
Parker, Hilon A., l>t sergt.; enr. Aug. 4 1802 
w'is.,,;. 18,n A.,q..n.-serg..; enr. Aug. 11,1862. 
C.rnwall, Wilson J., sergt.; enr. Aug. 11, 18(... 
Gre,."leaf, Oe..rgeC.,sergt.; enr. Aug 4,1.-62. 
Evans, John S., K-rgt.: enr. Aug. 6 M2. 
Bniuks, Otis si.rgt.; enr. Ang. ".1862. 
Bun.lletl, Alfred D., sergt.; enr Aug. 9, 1802 
S,,..illding, Charles i.., ».-rgt. : '"'^- Aug. 21, 180.. 
O^K.per, Jlartin, corp.;.enr. Aug. .^1. 1802 
W..bster, GiH.rge, Corp. ; enr. A.ig_ 11, J,!;"- 
Mar>hall, T. Benton, eorp. ; ei.r. Aug. -•. ;862. 
Simons, John H.,corp.: ,nr. .\ug. 21 1802. 
p„,.ler, James P., Corp. ; enr. Aug. >■, l>-0. 
Wbitaker, Edward W., corp. ; enr. Aug. H, 1862. 
Sartwell, G<«rge E., Corp. ; enr. Aug II 180 
Jlak.-peace, Solom..n, Jr., Corp. ; enr. Aug. 28, 1802. 
Waters..!., E.I»ard,corp.; enr. A"g. 6 1862 
Phillip-, William D.,<-..ip.; »•'"■; Aug. 12, 186>. 
Sw.et, William D.,corp.; enr. Aug. 4.1862 
IL.fliuan, Jonathan, coip.; enr. .\ng. 1 , 186 . 
Pa.ker. K..l»..n O.. bugler: enr. Aug. 2 . l*^- 
T iner, Arthur F.. bugler; enr. .\ug. 21 I8(V2 
A.ll.irt, Itobeit E., artificer: enr. Au^. 19 1802. 
Hayes, John T., arlifi. ir ; enr. Aug. ', 'W^. 
liruso J..I.... Jr.. arlin.-er; enr. Aug. 11, 1862. 
Forie^ William H., artificer; enr. Aug. 29 802 
Simpson, J. William, «"?""" '.'"'■/"f.i*' l*"' 
AgeV; L..ren J., priv.ate ; enr. Aug 4, 1802 
Austin, Zailock B., private; enr. Aug 7 1802 
Abbott. Sherman L., pnvate; enr Aug. 1 1862. 
Anderson. Jenin), private ; enr Aug 2;. 1862. 
Averv, William, privale; enr. Aug. 28, 1862 
Apple, Il»lri^on, l.rivate; enr. Aug 26, 1802 
Sithtt, Chari« cpiivale; enr.Aug.9 1862. 
Bishop, Ira L., p^ ivale ; enr. Aug. 11 1862. 
Brus... Edwar.1, pnvale; enr. Aug. 11, U6 . 
Busbr, M..rga.i, priv.ile ; «"• Augl^'. 186-. 
Bartlett, Jacob, private ; enr. Aug. 28 1862. 
Betz, Jacob, private ; enr. Aug. 28, 1862. 
tnass. Jam™, private ; enr. Ang. o ISO.. 
Curtis, William S., private ; enr .M.g 11 1862. 
Comwall, Oscar, pnvate ; enr. Aug. 11. 186i- 
Cole, George W private; <■■•'■• A>>8-;.ll>0^- 
Combs, Jan.es, Jr., pnvate ; enr. Aug^ 7. 1802. 
C..ok,Orr.n. private: enr. Ai'g- '.JSO^- 
Carnagie. Hiram, pnvate ; enr. Aug. 1.^,1862. 
Cl..u.e, J.ihn, private ; enr. Aug. .! ; 1«6-- 
Chase, Sipiire, private ; enr. Aug. 21 1862 
Cos^rove G.orge II., private; enr. Aug. 2 1862 
Coslrove James, Jr., l.rivate ; enr. Aug. 2 1862. 
Conant, Kichard, private ; enr. Aug 19 1802 
Davton Lyman J., private ; ""■ ^"S*']*^- 
Dobbins, John S., private; <■"■■■ A 'B»-,'''|?- 
Dillin, Myron G.,pnvate; enr. Aug. 4, 1862. 
Dillin Jiion C, private ; enr. Aug. 4, 1862 
. elani, Fninei, II., private ; enr. Aug^ II. 1862. 
Davis, M..rris G., privale ; enr^A.ig.l9 1862. 
Dunn, Michael, private ; enr. A11g.4i.l8W. 
Evans, Barton, private ; ei"-- /ug. 20 1802. 
Ely, l>.rman, private; enr. Aug. ^]-J>^''-- 
F..ldv, Warren, privale; enr. Aug- 2., ISC- 
Ed.- v, Svlvester. private ; enr. Aug. 28, 186-. 
rre,;mail, George W., private ; enr Aug. 4 1862. 
Ferguson, Samuel, private ; enr. Aug- ■ ,186-. 
Franklin. Wiirani E., private ; enr. Aug 21 1802. 
Feltit, Frederick, private; enr. Aug. 27. 1802 
Faulkner. Stephen, pnvate ; enr Aug. ,862. 
Gokev, Anthony, pnvate; enr. Aug. 4 1802 
Grav William A., pnvate; enr Aug 12 1862. 

!L;n, J..sel.h, privale; enr. Aug- 1-^. 1«C2. 
nwrg.'. S..n,ia... private; enr. Aug 2 , 1862. 
Hart; Enoch, private ; enr. Aug. 8, 1862. 
Hnnilv, Henry, private: enr. Aug- 4, 1802 
imntal.-, Tl.onuu., pnvate ; '■"■■ A ug- ' • 1»»'!. 
Hough, la-an.ler, pnvate; enr. Aug. 1, 180.. 
Hunter. Chari.s, private ; -n^- fig .1, 180-. 
Hil.lielh, Ephraim.pnval.-; enr Aug. 11. 1802. 
I .wlan.l, jieeph, private; enr. A-g- H. 18B2;, 
Hawkins, George C, pnvale ; enr. Aug. 6 1802. 
IDintby, Al.mwM.nvale; <•'"■ A'g- '• 1;''2. 
Hart, Albert, privale: «■"•• A"K- • • '"W- 
Hawn, Ge..rgo E., pnvale ; '»'■ ■''"fJ\-,}'^^X^ 
Hubbard, 0.i..mns, pnvale; enr. Aug. 21.180.. 
Hen.slreH, Henry G., private ; enr Aug 18,1862. 
Hill, H. I>. W.. privale; enr. Aug. -L 180-- 
Hub..ii. Denn s, private ; .nr. Aug. .. . 1>0-. 
J..rar,l. William, private; enr. .\ng.9 1862 
Jernol, J..bn W.. pnvate; enr. A ig. .j, 180.. 
June, E/r.., prival..; enr. Aug- 2", 1802; 
JCW..II, J.«e, prival..; enr. Ang. 21,1862. 
Kring, J..hn, pnvale; i-nr. Aug- 4.18 ... 
Ket. h..m. Waller, privale ; enr Aug 12 1862. 
Kiu.l.»ll. Hiram, private; enr. Aug- !•■, 18'.-. 
I.athr..p, Savillion. pnvat.; ; '"■ Aug. 12 1862 
Lawreme, William, pnvate; ear Aug. 21. 1802. 
M..n,e. James W., private ; enr. .\ng. 4 1S62 
Miller, Samuel B. pnvate ; enr. Aug. JI. '««-• 
Mill.r.J..-eph A. private ; enr^ Aug. I... 1862. 
Nou.r,Rudol|.h. private; enr. Aug. II, 1802. 
Sorlhr..p, Andrew J., private; «•"■;■ A^-^J;,'*^- 
Olnev, Darwin V., pnvate; enr. Aug. 8, 18l.-. 
Parker. Gordon W.. private; -nr. A..g 4 S62. 
I Pntme.Oeorg.. H., |.rivale; enr. Ang. M, 1862. 



Pierce George, private; enr. Aug. 7, 1862. 
Patten, Henry, j.rivate; enr. Aug. 5. 1862. 
Phillips, William II., private; enr. Ang. ..186-. 
Phillips. Marvel, privale; enr. Aug. 21. 1802. 
Plant, Joseph, privaf; enr. Ang. 9. 1802 
Paltereon. Solon B.. privat.-; enr. Aug 14 1862. 
Putnam. Isaac, private; enr. Aug. 2", 18^. 
P,.rter, Davi.l, private: enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 
Phillips Amaziah, pnvate; enr. Ang. 28, 1862. 
Ragat, Charies. privale; enr. Aug 11, 1862 
Roberlsi.n, 1 haries. private; enr. Aug. la. 1862. 
Kussel, George, privale ; enr. Aug. 2,, 1862 
llobbin8..n. Jlilford. pnvale; enr. Aug. 2., 1802. 
RnsscI.EIias, privale: enr. Aug. 28, 1862 
Sprague, C harles A ., pnvate ; enr. Aug. 27 1862 
slml-iin, William H.. pnvate; enr. Aug 4, 1802. 
Sykes, Lewis, private; enr. Aug. lo, 1802. 
sirtwell, Kin.l all »., private; enr Aug. 11, 1862. 
Slearora. Egbert R.. pri>ale; enr. Aug. 11, 180.. 
Stearnes. Henry B., private: enr. Aug. "j l""^- 
Salsbury, Alans..n C, pnvate; .nr. Aug. 11. 1862. 
Seym..ur, Jeremiah, private; enr. Aug. .1, 1802. 
Shelev, Nelson, private; enr. Aug. 11, 186'.. 
Swai.; Warren, p. ivale; enr Aug. 7, 180.. 
Shea. J..bn, privale; enr. Aug. .,1862 
Smilh, Stephen A. pnvate ; enr. Aug^O 1862. 
Senael... W illiam, privale ; enr Aug .,186-. 
Say.r, I'el. r A . i.rival.-; enr. Ang. 11, 1862. 
SUvens, Allen, private; enr. Ang. 1'. '862. 
Snal.burg, William A., pnvale; enr. Aug. 18,180-. 
Sweet, J..b, privale ; enr. Ang. 21, 1862. 
Shaw, Oliver U.. pnvale; enr. Aug. 21, 1862 
Swan, Jofeph C, privale : enr. Aug. 2., 1862 
Sl.ai.noi., Daniel, private; enr. Aug. 28, ls02. 
Si«.lsl...rg. J..hn J., pnvale; enr Aug. 21. l'-C2. 
Tyler, Hiram W., private; enr. Aug. a, 1862. 
Van liiocklin, Benjamin, pnvale ; enr. Aug. 4, If 6L. 
Van Tassel, Byn.n, priv.ate; enr. Aug .i. 18.6- 
Van Tas.s.1, George W.. piivat.-; <•'"■• Aug- ^, 1862. 
Welch, William, private ; enr. Aug. 21, 180-. 
Walralh, George G., pi ivate ; enr. Aug 4 1862. 
Walls, (ialmon D.. private ; enr. Aug. 4, 1802 
Warner, Jonathan, private ; enr. Aug. H. 1*'62. 
Wils..ii. Eugene, private; enr. Ang. 11. 186- 
Wheeler, Gilbert, p. ivate ; enr. Aug. 12. 1802. 
Wbitaker, Austin, privale ; enr. Aug. 7, 186-. 
Zeller, Harrison W., pnvat.- ; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 



CAl'T. KCSSELL B. BIDDLECOM'S CO. (B), 2D 

BATTALION (CO. G OF REG.). 
Biddl.com, Russell B., c.pt.; enr. 1802 
Mar>l.all, G..vera H , 1st lieut.; enr. 1862 
Chapn.an, Eugene A., Isl lieut ; enr. 1862. 
Bothers, Victor B., 2d lieut. ; enr. 186-. 
Hart, William J., M lient. ; enr. 186-. 
Knnd.ll, Cbari.s L.. Isl s.-rgl.; enr. July 28, 1862 
Gilli.igham, Watson W , q. ni -sergt. ; enr \ng. 6, 62. 
Wanl. Il.nrj, Jr.. sergt ; .nr. July 28, 1862. 
Irvin, Henry, sergt.; enr. Aug. 21, 186-. 
Collins, Gc-orge II., serf I.; enr Aug. 19, 1802. 
Enos, G.orpe W., 8..rgt.; enr. July .». 1862. 
Kilborii. John, sergt.; enr. Aug. 7, 1862. 
Austin, Chester B., sergt. ; "•"r/"?- '■ '*^^- 
Alb-n, Charii-8 K., corp. ; enr. Aug. 19 1862 
Hughes, Patrick J., corp. : ej.r. Aug. 1862. 
A11..I., Ad.lm E., c.rp.; enr. Aug. 19 1862. 
Dilbnback, J. Wesley, Corp.; enr Aug. 7 1862. 
Haskina, R.d.ert W.. en-.: enr. Ju y 28 1862. 
N.llis, Peter W., Corp. ; enr. Aug.2 180 
Ed.ly, Lewis W., corp. ; .nr. .\ug. 19, 1802. 
Rous.-, Merrick, Corp.; enr. Aug. 0, 180.. 
y,.rk, Charies V., crp. ; enr. Aug. 8, 1802 
(lark, Uinren N.. c..n>. ; enr. Aug. 21, 180-. 
Warren, Sumner 11., Corp. ; ear. Aiig. 11, 1862. 
Dean, Z.-nas D.. i-orp. ; enr. Aug. 18. 180.. 
Comsl..ck, Wm. H., artificer ; enr. Ai g. 0, 1862. 
Greenbaf, G.-orge D., a.tlficer; enr. July 28, 1862. 
Thom,*..n. Frank M.. amhcer: enr. .\ug. 0. 1862. 
Whel..ck, Daniel, aitiflc.r: enr. Aug. ■•• If"- 
McDon..iigb, John, ar.ift.er : enr. Aug. 2^ 1862. 
Kellv, William, arlificvr; enr. Aug. i_. I80-. 
Dnik.-, Ii.-xterT., bugler; enr. Aug. ., 1862 
Walrath, George ll.,bugl.-r; enr. Aug 1 1802. 
Al.la-y, Jairiis, prival.. ; enr. Aug. .,186 
Babcock, William, pnvat.-: enr. Aug. 11.186.-^; 
Ballanl, Vulney B., private; enr. Aug 2", 186.. 
Barbo, G.-..rge, private; ei.r. Aug. 20^^180-. 
Barton, E.lward. privale ; enr. Ang. 21. 186-. 
Banter, Fer.linan.l, privale ; enr Aug -'. 1802. 
B.mis, J. Henry, private; enr. Aug 21, ISO.. 
Brilton,G.-org.-, private; ..nr. Aug. l.i, 1802. 
Brown, Albeit, l.rivate ; enr. Aug. 9. 1802. 
Birch, Nibs, private; enr. Aug. ■% 186-. 
tarl,«, Lewis, private; enr. Ang. 2", ISO 
Carlo., William II., pnvat.-: enr Aug 20, 1862. 
easier, Jam.-8 M., private ; enr. .\ug. 21, 1802 
Chase, William S., i.rival.-; .-nr. Aug. •'• 1«;2- 
Classen, Edward I... privat-; enr. Aug. l.-.^1862. 
C..hl., Ephraim, private: enr. Aug. .1, 1N>-. 
Cokely, l>,.ni.l, private; enr. Aug- 6, 1862. 
Cole. Kan>..m J., privat.- : .nr. July 28, 1862. 
Dariing,Thoni.«S., pnvat.-; enr. Aug II, 1862. 
Delay. Robert, private ; enr. Aug. 8. 180.. 
D.,n.-v, Wa»hingt..n, pnvat.-; enr^Ang. 20, 1862. 
F^ck.rt, J..hu, privale; enr. Anz. ■■180-. 
E.-kerl, Nicl...ls, private; enr. .July .11, 80.. 
Ellis, Alphonz.., privale; .-nr. Aug. 19, 1862. 
Ellis, J..m.-s, private; enr. Aug 21, 180- 
Evans, Cl.arl.-., private; enr. Aug. 2(1, 180.. 
F,.rro«s Archibald M., prival.-; .-nr. A g. 9 1802. 
Farr, J. Dem|wl-r, prival.- ; .nr. Aiig. -1, 180- 
Fik.-,G.s.rg.-, private; 'ur. Aug. 4 180. 
F.irl..s.J..h.., l.rivate; '-"■■■ Aug. 21, ISO-. 
Fonl, Mylan.1 H., privat.-; enr Aug 19, 1802. 
I F..«ter, Charies, private; enr. Aug. 21, ISC- 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



573 

A- 



Frotlcnl.iiruli, Eliiid, privalo; enr. Aup. 7.1862. 
Frxwl, Willhiin, privato; fiir. Aug. K, ^t^ii2. 
Cittli's, tii'urgc W'., privntr; enr. Aug. 1, lHfi2. 
GHnllitT. Putnam 1., private; rnr. Am:. 21, 18C2. 
Cilliiigliittii, Saniiul, privati'; lur. Aiip. 1*J, 1W52. 
Gillnmii, C-Mig.- I>.,priv!ii*-; iiir. July 2i'>, 18*ii. 
G<"'»lricli, Bvri"ri, private; cur. Aug. I**, isiVZ. 
Golhiini, Fnimis H., privat*-; enr. Aug. 1», lHfi2. 
Guthani, G. S. Aliir.il, privatt-; *'iir. Aug. Il,18(i2. 
Gotham, K<)ssw<'ll It., private: eitr. Aug. 12, 18(i2. 
(irulitin, Willijiui. private; eiir. Aug.yn, 1S(;2. 
Gmmlie, Juliu M., [trivate: cnr. Aug. :*, IHCI. 
Gruvet*. Sariiiii'1 M., private; enr. Aug. 18, IH<i2. 
Gneiifieiil. KoU-il F., iiHviite; eiir. July :U, 1802. 
Green. Walter W., private; eitr. Aug. 11,1862. 
Hax, Barnet, private; eiir. July 'JS, liSO.i. 
Iletiiy, .\moji.)., private; enr. .\ng.2I, ISi;>. 
Hickit, (Igileii B.. private; enr. Aug. lil. lMi2. 
Hill. P' l"e, ]»rivate; enr. Aug. 8, lKi;2. 
Hill. Wareham C, private; enr. .Inly :il, 1SG2. 
Ilnwe. Genrgt' W.. private; enr. Aug. .'», 1862. 
HuilMin, (ieorge W.. private; enr. Aug. 12. 1862. 
Huiit.r, ilenry, private; enr. Aug. 211,1862. 
Hutcliin)<^>n, flmrle-, private; enr. Aug. 11, 1862. 
Ji'linsnn, I'hiiie-. privat-; enr. Aug. .1, 1862. 
Jalin'«on, KUjali .1., private; enr. Aug. 21. 1862. 
Jnhnaon, Jotliani W., private; enr. Aug. 8, 186'2, 
Joles, Jiiliu-, jtrivate; enr. Aug. 21, 1K62. 
Joles. Levi, private; enr. Aug. 21, 1SG2, 
Jules, William, priviite; enr. Aug. 27. 1S62. 
Juk-i*. Will slow, private; enr. Aug, 21, IK62. 

Keneley, Patrick^ private ; enr. Aug. HI, 1862. 

Kinyuii. Iliniin, private; enr. Aug. 4, 1S62. 

Kinyon, Serrell, private; i*nr. Aug. lit, 1»*62. 

Kiti'urn, Alphetis J., private; enr. Aug. 7, 1862. 

Uicure, diaries, private; enr. .\ng. 21. 1862. 

La Graves, tleorge W., private; enr. Ann, 21, 1862. 

Lani)>sun. William, private; enr, .\ng. 21, 1H02. 

Ijewis, Joliri W., private: t-nr. Auk- 5, l'<62, 

Livingston, Harrison, private ; enr. .^n;r. 11, 1862, 

Lt>oker. .\lvah, private ; enr. Aui:. 21, 1862. 

Lowe, Ih-los, private ; enr. Aug. 0, 1862. 

Miirtin, George ('., priv;ite ; enr, Aug 8, 1K62, 

Mrlntyre. Harrison, private; enr. Aug. 18, 1862. 

McNett. Anlrew J., private; enr, Aug. 6, IWiJ. 

Slontiney. Henry H,. private; enr, Aug. ^, lKt;2. 

Montiney. Joseph, private ; enr. Auu'. 8. 1862. 

M»>yer, Henry, private; enr, Au;:. II, 1862. 

Myers. Jame;^ II., private; enr. .\ug, 21. 1862. 

i'lekard. I.ynian. p l\-Hte; enr, Aug. 4. 1862. 

Pii'|-» -n. George H.. i»rivale; enr. Aug. 8, 1862. 

Pnilt. George A., private; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 

Ree.|. K .lan.l, Jr.. private; enr, July 26, 1862, 

lloimi', Gajlor, private; enr. Aug. 21, iwvi, 

Ru9t<-r. MatlhiaM. private ; enr. Aug. 4, 1862. 

Kyari, John, private ; enr. .\ug. Li, 1862, 

Sanderson, JauH*8 F., private; enr. Aug, 21. 1862. 

Sargent. Simeon W., private; enr. Aug, 18, 1862. 

Seeher, William H.. private; enr. .\ug. 21, 1862. 

Seymore, Kielianl. private: enr. .\ug. 2»», 1862, 

Shaver, Hinim, private; enr. Aug, 4. 1862. 

She*!, .\li>n7.o, private; enr. Aug. 8, 18(52. 

Slieppeni, Steplien, i>rivale ; enr. Aug. 7, 1862, 

Shriiiuel, l«aiah, private; enr. .Vug. 4, 18r.2. 

Smith, Fnmcis K.. private; enr. Aug. 18, 1862. 

Smith, Ganliner, private; enr. Aug. o, 1862. 

Smith, Nieholas, private; enr. Aug. 2. 1862, 

Suell, Calvin, private; enr. Aug. 16. 1862. 

Snell. Jer»>me. private; enr. .\ug. I'.i, 1862. 

Snell, Lorenzo, privaiT-; enr. .\n;r. VJ. I8<;2. 

Snell, OU'illy, private; enr. July Jl, 18*V2, 

Snyder. UaviJ, private ; enr. .Aug. 21, 1862, 

Sjialshury, .VHtert J., private; eur. Aug. 21, 1862. 

S|Ktl'hur>, I.<>ren£i 1»„ private; enr Aug. 21, 1802. 

Spirer, P. Weljsler. private; enr. .\tip, 7, 1862. 

Staring, Jona>, private ; enr. Aug. 2i. 1S«»2. 

Strouuii, Henry L., private; enr. .\ng. 2n, 1862. 

Tiuimerman,.\lexainler L., private; enr.July :J1, 1802. 

Van llrockliii, Ini. private; enr. .\ug. 21. 1862. 

Van t\inghnet, J"hn, private; enr, Atig. 16, 1862. 

Van Epp-, Jaini-3 C. private; enr. .\ug. 21, 1862. 

Villi liresar, Richanl B., private; enr. .\ug. I'J, 1862. 

Wiley, Merrick, private: enr, Aug. 1, ls62. 
Walrath, William H.. private; enr. .Vug. 14, 1802. 
Warner. Hiram, privat*- ; enr. .\ug. 5, 1862. 
Weaver. Eli. private ; enr, Aug. il, 1862. 
Wt.itlier. XaiK»Io..D, private; enr. Aug. 26, 1862, 
Wilcox. William L,. private; enr. An^r. 7, 1862. 
WiK>ii, Uerijamin. private; enr. July 2**, 18f;2. 
Workman, Hei.ry, private; enr. July 20, 1862. 

CAPT. SAMLEL MIDULETON'S (21*) atMPANY, 
B. R. VOLS, (CO. H., luTH ARTILLERY). 

Midilleton, Samuel (2d . ciipt. : enr. 1802. 
Flower, Stephen W., l»t tieut.; enr. 1862. 
Parker, John H., IM lieut.; enr, 1862. 
Knight, J. lian<hdph,2d lieut.; enr. 1862. 
Wi-atcott, John H,, Ut snrgt.; enr, July 20, 1862. 
Lvon, George G., ii,m.-*ergt. ; enr. Aug. 7, 1802. 
Hill, Wallace R.. s rgt.; enr, .Aug, 6, 1802. 
Gr»>w. Alonio \V.. sergt. : enr. .Vug. 8, 1862. 
W'elch, J. Sunim-r. «fr^:t. ; enr. .Vug, 7, 1862. 
Holhtway, Honire G., sergt.; enr. .Vug. !>, lSfi2. 
Butteiliehl, Benjamin M.. corp. ; enr. Aug, 6, 1S02. 
Houghton, (ie^trge W., eorp. ; enr. Aug. 0. 1862. 
Kichard>on, Get>rge G.. corp. ; enr. Any. 12, 1802. 
Woo«l, George W., rorp. ; enr. .Vug, 6, 1862, 
Spieer, .Vseh, cnri>,; enr. .Vug, '.i, 1862. 
M'tfTalt, James A., wri>. ; enr. Aug. 6, 180-2. 
Francis. .Vlfred. corp. ; enr. Aug, 6, 1862, 
Graves, Is;lic, corp,; enr, Aug. 12, 1862. 
Arms, Foster M.. htigler; enr. .Vug. 21. 1802. 
Ro'-kwo<Hl. Morg:tn L., artific r: enr. Aug. 0, 1862. 
Stone, George P.. artificer; enr. .Vug. 4. 1K62. 
Lewi*, 0!«car, artificer ; riii. .Vug. 26, 1862. 



Kelley, MartuK, artificer; enr. Aug. 20, 1862. 
Breemer, Si<lney R., wagoner ; enr. Aug. 6, 1862. 
Adams, All.ert, private; enr. Aug. 2, 1862. 
AdaniH, Byron, private; enr. Aug, 2, 1862. 
Ackerniftii. Cyrus D., private ; enr. Aug. 2, 1862. 
Baker, Nathan E., private ; enr. Aug. 14, 1862, 
Burlingame, William R., private: enr. Aug. it, 1862. 
RruKe, Jacoh, private ; enr. Aug. 2, 1862. 
Bnise, « harles I., private ; enr. July 29, 1862. 
Bahhrin. R. W., private; enr. Aug. 4, 1W.2. 
Bengniin, John W., private; enr. Aug. l.'», 1802. 
Bell, L.tnian, jirivate ; enr. Aug. 2(t, 1802. 
Oirpeiiter, Newton O.. private; enr. Aug. 0, 1862. 
Colnon, Daniel I>., private; enr. Aug. 7, 1802. 
Conklin, Henry G., private ; enr. Jury 20, 1802. 
Crynler, John, private ; enr. Aug. lU. 1802. 
Crandal. John P.. private ; enr, Aug. 0, l^62. 
Case, Adrian, private ; enr. July HI, 1K62. 
Crouch, Siimuel, jirivate; enr. July :tl. 1862. 
Cole, .S«iuier N., private ; enr. Sept. 2, 1862, 
Corv, FJiger, Jr., private ; enr. Aug, ><, iw;2. 
Cor> , \* illiam C , private ; etir. July 21, 1802. 
l>en:son. James, private; enr, Aug, 1, 1802. 
Dingman, Christopher, private ; enr. Aug. 7, 1802. 
Dota, Charles, private; enr. Aug. 9, 1862. 
l>t>nlan, James C, private ; enr. Aug. .'>, 1862. 
Eivins, Freeman, private; enr. Aug. 27, 1802, 
Ervins, Pelos, private; enr. Auir, 4, 1S62, 
Ervins. Johnson, private; enr, J;ily :{1, 1862. 
Evans, Edward, pjivate; enr. Aug. 16, 1862. 
Flaheriv, Porter A,, private; enr Aug. 18, 1802. 
Fox. William H., private : enr. Aug. 9, 1862. 
Fuller, R chaid, private ; enr. Aug. 6, 1802. j 

Fmnris, George, private; enr. Aug. 6, 1802. 
Fori, J.din, private; enr. Aug. 20, 1802. 
Gollmm, Osr^ir F.. private; enr. Aug. 9, 1802. 
Goihani, Charles R, private; enr. Aug. 14, 1862. 
Green, o^ar M., private; enr. An-j. 7, 1802. 
Green. William S, private; enr. Aug, 16, 1862. 
Gage. Mariin C., private; enr. Aug. 8, 1K02. 
Gardner. Alvin O., private ; enr. Aug. 21. 1802. 
Gre^'ii, William, private; enr. .Vug. 9, 1802 
Hollowav, CharleH B., private ; enr, Aug. 9, IS02. 
Ilorlon. Dorr, private; enr, Aug. I. 1862. 
Hoiion, 1-aJif. private ; enr. .Vug. 9, 1802. 
Hort-Mi. William D . private; enr. Aug. 9. 1802. 
Howk, Frank E., private; enr. July 26. 1802. 
Haws. G' orge W.. private : enr. Auir. 5, 1802. 
Hill. Clark W. private; enr, Aug. 18, 1802. 
Han i:*, IL' man A,, private ; enr. Au*_'. 8. 1802, 
Hare, Anil^rose. private ; enr, .Vug. II, 1802. 
Hill". Frank, private; enr. Aug. 4. I8i;2. 
Hamiltoit, John, private; enr. .Vug. 28. 1862 
Hancock. At^hl-y, private; enr. July 26, 1862. 
Iiig-alls, Melrin D.. private; enr. Aug. 1. 1862. 
Ingalls Frank E.. private; enr. Aul', 6, 1802. 
Ii>gerS4>n, Cyni(» O., private; enr. Aug. 1. 1862. 
Jackson, Er*kine H., private ; enr. Aug. 11. 1862. 
Johnson, Riceliue. private ; enr. Aug, 11. 1862. 
Knapp, Hiram, private; enr, Aug. 28, 1802. 
Kenedv. Mvron, private; enr. Ang. 9, 1862. 
Kic'ium. Roily A., jirivate; enr. Aug. 7, 18)«. 
Kelly. R.d-ert J., private;. enr. Aug. 2*», 1862, 
Lewis, S«huvler H., private; enr. .Vug. 7. 1802. 
I Mor^eman. Clark, private; enr. Aug. 4. 1862. 
Manning', F^lward C,, private; enr. July 20, 1802. 
McGuire, Juhn, private ; enr. .Vug. 4, 1802. 
Mr.Vorton, llennt", private ; enr. Ang. 0. 1862. 
McWayne. Kd%vin, private ; enr. Aug. 6,1862. 
Mailiii, Samuel, privat**; enr. .Vug. 1, 18tV2. 
Mahony. Hemy. private ; enr. Aug. 9, 1862, 
K"rton, Thomas, Jr.. private; enr. .Vuc. .'>, 1862. 
O'Brien. Michael, private ; enr. Aug. 4, 1«02. 
Osterhout. C. Erskine. private: enr. .Vug. lii. 1802. 
Perkins, Gemge W,, private; enr. Aug. 2. 1802. 
Perkins, Nathaniel, private : enr. Aug. 0.1802. 
power*, Richard, private ; enr. Aus. 7, 1802. 
Pheliti, Warren S, private ; enr. Aug. 15, 1862. 
Power-, Thonits. private ; enr. .Vug. 18. 18f^. 
iVnMds,^.Iame9 K.. priv,ite ; enr. Ang, 18. ls*;2. 
Parker. Frank L.. private; enr. Aug. 0. 1862. 
Rapp*de, Frank, private; enr. -Vng. 1.'*. 1862, 
Rockw.NMl, Levi, prvate; enr. .Vug. 7. 1802. 
Ktwl, Whitley, privat'- : enr. Aug. 0, 1802. 
Rvans. Th'-mas. private; enr. Aug. 0. 1802. 
Read. Gladwin, private ; enr. Aug. 14, 1862. 
See. .*vimu.I M . private ; enr. An-. 6, 1802. 
Srotlehl. David, private; enr. Aug. 0. 1802. 
Savage, Edward, private; enr. -Vug. 7, 1802. 
Spicer. FlannilMil !>., private ; enr. .Vug. 9. 1802. 
Spicer. Tven L , private ; enr. .Vug. 4, 18fi2 
Spicer, Daniel 11.. private ; enr. Aug, 12. 1802. 
Spicer. Fre.man, private ; enr. .Vug. 9. 1862, 
Streeler, Brvaiit J., private; enr. -Vug. 2,'i. 1802. 
Towslev, (Tiiries R,. private ; enr. Aug. 9, 1862. 
ThonnKon, Rohert, private; enr. Aug. 29, 1802. 
Westcott, Martin H.. private; enr. .Vug. 1, 1862. 
Williams Alemhert G., private : enr. .Vug. 4, 1862. 
Whitman, Martin S„ privnte ; enr. Aug, 0, 1862. 
Weaver, .Vlexander W.. private; enr, -Vug, 9. 1862. 
Williams, .Vndrew ,1., private ; enr, -Vug, 8, 1802. 
Williams, Samuel C.. private; enr. Ang. 9, 1862. 
Vunlon, Stewart, private ; enr. .Vup. 18, 1862. 

CAPT. HORACE 0. GILMORE-S CO. (B\ 4TH BAT- 
TALION" (CO. 1, 1<»TH ART,). 

Gilmore. Horace O.. mpt.; enr. 1802. 

Bell, Ril.eit R , 1st lieut.; enr. 1862, 

Grant. Philander P.. 2d lieut ; enr. 1802. 

Spalsbnrv. Harrisrn E . 1st sergt.; enr. Aug. 13, 186*. 

.VHen, VVillard J.. 2d seret.; enr. Aug. 21, 1802. 
I Hawes, Geof-m. w., serei. 
, Warner, Seth A., s-rgl.; enr. Aug. 20. 1802. 

Holdridge. Orange, s^rgt. ; enr. Am. 21. 1802. 

Parmeter, Wdliam F.. <ergt.; enr. Aug. l.S, 181^2. 



Lleber, George H.. Corp.; enr. Ang. 8, 1862. 
Dorchester, Henry C, corp, ; enr. Aug. i:i, 1862, 
Hovey, Jacob, corp. ; enr, -Vug, 21, 1862. 
C<mklin, Stephen A., corp.; enr. Aug. 14. 1862. 
Webb, Ahner M., corp,; enr. Aug. 31, 1802. 
Groa', William P., coip. ; enr. Aug. 2n, 1862. 
Drake, -Vndrew J., Corp. ; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 
Vance. Wjlliani, Corp.; enr. .Vug. 2l, 1«02. 
Hunt, .Sanford D., bugh-r ; enr. Aug. II. 1862. 
Sletcalf, Henry A., bugler; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 
Hixlge, James, art-ficer; enr. Aug. 21, 1k02. 
Allen. >'ay<''te R.. private ; enr. Aug. 20, 1862. 
AdaDi-', (;ide«n, juivate; enr. Aug. 19. 1KC2. 
Adam-, Isjfac, piivuie; enr. Aug. 21, 1802. 
Baker, Daniel B.. private; enr. Ang. 7, IK02. 
Bailev, Frank, private; enr. Aug. .^>, 1802. 
Brundridge, Daniel J., privhli- ; enr. Aug. 19, 1802. 
Brundridge, Edyar H., private ; enr. Aug. 21, 1^62. 
Buckminister. Fred. 11., private; enr. Aug. 2*i, lf'02. 
Beanlsley, Isaac H., private; enr. Aug. '.'l, lHt2. 
Ben-}', iraon-s 11., private; enr. Aug. 6, 1862. 
Ih'cker. Samuel W., private ; enr. Aug. 21, U62. 
Chaae, Leonanl. private; enr. Ang. 21, 1802. 
Clark, George W , private ; enr. Aug. 22, 1x62. 
Cornwall, Egbert, private ; enr. Aug. 21. 1862. 
Clieeney, Charles, jirivate ; enr. Aug. Li, 1^02. 
Carpenter, (Jeorge A., private; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 
Dier.JMnie", private ; enr. Aug. 21, l8i.2. 
Karl, Orrick H , private ; enr. .Vug. 21, 1862. 
Elmer, Waahmgton, private; enr. Aug. 19, 1862. 
Fiitucin, William, private ; enr. .Vug. 21, 1862. 
Farmer, James private; enr. Aug. 16, 11*62. 
I Gage, George W., private; eitf. Aug. 8, 1862. 
' Gn*en, Truman P., private; enr, Aug. 19, 1802. 
Graham, Henry J., jirivate; enr. Auir. 18. 1802. 
Gileg, Stej.hen,' private ; enr. Aug. 21, lHt;2. 
Gunii, Ciiarh-f* L,, private; enr. Aug. 21, 1802. 
Hoi l-s, Bradley, private; enr. A'lg. 20, l8t;2. 
Huvey, Etlwanl, private; enr, Ang, 21, 1862. 
HtHiver, Eno*. pritate; enr. -Vug. 2. 1862. 
Hoi r.dge, Franklin L , private; enr. Aug, 21, I8C2. 
Johnson, Samuel, jirivatf ; enr. Aug. 21, 1862, 
Jeffere, GeiTge, jirivate; enr. -Vug. 19, 18<i2. 
J<Jin<'on, John, jirivate ; enr. Aug. 21. 1862. 

Ketcham, Smith, piivati-; enr. Aug. 2l, 1862. 

Luther, Al'lricl), jirivate; enr. .Vug. 21, 1K62. 

I.aj«atrie, Josej'h, j-rivate ; enr. Aug. 21, 1^'02. 

McLau,;hlin, Jos.j.h, j.rivate ; enr. Aug. 18, 1862. 

McI..Ho^hliii. James. j>i ivate : enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 

McCue. Anthony, private ; enr. Aug. 14, 1>*62, 

Metcair, Waller A., private; enr, Ang, 2<i, 1802. 

Mtxon, Ht-nry C , private; enr. Aug. 21. 1802. 

Murjiby. Nathaniel, private; enr. Aug. .">, 1862. 

Marks, Joseph, private ; enr. Jnly 29, 1^62. 

ttsirander, Wilson, private ; enr. .Vug. 21, 1862. 

Phelp?, John R., jirivate ; enr. .Vug. 21, 1862. 

Powen^, Joseph, private; enr. -Vug. 21, 1802. 

Prato. Jo'^eph, jirivate ; enr Aug. 21, 1862. 

Parish, Nathan, private; enr, .'v'pt. 1, 1802. 

Pheljts Wward V., pr vate ; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 

Reeves. Thomas IL, private ; enr. Aug. 10, 1862. 

R4iwe, Guy C-, private ; enr. .Vug, 21, 1802. 

Rhiiies, Peter, i>rivate; enr. .Vug. 21. 1>^62. 

Ryans. Clmrl*-*. jirivate ; enr. .Vug. 12, I8f2. 

Reeder. John IL. private ; enr. Sept. 1. 1>'62. 

Saltimore, Josepli, jirivate; enr. Aug. 21. 1862. 

Satt'more. Benjamin, privat-; enr, Aug, 21, 1862. 

Smith, Elias B., private; enr, .Vug. 21, 1862. 

Stetson. Geoi^e W., prirate; enr. Aug. 25, 1862. 

Sheley, Henry, private; enr. .Vug. 5, 1802. 

Seeher, Walter, [irivate; enr. .Vug. 8, 1802, 

Seeher, Frank, jirivate; enr, -Vug. 7, 1862. 

Seel»er. .Monzo H.. private ; enr. .Vug. 7, 1^62. 

Scott, Bradley E., priv.it.- ; enr. Aug. 5, 1862. 
i Trj'on, Levi, private; enr. Sept. 1, 1862. 

fnderwtHwl, Wm. H., private : enr. Aug. .'i, 1802. 

Van Allen. Riley N,, jiriTate; enr. .Vnp. 2fi, 1802. 

Weaver, Jacob, jirivate; enr. Aug. 18. 1862, 

Wilder, David M,. jirivate; enr. Aug. 14, 1862. 

Wilder, Charles, j»rivaie ; enr. .Vug, 21, 1862. 

Welch, John H., jirivate; enr. Aug. 21, 18«2. 
, Webb. Brainard, private ; enr, .Vug. 21, 1802. 

Wiiiegar, (ieorge, jirivate; enr. Ang. 6, 18^2. 
I Weaver. Ihivid, Jirivate: eur. Aug. 12,1862. 

Yeardon, Jorieph, jirirate; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 
I Zinimerman, Rufus. jirivate ; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 

Zimmerman. Henry, jirivaie; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 

Ziminennan, David, private; enr. Aug, 7, 1862. 

CAPT. B. B. TAGGART'S CO., 7TH B.VTT'N. 
(CO. K, IbTH ART.). 

Tensing, Frederick, 1st lieut. ; enr. Oct. 3, 1862. 
Herring. Henrv P., seryt. ; enr. Aug, :«>, 1862. 
Gorse. John W.. »rgt. : enr. Ang. I'Ji, 1862. 
i Fox. William P., sergt.; enr. Aug. 6, 1862. 
Smith. Benjamin, sergi.; enr, .Vug. :», 1862. 
Freeman, William P.. sergt.; enr. Aug. 29, 1862. 
Hammond, (^■orge W., corp. ; enr. Ang. M*, 1862. 
Hammond, Willard R.. corji. ; enr. Ang. :iO, 1862. 
B"alt, E<lward S., coni. ; enr. Aug. 29. 1862. 
Carj^-nter. Agel ,V.. corp.; enr. Sept, 4. 1862, 
Judd, Elnathan. corp. ; enr. Sept. 6, 1862. 
Forey. John IL, corp. ; enr. Aug. 3(1. 1862- 
T"<dev, Patrick H., corp.; '-nr, Sept. 4, 1862. 
Mattice, J.iseph, blacksmith ; enr. Aug. 29, 1862. 
Gaskill. Janie.-*, artificer ; « nr. .Vug, 29, 1^62. 
Adams. Francis E., mus. : enr. Aug. 18. 1862. 
Stiwldanl, All-ert A., mu-^.; enr. Aug.:jO, 1862. 
Auly. John, privat** ; enr. Sejit. 0. 1802. 
Amweg, Jactdi. jirivate ; f-nr. -Vug. ."Ht, 1862. 
.Vl-eal, Jacob H.. jirivate ; enr. Sept. .'i, lsr.2. 
Bobier, Thomas E.. private; enr. -Vug. L*>, 1862. 
Butler. Jt-hn, private ; enr. .Vug. 1. 1862. 
Burmingham, S<»lon, private ; enr. Sept. 5. 1862. 
Burrows, George, private ; r nr. ."iept. .^, 1862. 



571 



HISTORY OF JKFFERSOX COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Bii'ly, Wilirura H., prirate; enr. Sept. 6, IHSZ. 
It^. kwUh, .SlisMun J.. prirMe ; enr. Sept. .'>, 1862. 
ISriani, .lohri, privali-; enr. .\nic- H, ""'i- 
Biill-r. Ml' liarl. priv..U!; enr. .\ng. »', 18fi2. 
<;«ri«, John W.. j.rival.- ; onr. .\ng. In, IMi. 
Cwlwcll, Ch irl™ T., pri»Hlp ; enr. S^-pt. 2, l«e2. 
Cli««, William, priv.ite; <"nr. .S"pl. I, 1X02. 
Coif, I.uman, prival"; onr. .\iiic- 21, l»tB2. 
I'an-^nUr, Jitliicl, |)rivale ; <nr. S»lit. I >, 18«2. 
fJliapman, i;ill>-rt, private; i-nr. S-pt. 4, 1802. 
f'l.irk, KiiK -ne li,, privali: : cnr. Sept. .'>, Ili<i2. 
t'liilow, riiia, private; enr. !**-pt. .'», I'M)2. 
llenno, Krwnk, private; enr, !<ept. 4, I8r,2. 
Ilran, l).iviil (>.. private; enr. AtlK. 7, lt«i2. 
Deiir,. Ji.aeph. private ; onr. .\ng. 11, 1S02. 
I>r.);lanlMn. .Mfre'l, private ; enr. S<!pt. .'>, 18C2. 
I)' K^nxrani'l. KuKocie, privat<^; enr. Sept. .'i, 1862. 
Dcville, Henry, (irivale; enr. Hi'pl. 4, 18'ii. 
KlllotI, WillMir, private ; enr. .\nK. 21, 1"«2. 
Kvanx, Davi.l. private; enr. Ani;. 4, 1862. 
Kwlei )y, .laniei, pr.vat.' ; enr. Ang. ;!, 18fi2. 
Kv,irl-, <;h;irles W., private ; enr. .\1IK. 20, 1IW2. 
Kllii.tl, Thoinai T., private ; onr. Ann. h, 1802. 
Klll.iil, Henry, pr.vate ; enr. Ang. 21, 18B2. 
Kvaila, .Martin, private; enr. Sept. 1.5, 1802. 
Klwie^l, War.l, private; enr. Aur. 29, 18</2. 
YnX, AMin, private; etir. Sept. :!, 18*;2. 
Ki.rl, TlDMias, private ; enr. S -pi. h, 18(12. 
Kr.JKKetl. .lame-, piiv uo ; enr. Sept. \ 1802. 
f;anilile, William I,., piv.ile; enr. .'iepl. .1, 1802. 
(iri.w.il.l, William, private; onr. Ang. 18. 1802. 
Il<>lni<.<i, I'liarlifl K., private; enr. Jnly :m, 1802. 
Haley, Tlionia.", private; enr. Ang. HI, 1802. 
Ilaney, J.iliTi, pdvate ; enr. Sept. 0, 1"«2. 
Hail, Lewi«, privare ; enr. Sept. 0, 1802. 
Ilagar. .(oliii 1)., private ; .nr. Sept. 0, 180.'. 
Ha<k, Fraiici-, jirivale; enr. .Sept. 0, 1802. 
Heinler*on, Janien, priv.ire; enr. Sept. .'>, 1802. 

Ilililretli, t;nrli», private ; enr. Ang. M, 1802. 
J'.nmlra, (!e.,rge, private ; enr. Sept. 0, I80J. 

Kelly, .liilin, private; enr. .Sept. 10 1802. 

Kei»ii, I'alrii-k, private; enr. Sept. .'), 180^, 

l,siriiiiiitain, .Martin, private; enr. Ang. 21, 1802. 

Ml l.llel.jn, Ho:.ert, priv.ite ; enr. Oet. Ill, 1802. 

Maliir, llarllinloniew, privale; enr. Aug :ill, 1802. 

Maxoii, .Malcolm, privaU*; enr. Ang. 7, 1802. 

MrNnltv. Henry, private; enr. Jnly :)1, 1862. 

.Merrill, Levi, private; enr. S.'pl. .5, 1802. 

Mi»ire, llurace, priv.ite; enr. Aug. 8, 1802. 

3Iai;kuVMy, Cornelinii, private; enr. .S<'pl. .'>, 1H02. 

Mnnleray, tjeorge, private ; enr. Oct. 7. IWi2. 

Mnnii, t:liarie« T.. jirivut.-; enr, Ang. 4, 1«02. 

Nicliul", Julin, private; enr. Sept. .'., 1802. 

lI'.Mara, Martin, privaUs enr. Ang. 20, 18li2. 

Pierce, Kre.leri. k W., private ; enr. Sept. .',, 1802. 

riiilli|p«,.Sylv<^aler J, private; enr. Sepl. ;t, IK02. 

I'. -rig.., A|i>n». I.., private; enr. .Sept. .1. 1802. 

i'liihin, William, private; enr. Ang. 14, 1802. 

ItoOhini. i;e.>rge, private; enr. Ang 21, 18*12. 

It ilerti, Hugh, private; enr. Aug. 7, 1802 

llimt*, AngilHtUH, private ; enr. S«-pt. 0, 1802. 

UifiM'll, Lewln, priviile; enr. Aug. 2tl, 18<;2. 

K .hertu, Lewia, private; enr, Ang, 'Mi, 1802. 

Iteff, Sliclwl, private; enr, .Sept. 0, 1802. 

l^)t•l•itm'•n, Frunci", private; enr. iH-t. |,t. 18*i2, 

Swan, Liwmn A., pjlv,ile; e ir. Ang. 1, 1802. 

Stnil iling, John, private; enr. .Sept. 0, I)i02. 

SI. Thiiiia". Zaehariah. private ; enr. S<-pl. 2. 1802. 

Slorni«, Salhaiiiil, jir vale; enr. Aug, 8, 1X02. 

Sherry, Talrick E., private; enr. Aug. 21, 1802. 

Sjial'liiig, JujHon, private ; enr. Ang, !•, 1802. 

Toiii, ll-/liert. privati'; enr, Aug. 21, 1802. 

Taylor, ll.«celhl« S, priv.ile; enr. Sept, 1, 1802. 

Van llroekl ii, Alexaniler. private; enr. Aug. 7, 1SC2. 

Vincent, Mcliolaa. private; enr, Sepl, .'., I«02. 

Woo.laril, All.ert K , privale; enr. Sept, I, 1X02. 

Wright. <;eor:;e W,, private; enr. Sept. .'>, 1802. 

Wright, .laniefl, private ; enr. Sept. 2, 1X02. 

Welch, John, privale; enr. Sepl. 7, 1X02, 

Welch, ThoiiiitH, private; enr. Ang, I, 1X02. 
Wllieoi, Alexaniler, private; enr. Aug, 7, 1802. 
Weaver, Jac.li, jirivate ; enr Aug, 21, 1X02. 
Whiti", Arllinr, private; eur. Sept.O, I8(i2. 
Weaver, Willintn, privale; enr. S<pt, :i. 1802. 
Wheeler, George II,, private ; Se|it. 10, 1802. 

(;AI'T. JA8 H. <AMPDKLL-S (Cj (.0., 18T BATN 
«■(» M, lilTH ART.). 



Campltell, Janiefl M,, capt. 
Arm-trong, John <;., Int lleut. 
Ilr.iwii, llralley II,, Ut llent. 
W.loix. John M,. 2il lieut. 
Kilev, Philip. 2'l llent. 

Ilnrn.tt, Iriel .M., I<l nergt.; enr. Aug. 1, 1M2. 
Oiin, l«;oic T,, ii.ML^iergt.; onr. Ang. 4, 1802. 
Kiilhr. W,irren, l»l 'Intv mrgt, ; enr. Aug. 14, 1802, 
Kariiham, l-hllip I' , M ilnty n-T^l.; enr, Aug o, |x«2, 
Mrllonahl, A, l,'aily,;iil duty Meriit, ; enr, Aug, fi, 1X02. 
KiiKo, Louis 4th ilnly «ergl,; enr, Aug. 4, 1X02. 
Cailwell, Oliver II, ,'ilh .Inly NorgI,; enr, Aug, 7, 1X02. 
Itohhiii', <^ II., 0th limy «"rgt, ; enr, Aug, fi, IXC2. 
(iarilner, K/.ra'l., I"t nirp,; enr. Aug. IX, 1X02. 
Spntiiu.-, J, KlllotI. ill corp, ; enr, Aug, .'i, 1X02. 
Laiol'in. La Kiiyette, :i.l c.rp, ; enr. Ang, l:i. 1802. 
S m|Mon, Kreil, W,. 4th corp, ; enr, Aug, ,'>, 1802, 
Klnit, William II „oth crp, ; enr, AnB,.MIi, 1X02. 
Mavh.iv, Tlieoilnre II,, Oth ror)., ; enr. Aug, 21, 1802. 
Anilenv, William, 7tli corp,; enr. Aug. 4, IH02. 
I'lHil, .M.,rri» M.. xth corp, ; enr, Ang, 0, 1x02. 
Hrigg". "hnrlei. A.. Olli Corp.; enr, Aug, 0. Ixiil. 
Pierce, Clark K,, loth corp,; enr. Ang. 11, 1X02. 
Arm«trong, Kniiik It,. Iltli lorp, ; enr. Aug, 21, 1802 
llelyea. John C,. 12th corii. ; enr, \»{. 21. 1802. 
ItjigiTi, tteorge L,. nrllHcor ; onr, Aug. . 'to, 1802. 
Arnmlrong, Tlioman, art fleer; enr, Aug. II, 1X02. 



O'Conner, John,«rtillcer; «nr. July 2G, 1802. 
BoeJ, Milton M., lut hiigler ; enr. Sept. 2, 1862. 
bailing, l'h.irie» L., 2'I hiiglcr; enr. .Sept. 2. 1802. 
.\tktn', Benjamin, private; enr. July 20, lx»;2. 
.\n.rel, L^-Hter *;., privale; enr. .\ng, 14, 1x02. 
Brit/.ki, Carl, privale; enr. Aug. 1, lx*;2. 
KaMo, Jacoh, private; eur. Aug. II, 1X02. 
B"el,.-, JelTer-on 1)., private; enr. Aug. 0, 1802. 
Brougham, SylvMler J., privale; enr. .\ug. 9, 1862. 
Binher, Henry A., privale; enr. Aug. I'J, 18<;2. 
B.nhop. William W,, private; enr. Aug. 19, 1802. 
B^'iinett. Stephen (;., priTale; enr. Aug. 21, 1X02. 
Bilnh. William 11., privile; cur. Aug. 21, 1802. 
Ba"-, Amaaa. private; enr. Aug. 21, 1802. 
ft).liei I. Henry, Jii ivale ; enr. Se|.l. 0, 1X02. 
C'lark, John I)., privale; enr. Aug. 0, 1X02. 
Ojnih, John, privat*! ; enr, Aug, 0, 1802, 
Clark. i:liri»topher, pivate; enr, Ang, 0, 1X02. 
I>>mmliig', John, private ; enr, Ang. a, 1802. 
0».l, KM, privale; onr. Ang. Vl, 1802. 
Oail, Orville M., priv.ite; enr. Aug. 21, 1862. 
Cline, Wal-on. private; enr. .\iig. 21, 1802. 
Cliee«el.ro, Ezra, private; enr. Ang, 14, 1802. 
Oioley, Knrnii B., private; enr. Ang. 14, 1x02. 
Dwige, Klixha 1.,, private ; enr. Aug. X, 1X02, 
Dawiein, Kalley, private ; enr, Aug. ,'i, 1802, 
Ilonohu", J.ihn O., private; our. Aug. 0, 1802. 
Dugal, Eugene, private; enr. Aug. 0,1X02, 
Itryhnrn, Jarni-a, privale; enr Ang, 7, 1X02. 
Duffeny, Frank, private; enr, Aug, 9. 1X02. 
Duffcny, Ixiui", privale ; enr, Aug. 9, 1802. 
Doile, Hugh, private; enr. Jnly 29, 1802. 
DeiiniK, Thoniaa W., privale; enr. ,\ug. 0, 1802. 
Dillenhe.k, ClmrleK, private ; enr. Aug. 2(1. 1802. 
D.inohne, Patrick 0., private; onr. Aug. 21. 1801. 
Jiwelntyii, Charles S., private ; enr. Aug. 4, 1801. 
Einpie, Ji«"ph I-., private; enr. Aug. 2, 1X02. 
f>lnioniI<, Ni. hnlau J., private; enr. Aug. II, 1802. 
Folen, Jacoh, private ; enr. July 20, 1802. 
Fuller, Jaiiiea. private; enr. Jnly 20, 1x02. 
Kreilenhnrgh. Henry, private; enr. Sept.:), 1802. 
Frill, Jaioh. privale; enr. Sepl. 0, 1802. 
Cat -li, William H., private; enr. Aug. 18, 1802. 
01eao,n, Patrick, private ; enr. Ang. 19, 1802. 
(Iraveti, William, private; enr. Ang. 11, 1X02. 
H illeiilieck, Anilrun, jirivatc; enr. .Vug. 1802. 
Ilen-ick. Ceorge W., priv.ite; enr. .\ng. 2, 1802. 
Ilerrick, Jerome B., privale; enr. Aug, 1, 1862. 
Herrick, .laniea .\., privale; enr. Ang, 9, 1X02. 
Huntley, Sila-, privale; enr. Ang. 11, 1x02. 
Hazer, Barney, privale; cur. Aug, 12, 1X02. 
Harris, Samuel, privale; enr, Aug, 9, 1802. 
Howell. Peter, privale; enr. Ang. IX, 1802. 
IloiiKe, (;yru'», privale ; enr. Aug. 21, 1802. 
lloholmh, Biriiey M., privale; enr. Aug. 19, 1802. 
Houghton, Itenwell, private; enr. Ang. 12, 1802. 
Harris. Jenie. private; enr. Aug. 2, 1X02. 
Jinl'l, CharlcD 1,., private; enr. Aug. 7. 1802. 
JihM, Benjamin T,, private; enr. Ang. 12, 1802. 
,I»u<loine. I,<nii» V,, private ; enr. Aug. 12, 1802. 
Jeuert, (iilhert, private ; enr. Ang. :ili, 1802. 
Keller, S ineon, private ; enr. Ang. 21, 1802. 
Kiiowlton, Daviil »I„ private; enr, Aug, 2", 1802. 
Ijirahee, Oriii S , private ; enr, July 28, 1802. 
Lovell. J.miph W., iirivale ; enr. Jnlv 20, 1X02. 
Uwrence, K>l«iii, private; enr. July 20, 1802. 
iyawrence, Jatiies, private; enr. Sept. .5, 1X02. 
Lyon. Jam'-s B„ private; enr. Aug. 21, 1802. 
Ijinfear, A-a, privale; enr. Aug. 21, 1802. 
Lake, Theodore, private; enr. Ang. 21. IH02, 
Lootuli, William 11. iirivate; enr. Aug. 21, 1802. 
McCue, WilKon, privale; enr, Aug, 9, 1X02. 
McCue, William, [irivate; enr, Ang, 9, 1X02. 
MeCiie, (^larle-, Jirivale; enr, Aug, 9. 1X(;2. 
Mark', Frinlerl k, private; enr, Aug. 0. 1X02. 
Morrison, John, privale; enr. Aug. 7, 1X02. 
.MoiipMiilo, (ieorge, privale; enr. .\ng. 9, 1802. 
Montoiiilo, Ixiuin. privale; enr, Aug, 9, 1X02, 
Monlouilp, J.«epli, pr.vuie; enr, Aug, 9, 1802. 
McComh.John F, private; enr, Ang. 7,1802. 
Morgan, Charie« M., privale; enr. Aug. 19, 1802. 
JToniit, Ihiilley, private; enr. Ang. 0, 1X02. 
Mount, Willi.m II , private; enr, Ang. 21, 1X02. 
Mo.. re, E.lwar.1 B,, privale; enr, Aug, 21, 1802. 
M ller, Henry H., private; enr, Aug, 21, 1802. 
Mn> hew, William A., private ; enr. Ang. 21, 1802. 

Mai y. Pa' rick, private; enr. Sepl, :), 1802. 

Nl. holK, Ini C., private; onr. Ang. 7, 1X02. 
Nl|.«, M.iyil M., privale; enr. Ang. '21, IXC'2. 
Norlhrup, John, Jr., privato; enr. Aug. 21, 1802. 

Ohere, Anthony, jirivale; ■, Ang, 22, 18(i'2. 

Plnche, Alfre.l, private; etir. Aug, 7, 1X02. 
I'ulTer, Daniel, private; onr, Aug, II, 1X02. 
Per«oii», Byron, private; ear. Aug. 0, 1X02. 
Peck, Winley W,, privale ; onr. Aug, 9. 1X02. 
I'.e.l, Jnilah W„ privale; enr, .\iig. 4. 1X02. 
Putnam, Cliari.n L,, prival.-; enr. Ang, :10, 1802. 
n.>of, Ahniin, private ; onr. Ang. 0, 1X02. 
Keynohl-, (ieorge W,. private; enr, Aug, 21, 1802. 
Il<.aile, (iratttn II.. private; enr. Aug. 10, 1X02. 
Itonae. J..«ipll, privale; enr. Sept. :i, 1802. 
Shafer, Fre.lerick C,, private ; enr. Aug, 12, 1802, 
Sharp, (Jeorg.- O,, private; enr, Aug, 21. 180'2. 
Slaitiit..u, .lani.-«. prival..; enr. Aug, 18, 1802. 
Shaf.r, J.ihn. privale ; enr. Aug, 0, 1X02. 
Slniin-. Il.iiry (1., private; enr. Ang. 0, 1802. 

SBiif.r.l, Alien B,. priv ; enr, Aug, '20, 1802. 

Sanforil.Orin, private; enr, Aug. 2. 1X02. 
Slmnhllng. C'org" S,, priialu; enr, Aug, 14, 1802. 
Shlpi.v, Fri.leri.k, prival..; enr. Aug. 12. 1802. 
Sop.r; All.erl I',, private; enr. Ang, l'2, 1802. 
Snell, Slim J., privat.. ; enr. Aug. 2, lxO'2. 
Seh.y, Binvl..n L., private; eur. S.|it, 4. 1X02, 
Sanfinl, La Fayette, privale; enr, Aug, :il. 1X0'., 
Swarlwonl. Jatn.-« A„ privaU' ; enr, .S.pl, 4. 1X02, 
T.MWiw, William, private; fnr. Ang. I, 1X02. 



Timerman, Wilnon, private; enr. Aug. l:), 1X02. 
ToIki, Piukel, privale; enr. .Vug. 0, lx(;2. 
Vanilerwalker, .Mel7.or, private; enr. .\ug. !>, 1802. 
Vanderwalker. (ieorge B., privale; enr. .\ug. 9, 1802. 
Whelmore. Schuyler, privale ; enr. Jnly 28, 1802. 
WilMin, John, private; eur. .\ug. 21, 180'2. 
WiMjIaver, Samuel, private; enr. Aug. 18, 180'2. 
Wh.eler. Alhert A., privaU'; enr. Aug. 21. 1X02. 
Wheeler, Ah.nzo E., jirivate; enr. Ang. '21, 18C'2. 
Wells, Kichard B., privale; enr, .Sept. 1, 1802. 

13TH ARTILLEKY. 
CAPT. fJEO. A. IJLL-MKU.S iJoMPANY (CO. A;. 
Cory, Ser«on W., private ; enr. July 14, I8fl:i. 
Ixiwiav, John C, privat..; enr. July 10, 18<i:). 
Moral.; J.din, privale; enr. July II, 180!. 
Peyton. John, [irivale ; enr. July '22, 180:1. 
Saj er, Thoniaa, private ; enr. July 17, 1803. 

CAIT. WM. HOFFMAN'S BAT. (B). (CO. B.) 
Ilerrana, P.t.r, private ; enr. July .lO, 1863. 
Lennox, Th.iuaa W., prival.- : enr. Aug. in, 1863. 
Main", Er»in B,, privale: .nr, July :t, 1X6 1. 
0'D..nuell, Palrick, privale; enr, Jnly 2:), 1863. 
O'l>innor, Jeremiah, private; enr. Aug. 8, 186:1. 

CAPT. G. FRED PtjTTElfS COMPANY (CO. C). 
Cole, Rolart I',, privale ; cur. Aug. 12, 180:1. 
Dewev, Marlin H,, private: enr. Aug, -26, 18fv3. 
Follett, Ephniim C, privale; enr. Aug. 7, 186:1. 
Fell, Martin, private : i-nr, Aug, '24, 180:1. 
Gallowav, (,'haiincey M , privale; cur. Ang. 12, 1801. 
Welherl.y, Porter, prival.. ; enr. Aug. '26, I80:i. 

CAPT. JESSE LAMB'S COMPANY (CO. G). 
Lanih, Jeme B., cajit. ; enr, Jan, 22, 1804. 
Algale, .I.ihu B , privale ; enr. Jan. X, 1X04. 
Cramer. Jamei H , jirivate ; enr. I>i<-. 21, 1801. 
Fidice, Philiji, privale; enr, Jan. 7. 1804. 
Fuller, George O , private; eur. Jan. 12. 1804. 
Jc>Bmy,J.din, private; enr. Jan. 7, 1804, ^ 
Kavanaugh, Garrett, private; enr. Jan. 7. 1864. 
Molonda, ('hailed, J.rival.- ; enr. Dec. '28, 1801. 
Pierco, John, privato; eur, Jan, 7, 1X04, 
I'el.i, JoKejdi, Jirivate ; enr, Jan, 7, 1804, 
Tripji, William C, privale ; eur. Jan. 7, 1804. 

CAPT. ROBERT W. McLACGIILlX'S CO. (CO.I). 
Butt.rfleld, JuliuB F., jirivate ; enr. Ang. 24, 1801. 
Fuller, Lemuel, Jirivate; enr. Sept. 12, 180:). 
MolTn, G.-orge, Jirivate ; enr. Ang. '20, 1801. 

Pal r, ChillingiiKorth, private ; enr. Oct. 1. IXOI. 

Wilhon, WiUaon, jirivate; enr. July 14, 1813. 

14TH ARTILLEaY. 

(■APT, WM, " , TI!iiWllltllli:K'S CO, 'CO. A). 
Bacon. Mar. u* L.. J.riv.ile ; enr. Ang. 18, 180!. 
Gill, W illiani W . jirivate ; enr, Aug. 11, 186!. 
ll.igan, John, j.rivale ; enr. Aug. '24, 1X0:1. 
ilo.lg.a, llenrv L , jirivate; enr. Aug '28, 180.3. 
M. I»..well, Le»iH II,. privale ; enr. Aug. 17, 186.3. 
O'Brien, Dennis jirivate ; eur, Aug, '2,'>, 180:1. 

CAIT. GEOBOE S. GREEN'S CO. (CO. C). 

Bulls, Irn.l. Jirivale; enr. Aug. 2o, 1863. 
Maker, H, II,, private; enr. Aijg, 2.", 1x0.3 
Fr.denl.nrgli, Eliaa. private ; enr. Aug. 2-i. 180.1. 
Jon.lali, Davin, jirivale ; enr. Ang, 17, I8ltl. 
Nichols, William If., private; enr. Aug. '2.i, 180.1. 
HI. James. Michael, private; enr. Jnly '27, 180:). 
Wil(»ix,Jam.B, private; onr. .Sejit. 4, 180). 

CAPT. LORENZO J. JOSM' CO. (f;0. D). 

Fnim i», .Maitin, jirivale; onr. Jnly 1, 186.3. 
lA.velt, Tloinas, Jirivale; enr. July 20, ISC). 
.McDowell. W.lliam, prvnte; eur. July 10, 180.3. 
Qninu. Denarii, privale; onr. July :i, Ixo:), 
Scott, .\uilrew, Jirivate; enr. July 1:1, 1x03. 

CAPT. OLIVER B. FLAGG'9 CO. (00. E.) 

Lynch, James II.. c.irji, ; our. Ang. 2.1, 180:). 
Rodg.'rs, John W,, corji, ; onr. Sejil. :), 186:). 

Au.l.nu lohn B., mu». ; enr, S.pl, 1'2, 180:). 

Auger. John, jirivate; enr. .Sejit. '24, 1801, 
Bnnell. John, jirivate; enr. .S.pl. 21, 1X03, 
llnidi.ha», James, jirivate; enr, Aug. '29, 1801, 
CoTiklin, Will am Y., jirivate; enr, Sejil. :«), 180.3. 
Chapman, S.jnires. jirivate; enr. Sejd. 17, 180,). 
(haw, Slejilien, Jirivate ; eur, Aug, '2,'i, 1801. 
D (iMal. J ini.s. J.rivale; enr. Ang. 2,\ 1X03. 
Drummond, William, jinvale; onr. Oct, 14, 180.3. 
(ilass Clalk, Jirivate; enr. SeJil, 10, ixn:). 
(iooilenongh, J.'hii B., jirivale ; onr. ."ejil. 24, 1803. 
Gla«<, ('liarii.1! K., Jirivale; enr. Sejit. 0, 180:). 

Calllsj , Ii ge (i,, Jirivale; onr, Aug. '24, 180.1. 

(ll illlli. H.nrv M., Jirivate ; enr, Sejit. '20, IXO:), 
Kenni.in, Andrew F„ jirivale ; enr, Oct, 28. 1X0.3, 
Mrliiini. E.lwanl. Jirivale; eur, Oct, l,'i, IXC:). 
Moll. John I., Jirivate ; enr, Ang, '2.'i, IXO:), 
Rinsiim. George \V„ Jirivale; enr, Aug. .'.. 1X0.3 
Samjieon. Deveraux, prival.-; enr, Aug. '24, ixd.). 
Slre-I.r, Danf.rd, jirivale; onr. Sejd, 19. I80:l. 
Ten Evrk, Monr.ie, jirivale; enr. .\ug. '2.''i, 180.3. 
1 Thayer, William, private; our. S..ld. 15, 1X61. 

CA PT. W. A. TREA DWELLS CO. (CO. II). 
I Hoover. Joslah. c.irji, ; enr, Nov. 2, 1x0). 
Di. k, Cliarles II,, Jirivale; enr. Doc. 4, 1803. 
Fori, Andri.w, jirivale; enr, Nov. 5. 1X0:1. 
Ringael, .lohn, jirivale ; enr. Oct. :)1, 180:). 
Scott, LulherC, private; enr. Nov. 17, 1X01. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



uia 



SiK'niilKV, Kiaiik If., piivate ; inr. Nov. 19, 1863. 
Scovillf, (. hitrles, jirivMle ; enr. N'uv. 28, Igoa. 
Tilt'-li, Lullier, privHte ; enr. Oct. 21, lS6;i. 
Well", Theodore, private; enr. I>fC. 1, 186;i. 

C.\rT. CIIAUNCEY WILKIE'S CO. (CO. I). 
I'eck, La Eue, Q. )I. Scriit. ; enr. Kov. 9, 1883. 
Steele. Wni. !{., e.iri»- : enr. Nov. 3, IH&t. 
(.'Ill istiniin, George, eorj'. ; enr. \ov. 4, l»<r>3. 
>l<'rri(*, Henry S., con*.; enr. Nov. 10, 11*6.3. 
liiaulii-r, William, |Hivale; elir. Dec. 12, 1863. 
IJacon, J. C., private; enr. I>ec. 9, 1863. 
ConiLe.^, Jer^-lninh, pr.vate : enr. Dec. 7, 1863. 
Cntvat, Charles, private; enr. l>ec. 4, 1863. 
Clarli, thirence L., private; enr. Nov. 19, 1863. 
Call, J.'hn 1!., private; enr. Nov. 8, 186;*. 
Cook, John .\., private; enr. Dec. 12, 186.J. 
Dillabough, liasil It., private; enr. Dec. 17, 186.3. 
Delniais, .\lexaniler, l»rivate; enr. I)ec. 14, I8(>3. 
£iorick, John, private ; enr. Dec. 11. U63. 
Fults, .Malki.ih, private; enr. Nov. II, 1863. 
Gillelt, Clarence,. private; enr. Nov. 15, 1863. 
Hewitt, Webster, piivate; enr. Dec. 3, 186;!. 
Ingerson, Harvey, private; enr. Nov. 21, 1863. 
Inj;eiann. Cliarleii .\., pr.vale; enr. Nov. lU, 1863. 
Kinney, Joseph, piivate; enr. Nov. 25, 186:1. 
Kel.«ey, Krankliii E., private; enr. Nov. 11, 1863. 
Manzer, Myn n, private; enr. Nov. 28, 18('il. 
Montney, Byron, i.rivate; enr. Dec. 14, 1863. 
Slander, Henry, piivate; enr. Dec. 9, 1.S6:!. 
Slalloiy, Calvin 11., private; enr. Dec. 1, 186:1. 
Osttoine, EI.eiiezer, Jirivate; enr. Nov. 2", 1863. 
rhel|«, Dallas ¥., pn'rale ; enr. Dec. 5, 1863. 
Pars..!!-, Thomas, private ; enr. Nov. 18, IS63. 
Ituse, Geor^'e H., pr.vate ; enr. Dec. o, 1864. 
Kivers, .\nth*my, private; enr. Dec. 8, 186:1. 
Kivers, Michael, piivate; enr. Nov. 28, 186:1. 
Tucker, Warren, private: enr. Dec. 19, 186.1. 
Tucker, Orlamlo, private ; enr. Dec. 19, 186.3". 
W'ing, Peter, private ; enr. Dec. 3, 186:1. 
MikHl, Horace, private; enr. Dec. 8, 1863. 
Wilbur, Ad(Ii^on, private ; enr. Nov. 23, 1863. 

CAPT. JEROME COOPERS COMPANY (CO. K). 
Parkhur-t, Horace. Isl sergt. ; enr. Nov. 16, 1863. 
Call, Kmiiklin, sergt. ; ear. Nov, 18, 1861. 
Riley. John E., sergl.; enr. Dec. 12, 186.3. 
Ca_-\v.ll, Morris A., corj'.; enr. Nov. 16. 1863. 
Caiii|>l>ell, George, corj>. : enr. Nov. M, 186:1. 
Pearsons, RulKftl, cor^i. ; enr. Dec. 11, 186:1. 
liiiskirk, Jesse N., Corp. ; enr. Nov. :iu. 186:1. 
Hall, Alheit H., corji. ; enr. Nov. 21, 186.1. 
Potter. Sherman O., c.ip. ; enr. D<-c. 8, 186:!. 
llishi'p, Dav.il, Jr., private ; enr. Dec. 8, 1863. 
Ilirliane, George, private : enr. Dec. 1, 1863. 
llarr, Dennis, private; enr. Dec. l:i, 1863. 
Ilaker. Harvey A., private; eiir. Dec. :!, 1863. 
lilowden. Veiisler. private; enr. Nov. 18, 186:1. 
Bish'ip, Alonzo II.. private; enr. Dec. 8, 1863. 
Coltou, Enoch, private; enr. Dec 16, 1863. 
Cane. All" rt, private; enr. Nov. :io, 1863. 
Can.-, Hiram .M . private; enr. Dec. 14, 1863. 
Cnlbeit-'n, Waller, private ; enr. Dec. 18, 1S63 
Dueh.ii. William H.. private : enr. Dec. 17, 1863 
Eininons. Civil.aii, I rivate ; enr. Dec. 21,186:1 
Evarts, Benjamin, private; enr. Dec. 17, 186:1 
F..y, Hugh, private : enr. Nov. :«!, 186:1. 
Fuller, Joseph, piivate ; enr. Nov. 27, IS63. 
Fuller, Charles, private; enr. Niiv. 27. 1863. 
Foriy, Peter, private; eur. Dec. IB, 1863. 
Gixirge, Ervliig. private : enr. IVh:. 17. 18C3. 
CMltin, Gidney, private; enr. Dec. 17, 1861 
llerrick. Del.*, private : enr. Nirv. in', I.«61 
Hall. Silas, private; enr. Dec. 9, 186:1.' 
Harrigjin. Thomas, private; enr. Dec. IS, 1861 
Juiipo, .\nJrew. private; enr. Nov. 21. 18t>l. 
Lawrence. Melv;n, private ; enr. Dec. 14, 1863 
Ladd. Ihiniel. private: enr. Dec. Kl, 1861. 
Lawrence. Jl.Mison, private; enr. Dec. 14. 186:1. 
M.ark»ick. Chai l.s, private; enr. Nov. 27. 1861 
Markn ick. James, private ; enr. Dec l.i. 186:1. 
Mitv-hell, tJeorpe. private; enr. Nov. 27. 186.1. 
Manning, Nial, private; enr. Dec. 18, 1861 
Omiston. Hugh, private; enr. Dec. l.i', lS6:i 
P.ye, Kichanl. piivate: enr. Dec 12 l'863. 
Pierce, Ji>siah. piivate : enr. l>ec 17, 1S63 
Paris. Anthony, private; enr. Nov. 24, 1,<63. 
Kiisho, Christ.ipher, private ; enr. Nov. 18, 1863. 
ICohinsun, Fniiicis, private; enr. Dec. 8, 1}*$1 
Bowley, Gwrge W., private ; enr. Nov. 21 1863 
Besieguie, Samuel, private ; enr. Dec. 9, 1861 
lioluuson, Joseph, private; enr. Dec. 12, 1863 
Sheridan, Samuel, private; enr. Pec. 17 186a' 
TupiK-r, Alvin, private; enr. D..C, 14, 1863. 
A 111 lev, J.imes. private; enr. Dec. 2. 1,861 
West, Fri-enian. private; enr. Nov. 14. ISC! 
Weaver. William, private; enr. Dec. 9 1861 
W ar>l. I hauncey, pr.vate : enr. Dec. 1.' 186:1. 

CAIT C. II. IIOIGIITON-S COMPANY (CO. L). 
Brvugham. William, private ; enr. Dec. 5. 186:1 
Bt.el>e, Franklin, private : enr. I»ec. 3tt, IStil 
Blotlgett, Lyman, private; enr. Dec :lli 1863 
Crat/enl^rg, Adam I.. |.rivale : enr. No"v. lu,'lS63 
iolnan. Ge^T^e, private; enr Dec. 16, Isei 
CamBeld. Duane W, private: enr. Nov. l->'lS63 
Dyar, James S., private; enr. Dec. 30. 1.86.1 
tassetl. Theron A., private ; enr. Nov. 22. 1863. 
>reeman. t^eorge. private; enr. Nov, 27. 186:1 
Hart. John, private ; enr. Nov. 16. 18<y * 
Hig^ins. William H..pivate; enr. Nov. 22. 1863 
llow.rth, >..ininn.l. pr.vate; enr. Nov M 1863. 
Ingn>s>.n, Biadley, private : enr. Pec 27 I8K! 
Kietrer. The^lon- T., private ; enr. D.X-. 1:1, 1863. 
JJurphy. Adam, private : enr. De<-. ■«) 1.803 
McTice, Albert, private; enr. Dec, 12, 18S3 " 



Monroe, James N., private ; enr. Dec. 2, 1863. 
Perry, Joseph, private ; enr. Dec. 4, 186:1. 
Rosebush, Je*se, private; enr. Dec. 15, 186:1. 
Wait, Samuel : jiiivate ; enr. Dec. 3<l, 1863. 
Young, John, private ; enr. Dec. 8, 1863. 

CAIT. LLTHEK KIEFFER'S COMPANY (CO. M). 
Andrus, William II.. private ; enr. Pec, 25, 1863. 
Branch, ('Itarh.s, private; enr. Dec. 21, iMZl. 
Branch, .\sher, private ; enr. Dec. 2l, I84i:l. 
BaLcock, (iaylord W.. private; enr. Dec. 17, 1863. 
HayiH*, William, private; enr. Dec. 21, 1863. 
Jtisliiie, William, private; enr. Dec. 22, 186:1. 
Jackwin, William W., private; enr. Dec. 2*, 1863. 
Kelst-y, Curtis, private : enr. IH^:. 18, 186:1. ' 
Kelsey, Cliiirh.9 -M.. private; enr. I>.c. 17, 1863. 
Lovelee, Ilulet, privati- : enr, Di-c, lo, 18t>:l, 
Lee, Elbriilge W., private: enr. De»-. 17, 1863. 
Miller. Peter, private ; enr. Dec. 21, 186:1. 
Miller, .\l|)lieus. private; enr. Dec. 21, 1863. 
McCaiiley, William, private; enr, Dec, 21, 1863. 
Neal, Robert, jirivate; enr. Dec. 31. I8U1. 
Kice, Walter t.. private; enr. Dec. 14, 18t3. 
Bnf>dolpli, Ji«eph .A., private; enr. Ik-c. 24. 1863. 
Ralph, George .\., private; enr. Dec. 24, 186:1, 
Warner, Silas J., private ; enr. Dec. 19, 1863. 
Williams, William II,, |irivate; enr. Pec. 17, 1863. 
Ciinimings, Alonzo F., private ; enr. Dec. 31, IS63! 
CuDiniinga. .\lleii. private; enr. Jan. 1, 1864. 
l>uuglaE«i, Nichohis H., private; enr. Dec 28, 186:1. 
Uouglass, Ithamer, private ; enr. Dec. 28, 186:1. 
Freem.-in, Herliert E., private; enr. Dec. 26, 18i63. 
Gardner. Schuyler, private ; enr. Dec. 30, l(«i. 
Hill, Harrison A., private; enr. Dec. :iO, 186:1. 
Johnson, Gnstavus V,, private; enr. Pec. 24, 1863. 
Lovelee, Lewis S,, J'rivate : enr. Dec. 17, 1863. 
Lee. Cbcar E,. private; enr, Dec, 19, 1863. 
Malone, John, private; enr. Dec. 18, 186:1. 
Hunt, Horace S., private ; enr. Dec, 30, 1863. 
Roberts, John H,, private; enr, Dec, 28. 186:1. 
Share, Alonzo. private; enr. Dec, 28, 186:1. 
Wait, .\lexander L,, private; enr, Dec, 31. 1863. 
Young, William II., private; enr, Jan. 1, 1864. 
Ziminerman, Jt^sse, ]>rivate ; enr. Dec, 22, 1.^63. 
Share, t^harles E,, piivate; enr. Pec, 28, 1^63. 
Layman, Elam S., private : enr. Jan, 4. 1864. 

16TH AETILLEEY. 
CAPT. JAMt-; 11. 1AKVL> niMPANY (CO. A). 
Chambers, John, private; enr. Sept. 11, 186.3. 
Ellis, Lorenzo D., private ; enr. S'-pt. 12, 186:1. 

CAPT. JAMES H. McLKCGHLINS CO. (CO. Cj. 
Hare, Tbomas, pr vate ; enr. (.K-t. 1, 1861. 
Moore, .\lonzo. private; enr. Sept. 19. 1863. 
McKay, George, private; enr. Sept. 1, 1863. 
Rolilin, .\Iliert, juivate ; enr. Sept. 111. 18t)3. 
Wilson. Samuel, private; enr. Oct. 1, l.^tjl. 
Weiitgate. Patrick, private; enr. Sept. 12, 1863. 

CAPT. ORRIN W. BE.\CHS COMPANY (IX). F). 
.\niond, Josf-ph, private; enr. Pec. 22, 1SG3. 
Bentley, William II., private: enr. Pec. 21, 1863. 
. Bloodough. James W., private : enr. Pec. 22, I8<KJ. 
t.'Ios.s, Isaac, private ; enr. Pec. 22, 186:1. 
Duclan. Justin, private : enr. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Darling, Isaac, p.ivate; enr. Dec. 22, 1863. 
Elesser, Jacob, private: enr. Pec. 2:1, 1861. 
Evans, Amasa, private; enr. Pec. 30, 186:1. 
Green, William A., private ; enr. Pec. 3ti, 1863. 
Horton. Samuel B.. private; i-tir. Per. 2:1. 1863. 
Jones, Beltjamin, private ; enr. Pec. 20, IS&l. 
I-iir\tck. .Mexander, pr-vate; eor. Pec. 2:1, 1863. 
Prine. Martin. pr:vate: enr. Dec. 2.i, 1863. 
Thiall, George W.. private; enr. Plec. 21, 1863. 

INDEPEHDEST BAT'Y Ho. 20, H. T. S. V. 

MeCiiuley, Patrick, private: enr. .\iig. 19, 1*62. 
Ni. Me. Charles II.. pr.vate: enr. .\ng. is, 1^62. 

INDEPENDENT BAT Y No. 28, H. Y. S. V. 

H'-ndi-rs. II. Ji.hii, musician ; enr. .\ug. 30. 1862. 

.Mien, George L., private; enr. Sept. 1, 1862. 

Bums, .\iidy, private ; enr. Oct. 15. 1862. 

Boiirk, Click, jirivate; eur. Oct. 17, 1862. 

Chubb. John C, piivate; enr. Sept. 1, 1862. 

Chase, Harvey 1'., pr:vate ; enr. .\ug. .30, 1862. 

Conner, John, private; enr. S«-pt. 2^. 1862. 

D»v B, Peter, private; enr. .\ng. 29, 1862. 

Demjfciter. John, p' ivate ; enr. Sept. 1. 1862. 

Darcy, Janie^ private ; enr. Sept. 1. 1862. 
) tiillespie. J.ihn, private : enr. Sept. 18, 1862. 

Haskiiis, Cliauncey C, private; enr. .\up. 30, 1862. 

Hayes, Daniel, private; enr. .\ug. 3lt, U62. 

Hayes, .\Iexand.-r. private; enr. .\ng. 3Jt. 1862. 

Jones, Moses, jirixTtte; enr. Sept. 20, 1862. 

L.-il1iii, James, priv*ate ; enr. Sept. 1, 1862. 

Lewis, Edgar, private ; enr. Sept. 3u, 1862. 
I Noble, diaries H., private ; enr. .Xup. 18, 1862, 

COMMISSIONED OFFICEBS. 

lD CAVaI.UY. 
George, Jtihn, 2d lieut.; mustered May 5, ISi^ 

6Tn CAVALKY C'SKrOND IRA HARRIS 
GITARP-.. 
IIortoD, lUI-y E . q.m.: mus. May 2S, 1863. 

STH CAVALRY. 
FergTi«on, Nelson D., surg, : mus. March 18. 1862. 
lousing, Frederick, Jr, 1st lieut. : mus. Aug. 14, "63. 

11TH CAVALRY iZ-St-XiTrs 9n.">. 
Ravniond. Wilbur r_ maj. : mus. Mav 17. lj«5. 
Gipson, Cyrus P., capt. ; mas. .Vpril 22, 1865. 



loTH CAVAIJIY. 
Wood, Joseph H., maj. ; mus. Nov. 2o, 1861. 

ISTH CAVALRY ("CORNING LIGHT'). 
Smith. Warnn S , capt., Co. U ; mus. Not. 20, 1863. 
Enos, William W., tapt. ; mus. Dec. 7. I8i>4. 
tiaige, William II., ca|i|. ; mus. Feb. 28, 186,5. 
Simpaon Joseph II., capt. : mus. Feb. ii, 1864. 
Montenay, CTiarles, capt. ; mug. Dec. 5, 1863. 
Cummings, .\ll*rt, 1st lieut.: mus. Sept. 16, 1864. 
Hall, Ira, Jr., Ist lieut.: mus. Feb. 2:1, 1804. 
Foils, Ira 1., Ist lieul. : mus. Dec Ji, 1s64. 
Bell, John A., 1st heut.; mus. D.c 21), 1864. 
SIcNeil, Floyd, 2d lieut.; inus. Pec. 26, 1804. 
I>avenpon, Edwin. 2d lieut.; mus. Dec 26, 1K64. 
Clark, Gwrge P.. 2«l lient. ; mils. S-pl. 10, 1863. 
Smith, John M., 2d lieut. ; mus. Feb. 2:1, 1804. 
Keenan, John, 2d lieut. ; mus. Feb. il, 1861. 
Cady, .\arou C, 2d lieut. ; mus. March 14, 1865. 

COTH CAVALRY ("McCLELLAN CAVALRY"). 
I*i'nl, Newton B., col. ; mus. IH^. 19, 186"I. 
Evan-, David M.. col. : mus. April 5, 1865. 
Gati s, Jacob S., lieut .c-I. ; mus. .\pril 5, I86.i. 
Cudworth, John G., maj. ; mils. July 26, 1865. 
Uara, John O., niaj : mus. .\pril •_2,' 18ii5. 
Fitzpatrick, Patrick, maj.: mns. July 2C., 1865. 
Ilorr. Albert v.. adjt.: mus. Slay :il, Isiii. 
Ziminerman, Charles E.. tir.mr.:' mus. IH.C 19 18C1 

Pollard, Ran.iaU D. C . .(r.mr. ; July 20, laisi. ' 

Carter, Norris M., ass't surg.: mus. IK-t 16, 186:1. 
Catlin, Charles, ass'l siirg. ; mus. .Ian. 24, 18l>4. 
Winslovi, Jc-dediah. chaplain : mus. Feb. 2:1, 1864. 
Ford. Waylanil F.. i-apl. ; mus Dec. 19, ISCl. 
Budd, Ileiijamin C, capt. : mus- July 20, 1865. 
Reynolds, William, cipt. ; mus. I>ec. 19, 186-3.' 
Byther, William F., capt. : mus. M:-v 31, 186.5. 
Chittenden. Henry C. capt.: mus Dec. 19, 1863. 
Butler, Thomas II . capt.; mns. Julv 9. 1864. 
Spencer, James. Jr., capt.: mns. Ike. 19. 1863. 
Lee, John D., capt. : mus. March 31; 1865. 
Carse, Alfred J., <-apt. ; mus. Julv 26, 1865. 
Belts, William E.. 1-t lieut.: mus. May 31, 1865. 
McXally, James J , 1st lieut. ; mus. July 26, 18*-5. 
Hublarvl, William, 1st lieut.: mus. May :tl,*l8rsi.' 
Ovissant, Li-wis. 1st lieut. ; mus. July*20, 1865. 
Hodge, Dem|«:er D., 1st lieut. : mus. March 1.'. 'l8C4. 
Ranilall, William H.. 1st lieut. ; mns. Julv 20, i»&5 
Goddard, E<lward P, 1st lieut.: mus. Julv 20,1865. 
I*ee, Luther, Jr., 1st lient. : mus. Dec. 19.' 181X1. 
Wilcox, Samuel B , 1st lieut. : mus. Julv'26, ISC'i. 
Caisie, .\Ifnsl J., 1st lieut. : mus. July 9,' Ism. 
Cook, Horace C, Isl lieut. : mus. Jujv 20, 1805. 
CliKite, Gtxirge R.. 1-t lieut. : mus. March :iO, 18«5 
Dillenbeck, John S., 1st lient. : ma>. Jan. 13, 181.5. 
Watson, la^w is C 2d lieut. : nius. July 26, ls05. 
Bndd, J.^eph P., 2d lieut- : mus. July 26, 180.^. ' 
Safford. W.IIiam H.. 2d lieut. : mus. July 2»', 1865. 
J".'', Seymour II, 2d lieut. : mus. Dec. 19. 1863. 
RoM., Walter, 2d lieut ; mus. Julv 26, 1S05. 
Podge, Engene C. 2J lieul. : mus.' Manb 15, 1864. 
Johns, James, 2.1 lieut. : mus. Dt^c. 19, 1S<:1. 
B»tts, William H , 2d lieut. : mcs. Julv 2", 1864. 
W.od, Ge..rye W.. 2d lieul.: mus. Ji.^v 26, 1865. 
Malone, Henry. 2d lieut : mus. Julv 20. 1865. 
Thomtsm, diaries D., 2d l;eut. : mus. Julv 3S, 1865. 
To«n, diari<«, 2d lieut. : mus. July 26. 1865. 
Trout, William, 2d lieut. ; mus. Dec. 19, 1863. 

24TH CAVALRY. 
McDonald, Frank, Isi lieut.: mus. June 17, 18M. 

1ST REGIMENT MOCNTEP RIFLES. 
Brown, Samuel M., Isl lieul. : mus. FeU 1, 1SC5. 

1ST REGIMENT PROVISIONAL CAVALRY. 
McDonaM, Frank, 1st lieut.; mus. July 24, 1865. 

2D REGIMENT PRtlVlSIONAL CAVALRY. 
Horton, Riley E., qu.arl emiaster : mus. Feh. 28, If 65. 

1ST ARTILLERY. 
Osliome. Thomas W, maj ; mas. May 9. 1S63. 
Tamblin. John W., capt. ; mus. Nov. 9, 1861. 
Ilazletoii. James B , oipt. : mus. Dtv. *\, 1864. 
Spralt, J. seph, capt- : mus. Nov. 9, 1801. 
Philip, William H, 1st lieul. : mus. Se|a. 16, 1864. 
Chapin, Itarius M., 1st lieut.; mus. Feb. 28, 1865. 

2D ARTILLERY. 
Bliss, Orlando T., capt. : mus. Jan. 28, 1865. 

3P ARTILLERY. 
Sherwood, Ge«r^ E, 1st lieut. ; mus. Jolj IC. 1S64. 

STH ARTILLERY. 
Wilder, Henry B, maj. ; mus. March 10, ISKi. 
Root, Frank K, capt. ; mus. Nov. 19, 1862. 

liiTH ARTILLERY. 
Spran, Joseph, 1ieut.-col. : mus. Jan. 14, 18S1. 
Campliell. James B, maj.: mus. Jan. 14. 1863. 
Oslomi-. Thom;t3 W., maj. : mus. Feb. 13. 1863. 
.Vbell, diarbs C„ maj.: mus. May 11. 1864. 
Cowb-s, S..n..ea R. maj.; mus. Slav 18. 1«04. 
^*''' ' - n W., adjt. : mns, June 18, 1863. 

^' ■ ' \^'.. '|r, mr.: mus, Sept. 12, 1862. 

Ci'l "^ . surg. 

'^ ^V- »s-'.-surg ; mus. Feb. 20, 1863. 

H'l X.. assl.-surg. 

Hi -«=t -surg. : mail. Mav 21, 1863. 

PkI". '• • -?.: mo«. Jane'27, 1864. 



57G 



HISTORY OF JKFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Wilson, Sfosra E., chn]ilain ; mm. Nov. — , 18G3. 
Cli'ghorn, Aduiiifl, i-iipt.; iiiiiH. Nuv, 20, 1SG2. 
Htitiliri^tnti, I«ajic L., cjipt. ; liliiR. Jan. :U, ISIVi. 
Oirter, Lucien K., caiit. ; miis. Jiim- ;!(!, 1«W. 
Aniistrung. Juliii C, capt. ; mtis. Marrli 10, lKtl:j, 
Kitts. (iiliii K., lapt. ; nms. Nuv, 29, 1N02. 
Sh<T lan, Fniiiklin O.. capt. ; mils. March :iO, 18G4. 
Wfl.li, K'lwaiil 1'., i-ajit. ; imi«. Nuv. 20, 1802. 
Cliapman, Kiit't'iiL' .\., capt. ; iniH. Jiiim l:*, 18G;t. 
Hart, William J., capt. ; lliuB. Nuv. 17, 18IH. 
Iliililliroin. Riis-slI B., capt. ; inu8 Nov. 20, I8C2. 
Marsliall, Guvcra H., capt. ; iiiu<. Oct. l.'i, 1803. 
Ti.bfy, Elisha H., capt.; mu». Si-pt. 211, 18C.4. 
Geliiian, Elia^, capt. ; niltt. Aug. 12, 18G4. 
Validirliurgli. Jnlin S., rapt. ; liius. Nov. 20, 1802. 
Miildlcton, Sanitlct (2d >, capt. ; liius. Nov. 20, 18G2. 
Parker, .lolin II.. capt. ; tnus. Aug. 21, 18G.t. 
Taggart, Bjroii I)., capt.; IUU3. Nov. 20, 1802. 
C.niut. I'liilaiidir B., capt.; mils. Marcli :ill, 18M. 
Uisiiig, Loman A., capt. ; mus. Feb. 18, 1805. 
Gn-cii, JallU'H K.. capt. 

.Smith, Kdward H., capt.; mus. Oct. l.'i, 1803. 
Tjlcr, Eiinan, 1st licut.; mus. Nov. 20, 1802. 
Montague. Harrison, lat lieut. ; laus. Dec. 24, 1802. 
Freeman, Wni. I*., lat lient. ; mus. filarcb 30. 18Gij. 
Wliecler, Andrew A., lat lieut. ; mus. Nov. 20, 1802. 
Jones, Riis.sell M., 1st lieut. ; mus. Uct. 15, 1801. 
Ca<lwell, Oliver B., 1st lieul. ; nins. June M, 1804. 
.Salter, Ucorge B., 1st lieut. ; mus. Nov. 20, 1802.'. 
Johnson, F. Byn»n, Ist lieut. ; nin.s. FeS. 28, 1805. 
Tax lor, James A., 1st lieut. ; mus. Al'ril 22, 1803. 
Cc^k, Malcolm O., Ist lieut. ; mus. Oct. 15, 1803. 
Brown, Bradley 1!., Isl lieut.; mus. Nov. 24, 1802. 
Wilco.x, .lohn M., 1st licut.; uins. Oct. 15, 1803. 
Ward, James S., 1st lieut. ; mus. March 30, 1804. 
.Spear, t'harles B., 1st lieut. ; mus. Oct. 15, 180:1. 
Heed, Morris A., l.st li.-ut. ; mus. May 11, 1803. 
Parker, Hihui A., 1st lieut. ; mus. Feb. \x, 180.5. 
Itottiers, Victor 11., l»t lieul. ; mus. Oct. 1.5, 1804. 
Keeuau, Patrick 11., 1st lieut. ; mus. Nov. 17. 1804. 
Jveriueily, Alexander, 1st lieut.; mus. Nov. 20, 1802. 
Frame, Siliw Wright, 1st licut.; uius. Jan. 22, 1803. 
Seaton, .VniLrose B., Isl lieut.; inns. March 311, 1805. 
.\ckerman, Timothy B., Ist lieut. ; mus. Nov. 29, '02. 
(■ritlin, Morrison, Isl lieut.; mus. Feb. 18, 1805. 
Westccjtt, Jidm H., l-t lient. ; mus. Aug. 13, 1804. 

Burd.ck, Daniel W., 1st lieut.; mils. Aug. '24, 1803. 

Bell, Itobert It., 1st lieut.: mus. Nov. -29, IS02. 
Hill, Wallace K., I.st lieut.; mus. April '20, 1804. 

Lansing. Frederick, Isl lient.; mus. Nov. "29, 1802. 

Kiley, Pliil'p, Isl lieul.; mus. March 30. 1804. 
Andrews. Mark, 1st lieut. ; mus. l)ec. 12, 1802. 
McKnight, Itidiert, 1st lieut. ; mus. Oct. 10, 1803. 
Williams, Olhn.ol, 1st lieut. ; mus. Feb. 7, 1803. 

lianney. Daniel. 1st I t. ; mus. Oct. 15, 1803. 

Allen. Millard J., 1st licut. ; mus. Sept. 30, 1804. 
Seattm, Chauucey >]., 1st lieut. ; mus. Sept. 30, 18G4. 

Flint, William II., 2d lieut. ; mus. March 3li, 1805. 
Cooper, Dealton W., 2d lieut.; mus. Nov. 13, 18()3. 
Die<l in service; 

Wilkinson. John L., 2d lieut.; mus. Sept. 10, 1804. 

.Marshall, i'. Benton, 2d lient. ; mus. Jurte 14, 1805. 

Ilorr, Walter .\., '2d lieut.; mns. Nov. 29, 1802. 

Ilt»UHe, Gaylor, 2d lieut. ; mus. Dec. 2'2, 1804. 

Cowan. Edwin R., 2d lieut.; mus. March 30, 18Ct. 

Kellogg, Edward II., '2d lieut. ; mus. Jnly I, 1804. 

Morris, Jano-s II., 2.1 lient. ; mus. July 8, 18(H. 

Faruham, Philip F., 2d lieut.; mus. March 3U, 1804. 

Williams, Wm. A., ^d lient.; mus. Oct. Ill, 1803. 

S|KilslO)ry, Harrison K., 2d lieut. ; mus. Oct. 15, 1803. 

Watscui, Dan. A., ■2d lieut.; mus. Aug. 2, 18l'4. 

Gunn. Charles L., 2d heut. ; mus. .\ug. 12, 1804. 

\Vo..il, George W., 2d lieut.; mus. April 14, 1804. 

McKee, Rjtusom J., '2(1 lient. ; mus. June 13, I80.{. 

Comalock, Wm. M., id lieut. ; mns. Nov. 20. 1802. 

Hall, Alonzo P., 2d lieut. ; mus. Feb. 18, 1805. 

Miller. Eugene, 2d lient.; mus. Nov. '29, 180'2. 

Gorse, John W., 2d lieut. ; mns. March 30, 1865. 

Payne, lleiirv D., •2d lieut.; mus. Blarch 30, 1805. 

Ilntterlielil, Levi A., 2d lieut. ; mus. Feb. '211, 1803. 

Dwyer, James .\., '2<1 lieut. ; mus. Feb. 18, 1805. 

Knight. J. Iljtndulph, '2d lieut.; mus. Nuv. '29, 18C'2. 
Died in service. 

Smith, (juriiev St. Clair, 2d lieut.; mus. Dec. 9, 1802. 

Web b, J. Sumner, '211 lieul.; mus. Sept. 3li. 1804. 

Evans, .b.bn K., '2d lieut. ; mns. April '23, 1804. 

Swan, .Marliu D., 'id lient.; mus. April 20, 1SC4. 

Richards, .\. Dwight, 2d lieut.; mus. Aug. '24, 1803. 

Thurber, Collins K.. '2d lieut. ; mns. Nov. 17, 1804. 

Cross, Isiuic T., 2d lii'Ut. ; mus. Sept. 30, 1804. 

Hoyle, Joseph T., '2il lient. ; mus. Feb. 7, 1803. 

Sentoii, Le(Uiard, Jr., 2d lieul.; mns. Sept., 180'1. 

Hurd, De Witt C, ■2d lieut. ; mns. June -23, 1805. 

Porter, George, Jr. (died , 2d lieul.; mus. Seiit.:l0,18fi4. 

Webster, Freilerick F., 2d lient. ; mus. Sept. 30, 1804. 

Boll, Rubcrt K., 2d lieut. 

14TH ARTILLERY. 
"Van Bnihle. Charles II., adjutant ; inns. Jan. 7, 1804. 
Proctor, Jerome B., capt.; mus. .\pril 22, 1805. 
Cooper, Jerome, cap. ; mus. Jan. 7, 1804. 
Ganlner, Schuyler, 1st lient.; mus. Aug. 31. 180.5. 
Warring, William, 1st lient.; mus. .\pril 22, 180.5. 
Thompson, Frank M., Ist lient. ; ions. Oct. 31, 18r4. 

Hnlilingt Gi'o. H., ^d leul.; mns. Aug. 31. 1805. 

Hunt, William W., 2d lieut.; mns. Aug. 31, 1805. 
Cupperniill, Byron, 2(1 lient.; mus. April 22, 1805. 
Cnrii-. Ki Isev. id lieut.; mils. Dec. 29, 1801. 
Corbin, Daniel, '2d lieul. ; mus. Aug. 31, 1805. 

13TH INFANTRY, N. Y. S. V. 

Bowman, John .\., chap. ; mns. Oct. ^25, 1801. 

•24TII INFANTRY. 
Odeklrk, Simon V., capt.; niu». May 0, 18(J.'t. 
Ayer, Jimalhan R., Isl lient. ; mns. Jan. '27, 18S2. 



Haight, Thcrnn W., Ist licut. ; mus. May 0, 1863. 
Felt, George W., 2d licut. ; mus. May 9, 1863. 

3.5TH RKGIMENT INFANTRY, N. Y. S. V. 
Lord, Newton B., col.; mus. .Vug. 14, 1801. 
Brown, William C, col.; mus. June 20, 1801. 
Poller, Stephen L., lieut.-col.; mus. June '20, 1861. 
Winslow, Bnidley, lieut.-col.; mus. Aug. '27, 1861. 
Evans, Dav d .M., lieut.-col. ; mus. Feb. 14, 1863. 
Lyttle, L. F., adjutant ; mns. July 4, IHOl. 
Merrill. Samuel L., chap. ; niiis. July 4, 1861. 
Chittenden, Henry L., capt. ; mus. .\ug. 27, 1801. 
.\ngle, Win. N., capt. ; mus. July 4, 1801. 
Flower, George W., capt. ; inns. Julv 4, 1801. 
Rich, Henry I)., capt. ; mus. July 4, 1801. 
Beckwith, Win. W., capt. ; mns. Dec. Ill, 1802. 
Reynolds, .Jesse T., 1st lieut. ; mns. July 4, 1861. 
Bingham, Edwin, 1st lieut.: mus. July 4, 1861. 
Budlung, John, Ist lieut. ; mus. Dec. 27, 1802 
Slocum, Caleb, Ist lieut.: mns. Miiy 0, 1863. 
Simpson, Joseph II.. Ist lieut. ; niiis. July 4, 1861. 
McWayne, .1. I)., 1st lient. ; mus. Feb. 24, 1862. 
Morgan, I.othiie D., id lieut. ; mns. Nov. 11, 1861. 
Westcott, Asahel B., 2.1 lieut. ; mus. Feb. 17, 186.!. 
Cramer, .lames II., 2d lient. ; mus. May 5, 1802. 
Bulterlicld, Eihvin R., 2d lient. ; mus. July 4, 1801. 

54TI1 REGIMENT INFANTRY, N. Y. S. V. 
Bott. Frederick, asst surg. ; mus. Oct. 10, 1802. 
69TU KEGT. INFANTRY, N. Y. S. V. 
Dillon, James, 2d lieut. ; mus. June 30, 1805. 
92D REGT. INFANTRY, N. Y. S. V. 
Whitney, Royal J., Ist lieut. ; mus. Jan. l:j, 1802. 
Cole, I). Clinton, 1st lieut. ; mus. Oct. 4, 180'2. 
Thompson, George S., 2d lieut.; mus. Nov. *24, 1802. 

94TH REGT. INFANTRY, N. Y. S. V. 
Viele, Henry K., col. ; mus. Jan. 0, 1862. 
Root, .\drian K., col.; inns. May 5, 1802. 
Littletlcbl, Calvin, lieut.-col.; mus. March 20, 180-2. 
Kress, John .\., lieut.-col.; mus. Dec. 17, 1802. 
Moffatt, Samuel .\., lieut.-col.; mus. J'eb. 10, 1804. 
ilanl'ord, Wm. R., iiiaj. ; mus. March 20, 1802. 
T<imbnson, D. C, maj.; mus. Dec. 17, 1802. 
McMalioM, John, nc.j. ; mus. Feb. 17, 1864. 
Fish, H. P. ( killed iu action), maj. ; mus. Feb. 18, 1805. 
Parson, Byron, maj.; mus. April 13, 1805. 
El list, J. Frederick, Jr., adjt. ; mus. Marcli 20, 1862. 
Scoville, Charles K., adjt. ; mns. Dec. 17, 1862. 
Hulbert, Charles E., adjt ; mus. Dec. 17, 1803. 
Sprague, Charles 11., adjt. ; niiis. March 13, 1865. 
De Widf, Da> id ().. i|r. nir. : mus. March '20, 1802. 
Shedd, Jerome 1., qr. lur. : mus. Dec. 17, 1802. 
Reed, Jeremiah S., qr. mr. ; mus. May 11, 1805. 
Goodale, Charles, surg.; mus. Slarch ^20, 1862. 
Smith, .\ndrew H.,8iirg. ; mus. May 31, 1862. 
Avery, George W., surg. ; mus. Oct. 13, 1802. 
Chauil^erlaiu David C, surg. ; mus. April 10, 1802. 
Seymour, Elliridge t;., asst. surg. ; mus. Mar. ■20, 1802. 
Brown, Jidin T., iissl. surg. ; mus. Sept. 17, 1802. 
Reynolds, John D., asst. surg.; mns. Marcli 17, 1803. 
Derby. Edmund G., asst. surg.; mus. Aug. '27, 1802. 
Fuller, Winfield S., asst. surg.; mus. Jan. 24, 1865. 
Reynolds, Porter L. F., asst. surg. ; mns. 5Iar. 14, 1805. 
Nichols, W^illiam A., chapl.; mils. May 7, 1802. 
Cook, Pliilos G., chapl. ; mns. Nov. 10, 1862. 
Beebe, Isaac M., cap!.; mus. March 20, 180'2. 
White, Horace G., capt. ; mus. Oct. ^29, 1802. 
Slason, Orlo J., capt.; mus. .Iiine 17, 1805. 
Siiell, Lansing, capt.; mns. Maich 2U, 1802. 
Gates, Jacob S., capt. ; mus. May '20, 1802, 
Lyttle, Laliiyette F., capt. ; June 20, 186:!. 
Che-ter, WalterT., cap!.; mils. May IS, 1S04. 
Emerson, James', ciipt. ; mus. March 20, 1802. 
Seurle. Bernard D., cap!.; mus. Oct. 20, 1802. 
Seals, Dcxler C, capt.; mns. May 11, 1805. 
Coniee, Chr.stopher C, cajit. ; mus. Dec. 17, 18C'2. 
Coltoii, H. Seymour, capt. ; mus. .Alay 18, 1864. 

Hawkins, O.car F., capt. : mus. March 13, 1805. 

Kilborn, Cbiiuncey W., capt.; mns. June :10, 1865. 

Place, Samuel, .Ir., capt.; ii.iis. JIar. ^20, 1802. 
Joy, Royal N., capt.; ilius. July 8, 1804. 

Crawford, Alex. 5IcL , capt. ; mus. Dec. 24, 1864. 

Mesler, Charles V,, capt.; inus. Mar. Ui, l80'i. 

Bibbins, Harrison, capt.; mus. Blar. 20, 1802. 

Nichols, Duane M., capt. ; iiius. fliay -26, 1862. 

Dayton, Edward A., cjipt. ; mus. May 9, 1803. 

llorr, .\uslin, cjipt. ; mus. May 2o, 1862. 

Lacv, John, capl.; in us. May 2i;, 1802. 

Doo'litlle, Isaac, ciipt.; mus Mar. 17, 1805. 

French, G, (killed in at lion), capt.; mus. Dec. 7, '65. 

Leonard, Jlichael, capl. ; mus. May 11, 1865. 

Briggs, I. E., capt.; mus. Mar. '20, l.<0'2. 

Carpenter, Levi, capt.; nms. Oct. 2'.>, 18ri2. 

Whiteside', John C., capt. ; mus. Nov. 10, 1862. 

Mallison, J. seph, capl. ; liius. May 31, 1864. 

Nutting, Abel M., capt.; mus. Mar. '211, 1862. 

Tyler, Wallace W., capt. ; mus. Jan. 27, 1803. 

Rodgers, Charles F., capt.; mus. Nov. 24, 1802. 

Parker, Edward ('., capt. ; mus. Jan. 27, 186:!. 

Cooley, A. E., capt.; mils. April 10, 1802. 

Field, Augustus, capt. ; mus, 5Iay 9, 180:1. 

Sloore, Alu-ahain, capt, 

Bcnlinni, Willis, capl, 

Currie, Jiimes, Ist lient, ; mus, Oct, 29, 1802, 

Thomas, James P,, 1st lituit, ; mus, Aug, 13, 18G4. 

Johnson, Alba A., 1st lient,; mus, Dec, 17, ISI'sl, 

Phillips, James O., 1st lieul.; mus. May 31, 180.5. 

Philes, Henry II,, Isl lieut. ; mus. July '25, 1805. 

M.iore. John D.. 1st lieut. ; mus. Mar. '20, 180-2. 

Colton, H. Sey nr, Ist lieut. ; mus. Dec. 5, 180-2. 

Ilalch, Junius H., Isl lieul. ; mns. June '22, 1864. 

Strong, Ilaydeli, Ist lieut.; nms. July 2.5, 180.5. 

Tl lerinan, Calvin, Ist lient.; mus. Mar. 20, 18G2. 



Mather, George, lat lieut. ; mus. June 17, 1865. 
Oshaui, (;eorge H., 1st lieul.; mus. May 10, 1863. 
Swan, Henry, 1st lient. ; mus. Aug. 22. 18('4. 
De Marse, Samuel, 1st lieut.; mns. June 17, 18G5. 
Mayhew, Kdward V., 1st lient. ; mns. Dec. 17, 180*2. 
Cole. John B., 1st lieul.; mns. May 31, Istli. 
Ml Comber, George, 1st lieul.; mus. Oct. '20, 180-2. 
Wbiteide, Benjamin, 1st lieut.; iiius. Dec. i'i, 1862. 
llolby, Jaiiics D., 1st lieul. ; mus. -May 31, 1805. 
Maiisfleld, J. Mason, 1st lieut. ; mils. Mar. 2ll, 1802. 
Collier, Robert, Isl lient. : mus. June ^o, 1802. 
Massey, Fn-derick J., Ist lieut. ; mus. Nov. 24, 1802. 
Merriam, Russell B., 1st lient. ; mns. Mar. 24, 1805. 
Woodward, W.J. M.(died of wounds), 1st lieut, ; mus, 

April 11, 18112, 
Wodell. Isaac P., 1st lient. ; mus. Oct. 29, 180->. 
DeUratr, John, Ist lieut. ; mus. Nov, -24, 1802, 
Crawford, P,(killed in action;, 1st lieul, ; mus, .\pr, 1, 

180.5, 
Hendricks, James, Isl lieut,; mus. May 17, 1805, 
Ludlow, Myron II., 1st lieut.; mus. July 25, 1805. 
Knowles, Will am, 1st lieut. 

Braiiiard, Orville II., ^d lient. : mus. March 26, 1862. 
De Forest, Charles L., '2d lieut. ; mus. Jan. 27, 186:1. 
Rundell, Charles K., '2d lieut. ; mus. March -20, 1802. 
Cook. Horace S,, 2d lieut, ; mus, March 20, 1862, 
Ford, Wayliiiiil. 2d lieut,; mus, Dec, :!, 1862, 
Lockliii, Albert W., -2d lieul.; mns. Feb. 0, 1803. 
Burns, Edward M., 2d lieut.; mus. Mairh 18, 1862. 
Washburne, Levi, -2d lieut. ; mus. May 26, 1802. 
Swan, Henrv, 2d lieut.; mus. May 9, 1803. 
Roseboom. Howard, 2d lient.; mus. Dec. 17. 1802. 
Smith, Warren S., -2d lieut.; mns. Oct. 29, 180-2. 
Burrows, Thomas, 2d lieul.; mils. Dec. 2-2, 1802. 
Merrill, E. M., 'id licut. 
Smith, Frank, 2d lieut. ; mus. Oct. 29, 18^2. 
Sliutlis, Stipben G., 2d lieut.; mus. Aug. ±t. 1804. 
Ryan, Patrick R., '2d lieut.; mns. Dec. 7, 1864. 
Sloat, diaries W., 2d lieut.: mns. June 20, 186:1. 
ifoung, Richard, 2d lient. : mus. Julv 25, 1805. 
Ludh.w, Myioii II., -2.1 lient.; nms. May 11,186.5. 
Mercer, Edward I)., 2d lieut. ; mus. July -25, 180a. 
Flattery, J. hn, 2il lieut.; mns. .luly 2.5,1805. 
Qiiildlhrile, William W, 2d lieut.; mus. July ■2.5,1865. 
Williams. Watkii s II. 2il lieut. ; mns. May 31, 1865. 
Crane, Wiliam E., 2il lieut. ; mils. July 25, 18rh5. 
Hay, .\lexander, 2d lieut. : mus. June 17, 1805. 
Patterson, .\lidersun, -211 lieul.; mus. Jnly -25. 1865. 
Smith, John R., '211 lieut. ; mus. May 31, 186.5. 
Wilder, Geurge D., '2d lieut.; mus. July -2.5, 1865. 
Brewer, Allen, -2d lient.; mus. .\ug. 1-2, 1801. 
Hafie, Jonas, 2d lieut. ; mus. Dec. 7, 18ti4. 
■\Vbalori, Daniel, 2d lieut.; mus. May H, 1805. 
Longniire, Gavin, 2d lieut. 

97TII INFANTRY, N. Y. S. V. 

Ferguson, Nelson D., surg. ; mus. March 10, 1802. 

99TH INFANTRY, N. Y. S. V. 
Johnson, Cliaa. jM., asst. surg.; mus. May 5, 1803, 

147TH INFANTRY, N, Y, S, V. 
Woodard, Datus, capt. : mus. Oct. 4, 1802. 

1S6TII INFANTRY, N. Y. S. V. 
Winslow, Bradley, colonel ; mus. Jan. 19, 1865. 
Marsh. K. .lay, lient. ; mus. Jan. 10, 1865. 
Sternberg, .\bram D., maj. ; mus. Jan. 19. 18(k>. 
Field, Andrew J., adjutant; mus. J. in. 19, ISI'io, 
Marsh, Luther M., adjutant ; mus, ,lan, 19, 1,SC5. 
Timmernian, Calvin, q. in.; inns. May 20. 1805. 
Bailey, William ('., surg.; mus. Seiil.3u, 1864. 
t^irlisle, Kbeii S., iw-l. surg.; mus. Oct. 1, 1S64. 
Coleiiiau. James C, as-t. surg.; mus. March In, 1865. 
Shaw, James II., asst. surg.; mus. Dec. 13, 18t'>4. 
Burnett, John II.. chiplaiii ; mns. Oct. -29, i«o«. 
Snell, Lansing, chapl.iin; mus. May 11, 18Cs>, 
McWayne. Jay D,. capt. ; mns. Jan. 19, 1865. 
Legg, Judson P.. capl. ; mus. Dec. 22, 1864. 
Swan, Edwin, capl. 

Yates, Henry, capt. ; mils. March 20, 1865. 
McMulleu, Richaid R., capt.; mil-. Jan. 19, 130S. 
Squires, Charles I)., capl. ; mus., Ian. 10, 18lk5, 
Ferris, E, George,''capt, ; mus, Blay 17. 18*'5. 
Wallace, William R., capt. ; mus. Oct. 1, 1801. 
Iloial, Daniel B., capl.: mus. Jan. 10, 1805. 
Brown, Kendrick W., capt.; mns. Dec. -27. 1864. 
Reynolds, John M., Ciipt. ; mus. Jan. 10, 18rs>. 
Bates, Iliixbaln P., capt.; mns. March 6, 18(i.5. 
Gleason, W. Wallace, ls| Hint. ; mils. March 6, 18W. 
Edwards, diaries J., 1st lient. : mus. Jan. 19, 1S65. 
lirciwn, Bradley B., 1st lieul.; mus. March :lil, 1805. 
Phillips, Augustus J., 1st lieul. ; mns. Jan. 10, 186.5. 
Phelps. Charles N., Isl lieut. ; inus. Jan. 19, 18ia. 
Peck, William K., 1st ln-nl.; linis. .Ian. 10, 18rs5. 
Taylor, James A., Isl lieut. ; mus. Dec. '27, 1804. 
Morse, Amos, Ist lieut. ; inns. Jan. 10, 1805. 
Jonis, FIdward K., Isl licut. ; mus. Jlay 20, 1805. 
Mathews, James, 1st lieul. ; mus. .Ian. 19, 18a5. 
Herring. William P., Isl lieul. ; mus. Jan. 19, 1865. 
Marsh, Walter P., 2d lieut.; mus. Dec. :io, I8C4. 
Failing, Walsleeli, '211 liillt. ; mns. Jliiy 20, 1805. 
JlcComber, Edwin, 2il lieut. ; mus. Jan. 19, 1805. 
Stapliii, Ilelos, ■2d lieut.: Inns. .lau. 19, 180,5. 
Ournilt. Henry C, ^d lieut. ; mus. Jan. 19, 1805. 
Liidit, AUxander, 2d lient. ; inns. Jan. 19, I8li5. 
RobirlBon, (buries C., -2d li.-iit. ; mus. Oct. 10, 1804. 
Brow n, Ilenilricks W.. 'id lieut. ; mus. Jan. 19, 1805. 
Cutler, Orville L., 2il lieul. ; inus. Jan. 10, 180.5. 
Bartlelt, .bilin W., -2d lient.; mus. March :«1, 180.5. 
llurr, James (>., 2d lieut. ; mus. Jan. 19, 1805. 

10:!I) INFANTRY, N. Y. S. V. 
Ainsworth, Sidney W., capt.; nms. May 0, 1805. 
stapliu, Oriii D., capl. ; mils. May 6, 1865. 
Myers, Isaac, 2d liullt. ; milB. May 0, 1805. 



NAMES OF CITIZENS 



WHO ASSISTED AND CONTRIBUTED TOWARDS THE PUBLICATION OF THE HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, 

WITH PERSONAL STATISTICS. 



WATERTOWN CITY. 

ATTORNEYS. 
Bn)Wn, Levi II., Attorney mul Cuiiiisi-lor, ii<linitli'<) t > Hi • Ifftr lS4r., Pros. Wjit(*r- 

tu.vn Spi-iiiK W.tjr.in (V... M lyor city lS7i'., Ai; St .n • St., Ii. N. V., s. isl.s. 
B;i;^li-y, H., .Vttririi -y hihI r.niii^i'lor, iiiiinitl...l ti th • Lap la 14, im-iii.ier State 

L:'v:i-IMiirf l«t'J, l Bmk! licl at., li. N. Y.. «. IKU). 
Kmersoii, Krct]., .VttiiriM.y iiiiil CuiiiHi-Iur, udniittted tu tlie l>ar 184S, 5^ Stuto 

at., I.. N. v., «. 1SJ7. 
Ktiu'rsDTi, K l«.ir C. .Vttnrriey nnii Coiiiisclor, lulmittpil to ttio b;ir 1871, firm 

li'Ilriuii .1- Knitfrsiin, iJii Wu-liinctcin pi., I.. X. V.. ». l»Vl. 
(irilllii. II. (■., .\tluriiHV and iTvMiiiaelur, a<liiiittL-d tu thu liar l?!7i;, Wiwhingtjn 

|p|., Ii. N. Y., ». 1S4»1. 
Uiiblianl, K. W., .Vtt.iriiuy ami OiunSflor. a<lmitt'-(l to tho liar 1«W. Siiprenie 

Court JiitiKf s yi.^trs, i-I-ct-d ISW, 2.'i Clinton at., b. N. Y., s. ISl.'i. 
Ho}^aii, .J. \V., .Vttorrify and Cuilnaulor, :ulni.tlL'd t i tlle bar lS7<i, ;ll Masai-y St., 

b. X. Y., 8. ISIJII. 
LaiiMiii;;, Koliurt, .\ttorney and r«iun8clor, admitted to the bar IHliO, District 

Atbirney ISJ.", County Jud^'e 184.> to I8,il, 34 W&sliinglon, b. S. Y'., «. 

1X17. 
Ijanain:;, John, .Vtl-irney ami Oouns'-lor, admitted to tho bar 18.>4, firm Lansing 

,t Sherman, .'i Clinton St., b. N. Y., •>. 1*12. 
Lansing, K., .Vltornev and ('oiinst'lor, admitted to the bar 1859, flnil Lanaiug 

A Kcigei-s, 29 WasliinHlon pi., Ii. .V. Y., s. IS.ir>. 
Mnllin, .lost'ph. Attorney and Connsi-I.ir. admitted to the bar 18:17, .Instice Su- 

preini' Cmrl N. Y. State, elei-ted Is.-i7, ."ili \Vaaliiiij;ton. b. Ir.'., s. l.'i-il. 
Monk, G. W., Altcuiiey and Counselor, admitted to tlie b ir 1874, 10 I'addoek St., 

b. N. Y., a. 18'iU. 
North, Kdgar, .Vttorney and Counselor, admitted to the bar 18G7, '22 B.iker St., 

b. N. Y , 8. IH4 I. 
Itogers, W'at-ion M., .Vttorney and Counselor, admitted to the bar 18G8, District 

Attorney, ebcted 1814, 211 Ten Kyck St., b. X. Y., ». 1S44. 
Pr.itt, S. U., .Vttorney ami Counselor, admitted to llio b;ir lStJ4, Baker St., b. N. 

Y., B. 1SI19. 
Smith, Hannibal, .Vttornev and Counsoljr, admitted to the bar 187.\ 44 Rut- 

l.ind St., b. N. Y., ». 187U. 
Walt-i, C. II.. .Vttorney and Counselor, admitted to the bar ISG2, 8 Wioslow St., 

b. N. Y., s. 1K4U. 
AVinslow, Bradley, .\trorney and Counselor, admitted to thebarlSoo, Brig.-Gen. 

by brevet V. S. Vola., 24 ('lintou St., b. N'. Y.,9. 1811. 
>Vhitii)g, Xatlian, Attorney and Counselor, adin.tted to the bar 18o7, 21 State 

St., b. N. Y., 8. 18211. 

BAKERS AND CONFECTIONERS. 

Cadwell. J. S., B;iker and Coiifectiuner, eat.ib. l.^.T, 2J Kli/..ibith St., b. Conn., 

a. l.S,-.7. 
Jess, Henry, Prop. Watertown Mechanical Bakery, firm of Nill & Jees, 9 Cof- 

le.-n -t., Ii. IJei-., s. 1811:1. 
Nill, John, Pro]>. Watertown Mechani&il Bakery, firm of Nill Jt Jess, 11 High 

St., b. tier., a. l«tlu. 
Slomau, W. .v.. Toys aud Fancy Goods, Paddock's .Vrcade, b. N. H., a. 1867. 

BANKERS. 
Camp, T. If., President Jeff. Co. X ili oial ll.iiik, 4(1 MiL«s»y St., b. S. Y., s. IS17. 
Clark, Charles, Teller and Book-keep.w .li-nei-son Co. Bank I8;l.j, Deputy County 

Clerk 1824 to 18:!'.), Assessor Village Watertowu 25 years, :18 Stone St., b. 

N. Y., a. 18U(1. 
Farewell, A. 51., Pr.'S. Jeff. Co. Savings Bank, 8 Clinton St., b. Ohio, s. lS,iS. 
Ivea, VVillanl, President Merchants' Bank, President Watertown Kire Insurance 

Co., Ives St., b. N. W, a. 181111. 
I.ord, a., Pre-bleiit Xati.oial Cnioii B;ink, President North Insumnce Co., N. Y'., 

ai stone at., b. N. Y., s. 1810. 
Powers, Is;i.ac P., Direcltir Xiitiotml Union Bank and Watertown Steam Engine 

Co., :U State St., b. X. Y., s. 18.".!. 
Paddock. K. I.., Pres. Isl National lliiik, 32 Waaliington St., 1>. N. Y., 9. 1824. 
Va.ldock, itacar. Vice-Pre... 1st Nat. Bank, 311 Washington St., b. N. Y., s. 181*1. 
l*o»d. Sylvanna, Vici.-Preaident Mei-ctiants' Bink. 7 Stite at., b. Mass., s. 18.VJ. 
Sherman, John \., Vice-Proa. Nat. Union hank, 4:1 Stone at., b. X. Y'., s. 1809. 
Sherman, George 11., Presi.lent National It ink, Director X. Inannuice Co. and 

Davis Sewing-Machine Co., l.'i t;iintoii St., b. X. Y'., a. 18:14. 
Sherman, Itiibert L., Vice-Preaident Watertown Bank and Loan Oi., Farmer, 

Waterbiwu Centre, b. N. Y., 8. I83«. 
Smith, George, in JelTersoh Co. Savings Bank, 1st Clianiberlain Watertown City, 

Jeffrs.in Co. S.ivinga B.ink, li. X. Y'.. s. IHl l. 
W.iolworlh, S. T., Caahiir J.fT. d. Nat. Bank, :i.i State St., b. N. Y., «. 186.5. 
Thompson, Myei-a. C.iahier Jeff. Co. Xat. Hank Isr.il to ls71, ill Waaiiingtuu St. 

BOOKS AND STATIONERY. 

Chase, .Tustiis, Jr., D-aler in Periodicals, SUitionery, and Confectionery, 22 State 

8t., b. X. Y., 8. 1S.-,1. 
Moslier, Henry B.. Dealer in Books, Stjvtioncry. etc., Window-Shndea, Wall- 

Pala'r, etc., lirm of Sterlhig ,t Mosher, 4iJ CI nion St., b. X. \ , a. is:l'> 
Sterling, John C. Dealer in Books, Stationery,elc.. Window-Sh ides, Wall-Paper, 

etc., firm of Sterling A Moaliei, Sti'riing Plac •, b. X. Y., s. 1820. 
W.iterman, C. .V., Dc.iler in Books, Stationery, etc., firm of lianford Jb Watel^ 

Ul in, 24 State St., b. M iss , 8. I8(i 1. 
Walsh, E. R , Siipt. Union Xows Co., :)1 Poblic Square, b. III., 9. 18G'2. 

BOOTS AND SHOES. 

11:118,001)., Jr.,Mfr. and Dlr. in lloot.s and 8ho.'<. .'.4 Kiaiiklin St., b. Gor., 9. 1832. 
H.uia, Ue..., Mfr. and Dlr. in I! ...Is and Sh »s, .,4 Kninklin at., b. Ger., R. l8.->2. 
Mid lletin,D.C..Mfr. ami Dlr. in Hoots and .Shie., 17 State St., b. N. Y.,9. 18.i0. 
Middleton, .\iidiew C, Sllr. an. I Dlr. in BooU an.l Shoes, 17 State at., b. N. Y., 9. 

18—. 
Martin, O. C, Prop. Parlor Shoo Store, 2 Winalow St., b. X. Y., s. 1367. 



Prouty, .Tohn, Whol. and R t'l Dlr. lu Boots and Shooa,2 Benodlct St., b. Mom. 
s. 1855. 

CIVIL OFFICIALS. 

Acker, C. W., Citv Ass'r, 1st Ward, elected IK7.'., il Centre at., b. N. Y., s. 1800. 

Ileal. A. It.. Siipl! City Scli..ola, 62 Stone at., b. X. Y., 9. 1875. 

Brown, 1.. II., Justice of the Pe.ice, eleetiKl I8."iS, Surrogate Jefferson Co. under 

new c.institntion, 1847-.'.l, Hi Clinton at., b. X. Y., a. I8ii8. 
Babbitt, II. I)., Deputy .sh.rilT, apiKiint.- 1 la7.1. Miiaa..) sf., b. N. Y., 9. 1847. 
B.irber, Th'iiiiis, .VIderm.in, Isl Ward, Mnfr. Itotary Puinlia, Hoard St., b. Bng., 

a. lS:io. 

Champlin, C. G , P.ili.eman, elected 1872, 811 Arsenal 8t., b. N. Y., a. I84I. 
Cummings, Win., K. It. Policeman, appointed by Gov. Kenton, I8tj7, U. W. A O. 

dep.t, b. N. Y ,s. 1W4. 
Culo, G ' .rge. County Clerk, elected lir76, Dep. 1868 to 1876, Court House, b. 

N. Y., s. 18G.i. 
Chittenden, T. C, Supervisor 3.1 Ward, elected 18G9, Gen. Ins., Fire and Life, 5 

Benedict St., b. X. Y., 8. 1827. 
Green, Duane .\., .Vldennan 4:h Ward, foreman Sloat & Greaiileaf, 8 Davidson 

St., b. X. Y., 8. 1845. 
Gale, S. <)., Assea-sor 4tli Ward, elected 1874, Farmer, cor. Galo and Thompson 

Bts., b. N. Y., a. 1812. 
Guest. Miles, chief of P.ilice, elected 1SG9, 15 Massey St., b. N. Y., s. 18:15. 
Hinds, Kr.ink .\., City Civil Engineer and Surveyor, appointed 187*2,161 State 

at., b. X. Y., s. I84:i. 
Kiiowlton, Jiio. C., Supervisor 2d Wiinl, Sterling Place, b. N. Y.. s. 18.37. 
Mc(_'nlchiii, Win., PoMceniiin, elected IbG'J, 2 Van Du/.en St., b. Ireland, a. 1842. 
.Millingt.in, Th..a., Policeman, electe.1 IS72, 28 Bnrrhaiil st , b. Kng , 8. 1865. 
Pc-, k. A. W., Sheriff .leirei-3.iii Cs.., elected 1875. 6 Mass-y st., b. X. Y., s. 1822. 
Phelps, Jii.i. L., City Chamberlain, elected 1876. 17 Clinton St., b. X. V.. 9. 18">8. 
Kiilison, W. D. v., Sejircli-Clerk Cs». Clerk's Office, Clerk Board Siipervis.irs, 

clect...l 1870. 12 Holcoinb St., b. X. Y., s. 1844. 
Shorman, Wui. W., Alderman :ld Wanl, 2 Sherman St., b. N. V., 8. 18—. 
Smith, Geo., .Mdeiiuan 2d Ward, elected 1875, JelToraon C*>, S;iving8 B.ilik, b. 

X. Y., s. 181 1. 
Smith, T. .\., Alderman 3d Ward, dealer in Real Estate, 221 .\rsenal St., b. 

N. Y., s. 1847. 
Scott. Ross C, Special Surrogate, elected 1SG8, 8 High «t.. b. N. Y., 8. 1818. 
Streeter, .Iiio. C, Slip -rvissir 1st Ward, 19 State St., b. X. Y'., s. 1S«I. 
Sl.ial, C. W,, Supervisor 4th Ward, 107 JIaiii at., h. .V. V., 8. 1840. 
Tripp, S. II., Supt. Public Works, and Boiler-maker, 20 Keyes ave., b. N. Y., 8. 

18:i4. 
Whiting, Nathan, .\lderman 1st Ward, elected 1875, 21 State st., b. N. Y., «. 

1826. 
Wilder, Dexter, ex-County Clerk, U. S. Assessor Int. Rev. 2Utli Diat. N. Y., 18T0 

to expiration of olHce, 6 Benedict .at., b. X. Y., a. 18:19. 
Wilbur, H. M., Justice of the Peace, elected 1870, 41 Massey St., b. N. Y., «. 1851. 
Walts, V. II., City .\ttoriiey, firm of Borter & Walts, 8 Windsor at., b. N. Y^ 9. 

1840. 

CLERGYMAN. 

Keyes, Rev. Richard G., Clergyman, 51 Wasliingt.in, b. N. Y., s. 1826. 

CLOTHIERS. 

Dewey, D. B., Cust.im and R.>ady-Ma.le Clotliiiig, firm J. C. Streeter & Co., 10 

Woodruff House, b. X. Y., s. 1867. 
Miller, J. It., Merchant I'ailor, Clothier, Gents' Furnishing Goods, 14 Winslow St., 

b. Scotlau'l, 8. 1868. 

Mantle, B. H., Melxhant Tailor, Cb.thier, Genia' Furnishing Goods, firm Bris- 
tol ,t Mantle, 4 State st., b. X. Y.. a. 18.io. 
Streeter, Xela.in W., Cl.ithier i retir.dl, :1G State St., b. Mass., a. 1S'21. 
.Streeter, J. C., Cbilhier, Gents' Knrni-hing Goials, 19 .State at., b. N. Y., a. 1829. 
Vullat.T. W., Merchant Tailor, 113 Factory St., li. N. Y., >. 1844. 

COAL DEALERS. 

Frink, Daniel, Dealer in Coal, S.ilt, riu-bi. uii.l Mfr. of Lime, 69 Washington 

pi., b. X. Y., 8. 1847. 
Marcy, R., Wholeoala and Retail Dealer in Ciml, 9 Keyes ave., b. Ireland, a. 1872. 

CROCKERY, ETC. 

Murray, I.. R., Dealer in China, Crockery, and Glassware, estab. \H.\i, 61 Court 

St., b. N. Y., 8. 182.1. 
Waite, 11. D., Dealer in China, Cmrkerv. anil C.lasswarc. firm of Waite, Allen t 

Co., estab. 1853, 15 Woodruff U..iise, b. X. Y., 8. 1842. 

DENTISTS. 
Dunn, Wm. E., Surg.'t.n-Dentist, pab-nt-e mineral or porcelain plate, Jiat. 1863, 

cor. Tell Bvck and H.ilcoinli ala., b. X. Y., «. 1876. 
Robinson, S. M., Surge.in-Denlist. 1 Ton Kyck st.. U. Vt., a. 18:16. 

DRUGS AND MEDICINES. 
Camp, T. II., Dealer in Drugs and 3Ieilii.-iiies, firm of l.'aiiip A Massey, 46 Mas- 

Bey St , b. N. Y., s. l.-.^. 
Cooper, E. v., Dealer in Drugs and Medcinea, .55 Wiuihinglon, b. N. \'., a. 1824. 
Massey, Geo. B., Dealer in Drugs and Medicines, firm of tiuiip & Massey, 50 

'liassey St., b. N. Y., a. 18.16. 

DRY GOODS. 

."Vumond. J. P., Drv Goola, Cloths, and Notions, finn .\umond A Black, 15 

Fr.inklin -t , b. g.iebec. s. 1877. 
Ayera, II. II., Whob-s^ile an.l Beta I Dry Goods and Csir|iets, firm Ilerrick A 

Avei^. G Sherman st., b. N. Y.. a. 1817. 
Angaliury, Alex., Dry G.iods Merchant (relireiD, 19 Stone at., b. N. T., 9. 1824. 
Biishnell, Jerome, Dry Goods .Merchant, :«) Sterling at., b. N. Y., ». 183;. 
Bushnell, Albert, Dry Goods and Canwts, '20 SU-rling St., b. N. Y., 8. 1833. 

577 



578 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Bnrtli'lt, II. A., fliipf Clork Willi N. Wiiwlow, Dry Goods, 9 Bpnedict St., b. 

N. v., s. Is:(4. 
llliuk, UdIiI., I) y Cciiiils. Ch.tlis, nnd Notions, firm Aimionil i liliitk.lu Acud- 

emy 81 . It,* Out., s. IsTo. 
Ciirpeiilcr. J. M.. I>ry tJooiis and llrociTlfa, fii in Carjit-iiter A Iturgwin, 4;i State 

SI., li. N. v., ». ls:o. 
Cadwcll, O. B , Pry Ouods, f'lollis, and Notions, fiiin Cooke, Cadwi-ll A Co., 27 

Stone St., b. N. Y.. s. 1S.'>4. 
Cnnipl'ell, .Mex., Wbolesjile and Retail Pry t^ooils and Cari)et8,finu Cnmitbell, 

Finewell S Co., 2.'> Sterling 81., b. N. Y., s. US;!. 
Cooke, II. v., Drv (iooils, CIollls, and N*»tion8, firm Cooke, Caldwell vt; Co., City 

As«ei-sor, eleeted 1»74, -11 Stone St., I>. N. Y , ». 1818. 
Farewill, K. K., \Vliole«ale ami liotail Dry Goods and Carpets, fiini Canipbill, 

Kiire«.-ll \ C..-, Clinton ^t , b. N. Y., 8. IK—. 
lli-rriek, W. \V., Wholesale anil Kclail Drv Goods and Cal'liets, fliiii Ilerrick & 

Aycrs, H I'add.K-k sC, I., N. Y., a. ISA".. 
Ilerriek, C. ll.,Cliiel Clk.wilh lleriiek * Ayre8,14 Pnildock St., b. N. Y'.,s,18.-.l. 
Moore, W. II., Jobber, antl K<-taii Dry iloods. Notion-, and Jewelry, fiini Moore 

& Sinilb, liil Aisenal ^t , b. N. Y., «. 1S."4. 
Jlonltoii, J. I' , Wholesale anil Helail Dry (ioods and Car|i"t8, firm of Camiibell, 

Farewell i Cm., b. N. Y., s. IsaO, 
riiinean, Jno. J. B , with .Vumonil A Black. Diy Goods Merchants, late firm of 

Ti iin.aii, I'liilbl.- A Co . :i."i Massey St., b. (inel.ec, s. 1840. 
I'ratt, Gen. T. It., Dry Goods Merchant (retireil), lUU Washington St., b. Mass., 

8, l.sofi. 
Smith, Perry K . .lobbcr and Retail Dry Goods, NotioTis. and Jew elry, firm of 

Sloore & Sniith, cor. American St., b. N. Y., s. 18.')l. 
M'inaluw, Norris, Wliole!.al« and Retail Dry Goods Merchant, 47 Washington 

et., b. N. Y., s. isao. 

FURNITUKE. 
Lewis, J. C, Mnfr.of and Dealer in Fnrnittirc,Sprit>jx Beds, Mat treRses,Mirrors, 

etc., firm "f Levis, Ilenericb .V It.iuinls. 11 Winsh.w si., b N. Y,, s. ISii. 
Rounds, K.W.,Mnrr. of and Dlr. in Fnrnitnre, Sj.r.ng Beds, Mattresiies, Mirroi^, 

etc , firm of Lewis, Hencrich ,t Hounds, '.1 llnlcomh St., b. N. Y., s. 18.W. 

GRAIN DEALER. 

Ilanuuond, L. S., Giain Dealer, Ten Eyck »t., h. N. Y., S.18,i5. 

GROCERS. 
Andrus, M., Groceries, Provision^, ami Si-eds. is Clinton St., b. N. Y., s. 1823. 
Ballz, A. 1'., Gro. ami MIr.ol" I. nil.iii.mi Chee-e, G) Arsenal st., b. N. Y., s. IKIiO. 
Gill.ert. C. V. Gri... firm ol Smith .V (lili.ert, Womlriiir House, b. N. Y., s. 1840. 
llungerfoi-.l, C. A., Fine Gr.-ceiii-. 14 Wuilhn p St.. b. X. Y., s. lso4. 
Iliibbird, V. S., Wholesale ami Ui-tail Grocer, 1 State St., b. N. Y., s. 1818. 
McCoMiber, Geo., Wholesale and Retail Giocer, IS Ci.urt St., b. N. Y., 8. 18.-52. 
Terry, I). A., Grocer, firm of F. J. H I). A. Perry, 20 Doolittlu A Hall Block, b. 

X. Y., s. IstiO. 
Perry, F. J., Grocer, firm of F. .1. 4 0. A. Perry, 20 Doolitlle & Hall Bhick, b. 

N. Y., s. iwifi. 
Rice, D. M., Wbol.and Retail Gro. and Pork Pkr., Ten Eyck St., h. N. Y'., s. l.Wi. 
R*.ynulds, S. W., Chief Clerk with 1. E. Thompson & Co., Grocers, 4 Mechanic 

St., b. Out., s. 18(1.1. 
Sternberg, M. II., Wholesale and Ri-tail Grocer, fiim of I. E. Thompson * Co., 

01 WashingtMn, b. N. Y., 8. ISoO. 
Tlionipson, I. V. , Wholesale * Retail Gn cer, firm of I. E. Tbonijison & Co., 

I'J Clinton St., Ii. N. Y., s. Ittll. 
ThomiBOTi. E. II., Grocer. In Wintlir..]i St., b. N. Y., 9.1847. 
Waite, L. M.. Grocer, 17 Clinton St., b. Ma-s., s. 1807. 

Gillingh im, S., Proprietor AtUinlic Tea Store, 5 Clay St., b. N. Y., 8. 1.S30. 
/iinmernian. T., Wh ilesiile and Reiail Grocer and Dealer in Butter and ('lioese, 

00 Washington, b. N. Y., s. 18^11. 

HARDWARE, STOVES, ETC. 

Belknap, W. F., Geiienil Hardware, 21 Ten K.vck »t.. b. N. Y"., s. 1800, 
Uoward.Wni. .Stoves. Tilt. Sheet-Iron Ware, Gas- Fitting, etc.,firmof Hurbottle & 

Howard i. On State St., It. Mass., 8. lS4."t. 
Harlstttle. .Iiio. G., Stove-. Tin, Sheet-Iron W'are, Gas-Fitting, etc., firm of Har- 

bi.ttle .<: Howard, 7 State st., Ii. N. Y., s. 18:l:l. 
Howard, lliiir\. Mnlr. of Tin, Sheet-Iron, and Copper Ware, firm of A. & L. A. 

Hi.waid. Ciiion St., It. Mass., s. 18:s7. 
Howard. I.vmaii A.. >lfr. of Tin. Sheet-Iron, and Copper Ware, firm A. A L. .\. 

Ibtuar.l. I Jelb.rs.in si., b. Mas-., s. 1.S17. 
(Jates. E. M., Stoves. Tin, Sheet-lroTi, Furnaces, etc.. firm of Gates tt Spratt, 

Dili. Col. Internal Keveniie U.S., In Ten Eyck St., It. N. Y., s.1818. 
Spratt. .1. \V., Stoves Tin, Sheet-Iron, Furnaces, etc., firm of Gates & Spiutt, .52 

Factoiy St., It. X. Y.. v 18:13. 
Sargent. Walter. Sti.ves, Furnaces, and IIouse-Furn'g Goods, firm of Sargent & 

Andrews, 2 JacUsim St., b. N. Y., s. 182:). 
Utley, Kol.ert I,., Whol. and Ret'l Ildw., firm of Utley 4 Winslow, 3.5 Stone St., 

b. N. Y., B. 1848. 
■Wiushtw, .Fohii, WIed. and K.fl Ildw., firm of Cthy 4 Winslow, Massey avc, 

b. N. Y., a. 184.5. 

HARNESS. 
Austin, C. W., Manufacturer of Harness ami Trunks and Dealer in Horse Fur- 
uishing Goods, ;14 Academy St.. b. X. Y., s. 18:iO. 

HATS, CAPS, AND FURS. 
McKav, J. H.. JInfr. i-f Fins, and Healer in Hat^, Caps, Straw Goods, etc., firm 

'of McKay .V to-nnetl, .M Slate St., b. Ont., s. l.'4'.l. 
Miller. Freeman. Dealer in Hats, Caps, Furs. Gents' Furnishing Goods, firm of 

K. Miller * Si n, :i Sterling St., It. N. Y., s. 18:1,5. 
Tnhbs, Chiis. II., Mnfr.of Furs, and Dealer in Hats, Caps, Stmw Goods, etc., 

successor of .V. Tnbls, i stab. 1827, :i'.l Stale St., b. N. Y'., ». 1843. 

HOTELS. 

Buck, Geo. A., Proprietor Woodruff House, firm of Buck A Sanger, Woodruff 

House, It. X. Y , s. ISH'I. 
Belts. II , Pri.pi i. lor Globe Hotel, 12 Conrt St.. b. N. Y., ». 1828. 
Bowers. <:. B.. III. lei Kistaur.iut. 17 Arsenal St., b. N. V., ». IH.VX 
Heliner, It itjamin, Piit|ii iftnr Han is House, Public S(|nare, b. N. Y'., 8. 18.37. 
Iliirri-. .\. M,. Pntprietor Kirl.y Housi., firm of .V. 31. Harris A Son, Court St., b. 

N. Y . ». Uil. 
Harris, E L., Proprietor Kirliy House, finn of .\. SI. Harris A Son, Court St., b. 

N. Y , s. 18t'.l. 
Ilutchitis. Julius W., Proprietor Michnnies' Hotel, Factoiy St., b. N. Y'.,». 184.5. 
Sanger, W. II., Proprietor W'oodnilT House, firm of Buck A Sanger, V\uudruir 

House, It. Mas., 8. 180'J. 

INSURANCE. 
Beoliee, Myrnn.Genenil Fire and l.ili Insimince, .5 Padihtck St., b. N. Y., 8. 182S. 
Ciinfi.-lil, .1. M., oliu Executive Iti.ard Watertown Fire Insnnince Co., N. Y'., 

0:5 Wa.hiiigl HI -I., b. Mn-a., s. 1.8118. 
Carter, E. F., VIce-Pres. Watertown F. Ins. Co., S. Y., 1 Jay at., b. Conn., ». 1830. 



Dewey, Hiram, Gen'I. Agt. AgM. Ins. Co., Watertown, N. Y.,G2 Wa-sbington St., 

It. N. Y.. s. 1S..5. 
Fowler, Earl 11., Gi u'l. Agt. and Dir. Ag'I. Ins. Co., Watertown, N. Y. (refd>, 

:)0 Massey st.. It. N. Y.. B. IS—. 
Fow ler, Cbas. B., Dir. .\g'l. Ins. Co., and Gen'I. Ins. Agt., 36 Massey St., b. N. Y., 

s. 1847. 
Hill, (1. D., Stockholder "Homestead F. Ins. Co.," Rodman Twp, b. N. Y'., s. 18'27. 
Kiinp, .lohii E., Dir. Homestead Fire Ins. Co., and Mail Contractor, 42 Stone St., 

li. N. II.. s. I8in. 
Munsou. Isaac. Sec. ,\g'l. Fire Ins. Co., Watertown, N. Y'., 4.5 Washington St., 

b. N. Y., s. 18:U. 
Jlorgan, L. D., Fire and Life Insunince, '.^7 Ten Eyck at., b. N. Y'., s. 18:10. 
Miirni.v, T. ('., Gener.il Iu«nraiice, 25 Stone St., b. N. Y., s. 1875. 
Sternbergh, M. H., 01 Washington st., b. N. Y'.. s. 185C. 
Sherman, Jno. A., 41 Sbme st., b. N. Y'., «. 1809. 
Tbomp-ioo. Myers, Treasurer Homestead Fire Insnnince Co., Watertown, N. Y., 

01 Washington St. 

JEWELERS. 

Beebee, Myron, Watches, Clocks, Jew el r v. and Silverware, fimi of Ilagar, Beeltee 

A Scott, 5 Paddock St., It. X. \.. f. 1S28. 
Drexel, Charles, Walehmaker, and De.iler in Clocks. Watches, and Jewelry, 

established 18.57, 67 Court St.. b. tierinany. s 18,57. 
Flower, It. P., Watches, Clocks, .lewelry, and .-iilverwaie, fimi of R. P. A A. R. 

Fluwi-r, New Y'ork st., b. X. Y., s. I8:i5. 
Flower, A. Ii., Watches. Clocks, Jewelry, and Silverware, firm of R. P. A A. R. 

Flower, 8 Sherman St., b. N Y.. s. 1843. 
Inglis, I. A., Manufiictnrer of Meilals and Dealer in Watches, Jewelry, and 

Silverware, 7 Paddock st., b. Ontario, 8. 1800. 

LIVERY, ETC. 

De Long, S.S., Livery, Sale ami Ex.haitge Slal.le, :i2 Arsenal st.. b. N. Y.. 8.1829. 
Harris, Frank, Lively, Sale ami KNchau^e St.ilde. il Franklin st., b. N. \'.,8. 187:1. 

LUMBER, ETC. 
Frost, .\., Denier in Lr.lnl er. Lath, Shingles, elc. (estab. 185S\ 18 Sterling St., 

It. N. Y., s. 18:.7. 
Greenleaf, L. C., Dealer in Lumber, Lalli, Shingles, Mouldings, etc., firm of 

S oat A Greenleaf, ::R Slate St.. h. N. Y., s. Islll. 
Sloat, C. W.. Dealer in l.nniber. Lath. Shingles, aionldiugs, etc., firm of Sloat 

A Gieelileaf, 107 Main St., b. N. \'., s. 1840. 

MANUFACTURES. 
Acker, C, W., Carriage Mnlr., firm or Acker A Coinins, 9 Centre St., b. N. Y., 

s. 18011. 
Ad'/,it, George, Carriage Mnfr., firm of Geo. Adz t A Son, 8 Bradley St., b. Ont., 

8. 18.53. 
Ad/.it, Geo.. Jr., Carriage Mnfr., firm of Geo. Adzit A Son, 8 Bradley St., b. Out., 

B. I85:i. 
Bragger. J. J., Binss Fmiuder. Gas Filter and Plumber, firm of Bnigger A Son, 

8 Hoard St., It. Eng., s. 18.51. 
Bragger, Joseph .1., Brass Fitnnder, Gas Fitter and Plumber, firm of Bragger A 

Son, 8 Hoard St., b. Eng , a. 18,52. 
Bagley, fb-o. .\., Slulr. Steain Engines, firm of Bagley A Sewall, member 44th 

and 4:5lh Congress, cor. .Stone and Iteneilict sts . b. N. Y'., s. 1820. 
Cook, Gn-tavus, Prop. City FIouring-Mills and Slillwrigbl, oO State St., b. 

N. Y., s. 1820. 
Coinins, c. C., Cariiage Mnfr., firm of ,\cker A Coiniua, 103 State st., b. N. Y., 

8. 18411. 
Case, Loreu/.o, Mnfr, Sash, Doors, and Blinds, firm of L. Case A Son, 9 Monlton 

St., b. X. Y., 8. ISill. 
Case, K. E , Mnfr. Sash. Doors, and Blinds, firm of L. Case A .Son, 15 Sloulton 

St., b. X. Y., 8. 1848. 
Chamber-, Geo. ('., Mnlr. of Cigars, Jobber in Tobacco, 11 Ai"senal st., '20 Mas- 
sey St., b. N. Y., a. 187.5. 
Dodge, Ilonice G., Cariiage Mnfr., firm of Horton A Dodge, 10 (Ajffeen St., b. 

N. Y., s. 18:17. 
Farewell, \. M., Mnfr. and Dealer in Leather, R. R. Contractor, 8 Clinton st., 

It. (Ibio, 8. 18.58. 

Ferrin, II. F., Prop. Brookaide Cemetery Jlarlde and Granite Works, '20 Stoii« 

St., It. Vt., s. 184 1. 
Gilli'tte, Ellen, Miifr. of Leather and Dealer in Hides, etc., 28 Franklin 8t.,b. 

N. Y., s. 1802. 
Graves, I. .\., Mnfr. and .Tobber in choice gnnles of Flour, Meal, and Feed, firm 

of Shead A Graves. 32 Stale St., b. N. Y , s. 18:13. 
GniM'S, T. S., Mnfr. Sa-h, Doure, and Blinds, fiiin of Graves A Van Doreii, 00 

Stalest., It. N. Y., 8. 18'22. 
Hall, It. II.. Mnlr. and Dealer in Leather, firm of R. H. Hall A Co , 7 Winthrop 

St., b. N. Y'., s. I8:ill. 
Hadcock. Solomon. Mnfr. of Axes and Kdge-Tools (retired), established 1844, 

Instate St., It. N. Y., 8. 1844. 
Holden, C. A , Mnlr. and Dealer in Tin-Ware, etc., Goials furnished to Peddlers, 

firm of Holden A T Iden, estnb. 18.52, 49 Arsenal St., b. Mass., s. 18.52. 
Ilerrick, A. II., Prop Exivlsior Mills, 112 Mnin ►!., b. Vt., a Ut'J. 
Johnson. A. .\ . Itook-keeper ami Cashier, willi Taggarl A Davis, Paper Mnfre., 

61 Slone St., b. N. Y.. 8. 18:10. 
Johnaon, I.. .\.. Sec. and Trc>as. Davia Sewing-Machine Co., 12 Sherman St., b. 

X. Y.,8. 1.S31. 
Knowlton, G. W., Paper Mnfr., firm of Knowlton Bros., 5 Sterling St., b. N. Y., 

s. i8:;o. 
Knowlton, Jno. C, Paper Mnfr, firm of Knowlton Bros., Sterling Place, b. 

X. Y.. s. 18:17. 
Moore, E. D., Mulr. Sash, Doors, and Blinds, firm of Moore A Y'ork, Contractors, 

14 lloyd St., b. Ma~a., s. 1802. 
Bleader. Daniel. Carriage Mnlr., firm of Kmnierich A Meader, 28 Meadow St., 

It. N. Y.. a. 18.51. 
Parker, George. Miifr. of Leather and Dealer in Hides, etc., firm of George 

Parker A Son. 9 High si., b. N. Y., s. 1817. 
Parker, .M. G,. Mnfr. ol Leather ami Dealer in Hides, etc., firm of George 

Parker A Sou, 2:1 Brouson St.. It. N. Y'., .s. 1844. 
RoUtiiK, D. S.. Mnfr. of .i^tap and Caudles. Dealer in Tallow. Hides, and Pells, 

Men .Market and Uiltcher, 16 William si., b. N. Y.. s. IKll. 
RusBell, W. H.. General Foreman of Taggarl A Davis, Paper Mnfrs., Main «t., 

It. Slot.. 8. 187.5. 
Smith, C. S., -Mnfr. of Carriages and General Blacksniilhing, Bradley St., b. 

N. Y.. a. 18:1.5. 
Sigourney, J. M., Pres Hitchcock Lump t'oinpany. 3,3 High st., b. N. Y'.. s. 1822. 
Story, F T., Prc.a. and Treas. Watertown Gas-Light C»t., 3:1 Clinton St., b. N. Y., 

8. 1841. 
Shead, II. W.. Mnfr. and Jobher in ITour, Meal, and Feed, firm of Shead A 

Gnives, :l Ten Kyck St., h. X. Y,, s, 1819. 
Taggarl. B. B., Paper and Paper Flour-Sack Mnfr,, firm of Taggarl A Da\ is, 

9 Sterling st,. b, X. Y',. s, 1,8:11, 
Tihlen, .Inn, M,, Mnfr. of Tin. Slii,et-Iron Ware, etc.. Peddlers' Goods, firm of 

Hold. II A Tildeli, 20 -Massey at., b. Vt., a. 1870. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



579 



MEA.TS AND PROVISIONS. 

EniTuprirh, r*,, Hiitrlior an<l Meat Market, 11 Tnion (*t.» b. Ge'*niany, 9. ISlfl. 

Km J. I'll, E., Itiitnlii'i' ami Mi'at Marki-I, I'liMii: Si|iiai'i-, l>. N. Y.. 8. IK.'!!!. 

Liiwri-iiri', VJ, W., Uiitclii-r ulid Bleat Market, ullil Uarileiier, ITj Stale St., b. X. 

Y., ». 1K^!«. 
Wiliiun, Ueurge, Diitclier and Meat Maiket, iV-i Factory at., b. Ontariu, a. 1S40. 

MILLINERY. 

Sanfonl, I>. B., Whuleaale ami Ui-tail Millinery anil Fancy Gooil-i, IG Sterling 

St., b. Ma^s.. 8. ISlii. 
Traver, Ira .\., Kelail dlillinery and Fancy i:iu)d-*,4 Piuldock'a Arcade, b. N. Y., 

s. 1.S44. 

PHOTOQKAPHER3. 

Hart, Ch irlea S., l'liot"Kraplier. 1 Tell Kyi-k St., li. N. V,, 9. 18.'i2. 

Van VIeik, Geii., rr..|i. Wateituuii Cit.v Marble Wi.rUs. Italian Marble and 

Sriitell (Jianite Miilllllnellt^, Ij.S (.'iHirt St.. b. N. V.. s. IH '..'.. 
Van Kiireii, C. I , Miifr. .-ia-li, Dnur, ami lllimis, linn of tiraves.t Van Dorcu, 110 

Main -t., I.. N. Y., s. lN:i.V 
WilBiin,.Sanri, I'r.ili.Cresient Mill, Hrlll i.f Wilsiin >t lsdi-ll,o4 State St., b. K. V., 

8. 1(«7. 
Wincll, Will.. Gen'l Fureman Funmlrv, I'.ntablo Engine Wui ka, 27 State at., 

b. N. v., 8. 1K21. 
York, .\. E.. Miil'r. Saeli. Deor, anil Blinils, firm of Moon .V York, (^oiiti-acturs and 

litiildera, t Ke>ua ave., b. N. Y., a. t8;tu. 

PHYSICIANS. 

liiiriliik, ('. W,, Ph.vsirian ami Siiigeun, ilT Slate st.. b. Vt , 1. l.«.Vi. 

Cravve, .1. Mi.rlinier, I'li.vHician ami Surgeon, Kx-l'res. Jeir. ('0. Med. Society, 

iM l'..iirt St.. b. N. y., 8. 1»:)1. 
Cole, .\lfred L.. I'liysieiaii ami Siirfii'on, Kx-Prof. riietniatrv, Ilaii. Society, N. 

V. City, 14 Paddock's Arcade, li. .N. V.. 3. 1877. 
Knickei'biicker, S. C, Pbysician and Surgeon, firm of Knickerbocker A Lii' rd. .'»9 

Waaliingtiin, b. N.'Y., ». isiil. 
Laird, W.T., IMivsician and Surgeon, firm of Knickerbocker & Laird, l:tTeli Kyck 

St.. b. N. v., 8. IS7i 
Miiiisiitt. I-aac, Pliy..'n and Siirg'n (retired). 4.'» Waabingfon 9t..b. \. Y'..8. I*<:t4. 
P.imielee, S. L., Pli.vaician and .Surgeon, Treatment by Klectricity, and ai'eciatty 

ot Nervonw llisi-asea, Is Paililock'a .\rcade, b. N. V., 8. lK7n. 
Roan, W. V. V.. Pliv.sieian and Siirgoim (retired 1. Director of llitclicock Lamp 

fii., cor, Sloii'e ami llenedict sla., b. N. Y., s. IsUi. 
Spencer, II. G inluii P.. Pbyaician and Surgeon, 17 Stmic St., b. N. Y., a. 1»21, 
Trobiidge, \V. K., Pliysieiaii and Surgeon, 41 Stone at., b. N. Y., a. 1«17. 

PRODUCE COMMISSION MERCHANTS. 

Hall, IT. M., Produce and I'onimissi.in Merchant, firm 11. M. Ball .t Son, 15 

Padil.e k St., b. X. v., s. WM. 
llall, W. t)., Priidnce iiiiil Coniiiiissiun Merchant, firm H. M. Hall A Son, 15 

Paddock St., b. N. V.. a. IS-Vl. 
Case, H. .1., Di-aler in Hotter, Cheese, and Pruduce, lirni llopkins .t Case, S.! 

Miuasoy si., b. S. V., 8. IttU. 
Ilopkina, Henry, Healer in Butter, Cheese, and Produce, film IluiiUitis A Case, 

V2 Winlhriip St., b. Conn., s. ISiJS. 

PUBLISHERS. 

Brockway, B., Ed. and Proji'i- htihf Tun s. ."»ii Stuiie st..b. Ilainiishire, Mjuss., s. 

ISli'll. 
Ilolbrook, t.'ha8. K., Hook and Job Printer, 47 Arsenal St., b. Franklin, N. Y'., 8. 

1S.V2. 
Ilolbrook, K. A., Author " Life Thoughts," 47 Arsenal St., b. .St. lawrence, Co., N. 

Y.,8. in:.-.;. 

Ilynes C. J., JLinager lliihi Di'pit'-li. Benedict St., b. Ontario, 8. 1870. 
Ingalta, L., Prop, and Ed. Watt^rtitwn /'o«(, 7 Ten Eyck St., b. Jeflferson Co., X. Y'., s. 

IfiUP. 
Moss, Geo., Ed. Iliilii ;ii«;m(c/(, WoodrnIT House, b. Ontario, s. 1808. 
ICobiuaon, J. Sterling, Hook Jt Job Printer, 1 Tell Eyck St., b. Jeff. Co., X. Y'., 8. 

ISciU. » 

UNDERTAKER. 

Ballard, S. W., Undertaker, Kirby House, b. X. Y., a. 1812. 

U. S. OFFICIALS P. O. DEPARTMENT. 

Williams, Win. G., Postm ister, ap|.oiiited l,S7(l, 17 Ten Kyck St.. b. N. Y., s. 1S4S. 
Martin, Bruce ¥., l)ep.-|i.iu., appjinted 1870, 1.1 Henedict St., b. N. Y., s. l».'i:i. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

Adams, Samuel. Dealer in Pianos, etc. (;iavr lir-t rendering of " Hamli-rs Mes- 
siah"' in Jetferaoii Co.), 7.j State St., b. Eng., a. 184N. 

.\ilatus, lieu.. Dealer in Piauua, firm of Adams Bros., 24 Hiii'chanl St., b. Kng., s. 
I.s.',n. 

Brown, Klain, 13State8t. 

Ueiinetl, Martha W. 

II ,S., Ill ICenedict 8t. 

Baker. Thus. 

Banta, J. I'., Photognipber. 

Clark, C. .\., Wholesale and Retail Dealer in Carriages, Director Watertown 
Spring Wagon Co., firm of Scripture A Clark, 5 Winslow at., b. X. Y., 8. 
ISjU. 

Cook, H. P.b. N. Y. 

Davis, Mrs. L., 25 Stone at., b. X. Y., 8. 1838. 

Eddy, II. W., 1112 State St. 

Frary, II. T.. Gen'l Ticket-Ag't R. W. k 0. R. R., :l Clinton St., b. X. Y., s. 185'J. 

Ilogan, Jius., Catholic Priest, ;(.i Mas.sey at. 

Lawyer. J. A.. Si'C. and Treiis. B. W. * O. K. R., 42 Massey St., b. N. Y'., «. 184S. 

Jlonr.ie, P., I:ti State at. 

Pattridge, Mrs. L , 28 Stone at., b. X. H., 8 1818. 

Phelps, George H., Contnictir, :14 Stone at., b. X. Y'., 8. 18.11. 

Petrie, Jereiuiiih, Fanner (retired 1. 12 Bradley at., b. X. Y., 8. 1830. 

Bead, Asahel, Farmer 'retired), 21 Stone si,, b. X. Y., a. 1800. 

Suiitli, .\. P., Ileal Estate, Hop-Grower, Vice-Prea. Waterlowii Spring Wagon 

C.I., 224 Arsenal st.. b. N. Y.. 9. 1817. 
Scripture, C, Wtiidesale and R>'t;iit Dealer in all kinds of Carriages, firm of 

Scripture * Clark, 17 Franklin ^t , b. X. Y., s. 1x47. 
Smith, W. O , Agt. Am. Ex. Co., 12 High St.. b. .\. Y.. a. t8'0. 
Sinilev, Ridiis .uE, Freight .Vgt, K. W, .V O. R. K , b. JelTerson Co.. X. Y.,s. Isl7. 
Mo .r;-, E. M., (bill Ft Agt. R. W k O. R R , 2.'. Miillin si., b. X. Y., 9. 1874. 
Moak, J. W . Supl. It. \V. ,v O. R. R., In Paddock St.. b. X. Y., a. 18110. 
Maa-iey, Stilliiian. Farmer (ret. red), Massey ave., b. Vt,. s. I80I. 
Hubbard, Ward, F.inuer (retired), 8 Massey ave., b. N. Y'., s. 1799. 



Haven, N., Carpenter, 20 Le Riy St.. b. Jrfforaon Co., N. Y., s. 1M6. 
Haven, C. G., ifonae Painter, '20 Lo Kay St., b. Jeffenton Co., N. Y., 8. 1846. 
Wiuslow, John, Farmer (dec'd), 10 MuMcy ave., b. VI., 8. 1804. 



WATERTOWN. 

Urintti.'ill, Jann't*, Jr., Faniicr ii-ni D.iiryiu ui, .Vr^tuaal, it. N. V., b. ISi't, p. o. add. 

\V;i(t*rtown. 
Hrjaiit, Thorn. w. FurnuT ami Diiirynian, Cjffecn, b, N. Y., h. 1815, \y. o. add. 

W'llttTt'.WII. 

ItiirniiiM, Siiuiirc, KnrrinT, Ii. X. Y., k. \%'M\ p. n. add. Wiitcrtnwn. 

lliill, Jnu. It., Kiu'iiier and l)iiir>uian, Off. (iutlinni, U N. Y., 8. 18-'IX, p. o. add. 

WutfTloWll. 

Harbour, llunrv S., Kiirmcr, Conlmctor and Hnildcr, Ancnal, U. N. Y., s. IKU, 
p. o, mill, WuttTtowri. 

Collini, ('. W., Kannoi- anil Dairjinan, MiteH Mill, b. N. Y., s. 1K."»2, p. o. mid. 
WntiTlowii. 

Collins, P., Fiiinii-r fn-tirrd), b. N. Y., 8. 1820, p. o. add. Wafertuwn. 

KvcrctI, Austin, Antf-nnl, b. CoTrn., h. 18—, p. <». add. Walcrtown. 

Ki^k, Mil, F.iimor, b. N. Y., h. IS28, p. i.. add. Wiiti-itown. 

(Jothiini, .Irncry T., Mccliani. , Siati-, b. N. Y , h. 18M, p. o. iidd. Wiik-rtown. 

(Jiflo d. Hurt W., T..wn Cb-rk, b. N. Y., rt. 18 17, p. o. ad.i. \Vut.Tt..un. 

iirny. .Iiio. ('., Ice I)i*nl«r, llunlinjrtiin, b. N. Y.. t*. 18.t4, \,. (». add. Watfiiown. 

(jravf^-M, (iriu .\., Farniur and Stuck (;i\»w»t, b. N. Y., ». I81S, p. o. atld. Water- 
tow n. 

(imvfs, It.vron W., Faraior and Stock Grower, b. N. Y., 8. 1845, p. o. a'Id. 
Wiiti-itown. 

Grag;:, Ariibiy H., Furinrr and Dnirynian. Jn»tico of llio Peace, elected 1877, 
Suntb lV»jid. b. N. Y., n. 18.i;t, p. o. luM. WatrrtowM. 

Gmgg. Daviil, FaiUR-r aii<l Dairynmn, South lbm<l, b. K. Y., s. 1808, p. o. add. 
\V)it*'rt<t\vu. 

Gibbs, .\Iviu, Farmer and CariH'iiter, Beaver Meadow, b. N. Y., 8. 1819, p. o. mid. 
\VitterI..\vn. 

Gibbs, Ib'iij. F., Farmer, Heaver Meadow, b. N. Y., 8. 182(', p. o. add. Waterlown. 

Hayc», Albert, Farmer and Dairyiuaii, Wit^n Hill, b. Vi., s. I8l9, p. o. add. 
Watertfiwn. 

llorr, Alliert, Farmer and Dairyman, .\rsciial, b. N. Y., 8. 1818, p. o. add. Water- 
town. 

Il4)rr, OlivLT, Farmer (deceased). Arsenal, b. Vt., s. 18(i8. 

Hill, K. A., Farmer, State, b. N. Y., w. ISti;, p. ». add. Wiilertown. 

Ilamiiiaiid, Win , Farmer, Dry Hill, b. N. V., » \si-». p. o. add. Wati-rtown. 

Hammond, 'I'h.iH, ('., Fanner and Diiiryniati, Dry Hill, b. N. \^.,s. Ih;19, p. o. add. 
Watertnwn. 

Hart, A. W , Farmer, Henver Meadow, b. N. Y., ». 1801}. \\ o. add. Watertown. 

Hart, V. W., Farmer unl Conimi-siouer of Highwuys, Beaver Meadow, b. N. Y., 
8. ls:i;l, p. n. add. Watert.iwn. 

Ives, .lolbam, Farmer (deci-aHed), b. (!onn., s. ISOI. 

Ives, Garntt, Fanner and Stoek Grower, b. N. Y.. 8. 1800, p. o. a<ld. W.itertown. 

Ives, liewi'* G., Farmer and Stock Gmwer, b. N. Y., s. 1847. p. o. adil, Watertown. 

Ivff, Joel, Farrni-r and Sto<-k l!rower, b, (Vmn.. 8. isiHI, p. o. add. Wntt-rtown. 

Ive-s, .lames, FarnuT and Stock (imwer. b. N. Y., s. I8ls, p. o. aild. Watertown. 

Knitfbl, t'. T.. Fanner (deceiisMd ISCdi, Dry Hill, b. N. Y'., n. 1828. 

Kniyiht, Kbene/er, Fanner ideceascd l874i. Dry Hill, b. X. Y., 8. 1827. 

Lawion, .\. J., Farmer, I'arpenter, and Joiner, .Miles Hdl, b. N. Y., «. 1833, p. o. 
add. Watertown. 

Losee, G., Farmer and Dairyman, Miles ilill, b. N. \'., 8. 1808, p. o. add. Water- 
town. 

Losee, I', v., Farmer and Dairyman, Miles Hill, b. N. Y., 8. 1822, p. o. add. 
Watertown. 

Lnsee. John, Farmer and Dairyman (deceased lK4.'it, Miles Hill,b. N. Y., 8. 1806. 

Malber, ,\sapli. Farmer (deceii.-«i'd', .\rrtenal,b, X. Y.,«. 1811, 

Miither. Hiiiyion G,, Farmer and Dairyman, Araenal, b. X. Y., 8, 1839, p, o, add. 
Watertown, 

Blorse, vSamnel D., Farmer (retired). Dry Hill, b. X. U., s. 1831, p, o. add. Water- 
tow ti. 

Morse, {'. D., Farmer and Dairyman, Dry Hill, b. X. Y., s. 1837, p, o, add. Water- 
town. 

Mantle. 1-Minundrt. Farmer (deoe:Lsed 1S7.»1, Itidt;e Koad, b, Tonn,. 8. 1808. 

Mantb-. Wm. H.. Farmer, Ridf;e Road, b. X. Y., «. lS2:i, p. o. add. Wat-rtown. 

Usborn. liuman. Farmer and Dairyman, Wilson Hilt, b. X. S,, s. 18.14, p. o. add. 
Watertown. 

Parker, J.-reiniab, Farmer and Dairyman (deceased 1872), Wilson Ilill, b. N. Y., 
s. 1S14. 

I'arker. Franklin M., Farmer and Dairyman, Wilson Hill, b, N. Y,, 8, 1842, p. o. 
add. Wat'-i town. 

Parker. Tliumas ('., Pi'oprir'tor Cheesf-Fiictory, Farmer and Dairyman, Wilson 
Hill, b. X. v., 8. 1S47, p. o, aild. Watertown. 

Pitrber. (;. P., Farmer and Dairym.tn, Dry Hill, b. X. Y',, s, 1822, p. o, add. 
Wiilertowii. 

I'arker. Jame.s, Farmer and Dairyman, Coffeen, b. X. Y'., 8. 1800, p. o. add. Water- 
town. 

Parker. Hetiry W., Farmer and Dairyman, Coffeen, b. X, Y'., 8. 1822, p, o. add. 
Watt-rtown. 

Parker. Mi-s. Alex.. (\»ffcen, b, Vt., s, 1800, p. n. add, Watertown. 

Parker, Jame.-* A., Farmer and Hop Grower, Goffeon, b. N. Y'., e. 1830, p. o. add. 
Watertown. 

Patterson, Gyms S., Farmer and Gardener, Coffeen, b. X. Y'., «. 1832, p, o. add. 
Walert*»wn. 

Phippen, Cliestor, Farmer, Arsenal, b. Vt., s. 1809. p.n. add. Watertown. 

Payne, K. S., Harness-maker, b. X. Y., s. ls4.i. p. o. add. Hnrrville. 

Phelps, Mrs. Siimnel, Stale, b. X. Y., h. I8:i2, p, o, add. W^.terlown. 

Prior, Gbanneey, Fanner (deceased 187 .i), Kidjre Road, b. Conn., «. 1800. 

Prior, Martha .\., Ridj;e Road, b. X. Y,. s. 18*1, p, o. add. Watertown. 

Rice, Marcus. Fanner (deceased 1871 1. I^mie, State, b. X. Y., 8, 1809. 

Uce, 11. ('., Farmer and Dairyman, Rome, State, b. N. Y'., s. 1852, p. o. add. 
Watertowu. 

Rice, Rev. L., Univ. Clergyman, b. X. Y'., 8. 184n, p. o. add. Watertown. 

R-ed, Julia A., State, b. X. Y'., s. 182fi, p. o. add. Watertown. 

Richardson, Charles. Snpcrvi-or, b. X. Y'., 8. 1817, p, o. add. Watertown, 

SkeeU, Wines H.. Farmer and Dairyman, Sjindy Creek, b, N. Y., s. 1821, p, o. 
arlil. Wiitertowii. 

Skeels, Wineji It.. Fanner and Dairyman, See. Jeff. Co. Ag. So. and Board Trade, 
Sindy Cre-'k, b. X. Y'., s. is+i, p. o. add. Watertown, 

Smiley, Franci*. Fanner [dec Wd), Arsenal, b Conn.. 8. 18— , p. o. add. Watertown. 

Smiley. Velona W., Farmer, .\rsenal, b. X. Y*.. 8. 182:*, p. o. add. Watertown. 

Sie.inis, J,, Jr., Fanner, Clerk B. Supervisors, 1871 to lsr7tCo, Clerk ISftii to 18T1), 
b. N. Y'., H. 1828, p. o. a'Id. Waterlown, 

Satchwell, D.ivid, Farmer and Gardener, Coffeen, b. X. Y., 6. 1836, p. o. add. 
W.itertown. 

Smith. M trlin M , Farmer and Hop Grower, .\rscnal, b. X. Y'., ^. 18fw>, p. o. add. 
Wateitown. 

Snell. Svlvester, Farmer and Gardener, b. X. Y., s. 18.37. p. o. add. Watertown 

Snell, Mrs. Biary A., Farmpr, b. X. Y., 8. 1837, p. o. add. Watertown. 



580 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Fik«(, N. E., FHrnier, SIhIp, b. N. Y., b. 18(i5, p. o. nrtd. East Waterlown. 

SiKHiirin'V, A. I*.. FiiriinT, i: N. Y., a, iKlo, p. o. ndd. WHttTluwn. 

Sii» j<T, Ju»«-('Ii, KarnuT (dt-cpattpd \ h. Vt , a. IHol. 

Sftw>rr, L. T., Kuriiur nnd Ihiiryinan, h. N. Y., "i. lSiti4, p. o. add. Wntertown. 

Siniiiioii^, ('. :S,, Ftirrn<-r mid Dairyman, Diy Hill, h. Ouun., s. ]8U.'i, p. o add. 

Wntrrtowii. 
Tiilrntt, Ntitliati, Fanner, Arsenal, b. Coiin., 8. 1HM3, p. o. add. Walertown. 
Tallilt, *;•«). II.. GiirdcntT, Fniil and Vcgetablt-s, Coffei n, b. H. Y., s. 1»07, p. o. 

add. WatiTtf'wn. 
Tlioinn-, V. (I., Faruior, b. N. Y., 8. IS'.M, p. o. mtd. East Watertown. 
Ta.vI'T, l>. I).,F«niK*r)indlmiry'ii, fi..lliani,b. N.Y.,8. IX'jil.p.o.iidd.Walprtown. 
Taylor, IticbHrd, Fanner and Pniiyinnn (dt-eeasi d),Gnibiini, b. N. Y., f. lit:J5, 
Taylor, (Jeo. A., Fnir. and Dniry'n, lioilmni, li.N. Y.,8. 1835, ji.u.add. Wati rtuwn. 
T>'lmun, S. It , Fiirnur and Daiiynian, Sandy Creek, b. N. Y., a. 1K28, p. o. add. 

\\'Hti'rti'wn. 
Tnlnian, Kt'« iif/.L^r, Farmer (deceased 1875), Sandy Creek, b. N. Y., 8. 1813, p. o. 

add. WaliMtuwii. 
Tolinan, An;nn'iit«, Farmer and Dairyman, Sandy Creek, b. N. Y., ». 1818. 
Tohiiaii. William. Farnit-r and Dairyman, Sandy I'reek.b. N. H.,8. 1817, p. u. add. 

\V«tert(>wn. 
Tolnian, \V. (»,, Farnit-r and Dairyman, Sandy Creek, b. N. Y., e. lK:t7, p, o. add. 

Wnicrtuwn. 
Willi. X, A. H.. Farmer. Ilrownvilh' Ibmd, b. Jeff. Co.,s. IWO, p. o. add. Drown* iile. 
While, Jav.Fnir. ami Da rv'n. Hi<l;rc l^.il.i.Il. N. Y.,>^. l>'4:i. p.o. add. Hrownville. 
W.M»iInifl.r.T..Mn.urDrck.Hiitiiin;.'ron.b. N. Y..s.D>I4,p.o.add. Watertown. 
W.HMlruir, .). C, Mir. of Hi irk. Huiilingtun, h. N. Y.,8. 18;VJ. p. ...add. Walerlnwn. 
Whitney. K. !>.. Mtr.ofllriek, Hniiliii|it(.n,b. N. Y..H. isa-^.p. n.atld. Watertowu. 
WilHun. Sain'l. Farmer, b. N. V., x. INll. p. o. add. East Wa(ei town. 
Mild.r, Abel, Faimer (deoiu-ed IHil), Slielden Corner, b. 3Ia>K., n. 185S. 
Wilder. (Jco. J., Fanner and Dairyman, Shelden Corner, b. Miuui., 8. 185.'>, p. o. 

add. Wiiterlowti. 
Yale, Hal ris, Faimer (retired), Ci.ffeen, b. Yt,, 8. 1849, p. o. add. Watertown. 



ADAMS. 

Allen, "W. J., of firm of Hatch, E(I. of Joimw/, Adams, b. Jeff. Co., N.T.,8. 1847, 

p. o. add. .\dam8. 
Anns, W. D., Dry Goods Merchant, Adams, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., b. 1829, p. o. add. 

Adaiii8. 
Bond, J. W., Casliier of Hnnperrnrd's National Dank, Adaran, b. Jefferson Co., 

X. Y., 8. 18_'2, 11. o. add. Adams. 
Brown, .\. J., .Vltornry-at-Law and ex-Snpreme Jndge, Adams, b. Jefferson 

Co., N. Y., 8. 18^8, p. o. add. Adams. 
Bullock, L. J., Millinery, Adams, b. Ji-ff. Co., N. Y., b. 1825, p. o. add. Adams. 
BaI.eock. D. iM., Fanner, Ad.ims, I.. Ji-ft. Co., N. Y., s. 1847, p. o. add. A.lama. 
Babcwk, 51. S., Farmer, Adams, b. Jt-ff. Cii., N. Y., s. 1849, p. o. add. Adams. 
Brainard, Howard, Farmer, .\dams, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., b. 1s4J, p. o. add Adams. 
BeniJH, N. O., Physician (retired;, Adams, b. (.henan}$o Co., N. Y., b. 1855, \y. o. 

add. .VdaiiiS. 
Babcock, Will., Fanner (retired), Adams, b. Oneida Co., N. Y., b. 182G, p. n. add. 

Adams. 
Babcock, Mrs. W., Farmer (retired), Adams, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. IKII, p.o. add. 

Adams. 
Bosworlli, Ami8, Fmr. (dec'd), Adanm. b. Mass., s. 1804. 

Boswonh. Meitnii, Fmr., Adams, b. Ji-ff. Co., N. Y., B.1815,p.o.add.Smith\ille. 
CoopfT, Mrs. J. ('.. Aduin^:, p. o. add. Adams. 
Case, II. C, Adams, p. n. add. Ailanis. 

Clark, ("lias, v.. Colilinercial Tiaveler, Adams, p. o add. .\danis. 
Clcvelaml. J. M., Seedhinaii, Ailams, b. Madison Co., N. Y., «. 18:J4, p. o. add. 

Arlams. 
Cooper, Gen., Farmer, Adam-, b. Jeff. Co.. N. Y.. 8. 1811. p. o. add. Adams. 
Converse. Cyrus, Farmer (retired), Adams, b. Oneida Co., N. Y., 8.1841, p.o. 

add. Adams. 
Crosby, E. C, (irocer. Adams, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1838, p. o. add. Adams. 
Colton, Channccy, Fjinner, Adams, b. JeffeiBoii Co., N. Y., s. 18 — , p. o. add. 

AdaniB Centre. 
Colton, Ill-man, Fanner, Adams, b. Otsego Co., N. Y., 8. 180G, p. o. add. Adams 

Centre. 
Dwijjht, D. A , Dealer in Books. Stationery, and Wall Paper, Adams, b. Jrffer- 

B-.n Co.. N. Y., 8. 18J.-J, p. o. arid. Adams. 
Dodpe. G. .S., Gn.ter. Adams, b. Jrlb-rson Co., N. Y.. s. 1825, p o. add. Adams. 
Dixon, Wm., Gnmmiilh. .\di.ms, b. KnKland, s. \K'-2, p. o. add. Adnm-. 
I-jI.ly, J., Deah-r in Ho..ks, Stationrrv, and Wall Paj-er, Adain^, I.. JelTernon Co 

N. Y., s. 1818. P.O. add. Adams. 
Fnisii-r, Grn., Farmer and Aliller, Adams, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. isls, p. o. 

add. .\daniH. 
Fox, l.ydia, Fanner, Adams, b. Sanitoga Co., N. Y., f, lS(H,p. o. add. Adams. 
Fox, Duniid, Farmer (di-e'di, Adams, b. Conn., i*. Isnl. 
Fox, ihiniil, Exp^(•^s and K. K. A^t., Adamn, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1838, p. 

o. u<bl. .Adams. 
Fox,G-<.. L., Tebtrinph Openitnr and Ticket Agent, Adams, b. Jeffeinon Co., 

N. Y.. «. isM, p. o. add. Adams Centn*. 
Fuller, Ilarrisi.ii, Fannir, AdaiiiM, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1845, p. o. add. 

Adams (Vntn-. 
Gnnlner. (J. W., Farmer, Adams, b. Oneida Co., N. Y., s. 1857, p. o. adil. Adams 

Cenlri'. 
Green, O. D., Contraetor and Bnibb'r, Adams, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 18;il, p. 

o. lyld. AdaniH Centre. 
Green, H. C, Mi-ivbant and Farmer, Adams, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y.,8. 181 S, p.o, 

add. Adams ('fntrt>. 
Garlock, Jason, Farmer, Adams, b. Ji-ffcrann Co., N. Y., s. 18l8,p. o.adii. Adams 

Centre. 
Green. Leonard, Fanner, .\dnms. b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1820, p. o. add. .\dam8 

Centre. 
Green, A. J.. Ailitnix, p. o. adrl. Adams Centre. 
Green, Mm. Tin s. K., \diim«. p. ... add. A. lams Centre. 
Hnnt.ngton. U. II., Tell.r Hnrijierlords Nat. Bank, Adams, b. Jefferson Co . N. 

Y.. s. I.H.14. J., o. add. Adams. 
Hatch, 9. W., Plop, and K.I. of Jntirwii, Adams, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., a. 1847, 

p. o. Hdd. .Vilnius. 
Ilungerford, J. M.. Dry Goods Meiehant, Ailam*, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 18-14, 

p. o, aild. Adams. 
Hnngerfoid. S. D., Pre.i. HnnK'Tford's Nat. lUnk. and Pres. Hiingerrord*8 (^\- 

leciate DiHtitnte. Adam.-, b Jrff. ('<.., N. Y., s. I«I8, p. ... add. Adiins. 
Ilarri-. Klij., Fatm.r, A.lnins; I.. J. ff. Co., N. V., m. 18.".I,p.... a-l.l. Adanin Centre. 
Harringt.in. Kri, Fanner, Adams, b. Jefferaon Co., N. Y., s. Ihl.J, p. o. add. Adams 

rciilre. 
Hill, U. I., Farmer, Adams, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 1821, p. o. add. Adiims Centre 
Ibiwe-, U. F.. Fanner, Adam-, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y.. s. 18:5. p. o. add. Ailams Centre. 
Hart, tieo.. FarniiT. Adamw. b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., h. 18i'i. p. o. add. Adams Centre. 
Kollogg, .'. H., Faimer, Adams, b. Jetlerson Co., N. Y,,». JM1,p.u.iidd. Adamv. 



Kenyan, W, W., Farmer (retired), Adams, b. Montgomery Co., N. Y., a. 18.12, 

p. o. aild. Aflams. 
Littlefi.ld, E. T.. Manufacturer. Adams, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y.,8. 1837, p. o. add. Adams. 
Liiwienc4', Li-ander. Farmer, .\<lam><, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y.,8. IMli, p.o. add. Adams. 
Loveland, I.inw, Fanmr. .Xdams. b. Ji ff. Co.. N. Y., s. 181.1, p. o, add. .\dams. 
Langwoiihy, K. C., Deab-r in Fnniiinre, and Uiideitakcr, Adams, b. K. I., 8. 

I84:t. p. o. a.'d. Adams Cei.lre. 
Maxon, T. V., Whob-salu Seed Dealer, Adams, b. Renss. Co., N. Y., s. 1848, p. o. 

a.M. A.l;ims. 
McComl.er, W. H., Faimer, Adams. b..Ieff. Co.. N. Y.. s. 184:1, p. o.add. Smilhfield. 
Muzzy, F. M.. Farmer ami Chet-se Mfr, .\danis, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 18:J0, 

p. o. ad. I. Siiiilbf!eld. 
Mills J no., Fann.-r, Adams, b. Jefferson Co.. N. Y.,8. 18.10. p.o. add. Smithfiebl. 
Mill-. Cbaumy, FaiiiK-r (dec'd), Aiiams, b. Conn., s. 18U2, p. o. add. Smilhfield. 
Manville, M. D.. A<lains, p. ■>. adil. Adaiii''. 

penny..!. W.. Insnnmei- A^'t, Adams, b. J.-fferstHi C"., N. Y., s. 1821, p.o. Adams. 
Potter. ( ba.t., Farmer and Meihanie, Adams, b. Wa?h. Co., N. Y., 8. I»a7, p. o. 

ad<l. .\danis I'eiitie. 
Potter, C. D., Mfr. of Handy Package Dyes, Adams, b. Otsego Co., N, Y., a. 1837, 

p. n. aiid. AdaniN Centre. 
Parker. (Jibs, Farmer, Adams, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8. 18Ti, p. o. add. Adame Centre. 
IN.tter, Saml 31., Fanner, .\diims, s. 18J'i, p. o. add. Adams Centre, 
Rams.bll. E. F., Atb.rney-at-Law, Adams, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8. 1840, p. o. add. 

Adams. 
Rogers, Eli.-ha, Farmer (retired), .\dani8, b. Renss. Co.. N. Y., 8. 1825, p. o. add. 

Adams Centre. 
Rose, M. M.. Farmer, Adams, b. Jeff. C.. N. Y.. a. 1847, p. o. add. Belleville. 
]birnsey,.lii..., Slechanie, .\dams, b. Jeff. C-.., N. Y., s. 1827, p. o. atld. Adams Cent. 
Reed, I', b.. Farmer. Adaiiin, I,. Ji-H. Co.. N. Y.. s. 18;tl, p. o. add. Adanis Centre. 
SaundiTs, T. P , Attoruey-at-Law, Adams, b. Rensselaer Co., N. Y., 8. 18;iG, p. o, 

a. Id. .\tlaliis. 
Stanley, Fayette, Fanner and Cheese Mfr., .\daina, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 

iSlC. p. o. add. Adams. 
Segar, Hinim. Farnnr and Produce Dealer, Adams, b. Oneida Co., N. Y., 8.1829, 

p. o. add. .\iiums Ci-ntre. 
Stanley. A. D., Farni.r, Adams, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8. 1818, p. o. add. Smitliville. 
Taylor, Win. H , Attorney-iit-Uiw, Adame, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 6. 184t», p. o. 

add. Adams. 
Tayl.ir, D. E., l)r^-Go<.ds Mercli., Adams, b. Jeff. C<i., b. 184n, p. o. add. Adams. 
Thompson, T. L., Fanner and Carriage Mfr., Adam*', b. Jefferson Co., N'. Y., a, 

1S41, p. o. add. .\dam-i. 
Thompson, I. A., Farmer, Adams, b. Conn., s. 1810, p. o. add. Adams. 
Tittswortli, M. D., Druggist, Adams, b. Middlesex Co., N. J., b. 18G8, p. o. add. 

.\dams. 
Thomas. Elislia, Farmer, Adams, b. Vt., 8. 1802, p. o. add. Adams. 
Thomas, S. S., Fanner, Adam^ b. Vi., s. 1810, p. o. add. .\dains. 
Thomas, Wolsey, Farmer, A.lam-=, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 181'J, p. o. add. Adams. 
Thomas, J., Farmer (dec'd), Adams, b. Vt.. 8. 18U1. 

Trowliridge, Orrin, Farmer, .Vdams. h. Lewis Co.. N. Y., 8. 1825, p. o. add. Adams. 
Ti-owl.ridge, .\., Fiinner ami Merhauie, Sotdi.-r uf 1812, Adam-<, b. Oneida Co., N, 

Y., s. I«lo, p. o. ad.l. Adiiins. 
Thomas, Sapbrona, Farun-r, Adanis, b. Vt., s. 181o^ p. o. add. Adams. 
Tliomji.'*, Nancy S., Farmer, Adams, b. Vt . s. ls.'ni, p. o. ad.l. .Vdams. 
Thomas, A. G., Farmer (decM), Adams, b. Vt., s. 1S52. p. o. add. Adams. 
Totman, C. M , Liveryman and Dealer in Harness, .Vdams, b. Jefferson Co., N. 

Y., s. 18:in, J), o. add. Adams. 
Watkins, A. B., Snpt. of Inst., Adams, b. Ontario Co., N. Y., 8. 1870, p. o. add. 

.Vdams. 
Wanlwell, N. M., Merch.. .\ilam«, b. Oneida Co., N. Y., 8. 1824. p. o. add. Adams. 
Wheel.T. \V. H., Mfr. and Builder, Ailam.*, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 1824, p. o. add. 

Aflants. 
Wright, W. \V., Farmer and Mechanic, .Vdams, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y.,8. 1821, 
p. o. add. Adanis. 



ALEXANDRIA. 

Allies, C., Boot and Shoe Slercbant, Al.-xandria, b. Germany, s. 1854 p. o. add. 

Redwo.id. 
Angsbnry, G. W., Merchant, .\lexandria, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y.,8. 1854. p. o.add. 

Pie- sis. 
Bickelhanpt, A., Merchant, Ab-xandrla, b. Germany, ». 18.'>1, p. o.add. Redwood. 
Bush, Nitbolas, Farmer, Alexandria, b. Frntue. 8. 1^40, p. o. ad<l. Redwood. 
B ckclhuupi. Peter. Faniiei. Alexandria, h. (b'imany, 8. D5;t, p. o.h-IiI. Ke<)wor>d. 
Baliceli. Hiiodes, Farmer, Al.-xandria, b. Chenango Co., N. V..s. 1821. p. o. ad.l. 

Itedwund. 
Bogert, Henry, Fanner (decMK AleNamlria, b. '"aiia.la, s. I8:tn, p. o. ad.l. Red- 
wood. 
B.'tz, Adam, FarmiT, Alexandria, b. Gciniany. s, 1847, ji. o. add. Redwood. 
Bull, l,..ltie A., Teacher, Abxandria, b. Jelb'rson Co., N. Y., s. \H5'J. p. o. add. 

Redw.Hiil. 
Ball, Cornelia K., T.-acher, Alexandria, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1855, p. o. wld. 

R.'dw..o.l. 
Callin, C. A., Phvn'n and Surgeon, Alexandria, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y,, b. 1859, 

p. o. a.ld. l{e.lwooil. 
(Mink, Robt., Phv« n and Surg., C. M. A M. D., Alexandria, b. Scotland, b. 185(i, 

p. o. a.ld. R.-dwoo.l. 
Cole, Mi-s. A. .1,, liusbaml Farmer (dei'd), Alexandria, b. Montgoniery Co., X. Y., 

s. I8.V.». p.t. ii.l.i. R.>.lwood. 
Cline. John H., Fann'g an. I Miller, Alexandria, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1829, 

p. o. add, PlesMis. 
Cornwell. Ezra, Fanning. Alexan.lria, b. Jefferson Cak, N. Y., b. 1813, p. o. add. 

Alexauilria Bay. 
Cornw.'ll, Susiin D., teacher, Alexandria, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., s. 1828, p. o. 

add. Alexandria Ray. 
Davis. Jessie. Fanner, Alexandria, b. Ot^^ego Co., N'. Y., 8. 181 G, p. o. add. Alex- 
andria Buy. 
Dingman, Jared. Farmer and CarpV, Alexandria, b. Oneida Co., X. Y., s. 184.1, 

p. ...add. Alexandria Bay. 
Fox, Walter, Farmi-ian.l M.-rih., Alexandria, b. Herkimer Co., Jf. Y., s. 184.1, p. 

o. add. Alexaiulriii Bay. 
Flansbnrgb. S.t)., Miller and Farmer, Alexandria, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y.,8. 1836, 

p. o. add, Ri-.Iw.hhI. 
Flat, tieorgf. Farmer, Al.'xandrbi, b. Germany, s. 1852, p. o. add. Redwood. 
Gau.lett, F. A., Dentist. Ab-xandria. h. Cumida, s. 18G:), ii. i>. a.ld. Redwood. 
Gaskill, J W., Blacksmith, Alexandria, b. Essex Co., N. Y., 8. 1856, p. o. add. 

RedWoo.l. 

Gri'en, A. .1.. Farmer, Alexandria, b. Lewis Co., X. Y., 8. 1817, p. o. add. Omar. 
Gurnee, Kiilph, Fai nier ami Merrh,. .Iu»t. of the Peace ;12 years, Alexandria, b. 

J. -ffeimm Co., N. V., s. ISlC. p. o. add. (miar. 
Holmes. A. A.. Meiihanl. Sup.i viHor, S< cretary and Treft^nrer of Morristown 

an.l Black llivrr R H . Abxiuidna, b. Sehenectady Co., N. Y., e. 1856, 

p. o. u<ld. Redwood. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



581 



Iliitchpnti, M. .J., rhvH{i.-iun mu\ Surgeon, b. Ilerkinior Co., N. Y., i. 1833, \\ o. 

mill. Ill-llWOOll. 

Holkiii-. M., llut.*|.k.i'p<T, b. Jcff.TBon Gi., X. Y., #. 18^B, |>. o. artil. Rodwo-d. 
Jh>yt, lloiiu-e r , l/'ti'h-riiikiT liml rropi u-tur Liiiii her Mill, b.JefrLTBoii Cu^ N. Y., 

H. IHMt, p. n. mill, i'li-srtix. 
Iliful. Mi'rrit*. Kitriiier, li. JctTrninii Co., N. V., 9. 184.1, p. o, a'M. P1>-8sJh. 
lliirtiicinn, John, KiiruK-r uritl Chuese Mutiitracttirrr, li. tM-riimiiy, a. 1851, p. o. 

tnlil. .\l<-xiiiiiirin lljiy. 
Ilurtinann, .\tliiiri. KiiriinT, b. Geimnny, s. 18.'i3. p. o. aibl. RcdwotMl. 
IlniiKliiun, Jif.y FiirnuT, li. Oniii(;f) (\t., Vt., H. IHU, p. o. mlil. Alexnnrtria Rjiy. 
lIuU-liiiiHuti, Shflfhiii, Kui'iiicr and Luiiiburin;^, b. JffTorBun Cu., N. Y., s. IMtf, 

p. O. Ildll, I*lCHj)i-<. 

Iliinm-j-nmii, (Jenrpi* K., Kiirinor, b. England, s. 18'M. p. o, ndd. Plpuslfl, 
Jlitnly, riiarlfd, K»rnipr, b. JcfTi-rsdn ru., N. Y., s, \tiSu. p. «», iidtl. I*b>t;<jg. 
lliirdv, (Jjlbcrt, Kiii'mer, b. (Msego i.'u., N. V,, i*. IS'JI. p. n. udd. IMfSHin, 
lIuilKbtun, A. II., Km iiHT, b. Jvil. (V»., N. Y.. ". lUt'J, p. o. add. Abxiindria Bay. 
lluHuwav, Wdliuin. h'uriii'-r. b. JflVcrsoii ( V>.. N. Y.. ». ISI I, p. o. aild. diiiir. 
lliirdcr, Aiidiiii, Aitoriu>,v and CounBulorai-hiiw, b. IK-rkiniLT Co., N. V.,b. 1802, 

p. >>. add. Kfdwuod. 
llaaM, Jainb, F»irnMT, b. licrniany, ». \S:Vi, p. o. add. Kodwood. 
Jfwotr. M. r.. FiiiniiT and Munibt-r uf Atukruiblv, b. Vurniunt, s. I84C, p. o. add. 

U.mIvv 1. 

KfpliT. Ijcvvis, Farnu-r, b. .IffTi-ram CV)., N. Y., «. 1W4, p.o. add. Alexandria Bay. 
Kiitibull. N.. F.iiiner, b. .Icmrsoii Oi., N. Y.,8. IKVJ, p. o. add. Uvdw.fd. 
IjL'wis, yivK. Kati', biidband M.O. (dcceatiiHl;, b. Jettentun i\>., N. Y., s. 18^, p. o. 

m\ii. |•b■^SI1. 

Mandi.ill, T. B., Farmer, b. Oneida Co., N. Y., «. lfi;*7, p. o. add. UtMlwood. 
Alarklie, Mn». Kli/abt-lb, Farmer, b. Cerniaiiy. b. lS-17. p. o. aild. Kedwuod. 
Makei«.'iice, 8idum'>n, Meicliant. b. .Ii'tlemon (.'i>., N, Y., ». l!Si7, p. o.a*ld. Plessifl. 
Miiore. Julin, Farnii'i', b. Indand, s. 184i), p. o. add. K /dwood. 
Milbr, Siimuel B., Fiirm- r, b. St. Lawr. Co., N. Y., s. 1M7, p. i>. add. Alex. Bay. 
Nurtun, SibiH <t., Waguii and Carriagu Manufaetiiror, b. JefTenton Co., .N. Y., a. 

liS2i», p, o, add. Plessia. 
Nownian, A. I)., Farmer, b. (Hwego Cu., N. Y., 8. lH'.il, p. o. add. K-dwond. 
Norte. n, Wni., Fanner, b. WiLsUington Co., N. Y., 8. ISJO, p. o. add. Al x. Bay. 
Ovi'n>cker.J. P., Farmer, b. Ontdda (:•«., N. Y., s. iHfiT.p. «..»dd. AU'X;indria lljty. 
Parker. Jame^, FarniiM' and Lumbering', b, VtTniotit, «. IS^t'i, p.o. atld. RihUvo(«1. 
Reade, J. \V., ^leichant ami Serretary Redwood Union .Vgricultural Association, 

b. Jefferson IJo., X. Y.. w. XH^U, p. o. add. R._'d\v<K)d. 
RoBsister, William. Catliolir Pri- at, b. Canu'Ia, 8. 1S.V), p. o. add. Rwiwood. 
I^>ck^veIl, l^eorge. Pjtstor Ref-Tmetl Prot'-rttant Clinrch, b. West Cliesloi Co., 

N. Y., ». IS.-.4, p. o. add. Alexandria Bay. 
Rapikde, Dainel, Farmer, .Mexandria, b. N*. Y.,«. lS;t2, p.o. add. .Mexandria Bav. 
Ru»:ie)l, Allen, Fiunier, Ale\andri;i, b. Jeff. Co.,[i. 1H4m, p. o. add. .Vl-xundria Bay. 
Rapp, Henry, Fanni-r, .\le\andria, b. (_iernniiiy, a. 1S0<I, p. o. add. Redwood. 
RelwL-lirr, Mrw. (iet-rue. Farmer and Cheese Mumifactiirer, Alexandria, b. Ger- 
many, 9. 1K.VJ. p. o. add. Redwood. 
Smith, H. II., Retired Miller, .Mexandrin, b. 8.trato;;a Co., 8. li<:{G, p. o. add. 

Redwo.al. 
Seolt, Henry L., Civil Enpineer and Snn-eyor, Chief Engineer of Bbu'k River 

anil .Monistown Kadroad, Alexandria, b. Herkiaier Co., s. IS'^l, p. o.add. 

Pbs.His. 
Selinanbpr, William, Harnes-* Maker and Farmer, AlRxanUria, b. Germany, s. 

IM'.i. p. o. ad"l. Redw..i»l. 
Staple;*. (J. ii., Proprietor Thunsand Island House, .Mexandria, p. o. add. Alex- 

ariilriii Uiy. 
Swantoii, (;e.>r>;e. Farmer, Alexandria, b. Indand, «. 18.56. p. o. a<Id. Plessis. 
Shultx, John, Farmer and Cheese Manulaclurer, Alexandria, b. Gennany, 8. 

IX.'«7, p. o. add. Ph'-sis. 
Spie-*, Wiiliiiin, Fjirnier, .Vbxiindria, b. Germany, s. lH4n, p. o. adl. RedwcMul. 
Tiinisher, George, Fanner, .\lexandi ia, b. Jeff. Co., a. 18.;7, p.o. add. Redwood. 
Tas-tey, Lewirt, (.'arriage Maniifaetnrer and Btaikiimith, Alexandria, b. Jeff. Co., 

». 1K4;», p. o. add. Re.lwo,«l. 
Tanner, Julin-, Farmer, .Mexanitria, p. o. add. Chniir. 
Timniorman, Jotd, Faruiur, Alexandria, b. Herkimer Co., s. 183:1, p. o. add. 

Redwn()d. 
Tatsey. W. R., Ik»"k-keeiKT and Professor of Penmanship, Alexandria, b. Jeff. 

Co., s. IS-'i.".. p. o. a«M. Redwood. 
Visger, .Mary J., Teacher, Ali-xandria, b. JeflT. Co., s. 1857, p. o. add. Alexandria 

Buy. 
Wats- n, i>on .v.. Lawyer ami School Commissioner, Alexandria, b. Jeff. Co., s. 

ls.1.5. p. o. add. Redwood. 
White, H. S., Pi-oprietor Flouring-Mill, Merchant and Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., 8. 

IXil, ji. o. adil. RedwocMl. 
Whitney, Juliet (husUmd deceased;, Alexandria, b. Canada, 8. 1874, p. o. add. 

Redwood. 
Walton, J. F., Merchant an«l Re«I Estate Dealer, Alexandria, b. Jeff. Co., 8. 1830, 

p. o. add. .Mexandria Bay. 
Wesieuit. Chiunrey. Fanner (n-tired), Alexandria, b. Uneida Co., s. 18(»5, p, o. 

add. .\le\andria Itay. 
Woodworlb. Wm. .1.. Merchant, .Mexandria, h. Slonlgoniery Co., 8. 18.38, p. o. 

add. .Mexandria lJ;*y. 
Weaver. .Anthony, Farmer, .Vh-xandria, b. Fninc, 8. 18:12, p. o. add. Redwood. 
Zinirrier, (Jrorge, Farmer and Cheese filuntitVicturer, .\lexandria, b, (Germany, 9. 

\st:\',, p. o. iidd. Pli-ssi.s. 
Zimn)<-r. Henry. F.niuer anil Cheese Mannfacturer, Alexandria, b. Germany, b. 

1807, p. o. add. Plu.:^sis. . 



ANTWERP. 

Augsbnry, Morgjui, Miller, b. Jeffei-i«on Co., X. Y., s. 1827, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
AUdI, IiJi H., Physii ian and Surgeon, b. Fnink,Vl.,8. 1H.t|, p. o.add. Atttwi-ip. 
Anthony, Harvey, Farmer and I>aii vman, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 

18^), p o. add. Ox B>w. 
Anthony. Charles, F.irnier and Dairyman, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y'., b. 

1817. p. o.add. Ox Bow. 
Bailey. 1.. II., General Mercliandi.se, Antwerp, b. I,ewi.>i Co., N. Y., B. IRtT, p. o. 

add. Antwerp. 
Baon, Ii. A., F.trmer and Dairyman, Antwen*, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 182.% 

jt. o. Ildll. .Antwerp. 
Bacon. Wm. K., Farmer and Dairyman, .Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 1829, 

p. o. add. .\utwerp 
Brickley, John, Farmi-r and 1> liryman, Antwerp, b. St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., 8. 

18:44. p. o. add. .\nlwi-rp. 
Bniinant, M. V., Attorney and Fanner, .\ntwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y.,8. 1830, 

p. o. add. Ox Bow. 
Br.iinard, Ktios, Farmer (.deceased), b. Connectit nt, i>. 1819, p. o. add. Ox Bow. 
liiirt, DtMU. Blacksmith (deceased', b. Verinonr. >■. IS!:t, p. o. add, Ox B<»w. 
Burt, B. T , Slock Dealer, Antwerp, b. V.rm<.nt. <. is:tl, p. o. add. 0\ Bow. 
Bentley, Wm. T.. Fanner and Dt.iry, Antwerp, b. JetIerM)n Co., N. V., s. 1843, 

p. o. iidd. Aniw.-ip. 
Beanmn, David, Fanner and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Massacbusettif, S. 1818, p. o. 

adil. Antwerp. 



Bnw|e«, Jno., Fanner and Dair>',.\ntwcri».b. England, s, 1831, p. o.add.TbereM. 
Baxter, John, Fanner and Dairy, Antwerp, b. St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., s. 1848, 

p. o. add. Sk>mervith-. 
Beam, J. M , Fanner, L fe In-nrance Agent, and Justice of Peace, Antwerp, b. 

Jeffenj in Co., N. Y., s. I>t(0, p. o. mid. Aniw erp. 
Burtch, H. D . Farmer an<l Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1853, p. o. 

add. .\n(werp. 
Coolidge, Alvm, K-trrner, b. Madison Co.. N. Y.. s. 1822, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Cnw' y, G. N., Mannf.iilurer of Leather, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 

1841. p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Copley, \. & E, Mannf;u(nrers of Lumber, and Fanners, Antwerp, h. Jeffersoa 

C4.., N. Y , s. A., 1844, E., 1847. p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Clark, Antad. Jr., Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jeflerson Co., N. Y., 8. 1822, 

p. o. add. Antwpr|t. 
Clark, Anstd, Sr., Fanner and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Halifax, Vt., b. 1806, p. o.add. 

Shiimie Creek. 
Clark, IjiinsiiiK, Fanner and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., e. 163G, p. 

u. add. Shingle Creek. 
Cooper, Abnini, Farmer ami Dairy, Antwerp, b. Long Inland, N. Y., B. 1818, p. 

o.add. Ox B..W. 
Cooper, N. J., Famier and I>airy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., b. 1818, p. o. 

add. Ox Bow. 
Chase, Jas., Farmer, Antwerp, b. Onenla (*o , N. Y., b. 1820, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Crotts, Knoch. FariniT, Antwei p, b. New HampNiiire, n. \Xi-», p, o, adrl. Aniwi-rp. 
Cross, E. W,, Farmer, .\ntwerp, b. .leffer-on C-i., N. Y.,h. IHXi, p. o. wld. Antwerp. 
Cross, S. F., Farmer, .\iilwiTp, b, Jefferson C*»., N. Y., s. IKL't, p. u. aiM. Antwerp. 
t-'ro-B, N. J., Fiinner, .Antwerp, b. Jeffcraon Co., N. Y., e. I8;i8, p. o.add. Antwerp. 
Carpenter, Cba."'. C,, .\u twerp. 
Carpenter, E. A., Fanu'T and Dairyman, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., b. 

1828, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Carpenter. T. S., Farmer and Dairyman, Antwerp, b. Montgomer}* Co., N. Y., 8. 

1820. p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Drake, Clia*., Fai nior and Dairyman, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 1821, 

p. o, add. Antwerp. 
Dickson, John (2d), Farmer and Dairy nuiu, Antwerp, b. St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., 

H. 1830. p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Dieksion, Janice. Farmer and Dairyman, b. Sddland, s. 18.30, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Dickstm, J'din, Jr., Farmer and Dairym in, .\iitwei p, b. Jeffertton C^i., N. Y., ». 

1840, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Di'rlty, E. (i., Pby-icijui and Surgeon, b. Vermont, s. 1848, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Ellis, iohn D., linker, Antwerp, b, Vermont, s. i^M. p o. add. Anrwerp. 
Ellis, H. W., Genenil Merrhandse, b. Vermont, s. 1831, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Ellis, J. P. (Relireil', Antweqi, b. Biislcd. Mas« , p. o add. Antwerp. 
Eggleston, Perry, Btacksnt th ideeeasedj, Antwerp, b, Waahington Co., \. Y., 

8. 182.1, p. o, add. Antwerp. 
Eggteston, Gilbert, Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. V., 8. 1828, p. o. add Antwerp. 
Egyleston, David, Faimer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Washingion Co., N. Y., s. 

1S19. p. o. add. Aniweip. 
Eggleston, Asa, Meehanic (dece)»8ed),b. Rhode Istanil.s. I8l8,p. n.ndd. Antwer|i, 
Egjjieston, II. L.. Carpenterand Joiner, Antwi-rp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y^.,8. 1818, 

p. o. add. Antwerp, 
Flaherty, R. M., Fanner and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 1833, 

p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Fuller, Gilbert M.. Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co. N. Y., s. 1807, 

p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Fuller, A. L , Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s; 1832, p. o. 

add. Antwerp. 
Forton. L., Farmer ami Dairy. Antwerp, b. JefferBon Co., N. Y., s. 1846, p. o. 

add. Aniweip. 
Graves, Dempster, Fnrmer and Dairy, Antwcip, b. Lewia Co., N. Y., 8. 18.38, 

J), o. add. Antwerp. 
Gill, James. Fanner and Dairy, Antweri>, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 1817, p. o. 

aild. Antwerp. 
Gates, Wm. R.. Fanner and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1801, p. 

o. add. Antwerp. 
Gates, D. C, Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. St. I^wrence Co., N. Y., s. 1845, 

p. o. add. Antwi-rp. 
Gtllett, Lucas. Slioemaker (Retired), Antwerp, b. Maysacliuselts, 8. 1819, p. o. 

add. Ox B.w. 
G Iletl, M. M.. Shoemaker, Antwerp, b. Ililifnx, Vt.. s. 1819, p. o. add. Ox Bow. 
Graves. Joseph F., Fanner ami Dairy, .Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., «. 1824, 

p, o. add. Antwerp. 
Graves, Geo. D., Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., b. 1852, 

p.o. add. .Vntwerp. 
Gordon, J.is. R., Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y'., s. 1843, 

p. o. adil- Ox Bow. 
Graves, G. 0. (Retired), b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 1822, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Gill, Julius, Fai nier and Dairy, Antw.-rp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., a. l8.j;J, p. o. 

add. Antwerp. 
Gn-en, C. S., Propr. Green's Hot»l, Antwerp, b. Oneida Co., N. Y., b. 18.35, p. o. 

add Ox Bow. 
Hall, C. W. A (Vi , Maufi-M. and Dealers in Furniture, Antwerp, b. St. Lawrence 

Ci».. N. Y., 8. 1871. p. o add. Ox Bow. 
Hopper, A. B., Farmer and Dairyman, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 1821, 

p, o. add. Ox Bow. 
Hopper, Eugene L., Farmer and Daii-j'man, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. T., 8. 

1S.J4, p.o. adil. Ox Bow. 
Howe, Daniel, Fanner (deceased), Antwerp, b. New Hampshire, s. 1817, p. o. 

add. Ox Bow. 
Howe, E., Cotuniertial Agent, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1823, p. o. add. Ox Bow. 
Hunt, Charles, Blaeksmiih (deceasidi, .Antwerp, b. ilerk. Co., N. Y*., s. 1821, p. 

o. add. t»x Bow. 
Hunt, J. D., Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y'., s. 1821, p. o. 

add. Ox Bow. 
Hall. C. G., Fanm-rand Dairy, Antwerp, b. Kent, R. I., s. 1821, p. o, add. Ox Bow. 
Hunt, John A., Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y'., s. 1827, p. 

o. add. Tbcrega. 
Houghbiii, Elijah, Sr., Farmer and Dairy, Antw*erp, b. Massachusotis, 8. 1810, 

p. o. iidd. Antwerp. 
Hunt, James, Farmer and Dairy, b. Ilerk. Co., N. Y.. 8. 1818, p o.add. Antwerp. 
Hunt, Charles, Fanner and Dairy, .Antwtjip, b. Jeffeison Co., N. Y'., s. 18;i2, p. 

o. add. Antwerp. 
Hale, Otif*, Fanner and Dairy, Antwerp, b, Jefferson Co., X. Y'., 8. 1823, p. o.add. 

Philadelphia. 
Hall, Wm. A., Fanner and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y'., b. 1S23, p. o. 

add. Ox ltt>w. 
Hubliard, 0. W., Farnier and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y'., a. 1837, p. 

o. add. .Antwirp. 
Ilowanl. Nathaniel, Farmer and Dairy, Antwei-p, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1823, 

p. o, add. Antwerp. 
Jeffers n Iron Co., ^laniifis. Pip Iron, Antwerp, p. o. a<ld. Antwerp. 
Jones, Janie.-* E., Farmer, .Antwerp, b. Si, i^iw leiice Co., X. Y., s. 18'»(l, p, o. 

add. Ox B^iw. 
John-on, K'lwar I, Fanner and Dairy, b. Scotland, s. 1834, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Johnsoi). W B., Fiirm*T and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 1841, p. 
u. add. Antwerp. 



582 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Kinne, Amlrew, Farmer and Dairy. AntwiTp, h. Muiitgomory fA)., N. Y., b. 1810, 

p o. Jiilil. Antwerp, 
Kinne, B. F\, Kurnior anJ Dairy, Antwerj), b. Jeffersuii Co., N. Y., h. 1845, p. o. 

atUI. Antwerp. 
Kellogg, Wrn., Karninr nnd Duirj-, Antwurp, b. Samtogii Co., N. Y., 8. 18'(0, p. 

o. a<bl. Antwerp. 
KclMpy, l>. It., Kamu-r and D.iiry, b. Ilork. Co., N. Y., 8. 18:J5, p. o. adil. Ox How. 
KceiH'. Hinirn B.. Fariupr und Dairy, Antwui-p, b. Onundugu Co., N. Y., s. I82:i, 

p. o. ii'ld. Shiiiglw Cn-ek. 
K('llo;;p, liowis, Farmer and Dairy, .\ntwerji, JcfferBon Co., N. Y., s. 1837, p. o. 

)nid. Antwerp. 
Kelscy, Mi'rriit, Fanu'T, b. New York, s. 18U. p. o. add. Ox Bow. 
Litidbixv. A. T., Fainier, Antwerp, b. St. Lawroncu Co., N. Y., s. 18G4, p. o. 

aa<i. Ux Mow. 
I*rtfave, A. S., Ch'-fso Manufacturer, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 3. 18.">ii, p, 

o. add. Antwerj). 
lif'wJH, ;\. K., F'armfM', Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y.. 8. 18'2I, p. o. add. Ox Bow. 

McAIIi>ter, (J. !>., Far r, l«. Jerbi-son Co., N. Y., a. \HM, p. o. add. Antwerp. 

MaHon, Cyrus. Firnie , b. .IrtlcrHun C<i., N. Y., s. l'^2">. p. o. add Antwerp, 
Munr-i, A H,, :\I miitV. biimber, b. M:itibbi, Ont , s. lS.i5, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Moore, H. W., Hanlwaro and .\grii:nltiinil Implement-', Antwerp, b. Lewis 

Co., X. Y., s, lSn4, p. o. add. Antwerp, 
Ma'<on. Wrigbf, Farmer and D.iiry, b. Jeffereon C<t., N. Y., p. o. add. Antwerp. 
McAllister, .\. H., Fanner, b. Ni-w llainpsliire, >*. \\i-*2, p. o. arid, Antwerp. 
Maek, <.'hal»ri-, F^irrner, Antwerp, b. Coiiheelicut. s. IWJ, p. o. add. .Viitwerp. 
Miller, Levi, Fanner and l)aity, b. Ma.-^sacbnselts, s. lH;iU„p. o. mid. Antwei-n, 
Nutting. Abijab, Fanner and Dairy, Antwerp, b. liaivard, Mass., s. 1819, p. o. 

a<l'l. Antweip. 
Nutting, IL T., Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Harvard, Mass., s. 1820, p. o. 

add. Antwerp, 
Overton, Jnsbna, Farmer und Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jeffer-son Co., N Y., a. 1824, p. 

o. Kild. TbereHi. 
I'roctor, K. Ij., I'ropr. Procter House, Antwerp, b. St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., a. 

lH:tS, p. V. ni\d. .Vntwerp. 
Proctor, .1. B., I'ropr. Proctor House, Antwerp, b. St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., a. 

1818, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Kider, Geo., Fainier and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jeffer--*on Co., N. Y., s. 1824, p. o. 

add. Antwerp. 
Radig.'in .t Hojtper, Livery and Sale Stable, Antwerp, b., R, St. Lawrence Co., 

N. Y. ; II., Jefferson Co., N. Y.. p. o. add. .\ntwerp. 
Uidi-r, Seld.-n, Farm-r, b. Jefferson C.)., N. Y., s. LSiS, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Itid'T, Walter. Fanner, Antwerp, ii. New Hampslnre, s. 1810, p. o. add. .\n twerp. 
Kiiliiii-on, .loll II, Fanner, Antweri-, b. England, a. 18IH, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Jtobiii^un, lleniy. Farmer b. JetTer->on t.'o., N. Y., a. IHiU, p. o. add. Antweip. 
Itogers, L. S. (Retireiii, b. Wash iiglon Co., N. Y, s. 1828, p. o. add. Antwerp, 
Kedadale, Samuel, Farmer, Antweip, b. St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., 8. 1847, p. o. 

add. Antwerp. 
R'tfin.it, J. v., Farmer, Antwerp, b. France, s. 1S(;2, p. o. adil. .\ntwei-i). 
K-iider, Itoliert, Farmer, Antwerp, b. Kngliuid, 8. 18. iO, p. o. add. Antwerp, 
ll'-inier, Charles, Farmer, b. Jeffersmi Co., N. Y., .*i. 1H4'), p. o. adil. Antwerp. 
Robiii-ij^n, Richard, Farmer (deceased), b. Knglanii, s. 1822, p. o. add. Antwer-p. 
Riibinson. J.ispt-r. Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 18:if>. p. o. add. Antwerp, 
Spiague, Wni., Farmer ami Dairy, b. Masatclmsetts, a. 1829, p. o. a<lit. Antweip. 
Spragne, Dexter. Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Massachusetls, k. 1852, p. o. 

add. Antwerp. 
Stewart, Jame.s, Firmer and D.ijry, Antwerp, b. St. Lawrence Co., N. Y'., 8. 18ol, 

p. o. add. Antwerp. 
•Sterling, Brarlfnrd, Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jeffereon Co., N. Y., a. 18;J2, 

p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Shiell, Andrew, F.trnier and Dairy, b. Scotland, s. 181S. p. o. add. Ox Bow. 
Seaver, \V, F., Farmer and Hairy, b. Jeffeinon. Vt., .s. 1823, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Sciuni, Jeremiah, Farmer and D.iiry, Antwerp, b. Sirato^ia Co., N. Y., a. 18.J5, 

p, 'I. inld. .\ntwerp. 
Scott, .lohn. Farmer ami Da'ry, .\ntwerp,b. Scotland, a. 1834, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Spnigne, I). W., Antwerp, p, o. ud<l. Shingle Creek. 
Townnend, Henry, Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Hastings, Ont., a. 1830, p. o. 

a<ld. Til -resa. 
Tliompi«oii, Alfred, Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. T., 8. 1823, 

p. o. add. Ox Bow. 
Thompson, Jani-s, Fartner and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jeffei-son Co., N. Y., s. 1852, 

p. o. add, <>x Bow. 
Tnrnbull, M., Farmer and Dairy, b. Scotland, a. 1820, p. o. add. Ox Bow. 
Tayliir, A. II., Farni-r and Dairy, b. Coniiectimt, s. INlii, p. o. adil. Antwerp. 
Veeder, M. A.. IMin, IvesSemn iry, Antwerp, b. Ohio, s. 187'», p.o. add. Antwerp. 
VanMlyke, J. \V., Editor O'anM-, Antwerp, b. Jeffoiaon Co., N. Y., s. IBM, p. o. 

adtl. Antwerp. 
"Wight, R. K , Bi)ots and Shoes, Antwerp, b. St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., a. 1873, p.o. 

adtl. Antwerp. 
Woodward. J. S., Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., a. 1839, p. 

o add ,\ntwerp. 
Woodward A. J.. F u nor and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1831, 

p. ti. add. Antweip. 
Webster, H. !)., Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jeffer^fon Co., N. Y., s. 1830, p. 

o. add, Aiitwi-rp. 
Webater, It. (V, Farmer and Daiiy, Antwerp, b. Jeffewon Co., N.Y. ,8-1842, p. o. 

add. TlMTei*a. 
Weston, (lark. Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jeffereon Co., N, Y., a. 1831, p. 

o. add. Ox Bow. 
Wait, A, C... Hardware and Agr. lnii>., Antwerji, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1833, 

p. o. adil. Antwerp. 
Wilber, J.din H , Fanner, b. Oneida Co., N. Y.,8. 1804, p. o. add. Antwerp. 
Wilbird, Chirk, Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. Jefferaon Co., N. Y., e. 18(il), p. 

o. add. Antwerp. 
Ward. Cbarles, Farmer and Daiiy, Antwerp, b. Jefferson Co.,N. Y., a. 1828, p. ©. 

add, Antwerp. 
Wiljion. N. B , Farmer ami Dairy, .\nlwerp, b. Jefleraon Co,, N. Y., s. 1834, p o 

aiiil. I'h bulelpbiu. 
Wilson, A. W' , Farmer and Dairy, Antwerp, b. lienssebior Co., N. Y., 8. 1800, 

p. o. n<bl. IMiiladelph a. 
Woodward, L. L . Farmer and Dairy, .\iitwen), b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., a. 1837, 

p. o. add. .\ntwt-rp. 
Woodward, Milda-l, Farmer and Dairy, Antweip, b. Massachusetts, s. 1812, p. o. 

add. Antwerp, 
White, J. H., Farmer ami Dairy, b. Miwsachuaetli', s. 1831, p. o. add. Antwerp. 



BROWNVILLE. 

Ackermaii. L., Farmer, Brownville, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1828, p. o. add. 

Dexter. 
AdaniH. Wm.. Farmer, b Kngland. s. ls47, p. o. add. Dexter. 
Alwalwr, J. B., Farmer, b. Oswego (,'0., N. V., a. |83.>, p. o. add. Br-.wnMlIe. 



Allen, Caleb Mece;ised), b. R. I., 8. 1837. 

Allen, L., Farmer, b. Montgomery Co., N. Y., s. 1837. p. o. add, LiniTiik. 

Adanirt. K. R., Fanner and Fisherman, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1841, p. o. add 

I'dlar Point. 
Adann, S. O.. Furnier, b. Jeffei-so-i Co., N. Y., a. 18.30, p. o add. Pillar P.dnt. 
Ackerni m, .1. B., Faimer and Cheese .Mfr., b. Jeff rson Co., N. Y., a. 183G, p. o. 

add. Dexter 
Allen, .v. E,, Inventor and Dealer of Clipper Well-Drill Machines, b. Jefferson 

Co., N. Y., a. 18.18. p. o. add. Perch River. 
Allen, Cyrna, Farmer, b. R. I , m. 1S12, p. o, add. Pendi R'ver. 
Anuiiis, Paul, Farmer (ret. red j, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., h. 1822, p. o. add. Dexter. 
Binninger, H., Pmp. )if .Sa-*h. D an, and Blind Factory and Plaiiing-niill, b. 

Gcniiaiiy, -. is.Vt, p. o. add. Dexter. 
Benedet, Dr. \. J., Phys.ctan and Surgeon, b. Krie Co, N. Y., 3. 187,'», p. o. add. 

Dexter. 
Biiutb, C. O. F., Prop, of Booth Hotel, and Farmer, b. Herkimer (Jo., N. Y., a. 

1813, 11. o. add. Limerick. 
Ball, L,, Justice of the Peace, b. Saratoga Co., N. Y., s. 1820, p. o add. Dexter. 
Clark. Mrs. .\. A. (retired), b., Mass., s. 1804. p. o.a.ld. Br..wnvilie. 
C.de. Harris. m. Farmer, b. Jefferso'i Co., N. Y., s. 1810, p. <>. i»dd. Brownville. 
Coolnrin, (J., Cal<iiM-t-iiiaker. b. N. Y., a. 1847, p. o. add. Browrivilb-. 
Calkins, W,, Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y.. s. 184 J, p. ... add. Perch River. 
Cir|. -nler, S. A., Fanner, b. Jeffer-on Cn., N. Y.,8. IS JO p. ... a-ld. Pillar Point."^ 
Christie, C. H.. Farmer, and Owner of " ILini'detoi'iiaM and *' Kthaii .\llen," b. 

Montjiuuiery (.'<!,, X. Y,, s. \s.U\, p. o. add. Dexter. 
Clark, Mr-. M. (i-et red j, b. L'-wis C-i., p. o. ad>t. Brjwnville. 
Clement, Ira, Farmer, b. Cayuga Co., N. Y.. s. 1837, p. i>. add Pillar Point. 
<:iement, W. B., Farmer, b. J. ff-rsun Co., N. Y., s. 18:>3, p. o. add. Pdlar Point. 
Clark. Jno. (deceased), b. UM'-r Cn., N. Y., s. ISllS. 
Douglas-*, Dr. <'., Physician and Surgeon, b. Jeff -rson Co., N. Y., s. 1842, p. o. 

add. Dexter. 
Day, It., Fanner, b. Montgomery Co., N. Y., a. I8r. 5, p. o. add. Perch River. 
Die;eiidorf, J. K. 

Douglass, .). ('., Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., a. 1821, p. 0. add. Pillar Point. 
Donirlass, .lames (deceiided), b, Montgomery Co., N. Y., s, 1818. 
Eineison, Clias. C, lien. Merchandise, b. Jefferson Co., N, Y., s. 1814, p. 0. add. 

Dexter. 
Emerson, Jno,, Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., a. 1812, p. o. add. Perch River. 
Kmerson, Jonathan (deceased), b, Cium., s. !M(io, 

Knier-on, Nelsmi, Farmer, b. .leffers in C^j , N. Y., a. 1824, p. o. add. Linn-riek. 
Emerson, Averv, Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., a. 1820, ]> o. ad-l. IJmerick. 
Fish, (.;. W., Pniduce Deal, and R. R. Agt., b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 1831, p. o. add. 

Limei'ick. 
Fitzgerald, Jno , Fanner and Assessor, b. Ireland, b. 18,ofl, p. o. add. Dexter. 
(Jibl)S, \. A., Pres. of ^'illag<•, and Oen Siore, and Postmaster, b, St. Lawrence 

Co., N. v.. 8. 182 1, p, o. add. Bniwnville. 
Greeiileat, (J. D , BlaeU-milb, b, Jefl. Co., N. Y., s. 1840, p. o add. Brownville. 
(i.nild. D. W„ Farmer, b. Jefterson Co., N. Y., B. 18."i0, p. o. add. Pillar P-.jnt. 
(i. Ill Id, Juliii, Fanner, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1822, p. o. add. Pillar Point. 
Herkimer, IVli-s. '/.. B., Farmer (retired j, b. Jefferson (ju., N. Y.. s. 1833, p. o. add. 

Brownville, 
Herkimer, H, (dec'di, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 18:13. 

Hoyt, S., Farmer und Saib.r, b. Jeff, dt , N. Y.. a. 1821, p. o. add. Brownville. 
Hes.selwood, M , Farmer ( retired 1, b. Eiig.. s. 1831. p. o. add. Dexter. 
Johnstmi, Mi-s. S., Pro]., .b.bnston Ibdel, l<. Ireland, 3. ls5it, p.o. add. Brownville. 
J.iQiea, E., Fanner, b. R. 1.. s. 182ii. p. ... add. Limeriek. 
James, E. C, Farmer, b. Jefferson d.., N. Y., p. a. add. Cbaumotit. 
Keenaii, Fratiklin, b. Jeff.is..u Co., N. Y., 8. 1«30, p. o. add. Brownville. 
Kilbi.rn, .\., Farnjer (retired), b. M;us9.,8. 180."i, p. o. add. Brownville, 
Knapp. J. ('., Farmer, b. Lewis Cm., N. Y., s. 1811, p. o. add. BrownviUo. 
Knapp. S imnel (de('ea.>ietl), li. Couti., k. 1811. 
Kimpp. A. (di'ceaaed), b. Conn., s, isll. 

Lonsd.ile, Will.. Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., X. Y., s. lS3'i, p. o. add. Pillar Point. 
Leoinird, K., Planing- and Saw-Mill, ,>IiiIV. Doois und Siish, and Conli-actor, b. 

Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1832, p. o. add. Dexter. 
Lntniiis, Warren, Farm-'r, b. Jeffer--on Co., X. Y,, s. 1840, j), o. add. Dexter. 
Lee. J..hn K., Fanner, b. Oneida Co., N. Y., s. 1S30, p. o. add. Peaeh Kiver. 
Lowe, Mi-^. Belsey Ann, Fanner, b. Ji-tTei-son Co., N. Y., a. 1825, ji. o. add. Dexter. 
Sloffett, J. S., Cuatnm-honse Officer and Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 1830, 

p. o. add. Limerick. 
Moffett, Bruce, Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., e. 1833, p. o. add. Limerick. 
fllcCormick, William, Farmer, I). iSIontg. Co., N. Y., s. is 14. p. o. add. Limerick. 
Magill, F., Farmer, b. Ireland, s. is:i4, p. o. add. Pillar Point. 
Mullen, E., Farmer and Fi-herman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., a. I84o, p. o. add. Dexter. 
Otis, Amos, Jr., p. o. add. Brownvdle. 
Perry, L. S., Firtner and Cheese Mfr., b. Jeffor^n Co., N. Y.,8. 1830, p. add. 

Limerick. 
Peek, ihange, Farmer, b. Auburn, N. Y., 8. 1815, p. o. add. Limerick. 
Plumb, C. P. 

Pli'lps. D.. Fa' nier. b. Connecticut, a, 1812, p. o. add. Limerick. 
Priiir, N. L., Farmer, b. ,I.ner?on Co., a, 184o, p. o. add. Limerick. 
Potter, Ansi.n, p. o. aibl. Brownville. 

Kockwood, Levi, (Jarriage and Wagon Manufacturer and Blacksmith, b. Jeffer- 
son Co.. N. Y.. s. 1HI3, p. o. aild. Limerick. 
Reeves, H.. Farmer and .\sse.-isor, b. Montgomery Co., N. Y., s. is.i7, p. 0. add. 

Limerick. 
Reeves, ,Ino., Farmer, b. Jlontgomery C<j., N. Y., a. 1838. p. o. add. Dexter. 
Rounds, Russell (deceased), b. Dehiware Co.. N. Y., s. 1814. 
Rounds, .\. C, Farmer, b. ,leffei-snu Co., N. Y., a. 1822. p. o. add. Limerick. 
Reed, Dyer ("., Propi ietur Lake-S de Cjimidng Crounds, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 

a. 1831. p. o. aibi. Pillar I'nint. 
Skinner, Wm. T., Founder and Muchiniat, b. Now Hamitshire, a. 1835, p. o. add. 

Brownville. 
Spafford, S., Harnes.«-maker and Livery, b. Can., a. 1803, p. o. add. Brownville. 
Scotield, Ma. J. A. (ret red), b. N. Y., s. 1871, p. o. add, Brownville. 
Strainger, T. J„ lirm of Binninger \ Stminger, b. Eng.,8. lK.*.o,p.o.add. Dexter. 
Spicer, IL H.. Kepresenljitive and Farmer, i>. Jefferson Co., N. Y.,8. 1820, p. o. 

add. Perch River. 
See, A., deceased, b. .Sdicdmrio Co., N, Y., a. 1825. 
See, J. D.. Farmer and Agl. Ina. Agent, b. Herkimer Co , N. Y,, a. 1825, p. o. 

add. Di'xter. 
Taylor, A.. Farmer, b. Kng., a. 18.5(1, p. o. add. Pillar Point. 
Taylor. Marcus, Farmer, b. Jeffenion Co., N. Y., s. 1823, p, o. add. Brownville. 
Timerman. M., Farmer, b. Herkimer Co,, N. Y., a. 18 19, p. o. add. Limerick. 
Thompson, I. E.. Pn.p. Empire Mills, b. Herkimer Co., N, Y., a. 1870, i>. u. add. 

Walertown. 
Timerman. Then.n. Farmer and Justice of the Peace, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., 

s. IHl'.t, p. o. add. Dexter. 
Underwood, Wm. IL. (bneral Store and Postmoater, b. Jeffereon Co., N. Y"., a. 

1843, p. o. add. Limeriek. 
Weaver, P., Farmer, b. Warren Co., N. Y.. a. 1833, p. o. add. Limerick. 
Wihier, John W., Carnage Mfr., b. Oswego Co., N. Y., 8. 1871, p. o. a.ld, Brown- 
ville. 
Walrath, A. W., Farmer (retired), b. Montgomery Co., N. Y., a. 18(0, p. o. add. 

Brownville. 
Webb, E. P.. Farmer and Real Estate Dealer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 1834, p. 

o. add. Brownvilt '. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



583 



W.ncl, O. 51., GiMii'nil Store, I). Jiffcrsun Co., X. Y., 8. 1S34, p. o. nJd. Drxtor. 
WliitTi.y, Diiiiicl, )'n.|i. UisUr Mill-, b. Jilhrsoii Vu., N. Y., 8. 18i4, p. o. add. 

llcXtl'l. 

>Vo()d, J. T., l)rnfrs mid Mi-(lu-ili(>8, Uuuts and Slioi-s, b. Ji-ftt-rson Co., N. Y , a. 

IKlKl. jp. o. udil, Di'XIiT. 
Wi-lc-li, l>. T., Kunii.i-, li. SI. l.uwrTlici' Co., N. Y., ». lS|->, p. o. arid. Dexter. 
White, K. T., Kiiniiei-, li. .lenerauii Co., N. V., r. ls:lli, p. „. add. Dexter. 
« ilt, E., Kanuer, 1.. .LMctsoii Co., N, Y., s. Ik:!.!, p. o. add. l.iraeiiek. 
^\ liite, .Mra. II. .s. irelir.'di, I., .letlersoii Co., N. V., s. IXlo, p. o. add. Dexter. 

WillianiH, Martin, Kariiier, li. Ileiki r C'o., N. Y., ». ISI'J. p. o. add. I'illar I't. 

WdliiiMis, Mur«aii, t'ai iiier, 1.. Ilirkinier C..., N. Y., ». ISIU, p. o. add. I'illar I't. 
Wilt,.!, 'dee.-aned , I., (laeida Co., N. Y., s. ISIW. 

While, II. S. Meeea».-.l), li. Vt., S. ISli". 

William", C. (deeea»e.l), Ip. Datilip-«3 I'pp., X. Y., ». 1819. 

Yoliiit^er, K., Dealer ia tjrucerieH, U. Kllg., 8. li*ol, p. o. add, lirowiiville. 



CAPE VINCENT. 

Aiitliiiii y, Will., (Irucor, Ciipo A'iiK-t'iit, I». Jt'fTiMBon Co., N. Y., s. ISIifi, p. o. aJd. 

C'»in' Viiin-iit. 
Ainswortli, (it-o. A,, Mt-rcliant, Oipe Vinrent, I). JefTorsim Co., N. Y., 8. 182:i, p. 

o. iiiiii. Ciipf \'imciit. 
Aiiis\v>>rili, .Inthili 'I'.. It.-t.r.d, Cape Vincent, k Vt., 8. ISiG. p. o. add. Capo Vin. 
Arnistrtin;:. .'M<'\., Kiiiincr, C.ipu Viticuiit, li. Cu. Fei'uitinagli, livhirid, m. 18^:i, 

p. ... Kil.I. St. I.HWUMUC. 

AiiUciiiiK', Virlor, Kunn«*r, Cape Vim-ent, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 184U, p. o. add, 

Ut.wru*. 
IJurnh.ini, Knf*tns K.. Ciniiii Doalrr and rniprit-tor i.f Klt-vator, Cape Vincent, 

h. \V.isliiii;;tnu Co., N. v., >-. ISfi-l, p. u. adil. i'ape Vin.;.-iit. 
Beadle, (I.irii'ti, i-aiiiier, (Vipe Viruciit, I'. Vt., s. is^iii, p. o. add. St. Lawrence. 
Beudlf. Wallmf, Fannin, Cape VinrrnI, I). JelU-iMuti Cu,, N. V., ». IH-ill, p. u. udd. 

St. Lawn-iK-e, 
ItatuH, Natlmn H., Kiurner, t'ape Vincftit, b. .>Ioiit;^oinery Cu., N. Y., 8. 18-10, p. o. 

add. <'ap<- Ninecnt. 
Ilardul, iVliiharl, l-'urnier. Capo Vincent, b. Kninre, a. 1812, p. o. ndd. Rosicre. 
Uuui'C,v, Ki-ank ('., Karnicsr, Cupe Vincent, b. JelT. Cu., N. V., h. 1844, p. u. udd. 

("ape Vinei'iit. 
Illotk, Signiiind, MercbanI, Cape Vin.. b. Bavaria, a. 185fi, p. o. adtl. Cape Vin. 
Cuoper, Sidney, CoUedor CustMins Port Cape Vincent, Cape Vincent, b. Jeff. Co., 

N. Y., s. 18.15, p. o. Hd<i. Cape Vincent. 
Crevolin. Henry .1.. Iterir.-d. Cape Vincent, b. New York City, N. Y., 8. 18;1G, 

p. «. uild, Ciipe Vincent. 
Croa:*, Krancs A., .Mereh., Cape Vincent, b. Xew Hampshire, s. 1819, p. o. add. 

Cape Vincent. 
Connell, K cbard T., Farmer, Cape Vincent, b. Jeft". Co., N. Y., s. 18:t8, p. o. udd. 

Ct.p^- Vincent. 
Cline, Jatnt'H L., Iii(*p -otor Custnms MiUenV Kay, Capo Vincent, b. lierkinior 

Co., N. Y., s. Is.;j. p. '.». afid. Cap.- Vin.ent. 
Conlon, Ri'V. John, t'ailnd c I'rie-st, Cape Vincent, b. County Duwn, Irebind, s. 

1S7.'.. p. ... a.id. Rusiere. 
Connell, Will. M., Kiirmer and Teaclior, Cape Virnent, b. Jcftei-son Co., N. Y., 8. 

184U, p. I", aibl. Cape Viiupnt. 
Cnit-ienbcrf:, .V.lani I., Jd-eper Lijjbt-U'.iise .ni Tibbeits l*uiiit, Capo Vincent, b. 

Montt;oini-ry Co , N. V.. s. "lS.i:i. p. ... a.l.l. Cnpe Vincent. 
C*Kik, Henry, Kaimer, Cape Vincent, b. Montgomery Co., N. V., 8. 1842, p. o. 

a.ld. St. Lawrence. 
Corniiir, Mare.d., Karna-r, C;ipe Viiu-ont, b. Franco. i). o. nd.L Cnpe Vincent. 
Dodge, tlrlan.lii 1>., Farmer, Cape Vincent, b. Jeltersou Co,, N. Y., 8. 1«42, p. o. 

ad.L Cape Vincent, 
Dodge, Kred. il., Fjumer and l*i\>piietor RiverHide limine, Miilen's Bay, Cape 

Vincent, b. JetVera-in t'o., N. Y'., s is;j:(, p. o. atUL (.'ape Vincent. 
Podge, Mrs. Olive, Farmer, Cape Vincent, b. Utsegu Co., N. Y., 8. 18'.i2, p. o. add. 

Cape Vincent. 
Delaney, .Miclntel, Farmer, Capo Vincent, b. JelTersou Co., N. Y.,8. 1842, p. o. 

adil. St. Linvp-nce. 
Kiiolstyn, Wii., Fariiur, <'apc Vincent, b. Jeffei-son Co., N. Y.,s. 1800, p.o. add. 

Cap." Vinei-iit. 
Fox, H.-nry L., I'r. ipriett)r St. Lawrence, Riilbbnn, and Railroad Houses, b.Ot*«ego 

Co., .\. Y., p. u. add. Cai e Vineent. 
Ciapotte, Jobn IJ., Merdiaiit, Cape Vin., b. France, s. 18'l.'i, p. o. mbl. Cape Vin. 
(Jramij.'an, Jobn 4.'., Farmer, Cape Vin., b. Fnime, s. 1828, p. ora*id. Rosiere. 
Cniy, Walter, Fa' nier and Clieeae-maker, Capo Vincent, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 

s. lN:iS, p. o. adi). Cape Vincent. 
Gniy, I'Mwin, Kainu-r, Cape Vinrent, b. New York, a. 18;tG, p. o. aibL C:ipe Vin. 
Hinckle.\', ('idem. Ml, Troprieitu' Kingstijn Ferry, Cape Vincent, b. W'olfe Island, 

H. lMir>. p. o. aild. Ciipe Vincent. 
Hilts, K/ra 1»., .\itorni;y-Jii-Law and Notary Public, Cape Vincent, b. Herkimer 

Cu,, N. v., 8. 1M2, p. o. add. Cape Vincent. 
Ibillenle- U, JdIiii, Farmer, Capo Vincent, b. Culnmbta Co., N, Y., s. ISOl), p. o. 

ii.ltl. St. Lawn-nce. 
Ilnm|tliiev, lli-nrv T., Kurnier, Capo Vintreiit, b. Kent, Kngland, 8, 1840, p. o. 

a.ld'. Cap.' Vinc^'tit. 
HnnliiiKton, Wni. L., :\Ieieb;int, (^ape Vincent, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 182:J, 

}i. o. add Cape Vineent. 
Irvin, Clir.st.iplier, Sr., Fanner, i'.ipe Vincent, b. County Fermanngb, Ireland, 

8. 182.'!, p. o. a.ld. Cipy Vincent. 
Irvin, JarneM C, Farmer, Tap.* Vincent, b. Quebec, 8. 1827, p. o. adtl. Cape Vin. 
Irvin, Robert, Fanner, Capo Vincent, b. Jetfersou Co., N. Y., 8. 1829, p. o. add. 

St. Lawrt'liee. 
Jii.bl. Ptiiletus, Farmer, Cape Vincent, b JIass., 8. 18(i9, p. o. add. Cape Vin. 
Kinglii.rn, John, Hicvver and Maltster, tirni S. &, Kingliurn, Capo Vincent, b. 

Sc'Ulanil, 8. 1872, p. o. aild. Cape Vincent. 
Leo, Morris K., Altorney-at-Law atnl N.itai y Public, Cape Vincent, b. JefferKon 

Co., N. Y., 8. 1829, p. o. add. Cape Vincent. 
Lain!. R.>bert, F.unifr, Cape Vincent, b. Jeffereon Co., N. Y'., s, 1842, p o. add. 

Cap-' Vincent. 
Marks. Plulip. Lumber Dealer, Cape Vincent, b. Hesse Darmstadt, 8. 1855, p. o, 

add. Capo \'incent. 
Mai-aun, Tboma.-', Pliy.sic^an and Surgeon, Cnpe Vincent, b. Nortbuniberland Co., 

ttiilario, Ca., 8. 1875, p. o. add. Cape Vincent. 
Morrison, Ci.urb'.i I*., Farmer and Hiitcb'-r, Cape Vincent, b. Montgomery Co., 

N. v., s. I8;i8, p. o. add. Cape Vincent. 
Milbn, Abi.er IL, Uarness-iiiaker, Cape V.ncent, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y'., 8. 1822, 

p. o. ad. I. Cape Vincent. 
McWa.vne, Andrew F., Farmer, Cape Vincent, b Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1820, p. 

o. ad.L Cape Vineent. 
Pierce. Dyr K., Pliysi.iiin ami Surgeon, Cipe Vincent, b. Oneida Co., N. Y., a. 

I8:t9, p. o, aild. .St. Lawrelir.-. 
Ridley, Jobn, Jr., Farmer, (^ipo Vincent, b. Badon, Germany, s. 1842, p. o. add. 

Rosiere. 
Rogers, Aiiwtin, Sr., Farmer, Capo Vincent, b. West Spiingfield, Mu-s., s. 1815, 

p. o. add. Capo Viuueut. 



Rogers, Fordyco M., Farmer, Capo Vincent, b. Ma88aclni6etls,8. IS-Vi, p. o. add. 

■Ihree-Mile Hay. 
Rogers, Abin-r, Fuinnr. Capo Vincent, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., a. 1854, p. o. add. 

Tbree-M'le Bay. 
Rice, Bniniard, Fai-m.-r and Stock Dealur, Cupo Vincent, b. JetToraon Co., N. Y., 

8. 184.;, p. o, aild, St. Lawrence. 
Rosebo.un, Jitliii 11 , Copp.-r and Tinsniiih, Retired, Cape Vincent, h. Mont. Co., 

N. Y".,8. 1851, p. o. add. Cape Vin.ent. 
Roseboom, John C.. Deal.r in Move-.. Tinware, ami Hardware, Capo Vincent, 

b. Albany, N. Y., b. 1851, p. o. add. Cajie Vincent. 
RobbiuB, AI.el (;., Farmer, Cape Vincent, b. JelleiHon Co., X. \'., 8. 1824, p. o. add. 

Cjipe Vincent, 
Bobbins, Jidm, Farmer, Capo Vincent, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 1k:j:1, p. o. add. 

Cape Vincent. 
Reed, Hubbard W'., Menbant and Post imi8ler. Capo Vincent, b. Jefferson Co.^ 

N Y'., 8. 1S44, p. o. ad.l. St. Law rente. 
Scobell, Ralph S.. Mrewer ami Malthter, tlnn Scobell & K., Cape Vincent, b. 

Kingston, Out., 8. iHiiO, p. t>. adil. Cape Vincent. 
Stowait, Ira, Fa'niui, Capo ^ incent, b. Jefferson i'o., N. Y'., B. 1811, p. o. add. 

Cape Vincent. 
Stoel, Win., Faiiner, Capo Vin., b. Oneitln Co., N. y.,a. 18n7, p. o. aild. Capo Vin. 
Steadman. Tiuioiby It., Fanner, Opo Vincent, b. Jefferson Cu,,N. Y., a. 1K2^, ]i. 

o. add. St. Lawrence. 
Swartwout, Nelson, Carpenter ami Joiner, Cape Vincent, b. Jefferson Co ,N. Y'., 

t*. 18:(2, p. o. atld. St. Lawienre. 

S\fiirtwoiir, CliaH. V,, Farmer, Capo Vincent, b. Jufforaoit Co., N. Y., b. 18-18, p. o. 

ail'l. St, Lawrenct^ 
Solar, Matthew, Farmer, Capo Vincent, b. Munroo Co., N. Y., 8. 18:t7, p. o, add. 

Rosiere. 
Siinnden*, (ieoige. Sr, Farmer, Capo Vincent, b, Sussex, England, ». 1841, p. o. 

add. Cape Vim-.-nt. 
Shubr, Jerry P., Fanner, Cape Vincent, b. Montgomery Co., N. Y., *. 18^7, p. o. 

a.id. Three-Milo Buy. 
Schtdl, Joseph, Farmer, Cnpo Vincent, b. Herkimm* Co., N. Y'., 8. 1827, p. o. add. 

Rosier.'. 
Tarbell, Thoni is, Farmer, Cai)e Vincent, b. Vermont, a. 1824, p. o. add. Threo- 

Mile Itiiy. 
Van W'oeit. John, Farmer, Capo Vincent, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., a. 1847, p. o. 

a.ld. Tliree-Mile Bay. 
Van Schairk, Nicholas, Fanner, CajHJ Vincent, b Albany, N. Y., a. 1812, p. o.add. 

Ciipe Vincent. 
Van Schaiek, Th.imis, Farmer, Capo Vincent, b Jefferson Co., N. Y , a. 1838, p. 

o. a.bl. Cap'* A'incent. 
Vontrin, Clamle, Farnn?r, (^'ape Vincent, b. Fmnce, s. 1829, p. o. add. Cape Vin. 
Vincent, Wm , Lake Capt^iin, Cape Vincent, b Jeffereon Co., N. Y., a. l8o9, p. o. 

aild. Cape Vinueni. 
Wliite, Mos s. Farmer, Capo Vincent, b. Oneida Co., N. Y'., a. 1846, p. o. add. 

Cape Vincent. 

Walmth, Alon/o, Farmer, Capo Vincent, b. Montgomery Co., N. Y'., a. 1837, p. 

u. add. St. Lawrence. 
AValiatli, Wat-oii K., Fai nier, Cape Vincent, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y*., a. 1849, p. 

o. ii.hl. St. Lawri-nce 
AValtace, Hamilton (!., Farmer and Hotel-keeper, Cajio Vincent, b. County Down, 

Indand, s. l.''4'i, p, o. add. St. I^iwronce. 
Wilson, Victor, Farmer, Cape Vincent, b. Fulton Co., N. Y., a. 1823, p. o, add. 

Cape Vincent. 
Wilson, Chai le«. Retired Farmer, Ciij)o Vincent, b, Montgomery Co., N. Y., «. 

1821, p. o. add. Capo Viiueiit. 
Wilson, Allen, Fariimr, Capo ^■incellt, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., a, 1831, p. o. atld. 

Cape Vincent. 
Warren, Sbcpard, Farmer, Capo Vincent. (See view.) 



CHAMPION. 

B<diall, W. W., Farmer and Dairy, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y.,8. 1832, p. o.n.bl.Canbatfo. 

Babcock. H. D., Farmer ami Dairy, b. Jeff. Co., N. V.,s. 1»40, p. o.atbl. Felt's Mills. 

Brocklin, Van L., Fanner, b. Jell. Co., N. Y., a. 1837, p. o. add. Champion. 

Bu>h, George, Fanner, b. Lewis Co., N. V., 8. ls'i2, p. o. atld. South L liampion. 

Bush, 31r., Sr., Farmer ^deceaaedj, b, Lewis Co., N. V., s. ismi. 

Buck, "i heo., Farmer, b. Lewis ("o., N. V., s. I84u, p. o. ad.J. Ciirthage. 

Closs, Richard, Mechanic, b. Lewis C\>., a. 183f), |>. ■>. adil. Carthage. 

Carter, F. C., Farming and Dairy, b. Jet!. Co., N. Y'., s. I«.i9, p. o. a.ld. Oiampion. 

Cutler, Irwin, Fanning and Dairy, b. Jeff. Ct.., N, V., s. I8(J4, ji. o.adtl. Chamiiion. 

Carter, Lester, Fui niingand Dairy, b. Jell. Co., N. Y'., b. 1833, p. o. aild. (.'ham)iion. 

Coughlan, Merino-', Merchant, b. JelL L'o., N. Y'., a. IK:;^, p. o. add. Champion. 

Cobnrn, Mi-s. W. M. 

Ferguson, Wordell, Farming and Dairy, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., a, 18G5, p. o. add. 

Chamiiion. 
Fuller, N. J., Farming. 

Goudrich, D. .\., Farmer, b. Le\vi8 Co., N. Y., a. 1859, p. o. add. South Cliami'ion. 
Hubbard, Mose.^. Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., a. I84I, p. o. add. Gieat Bend. 
Hiby, C. N., Minister, b. Jeff. C.i., N. Y., a. 1872, p. o. add. Champion. 
Jackman, B., Farniei' ami Dairy, b, Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. isls, p. o add. C'bampion. 
Johnson, E. F., Phys.cmn, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y'., a. 1&3I, p. o. adtl. (.'bampioii. 
Johnson, Jason, Farming, b. Van Rensselaer Co., N. Y., s, 184<i, p. o. add. S. 

Cbampioii. 
Looma.*, Lmina, Farming, b. Jefferson Co.. N. Y'., s. 1818, p. o. adtl. Chii!npi.>n. 
Lo.mias, Allonzo, Farming, b. Jefferson Co, N. Y'.. 8. lSn8, p. o, adtl. Champion. 
Mix, Joel, Farming, b. .letlel-son (^i., N. Y., p. o, add. Carthage. 
Mi.\, James, Fanning, b. JetToi-BOn Co.. N. Y., s. 1799, p, o. imil. Carthage. 
3Ii;Nett, E. IL, Farming and Dairy, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 18;i7, p. o.atld. Cirthage. 
M.ller, M. S.,1-"ariiier. Carthage, b. Jeff. Co., N. V., s. 1822. p. «. add. Carlbage. 
Manchester, Joel, Farmer, Carthage, b. Jefferboil Co., N. Y.,8. If<.l7, p. o, add. 

Carthage. 
Oamun, W. T., Minister, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y.. a. 1831, p. o. add. Champion. 
OslMirn, t harles. Farmer, b. Lewis Co., N. Y., s. 18:i5, p. o. add, Carthage. 
Phillip, S., Fanii'-r, b. Maas., s. 181*4, p. v. add, Ciillliage. 
Phelp-, .L H., Fai nier ami Dairy, b. Oneitla Co.. N. Y., 8. 1850. 
lUle, yi. E., S< btj.d-Teaeber, b. Jeffeison Co., N. Y., 8. Is35, p. o. add. South 

Champion, 
Sterling, Jaim p. Farmer and Superv'r, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y'., a. 183G, p. o. ndd. 

Gn-at Bend. 
Sterling, 1>. B., Miller and Merchant, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y,, a. 1847, p. o. add. 

Great Bend. 
Spencer, John. Farmer, b, Lewis Co., N. Y*., s. 1830, p. o. add. Champitui. 
Sage, EliitH, Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 18o(l, p. o. add. Champion. 
Sb.ter, J. P., Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1»5I. p. o. atbl. Sontii < hanipi.-n. 
Sh'-pard, C. N., Farmer, b. Lewis Coiinly, N. V., s, l8t>(l, p. o. add. S. Cliampioii. 
Shepard, .1.. Fanner, b, Lewis Co., N. Y., s. iMji', p. o. a*id. S"Ulh Cliamp.on. 
Vebber, Fnink .^1.. Farming and School-Teacliiug, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., f. 1850, p. 

o.add. F.dCs Mill^. 
■Woolworth, Fatming and Dairy, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y'., s. 1813, p. o.add. Champion. 
Waldow, M., b. Oneida Co., N. V., .s. 18.;2. 
Wilmot, \. R., Farmer, a. 1841, p. o.add. ChumpioD. 



584 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



CLAYTON. 

Angpl, -Ills. F., Retired F.irmer, b. Otaego Co., N. Y., s. 1817, p. o. add. Chi^ ton. 
Ames, W. W., Ed. Iwhpfndeut, h, l*l»idi-oii Co., N. V., k. 1»7*^, i». o. add. ClHyluri. 
Atwuud, M. W., Fai'iiu-r nnd Kx-liiKifoctor ol" I'urt Clapton, b. Jeflersun Co., N. 

Y., s. Iti4.(, p. o. add. (layiuii. 
Aii^pI, K. U., .Mti.cbiiut uiid Keiired Fanner, b. Otscgu Co., s. Itj:i2, p. o. add. 

Claitoii. 
Barker, A. F., Bttiiker aud Ship-owner, b. Caledonia Co., Vt., e. 1837, p. o. add. 

(,'laytou. 
liain, Alex., Di-ntiat, b. Mailbor.Migli, Ca., 8. 180S, p. o. add. Cbtjtnn. 
Itrowii, Kt'V. M. J., i'.isiMi- ul Kuniuu Cailiulii: Church, b. FranUliii Co., K. Y., 

8. l»T(i, p. u. add. Clajtuii. 
Bjibcot-k, Jas., I'lop. Chei-se MiilVi'. (established 1875), b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., b. 

\»M, p. o. add. Clapton. 
Baxter, Will., Fiiriin-r, b, Jeftereon Co., N. Y., b. 1827, p. o. add. Depaiiville. 
Brown, LiiUn-r, Uetin-d Fariut-r, b. ililleborough Co., K. H., b. Ifi-^U, p. o. add. 

.Stone itiiils. 
Brown, SupJiruni;i, Itetired Farmer, b. Crown Point, N. Y., 8.1824, p. o. add. 

Mone Mills. 
Baldwin, C. (.i.. Farmer and Teacher, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s, 1851, p. o. add. 

Stone Mill^j. 
Brighani, Cleo. it Son, Farmers and Vet.Surgs., b. Otsego Cu.,N. Y., s. 1818, p. o. 

add. C1a>^>n. 
Brighani, Uen. A Sun, Farmers and Vet.Surgs., b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., b. 1833, p. 

o. atld, Clayton. 
Itiirker, \U:my S., Mi-reh't, b. Clayton, Jeff. Co., N. Y., B.1845,p.o. add. Clayton. 
Couk, Asbbel, Ca])taili id' Scliuouer, b. Jett. Co., N. Y., 8, ISIU, p.o.add. Clayton. 
Oiry, Jno., died Nov. 11), 1857, in Jeff. Co., N. Y., b. Oneida Co., N. Y., a. IS.G. 
Cary, Mr-". Jno., Ueiireii Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. IS22, p. u. add. Ciayton. 
Cuminu, Win., Uetiied Faiuier, l». Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 1812, y. u. add. Chiyion. 
Coiisanl, Wni. il., Karnn-r, b. Jt-nur-son Co., N. Y., s. Ih4ii, p. o. adil. Clnyiori. 
(barter, jcny, KarniL-r, b. IJerksliire Co., N. Y., s. 18'JU, p. u. add, Dejianville. 
Durr, Jubii, Farmer and Shoemaker, b. Germiua, M. V., s. 1831, p. o, add. La 

Fargeville, 
Burr, I>avid H., banner, b. Jeff -i-son Co., N. Y.,8. 185G, p. o. add. La Fargeville. 
Dorr, I'eter, died April IS, lHti5, b. Gt-rmina, N. Y., v. \^.i\. 
Dorr, Mary, Fainu-r, b, (icrniina, >'. Y., b. IslU. j), o. add. Depaiiville. 
Dye, Warren A., Carpenter and Farmer, b. Jeirerooii Co., h{. Y'., s. 1834, p. o. 

add. Clayton. 
Esselstyn, U. M., Fx-Collector of Customs, and Supervisor and 3Iagistrate, b. 

Jptlersi.u Co., N. Y., 8. \)i-ll, p. o. add. Claytttn. 
Eddy, Luthei", Lumber Dealer and Farmer, b. Winson Co., Vt., s. 1832, p.o.add. 

Claytou. 
Kvans, F. T., Attorney, b. Om-ida Co.. N. Y., s. 1872, p. o. add. Clayton. 
Kllanis, Mrs. E., Millinery, b. Jeff. Co., M. V., 9. 1847, p. o. add. Clavton. 
Ellii>tt, Wni., Sailor, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 1839. p. o. a<Ui; Clayton. 
Eddy, Aaron, Itctirfd Farmer, b. Fratiklin Co., N. Y., s. 1837, ji. o. add. Clayton. 
Edwanls, O. A., Farmer, b. Saratoga Co., \. Y^., 8. 1827, p. o. add. Depauvdie. 
Frame, S. V., I'liys clan. b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., b. 1841, p, o. add. Clayton. 
Fraley, John, Farmer, b. Jeffi-r.^on CVi., N. V., 8. 1843, jt. o. adil. Clayton. 
Fox, All'r ed, Ittdired Farmer and Justice uf Ptace, 8. I83"J, )>, o. add. Drpauville. 
Fox. Uyion, MerLbaiit, b. JefferMin Co., N. Y., b. 184", p. o. add. Depauville. 
Fraiiif, L. K., Tlivs. and Snr';,. b. llei k. Co., >i. Y., s. XfSfl, p. o. add. Oi-uauville 
Fox, Myrun, di«d Mar. M, isiil. b. Rome, N. Y., 8. 1S23. 

Fo.\, Malviha, Ketired Farmer, b. Warren, N. 11., e. 1H33, ji. o. add. La Fargeville. 
Fry, Adam, Farmer and Mechanic (,ret'd;, b. Montgt)niery Co., h. 1821, p. o. add. 

Di'pauviUe. 
Faire, Tlios., Fanner, b. Ireland, s. 1833, p. o. add. Depanvilie. 
(iillott, C. K., Merebant, b. St. Lawieiico Co., N. Y., s. 1871, p. o. add. Clayton. 
Oluyd. James D., Fartiier, b. Jericho, Vt., a. 1822, p. o. add. Clayton, 
liubbaid, Jjui. T., I'rop. ot'Uubbard House, b. Jeff. Co., N. V., 8. 1839, p. o. iulil. 

Chiytuu. 
Ilalpin, Mit liael, Cai)t. and part owner of bark "Burnside," b. Limerick, Ire- 
land, a. is.'is, J), u. add. Clayttm. 
Hnl.bard, J. B., died July l(i, 1871, b. J.-ff. Co., N. Y., 8. 1824. 
Hubbard, Mrs, J. 11. (retired), b. Orleans Co., N. Y., «. I«:i7, p. o. ndd. Clayton. 
JIubbaid,c;co. II., Prop, of Livery, ami Assessor, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., a. 1842, p. o. 

a<ld. ('layton. 
JIaas, V. .\., Fa. mer, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 1852, p. o. add. DepaiiviUe. 
Haas, Geo., Farmer, b. Germany, s. 18.ui, p. o, add. Depauville. 
Hall, F. v., Itetired Farmer, b. Windham, Vt., s. I8l'.), p. o. ad<l. Depauville. 
Johnston, S. D., Prop. Walton House, b. Sacket's Haruor, Jetteiijou Co., N. Y., 

8. I8:iii, 1). o. ad.l. Clayton. 
Johns .n, James, I'lod. lilr, 1>. Herkimer Co., N. Y'., s. 183G, p. o. add. Clayton. 
Johnston, John (,retire<li. b. Ji ff. Co., N. Y., a. islU, |». o. add. Clayton. 
Johnston, S. G., Sbip-builder, b. Ottawa, Canada, s. \i^.Vl, ji. o. add. Clayton. 
Kanaley, John, Farnn-r, b. Ireland, s. l»4'.l, p. o. add. (.'layton. 
Layare, Win., Mnfr. ot Wagons and Cairiages, b. Jefferson, b. 1851, \i. o. add. 

Clayton. 
Linnell, (ieo. I)., Farmer, b. Jefferaon Co., b. 1832, p. o. add. Cbiyton. 
Lowe, A. D., Merchant, ttrm of Terry & Lowe, b. Jefferson Co., a. 1850, \t. o. 

add. Pepauville. 
Lowe, Jno., died Sept. 27. 187C, b. Lewis Co., 8. 1821. 
Lowe, Eniiiie, Farmer, b. Lewis t'o., a. I82:i, p. o. add. Stone Mill, 
liinnell, Clari.-*sa L., Fairm-r, b. Jefferson Co., s. I8lli, p. o. add. Cl.iyton. 
McKinley, Geo. H., Merchanl, b. Jeffereoii Co., s. LSol, p. o. add. tJia) ton. 
Mount, H,, Harness-maker, b. Jefferson Co., h. 1H43, p. o. add, Clayton. 
MeCarri, Alirhael, Farmer, b. MontKomory <.!o., f. I8S4, p. o. add. Clayton. 
McCarn, S. J., Constable iind Fanner, b. Jeff'-r^on Co., s. Isr»n, p. o. jn'id. (Jlnyton. 
Morae, H. K., Atly. aU'l Conns. -at- La w, b. Jefferson Co., ». 1831, p. o. add. Clayton. 
McCaj n, Klijah, Farmer, b. Monttroiuery Co., 8. IKiii, p. o, add. Clnyton. 
Morgan, Win., Ship-carpenter and Farmer, b. South W' ales, s. 1832, p. o. add. 

Clayton. 
SIcKinby, Arthur, Farmer, b. Ireland, s. 1842, \i. o.add. Clayton. 
Otis, Amo-", Farmer, b. Oneida (;.., s. 18311, p. o. add. Depauville. 
Oiis, L. ('., Farmer and .\ssc38oi-, h. Oneida ('o., s. ls.ii», p. o. add. Depauville. 
Osborn, I*. A., Farmer, b. Oneida Co., ». 18ir>, ]». o. add. Depauville. 
Ornisby, SuKaii, Farmer, b. Hei kimer Co., «. Iw^ili, p. o. add. Dejiauvillo. 
r-dter. Augnstin, Farmer, b. Pai'is, France, a. IS31, p. o. add. i;l.iyton. 
Putnam, Pal by. Farmer, b. Vt., s. 1«1'J, p. o. add. ClaMon. 
I'atch. Allen, Fiunier, b. Jefferson Co., ». |K4«, p. o. iiilil. Clayt<»n. 
Parish, Cilbert K., Farmer and Shlp-cariienter, I'. Jeffur&on, s. 1831, p. o. add. 

Ch<)tun. 
Patchin, L. K., Retired Farmer, b. Columbia Co., a. 1M19, p. o. add. Depauville. 
I'atcliiii, Albert M., Farmer, b. Jellerson, s. 1K4U. p. u. add. Depauville. 
l'e« k, K. J., FHlinei, b. Jenel-s..|j, f. 1«3(», \\. o. adil. .Stone Mdl-. 
Iteea, Tlio«,, LunibeiinanandSbip-bu.lder, b. S. Wale'i.M. lS3i;, p. o. add. Clayton. 
Iteis. W H., D.pt. Col. of Customs, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., B. 1H44, p. o. luld. Clayton. 
Keew. Wui.. Sailor, b. S. Wub «. a. 1832, j.. .►. add. Clayton. 
Ueer<, David S.. Sailor and Farmer, b. S. Walea, a. 1S32, p. o. ndd. St. Lawrence. 

Iteed, S. D., Far r, b. .lefferaon Co., N. Y., s. 18±i. p. o. ad.l. Clayton. 

Bnsbiieli, .\iilhony, C|-a)ie, and Grower of Seetlllngs and choicu Giltpo Boots, 

b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., h. \h-m\ p. n, adtl. Clayton. 
Smith, O. W., P. M. since I80'J, b. Chittenden Co., Vt., b. 1817, p. o. add Clayton. 



Scott, Northrop, Joiner, b. St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., 8. 18ri2, p. o. add. Clayton. 

Soper, S., Farming, b. Oneida Co., N. Y., «. 1817, p. o. add. Clayton. 

Sweetman, Henry, Uoat-builder, b. t>neid,i Co., N. Y., 8. 184n, p. o. add. Cbivton. 

Seber, E. J., Merchant Miller, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., a. 1869, p. o. add. Depanviile. 

Sn-ll, Ceo. F., Kaimer, b. Jeff -r-ion Co.. N. Y., a. 18411, p. o. add. Clayton. 

Snell, Caltba. Ann, Farm -r (letiredl, b. Jeff. Co., .\. Y., s. lS2(l, p. o. adcl. Clavton. 

Snell, .MbertC, Maid'. Limburger Cheese, and Farmer, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., 
8. l8o(j, p. it.a<ld. Clayton. 

Sternberg, K. tl.. Farmer and Hay-ilealer, b. Jcffertion Co., N. Y., s. 1837, p. o. 
add. Depauville. 

Sylve>ter, li a, Fanner, b. Kntland, Vt, s. 183 I, p. n. add. La Fargevdle. 

Thomson, Diana, Fainier, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y,, 8. lK-.i4, p. o. add. Depuiville. 

Vincent, Leouaid, Fainier, b. Jefferson <_'o., N. Y.,s. IS24, ji. o. add. Depauville. 

Walt, M., Hardware and Tinner, b. Jeff. Co., N. V., s. 1863, p. o. add. Clayton. 

Walt, Henry, Carpenter, Joiner, and Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y.,8. 180C, p. o.add 
Clayton. 

Wbittier, David, Farming, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8. 1821, p. o. add. Depauville. 

Wheeler, M,\ roll, Farming, b. Dutchess Co., N. Y., s. iJtiG, p. o, aihl. De|uinville. 

Wiitiht, M. W., Farming, b. Oisego Co.. N. V.. s. 184(1, p. o. aild. Depauville. 

Wilson, G. T., HIacksmiih and Carriage Manufacturer, b. Canada, s. I8t>4, p. o. 
add. Depjiuville. 

"Wright, Erasius, Carpenter and Joiner, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., 8. 1834, p. o. 
aild. Depauville. 

Wiiislow, E. M., Farmer and Teacher, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., B. 1816, p. o. add. De- 
pauville. 

Wooledge, Win. D., Carriage Mfi., b. Rutland, Vt., s. 1833, p. o. add. Clayton. 



ELLISBURG. 

Austin, Dr. F., Phys'cian and Surgeon, Mannsville, b. Oswego Co., N. Y., p. o. 

add. Mannsville. 
Andrus, S. J., Prop. Hotel, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 1824. p.o.add. P:errei>ont Manor. 
Allen, Hal vey (retired), b. S.tratoga, N. Y., s. 1804, p. o.add. I'lerrepont Manor. 
Allen, Hiram, Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 1810, p.o.add. Pierre- 

}Hmt Manor. 
Allen, Elisha, Blacksmith, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., p. ISOG, p.o.add. Pierreiwmt Manor. 
Daily, li. N., Dentist, b. Oswego Co., N. Y., a. 18tl!f, p. o. add. Mannsville. 
Bialiop, D. C, Hotel-Keeper, Mannsville, b. N. Y., p. o. add. Mannsville. 
Bates, J. R., Notary Public, Mannflville, b. Mass., s. Isl7, p. o. add. Manri>ville. 
Beebe, A. K., Teacher, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 18.".7, p. o. add. M:inn>ville. 
Baly, C., Farmer, b. Jefferson Co, N. V., s. \M1, p. o. add. Pierre])ont Manor. 
Bemis, S. M., Ketiied Merchant, b. Jeffei-son Co., N. Y., a. 1833, p. o.add. Pierre- 

pont Manor. 
Brown, J. E., Fai mer, b. Jeffi-rson Co., N. Y'., s. 1837. p. o. add. Mannsville. 
BrovMi, C. H., Fanner and Siiiba-, b. England, s. 1X05, p. add. Wuodville, 
Baldwin, Win., b. Oswego, N. Y., s. lS-.i.'>. p. o. add. Mannsville. 
Bemis, J. A,, Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y.,s. 1833, p. o. add, Pierve- 

(Hint Manor. 
Brewster, W. K., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 1819, p. o. add. 

Mannsville. 
Brodi--, Jas., Fiist-Claes Stock Farmer, b. Scolhind, 8.1847, p. o. ndd. Runil Hill. 
Boomer, Leonard, Farmer and Daiiyman, b. Jeff. Co., J^. Y., s. 1808, p. o. add. 

Ellisbuig. 
Boomer, Sam'l H., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8. 1810, p. o. add. 

Belleville. 
Boomer, Nel.son, Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y'., a. 1S08, p. o. add. 

Belleville. 
Bull, Alvah, Fanner ami Dairyman, b. Vt., s. 1832, p. o. add. Bunil Hill. 
Baniev, M. V. B., Faimer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., K. Y., s. 183-J, p. o. add. 

Belleville. 
Bull, E. P., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Vt.. a. 1834, p. o. add. Rural Hill. 
Cunnin-bam, (i. D., Ch-rk, b. t)iiei<|a Co., s. I8i8, p. o. add. .Munn8\ille. 
Colton, Julie K., Teacher, b. Jeff. (V)., N. Y., s. 184'.», p. o. add. Mannsville. 
Clark, F. R., F.irmer and Dairy'ii,b. Jeff. Co., N. Y.,8. 1825, p. o.add. Mannsville. 
Converse-, .1. F., Farmei- and Breeder ol Fine Stock, b. Oneida Co., N. Y. s. 1841, 

p. o. add. Wuodville. 
Clark, K. J., Fanner an<l Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y'., 8. 1802, p. o. jidd. Belleville. 
Cule, o. C, Pastor M. E. Church, b. Herk. Co., N. Y., s. 1875, p. u. add. Belleville. 
Castor, C. H., Farmer and Daiiy'n, b. Y'ates Co., N. Y., s. 18J2, p. o. add. Pierre- 
pout Manor. 
Chamberlain, Myron, Farmer and Diiiryman, b. Jeff. Co. N. Y., a, 1811, p. u. add. 

EUisbnrg. 
Converse, It. H., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Oneida Co., N. Y., b. 1811, p. o. add. 

Woodville. 
Convci-se, (J. E.. Farmer and Dairyman, b. Oneida Co., N. Y., s. 1841, p. o. add. 

Woodville. 
Durfee, A. M., Blacksmith, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., «. 182.*., p. o. ndd. Belleville. 
Itailey, Mrs. C. A., b. Jeff. Co., N. Y.,8. 1839, p.o.add. Mannsville. 
Dutclier, Lewis A., Farmer and Dairynnin, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y*., s. 1853, p. o. add. 

Belleville. 
Downer, E. R., Farmer and Dairynmn, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y*., s. 1817, p.o.add. 

Kllisbnrg. 
Ellis, H. D., Teacher, b. Jeff. Oi., N. Y., a. 1854, p. n. add. Belleville. 
Ellis. J. W., Farmerand Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y.,8. l)Sl8, p. o. add. Ellisburg. 
Eastman, E. R., Farmer anil Dairynuin, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8.1820, p.o.add. 

Woodville. 
Eastman. C. H.. Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 6. 1828, p.o.add. 

Woodvilb-. 
Flandera, Miss J. J., Teacher, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8. 1855, p. o. add. Mannsville. 
Filmore, 11. H., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co.^ N. Y., a. 1837, p. o. luld. 

Woodville. 
Finney, J. Russell, Prjn. School, b. .leff. Co., N. Y., 8.1840, p.o.add. Ellisburg. 
Fish, Nellie, Aast Teacher, b. Jeff. Co. N. Y., 8. 1S51, \*. o. add. Ellisburg. 
FiliiKire, Mi->. L. .v.. Mistress on Farm, b. Otsego <A>., N. Y., s. 1831, p. o. add. 

Woodville. 
Fthuore, M. M., Earner and Dairynmn, b. Jeff. Co. N. Y., «. 1848, p.o.add. 

Rural Hill. 
Gray, Wm., Caniage Mnfr., b. Jeff. C..., N. Y., 8. ls28, p. o. ndd. Woodville. 
(ioodeiiough, Jno.. Fanner and Dairyman, b. Vt.. b. 1815, p. o. add. Mannsvillo. 
LJreiiell, E. o.. Farmer and Cheese-Maker, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., b. 1814, p. o. add. 

Pierreponl Manor. 
Goodeuough, R. D., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8. 1836, p. o. add. 

Mann>ville. 
Graves, Charles, Farmei- and Dairvman, b, Jeff. Co., X. Y.,8. 1852, p. o. add. 

Ellisville. 
Gn-en, Mrs. L. D., Mi-it reas of Farm, b. Jeff. Co..N*. Y'., a. 1838, p. o. add. Elliaburg. 
Green, Daniel, Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co.. N. Y., s. 18'25, p. o.add. 

lielleville. 
lliiggiiiB, Ceo. A., Dcjiler in Hardware, b. Oswego Co., N. Y., a. 1853, p. o. add. 

ManiiMville. 
Hibbard, C. C. Phy-ician and Surgeon, b. Wea.c'icater Co., N. Y., 8. 18G7, p. o. 

add. .Mannsville. 



niSTOllY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



585 



Hiistfii. K. \V., I'liotn;:niplu'r, b. St. Liiwrenco Co., N. Y., 8. 187G, p. o. add. 

M:uiiigvill<'. 
Iliinl. I». !■;.. Diii^i-cist, l». Orn-iila Co., N. Y., s. 1870, p. o. aiM. Mannsville. 
IlKthiiH k. \V. (;., Kiirmrr iim! Dairyman, b. (.iiicaua Co., N. Y., s. 1S4.% p. o. k(M. 

MiitinNvillc. 
I[.iiit.'liIoii, A. (*., .Justice of the lV;tc.', h. Ji'fffraoil Co., N. Y., 8. 1825, p. o. iiiltl. 

Itrll.'vill.-. 
HawpH, H. (".. Attoriipv and Cotinsclor, h. Ji'ffi-i'Soii Co., N. Y., s. I.s44, p. o. a<M. 

lU'lI.-vill... 
Havon, K. li., Ftinii'-r atnl Dnirytnaii, b. Ji-tTiTsou Co., N. Y., 8. 182-1, p. o. add. 

Manriyvilli'. 
Hoxir, Wtii. H.. Farim-r and Dairjman, b. JifToreon Co., N. Y., 8. 18:il, p. o. add. 

Alaiiiisvillt;. 
Hughi's. Joliti, Farmn* and I);tiiyiriati, b. Iliiliitin-r Co., N. Y., 8. 1824, p. o. add. 

ftiannKVitb'. 
Holly, *'. ,J., KainuT tind Dairyman, b. JctT<-i-son Co., N. Y., s. 1841, p. o. add. 

KMi^Unr^'. 
Holly. Mi-s. N.. Mi'tn-.ssof Farni.b. Ma-liaon Cc)., N. Y., 8. ISiHJ, p.o. add. Adams. 
Hirks, Saiinud, Farmer and Dairyman, b. JclTeition Co., N. Y., 8. IS JJ, p. o. add. 

Il.-Ilrvilb*. 

Hard, W. K., »'h»'i'8i'-Maki'r, b. Jeffrsoii Co., N. Y., e. I8.'i2, p. o. add. Pit-rrcpont 

Manor. 
Uarrin^ron, Dclos, Farrin*r and l)airytnau, b. KonsscbuT Co., N. Y., s. 1S27, p. o. 

add. I'ii-rn-pont Manor. 
Holly. Mi.ss M., Anthon-ss, li. JflT-Tson Co., N. Y., 9. 18.Jr>, p. o. add. Pifrri-punt 

Manor. 
Hill, Ji-ronic, FariiUT and Dairyman, b. JcflTcruon Co., N. Y., 8. I8:i7, p. o. atld. 

MannHvilb-. 
Judsun. Marcus, M«-fhani<" (n-tin-d), b. Conn., 8. 1820, p. o. add. Mantisvilic, 
.I.nM-.s, W.S.. It. K. Ak'I., b. OnWdaCo., N. Y.,8. 18ii2, p. o.add. Picrrt'iiunl Manor. 
Jam.'s, KM C. Farmer, b. .I.-flVraoti Co., N. Y., 8. I8K\ p. o. add. Maiin-.villi'. 
J.'iikin-. Wni. A., Farmt-r and Dairyman, b. Jetli'rauu Co., N. Y., 8. 18^1, p. o. 

a.M. Woodville. 
Jiinic-'. K/i'kii-I, Fariiirr and Dairyman, b. Jt'lTersun Co., N. Y., 8. 1832, p. o. add. 

Maiiiitivilli'. 
Krnncdv, L. b., FarnuM-and Dairyman, b. Montj^oniLM-y Co., N. Y., s. 1809, p. o, 

add. lirlb-vilb'. 
hum. H. A., b. .1,'nVrMon Co.. N. Y., s. 18:14. p. o. add. Mannsvilb'. 
Lr-tcr, K., lindt-rtaki-r, b. Columbia Co., N. Y., s. 18:J8, p. o. add. .^Imui'^vjllc. 
M.trtin, I.. A.. M.-nliant, b. J.-tTorsm Co., N. Y.. s. I8.i;i. p. o. add. Mannsville. 
Merrill, J. W.. Mi-nb. Tailor, b. Oneida Co., N. Y., 8. I821t, p. ...add. .Miinnsvillo. 
Miner, Cai't. J., itrt. Sa lor. b. Schoharie Co., N. Y., a. 1815, p. o. add. Mannsville. 
McLean, \V, C., Farmer and D lirym.ui, b. JellV-rson Co., N. Y., 8. 182.'», p. o. add. 

Klllsbiir^. 
Blendclt, II. U., Fiirmcrnnd Dairyman, b. Jeffereon Co., N. Y., 8. 18:i7, p. o. add. 

rii'in'|Hint Maimr. 
Martin, E. H.. Farmer aial Dairv man, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1817, ]>. o. add. 

Bell-'Vitb-. 
Nichols, D. F., baw Stuib-nt, b. J.-ffer«on Co., N. Y.,8. lS.jr., p.o. add. Mannsvllle. 
Noble, Mi-s. F. A., Seainstre-s, !'. .Jeffer!*oti (\i., N. Y., 8. ISl'J, p. o. ii<|d. Ellisbiirj,'. 
Noble, F. M., CiisbHii-IIonse Officer, b. Vermont, 8. 1842, p. o. atid. Kllifibur^'. 
Old", Samuel I'., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. I8.i7, p. o. add. 

rierrejiont Mantir. 
Toiler, o. S., CmnstT, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1828, p. o. add. Mannaville. 
I'leipont, \V.('. (retireill, b. New York City,s. 18l(j, p. o. add. Pierrep )Ut Manor. 
Pereoris, Khun, Farmerand Dairyman, b. Couuecticnl.s. lulO, p.o. add. KlIisburK. 
I'orson-, H. A., Farmer and Dair> man, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 18;i t, p. o. add. 

KlIi.sl.nrK. 
I'efsohs, J. \V., Retired Men-bant, h. Vermont, «. 1813, p. o. add. Mannaville, 
Pool, M. I.., Dressmaker, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., 8. 1SI5, p. o. adtl. Pierrepont 

Manor. 
Romin;;ton, Mrs A. D., Merchant, Now York City, b. Oswego Co., N. Y., s. 18G2, 

J), o. add. Maunsv.lle. 
K'-ga, John A., Pliysieiiin and Surgeon, b. Cermany, 8. 18Gi, p.o.add. IJelleville. 
Itounds, D. M., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferaon Co., N. Y., s. 1835, p. o. add. 

Mannsvilb'. 
Kogers, Jiinr s, Cheese-iMaker, b. Vermont, s. 1S5G, ]i. o. aild. Belleville. 
tSi.w. \\. II. II., Com. Srbouls, b. Jell. Co., N. Y., s. lK4n, p. o. add. Maunsville. 
Smth, D. K., Pastor Baptist Church, b. Otsego Co., N. Y., s. 1874, p. o. add. 

Mann-viile. 
Sweet, Bell M., Teacher, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y.,8. 185r», p. o. add. Mannsville. 
Sterling. H., Faniior and Dairy, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., s. 187(1, p. o. add. 

MantiHville. 
Shoecnifi, Jacob, Farmer anil I'airy, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., 8. 1823, p. o. add. 

]^Iann^ville. 
Sia8, K. T., Farmer and Dairy, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., e. 184\ p. o. add. Mannsville. 
Sawyer, A. H., Farmer and Dairy, b. N. Ilamp., s, 1821, p. o. add. fllannsville. 
Stearn?*, Ben,j. F., Farmer and Dairy, b. Jeffeison Co., N. Y., s. 1S29, p. o. add. 

Klli^burg. 
Steel, Ito^well M., Farmor and Dairy, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1823, p. o. add. 

Pterrepont Manor. 
Towslej. K. K., Attorney and Cou[iselor-at-Law, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 5. 1S38, 

I", o. aild. Mannsville. 
Thoni|)s >n, A. S., Physician and Surgeon, b. Lewis Co., N. Y., a. 185G, p. o. add. 

Klli-'burg. 
Van Wiuiner. .\. C, Farmer ami Dairyman, b. Jeffei-son Co., N. Y., s. 1825, p. o, 

ad<t. M nnsviile. 
Van Alsline, \Vm. K.. Keeper Life-Saving Station No. 1, 8th District, b. Onon- 

diga Co.. N. Y., s. IS43. p. o. add. Kllisbnrg. 
AVbetdei, .\ndrew A., Attorney and Counselor-at-Law, b. Jefferson Co., N Y., 

8. isitii, p. t». add. Mannsville. 
Wood, Stephen, Farnn-r and D.iiiyinan, b. Jeffereon Co., N. Y., s. 1822, p. o. add. 

Woodville. 
Wood, tJ. M., Proprietor Lake-View House, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., P. 1847, p. o. 

add. Woodville. 
Wood, Kpenetus, Farmer and Hop Grower, b. Sanitogn, N. Y., 8. 1811, p.o. add. 

Woodville. 
Wood, Honice, Farmer and Cheese- Maker, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 1827, p. 0. 

a-ld. Woodvdle. 
Wood, Nalli'l. Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 181G, p. o. odd. 

W iville. 

Waniwell, .'^ani'i, Farmer and Dairyman, b. K. I., s. 1828, p. o. add. Itlannsvillo. 
\V..ud ird,0., Harness-Maker, b.Jeffei-son Co., N. Y.,8. 1827, p.o. add. Pierrepont 

Manor. 
Williams, P. L.. (i-ru'ral Produce Merchant, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 183G, p. o. 

add. PieiTe|)ont Man:)r. 
Wodell, A. U., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeffei-son Co., N. Y., 8. 1820, p. o. add. 

Klli-bur-. 
Williams, \Vm. II. H., Fai-mer and Dalrymin, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 181G, \i. 

o. ad. I. Adams. 
Web-iter, A. K., Far. and Dairy, b. Jefferaon Co., N. Y., s. 1817, p. o. add. Adjims. 
Wodell. 1. P., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 1837, p. o. add. 

Ellisburg. 
Wood, K., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 1811, p. o. adil. Woodville. 
Wood, Simeon T., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y.,8. 1K21, p. o. 

a<ld Woodville. 
Youngs, W. II., Miller, b. Wayne Co., N. Y., 8. 18TG, p. o. add. Mannsville. 

40 



HENDERSON. 

Abbott, Mi-s. L., Farm-r, b. N. Y.. s. ]s41. p. o. add. Sm thville. 

Abbott, v., Farmer retired i, b, Madison Co., s. lS4n, p. o. add. Bishop 9t. 

Boycc, Capi. 1). L., Lake Capt., b. .lell". Co., s. 18 (n, p. <>. arid. Henderson. 

IJassett, A. D., Farmer, b. Jetl. Co., s. 18:J2, p. o. adil. Hendeison. 

Boyce, Cajil. W., Lake rii])t. and Farmer, b. Jeff. Co..s. 1S24, p.o. add. Henderson . 

Bunnei, lieo.. Farm -r. b. t;eiM*Hee Co., 8. bs.)", p. o. add. Hendersi»n. 

Babbitt, (_;eo.. Farmer and ex-Sheriff, b. .letT. Co., 8. 1SI«, p. u. add. Smilhvillo. 

Daniey, L. M., Farmer, b. Jeff. « 'n., g. lS2i., p. o. add. Henderson. 

Barnev, A. C, Farmer, p. o. add. Smllhville. 

Bickford, Abel, Farmer, b. N. Y., s. 1H71, p. o. ad. I. Belleville. 

Cole, Jjiiathiiii, Farmer, !■. Windham, Conn., s. IHIG, p. ... iid.l. Belb-ville. 

Carpenter, II. K., Fanner, b. Jeff. Co.. s. IH32, p. o. add. Belleville. 

Clark, Geo. W., Farmer (relired ), b. Washington Co., s. 1K(I5, p. ... add. Bellcvitlo. 

Clark, Mre. Geo. W. (retire.ll, b. Jeff. Co.. «. IH(l7, p. o. a id. Belleville. 

Collins, Ceo. W., Farmer, b Jell". Co., s. 1823, p. o. aild. Ihshop ^t. 

Crittf-nion, Jaa. A., Fanner and .V'-se'Sor, b. Ji-ff. C(».,8. 182.'>, p.o.add. Smith v die. 

Clark. K. J., Farmer, b. Jeff. C.*., s. ls42, p. o. a-id. Belleville. 

Conistock, Wm. H., Carri ige and Wagon Mnt'r., b. Warron Co., 8. 18;18, p. o. add. 

Herub-rw..n. 
Dobson, Win., Faiuier, b. Jeff. Co., s, 181-^, p. o. add. Henderson. 
Dobstfn, John, Farmer and A'tMe^sor, b. Oindda (>'o., 8. isl2, p. o. add. Henderson. 
Doilge, Jo'-I, Farmer, b. Herkim -r Co., h. 1843, p. m. iidd. IIenden»oii. 
Davis S. H., Book-ki'eper on Steamer St. Louis, Smithville, b. Jetl. Co., ». 1841, 

p. o. add. Smithville. 
Davis, Mrs. S. H., SmitliVille, b. I*<'wis (N.., w. 1S44, p. o. add. Smillivdb-. 
Davis, W. P., Farmt^r, Smitliv)lle, b. N. Y., s. 1S2."., p. o. a.ld. Sniilhville. 
Kggluston, (apt. (has.. Lake ('apt., I». Jell*. Co., s. IH22, p. o. ad.l. lleii.lci'son. 
tiriney, C. W.. Miller, b. J.-ff. Co., f. 1n42, p. o. a.ld. Henderson, 
(iilman, John, Farmer, b. Onondaga t^*., s. iHiiS, p. o. ad.l. Ilondorson. 
tJilnian, Mrs. John, b. Jeff. Co., s. ISilG, p. o. a.ld. llenriei-aon. 
CnggH, Wni. S., Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., s. 1« ID, p. u. add. Sinthvillo. 
Giiggs, >ewell, Farmer, b. X. V., s. I84S, p. o. add. Smithville. 
Huogertord, Capt. W., Lake t.'aptain, b. Oneid.t Co., N. Y., 8. 1S14, p.o. a.ld. 

Henderson. 
Hill, Iliiaiii, F.irmer, Smitliville, b. Washington Co., N. Y., s. I8b7, p. o. add. 

Smithville. 
Hill, Mia. Hiram, Smithville. b. Jefferson Co., N. V., s. 18(J7, jt. o. a.I.I. Sm tbvilb-. 
Hall, .Airs. K. J., Farmer, b. Jefferson C..., X. Y., s. 18:^4, p. ... ad.l. Sniitliv.lle. 
Ilollis, 11. W. & Co., Dealer- in Drugs, Chemicals, Paint-, an.l l>ds. Patent Med- 
icines, Groceries, Fancy Articles, etc., b. Oswego Co., N. V., s. 1874, p. o. 

add. ll.*nders ui. 
Joiner, Kile H., Retired Farmer, b. Old Decrlield, Mass., b. 1805, p. o. add. Hon- 

del son. 
Johnson, Fales, Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1811, p. o. add. Ilen.lerson. 
Johnson, Mi^. Fales, b. JetVeinon Co., N. Y., 8. 18111, p. o. add. Hi-n<b-|-son. 
Jones, 11. M., Uet. Farmer, b. Oneida Co., X. Y., s. IM.13, p. o. mhl. Smithville. 
Jones, 11. W., F.irmer, b. J.db-r^on Co., X. Y., s. 1844, p. .». add. Smithville. 
Joiner, Capt. O. B., Lake Capt., b. Jeff. CV)., N. Y., s. 1832, p.o.add. Henderson. 
Kemp, Henry, Fanner, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 18-t2, p. o. add. Henderson. 
Lelhngwell, \. M., Attoniey-at-LAW, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1842, p. o. add. 

Ileriilei-son. 
Letlingwell, U., Farmer and Chocse-niaker, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 18U5, p. o. 

add. lienderM.n. 
Lane, Tli.tni;is, Farmer, b. Enghin'l, e. 1832, p. o. add. Hendereon. 
Lane, Mrs. Tboitias (deceased), b. Krigland, s. 18.{.'», 

Mooily, K ui/.aw. Farmer, b. Jefferson I'o., X. Y., 8. 1822, p. o. add. Hend^rflon. 
Moody, Mrs. Uauxaw, firet wh te child born in the county, in Watertowu, b. 

Jeff'i-son Co., N. Y., s. 18UI, p. «.. a'ld. llendei-son. 
Mather, Wni., Farmer, b. Jeffei-son ("o., N. Y., s. 1SJ4, p. o. add. Belleville. 
Myrick, O. S., Fanner and .Vssessor, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1825, p. o. a.ld. 

Hemlerson. 
Mather, Slilo S., Farmer, b. Jeffei^on (x>., X. Y., 8. 1821, p. o. add. Bishop st. 
Mather, Simeon, Farmer, p. o. add. Belleville. 

Xutting, 8. II., Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., s. 18(1, p. n. add. Hendei-son. 
Nutting, W. K., Farmer, b. Chenango Ui., X. Y'., s. 18i;t. p, ... a.M. Ib-nderson. 
Nulling, M. .\., Chee-e-nikr., b. Jefferson Co., X. Y.,8. lS4u, p. o. adii. Henderson. 
Nugent, Dr. D. B., Physician, b. Canada, s. I8.'.t!. p. o. a<ld. Hendi-r^on. 
Penney. Capt. B., Lake Capt., b. Jeff.-i-son t^o., X. Y., s. I82«, p. o. add. Hender-'on. 
Pettingill, Jaa. X., Farmer, b. Jeffi-rson Co., X. Y., s. 18.1% p. o. add. Heiider-on. 
Parker, Davi.l, Fanin*r, b. Middb-sex Co., Ma.ts., s. 1814, p. o. a^ld. Henderson. 
Penney, J.irvi-', Fanner, b. Jefferson Ch»., X. Y., ^. 1822, p. o. a<ld. Hendei-son. 
Itice, W. H., P.-M. and Genl. Dealer in Mdse., Smilhv. Me, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 

s. 183U, J), o. add. Smithville. 
Reader, Geo., Farmer, b. EnglamI, ». 18.'>5, p. o. add. Henderson, 
llobbins, A. W*., Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 1812, p. o. a.ld. Hemlerson. 
Seab>ii, Leonard, Farmer, b. Jelb-reori Co., N. Y., s. 1827, p. o. add. Hendenjun. 
Sprague, A. A., Refd Sea Capt., b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 18(>(;, p. o. add. Hernler^on. 
Spragne. V. H., Merchant and Justice of the Peace, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 1841, p. 

o. add. Henderson. 
Simmons, C. L., .Merchant, b. Washtenaw, Mich., 8. IS.^!), p. o. add. Henderson. 
Scott, A. B., Farmer, b. St. Lawrence C^i., N. Y., 8. 18.(7, p. o. add. Henderson. 
Sperry,Capt. 1>. K., Farmer, b. Xew Haven, Conn., s. 1807, i>. o. add. Hendeison. 
Scat.iii, B. ('., Fanner, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 182.5, p.o.add. Hemlersfm. 
Seelyc, Mr-. Wealthy Ann, Propr. ol' Smithville Hotel, Smithville, b. Jefferson 

Co., X. Y., 8. 1*830, p. o. i»itd. Smithville. 
Smith, Harvey, Farmer, s, 18U5, p. o. add. Bishop st. 
Siiomons, L. B., Farmer. 

Wilkinson, Sila.^ Farmer, b. Montg'y Co., N. Y., 8. 1S(M), p. o. add. Hendera.m. 
Whitney, M. J., Farmer, b. Jeff, rsoii Co.. X. Y., -. 1S4 t, [.. o. add. H. inbrMm. 
Warner", Capt. .1 S., Uetiied Sea Cttpt., b. Van Rensselaer Co., X. Y., s. 1812, p.o. 

ad.l. lIe:i.b-i-!^on. 
Wilkiiis .n. Wm., Retired Farmer, b. Saratoga Co., N. Y.,s. 18t>6, p.o. add.Hen- 

dei-son. 
Wallace. James, Farmer, b. J.-fferson Co., N. Y., a. 1827, p. o. add. Henders-.n. 
Wbitnev, Geo. C, Farmer, b Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 1818, p. o. add. Heiiders-.n. 
Wilds, W. 11., Resident, Smithville, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., a. 1814, p. o.add. 

Smithville. 
Wallace, Klla M., Farmer, h. N. Y., p. o. add. Ilenderson. 
\Yarner, H. K. 

Wallace, Susan J. . „ . 

York, A. H., Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y.,8. 1825, p. o. add. Henderson. 



HOUNSFIELD. 

"Allen, L. F.. Farmer, b. .b-ff. C... s. bv;i, p. ... add. K. Ibainsfield. 
Biles M M Fann.T (.i"«'t"»"''K h. M:ws., s. D*02, p. o. add. Slowell st.or. _ 
Bak.r O \V, Fanner ami M-rcbant, b. Jeff.Co.,9. 1827, p. o. add. Stowell 8 Cor. 
Biiminer.Il.i'.. Fanner, b.Jetr.Co.,8. 18:;G,p.o.add. K.Houn^fi-bl 
Baker. J.. Fanner ( retin-d). b. Jeff. Co., s. 1803, p. o. ndd Stowell s (^.r. 
Blood, Suel, Farmer ^rclired^, b. N. H., s. 1812, p. o. add. h. Honush- Id. 



586 



HISTORY OF JEFFP:RS0N COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Bpnjinian.SylvostiT, FKmier, b. Jrlf. Co., a. IHK, p. o. add. E. Iloiinsfield. 

Broiullniit, Tlitis., Fiiniiirnnd Mnfr.. b. Eiii:., s. IS47. p. o. ndil. Di-xicr. 

Ciinfl.-lil, Tlico., Cap tulist. b. .Iiff. dy., ». 1»it, p. i.. .idd. .Siii.k.t'« Iliiibi.r. 

Culliiif, I/. 11 , 1'np. Kvi'lrit-h llcmsc, b.-Ii'll'. Ci.., ». ISJll, p n. iidil. Sacket'ii Harbor. 

C>ii>i|i». W. H., l>riiK!,'<"<, b. .Ii-IT. (:■!., p. II. ndil. Siu lipt's Hnibor. 

CHiiipbcli. Mph. .bitu- A. (riMiri tl), b, .(rff. Co., B.IKIT, p. u. luUi. Sacket'u H»rbor. 

Cluv.liiiiil, P., Fiirnior, b, .leff. C.i., b. 18JK, p, n. mill. E. Ilouiisfiilil. 

CViiikliii, T. (-'., Knrnier. b. .letf. (Vj., p. IS'i-S, p. u. jiild. limurivilli'. 

i'oiikJiii. \. S., KarnuT, b. .Ii>IT. Co., 9. ls:):i, p. o. add. lirowiivilk'. 

he \\'<Al'. I». ()., Dt-put.v Col. Cu-toms .S. Harbor, Brct^OerUanldai t and otlicr fine 

Stuck, b. Cayiipi. s. 1SI7, p. o. add. S. Harbor. 
naviiNoii, 3Ini. S. .1., Kurmer, b. Eiif?., s. IS^tS. p. o. add. S. Harbor. 
IMniiii-k, O., K.irllHT(rt*lirpdl, b, OnoiubiKft Ok. h. !«•.;*;. i». o. add. S. Harbor. 
Diiiiiick, .lay, Faniii'r ami Muclianir, li. .li-ff. Co., R. 1H27, p. o. add. Sto« ell's Cor. 
Kvilo lib, li , (icn'l Hardware, b. Eng., ». WH, p. o. adil. S. llarlKjr. 
Edwanln, Mrs. H. H., Farmi>r (retired 1, b. .b-IT. Co., «. 18:12. p. o. add. S. Harbor. 
Evan-, E.. KarniiT, b, .Ji-ll*. Co., 8. ls:w. p. o, add. Brownvdli-, 
Fox, M. 1.., Fallnor, b, .leff. Co., B. 182.1, p. o. add. S. Harbor. 
KiobI, II./,ikiiili. Fanner, b. .Ii-II. Co., b. 1»1I, p. o. add. E. Ifounisfield. 
Fost«'r. .\lbert. Fanner and Blnl'r., b. Jeff. Co., p. o. add. Dexter. 
O Itilore. Capt. H. O., Itelired Lake Capt. and Fanner, b. Vt., 8. lB2r,, p. o. add. 

Dexler. 
Green, D. II., Farmer, b. .leff. Co.. N. Y., 9. W£i. p. o. add. E. IIolinBfteld. 
IlolKei-B. S. X.. Fanner, b. Ma^s., 8, IWIS, p. o. add. .S. Harbor. 
Ilai!le«o..d, J. 51., F.iriuer, li. .left. Co., N. Y., s. 1M4. p. o. add. S. Harbor. 
Iliill, Ira. 

InRl. liarl, C. \V„ Cipitali-t, b. SI. L. Co., N. T., ». 1814, p. o. add. S. Harbor. 
Mvennole, F. M., Fanner, b. Jeft. Co., N. Y., 8. 1824, p. o. add. E. llouusfleld. 
Lcc, 1.. (!., Fanner, b. .leff. lo., S. Y., s. 1821, p. o. add. Uexli r. 
SIcCnIlork, D. (lelired). b. JlasK., 8. 18211. p. o. add. S. Harlior. 
MeekB. N,, Fanner and Keeper ol Llglit-boiise, b. Eng., 8. 18;:fi, p. o. add. S. 

Harbor. 
MeWavne, .1. A., Fanner, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 18:!.1, p. o. add. S. Harbor. 
MiKee, 0. K., Farmer, b. .leff. Co., N. Y., s. 18ti, p. o. add. s. Harbor. 
McMnllen, J. H., Prop, of Mill, and Miller, b. Jell. Co., N. Y., s. 18:1'.), p. o. add. 

S. Harbor. 
Jlomeliian, K. P., Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 1809, p. o, add. S. Harbor. 
Mai'Hli, A., Farmer, b. Eng., 8. Is4:t, ji. o. add. AdninB Centre. 
Matterson. F., Fanner and owner of llambletoiiian, Bndd Doble Cult, b. Jeff. 

C.I., N. Y., ». l,S:il), p. o, add. S. Hai Iwr. 
Meldoon, L., Farmer, b. Eng., s. 18;j.^, p. o. a''d. Urownville. 
Nort'.n, 1,. W., Fanner, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8, 1844, p. o. aihl. K. Honnslield. 
Phillips. W. li.. Fanner, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8. 18^1, p. o. add. S. Harbor. 
Plielp», J. \V., FarmiT, b. Jeff. G)., N. Y., 8. 1821, p. o. add. S. Harbor. 
Potter, I*. C. , Farmer and Clieese Mnfr., b, Onondaga Ct>., N. Y,, 8. 1845, p. o. add. 

S. Ilarlior. 
Pettit. Mrs. M. ('., Farmer, b. Eng., s. 183:i, p. o. aild. S. Harbor. 
Pea-e, II. v.. Fanner, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., p. 1821, p. o. adil. S. Harbor. 
I'arsons. Tbos., Farmer, b. Kng., 8. 18:i4, p. o. add. S. Harbor. 
Potter, N. 11., Farmer, b. Jeff. C..., N. Y., i-. 182(1, p. o. add. Brownville. 
KobbiiM, M. (►.. Fanni-r, b. Jeffeison Co., 8. 182(1, p. o. add. S. Harbor. 
Kickerson, E., Fanner, b. Jeffer-on Co., 8. 184;t, p. o. add. S. liar bor. 
Kessegne, hard.. Fanner, b. ,lener8on Ctr,, s. 182 (, p. o. aiiii. S. Harbor. 
Kober(»,Sr ml.. Farmer and lllacksmitb, b. WaleB.8. 184:!, p. o. aibl. E. Honnslield. 
Kieli-trilsori, .1., Farmer, b. Jeller.(on Co., 8. 1821, p. add. StowellH Corners. 
S.vnionds, F., Farmer, b. J' n-r^on Co., s. 18.">j, \t. o. add. S. Harbor. 
Symond-, M. C, FarimT, b. .leffer-8on Co., 8. 18:i(i, p. o. adil. S. Hirrbor. 
Spieer, Jtio., Fatnrer- (retired), b, (llsego Co.. 8. 18U.'i, p. o. add. S. Hai bor. 
Smith, F. K., Fanner, b. Jefferson Co., ». 184S, p. o. add. Wntertoun. 
Skinner, Elbert, Fanner, b. Jefferson Co., 8. 18411. p. o. add. Brownville. 
Slater, Sanih, Farmer, b. Canada, s. 18:17, p. o. add. Brownville. 
Tyler, Dr. W. E., Ph.VBieian and Surgeon, b. Jeff. Co., s. 1812, p. o. add. S. Harbor. 
Thompson, S. K., Merrhant and Farmer-, b, Jetf. Co., s. 184.1, p. o. add. S. Harbor. 
TreiiiHtn, ti. \V., Farmer, b. JelTerson (,'0., 8, 1822, p. o. add S, Harbor. 
ThomiMon, M. P., Farmer, b. Jefferson t.'o., 8, 18;i2, p. o. add. S. Harbor, 
Wilson, .\. .1., Karmei', b. Jefferson Co.. b. 183-"i, p. o. add. Ilniwnville. 
AVa-shbiirn, Dyer, Dealer in fine Blooded Horses and Cattle, b. Cayuga Co., 8. 

1824, p. o. add. S. Harbor. 
Wills, (i. M., Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., 8. 18211, p. o. add. Stowell's Corners. 
Warren, Wm., Proji. Half- Way House and Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., s. 1828, 

p. o. add. E. Ilonn-tield. 
^Vilder, Capt. I'bilo D., ( apt. Schooner " Nelly Wilder," b. Jefferson Co., s. 18:19, 

p. o. add. S. Harbor. 



LE RAY. 

AntIer!*on, V. S., Fiirmi-r, h. Ohw.-;;;^ (^.., N. Y., h. IN.'.?, \k n. aiM. Evan'*' Mills, 
lif-lit-e, Will., Fsinni-r, b Jefli'innii Co., N. Y,, s. \ti2.'}, p. o. mid. Kvuns' Mills. 
ItiiMios, Gniciii. FtirnuT, li. .IflTcimm ('»»., N. Y., s. iSS^i, i>.o,iuM. Kvmis' Mills. 
JtiiriM-B, Osr-ar W., FHrmr-r, b. .U-fT. Co., N. Y.. s. 1K.V^ p. o. nM. Kvuns' Mill-. 
Bhiiiii, Absiiluin. Fiuuut, b. lliM-kiiiicr Cd., N. Y., o. I8:i7, ii. o. iidil. Kvaiin' Mills. 
}tj(nii-H, H. W., FiiKiHT, b. JctTi'iHon Co., N. Y., h. 1S4G, p. o. iidil. Kvsiiis' MilU. 
Coiiti.viii.tn, AIpx., Fiuiiicr iiml M(r. uf Whu^iib uiid Ciii'iiitg4-8, b. Ilorkiiiiei' Co., 

N. Y., H. 18-3, p. n.juhl. l*Hiiii'liii Four Cunicra. 
Cory, ('. W., Fai mor mitt Liiiic-bin inr, b. Jt-fft-i-sun Co., N. Y., «. 1820, p. o. add. 

Wutt'ilown. 
CroisMiiiii, F. K., .Sup'TviHor, iitid Ti-b-gnijih Opi-nitor, Kvaii«' Mills, b. JclTi*i-Hon 

('..., N. Y., h. IS.Vi, p. u. iKld. Kvaim" Millrt. 
Cook, A. M., Mcicbuiit, Kvitiin' iMills, b. AlUuiy, N. Y., e. I80O, p. o. add. Kvniin^ 

MillM. 
Couveim*, !►. T.. rirortr mid Druggist, Kvuns' MilW, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y.,8. 1824, p. 

o. ndil. Kvanrt' 3tillB. 
Cnrtci , \l. F., Fill iii.r, b. .b fr.rsuii d'., N. Y., h. 1«-I."i. p. o. iidd. Kvuns' MillM. 
Ciir>, Klijiib, Fill HUT UTtin-d), b. N. II., b. isiri. p. o. mid. ^NuHoidV Cuviu'i-h. 
Cory, Jiiuu*-. FiiniKir, b. .b-ffi-iHoii Cn., N. Y., ». l«lit, p. o. lubLSiinlord'n CurtM-n*. 
Croaii, AsbfT, FitniuT (n-lircd', b. UucksCo., I'ii.,n. IsdM, p. o, luld. liliitk Hivcr. 
Cory, t'nrtis, FiiniuT mid Itiiii vimm, b. Ji-fl. Co., N. Y., ». 1h3H, u. o. add. I'vlt'tt 

MillH. 
I>av<>ii]H)i-t, P, W., FiininT. b. licwis C^i., N. Y., «. ISM, p. o. add. Kvans' Mills. 
DexltT. llcnryC, Faiiiur, Ubick Uivcr, b. Jt-ft. Co.,>. V., ». 18.V.t,p, o. mbl. lllick 

Uivor. 
PrxtiT. SliiuNjn, FarriHT, Itbuk Kivcr, b. Mhb*., h. 18-14, p. o. add. Blark Uivcr. 
lUnibiii. TboH., Kiiriii.T, b. .Irff. I'l,.^ N. Y., m. iNll, p. o. add. Satifuid's Corners. 
Hilbiibf. k, John S.. Farnur, b. IK-rk. Co., N. Y., ». IH:i.\ \>. o. add. Kvana" Stills. 
DfXtci, v., »V Son. p. •'. add. llhuk Uivcr. 
FoibcM, Will.. I'rop. Buck llnhd, Evhiib' 3lill«, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y.,b. 1840, 

II. o. add. Kvunn' MilN. 
Forhm, Adam. Fittiiicr, b. ili>rkim<r Hi., X. Y , 8. IKHJ, p. o. add. Kvani*' Mills, 
Fox, John M., Fitrnier, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., ». I8:il, p. o. add. Kvhhn' MilU. 
Fiken, Jacob, Fanner, b. llcrkinier Co., N. Y., «. It24, p. o. add. I'uiiiidia Four 

Corncn*. 
Fi-k, Kaiiiid, Faiim-r, b. Monlgomci-y Co., N. Y., b. 18:i7, p. o. add. Kviui»' Milln. 
Fuller, Ceo. II., Fariiier, b. Miiiw., b. 18.'i", p. n. add. WaIcrt*iWii. 
Fuller, .1. F., Farmer, b. JerTonion Co., N. Y., 8. 1814, p. o. add. Sanfurd > Coin-rB. 



Gardner, Maria, Farmer, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., n. 1820, p.n.add. Sterlingvillf*. 
Ganiner, George, Farmer (retired;, b. Keiieeelaer Co., N. Y., a. IWS, p. o. add. 

SterlJngville. 
Gardner, Joel, Farmer (retired}, b. C<dunibin Co., N. Y., 8. 18t)4, p. o. add. Evann' 

Mills. 
Gardner, Sumncl, Fariiicr, b. Jt-fTi-rwin Co., N. Y., «. 1834, p. o, add, Evnna' Mills. 
Gould, S. N., FnriiKT uiid l>airying, b. JuHeraua Cw., N. Y., b. 1840, p. o. add. 

Evans* SiillH. 
Helmer, Ibilip. Fiiiintr (retired^ Evans' Mills, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., b. 1836, 

p. o. adil. Eviuim' Millr>. 
Ilolbroi'k.C. I.. I'rup. Anieriran Mills, Evans' Mills, b. Jiffereon Co., N. Y., «. 

184'>, p. o. add. Evans' Mills. 
Hoover. Peter, Firmer (retired), b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., B. 1810, p. ©. add. 

Evans' Milln. 
Hoover, AInuda E., Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., e. 18:h, p. o. add. Evans' Mills. 
Hardy, IMiineas, Farmer (retireil), Ulack Uiver, b. N. 11., a. 1814, p. o. add. Ithiek 

Uivcr. 
Hardy, Havid, Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., X. Y., s. 1824. p. o. adri. Sjinf.mra Comers. 
ililnier, Jacob, Ftirnier, b. Herkimer Co., X. Y., s. 18:U, p. o. add. Evann' Mills. 
Helmer. Cilbert, Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., ». 1S39, p. o. add. Kvuiis' Mills. 
Iliirt. (b-o. 11., Farmer (retired', b. II. I., h. 18^4, p. <■. add. Feli'H Mills. 
Hinds, lantlia C, Farmi-r, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y.. s. \Ki.\ p.o. add. Saiif^rd's Corners. 
Hazelton, (Jenr^re C., Farmer and Justice of the I'eace, b. St. Lawrence Co., N. 

Y., .-. U4:>. p. o. add. Bla. k Uiver. 
H'br-rt, Jidin U., Karnier (deceased), b. Fninrp, s. 1813. 

Hebeit, Clias. D.. Faiiiier.J.. J-ff. Co., N. Y., s. 18:11, p. o. add. SanfonPs Cnrners. 
Iver-i, George, U., W. & O. K. R. Agent, Evans' Mills, b. Mass., 8. 1800, p. 0. add. 

Evans' Slills. 
Iiigmbani, H.. p. o. add. Ulack River. 
Jones, b. E., Pbysiciati and Surgeon, Evans' Milh, b. Otsego Co., 8. 1848, p. o. 

add. Kvaiis' Mills. 
Kellc-r. Ueiiben. Retired Fanner, b. Herkimer Co , Jf. Y., s. 1819, p. o. add. 

Evans' MilN. 
Keller, J.din. Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., t*. 1844, p.o. add. Elans' MiIIh. 
Keller, I>avid. Fanner, b. JelTrsoii Co., N. Y.,8. 1842, p. o. add. Kvans' Mills. 
Keller, Iriiac H., Ret. Fmr., b. Hurk. Co., N. Y , s. 1831, p. o. add. Ev^ms" Mills. 
LawioiH-e, Ji.culi, Farmer, b. Saiatogu Co., N. Y., s. 1823, p. o. add. Panielia 

Four Cornel's. 
Lawrence, Angevine, Farmer, b. Saratoga Co., N. Y., s. 1823, p. o. add. Evana* 

Mills. 
Liiry, Henry, Farmer, b. Jefferson Co.. N. Y., s. 1822, p. o. nd<l. AVateitown. 
Lacy, Ijewis H., Fanner, b. .lefft-rs.in Co . N. Y., s. 18.'> 1, ]i. o. add. Walertown. 
Lobdelt, Cbas.. Farmer and Daiiy liiitn, b. Ilel kinier i'o., N. Y., 8.18.:4, p. o. add. 

Evans' Mills. 
Moslier, Leonard, Retired Farmer. Le Rayville, b. Albany, N. Y., s, 1810, p. o. 

Hdil, l.e Ka\vill^'- 
Mo.-bcr, :\Iartlia, Ketin-d Farmer, Le Rayville, b Saratoga Co., N. Y., b- 1822, p. 

o. add. Le Rayville. 
Marsball, A. F.. I'ai. iUid .Mfr. of Rending Marbines, Black River, b. Jefferson 

Co.. N. Y., H, 18-J.\ p.o. add. Black River. 
Martin, W. S., Fanner, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., *. 1849, p. 0. add. Evans" Mills. 
Matte.«nii. C. S., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Otsego Co., N. Y., s. 1834, p. o. add. 

Siiiiford's Cormrs. 
Mever, Clias. J., Viideitaker and Dealer in Furnilnre, Evans' Mills, b. Lewla 

Co., N. Y., a. iSli'i, p. o. add. Evans' Mills. 
Ostnin.ler, L. C., Fanner, b. JetTeinun Co.. N. Y.. s. 1849, p. o. add. Evans' Mills. 
Paul, K. L.. Farmer, b. Herkimer ('■.., N . Y., s. 1H47. p. o. a<td. Evans' Mills. 
Poor, M., Mercbant an<l Farmer, Black River, b. Jefterson Co., N. Y., s. 1822, 

p. o. add. Black River. 
Porter, Benj. S., Fanner, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8. 18:18, p. o.add. Sanford's Corners. 
I'orter. S. S., Fa' tner and Dairyman, b. Jeffeinon Co., N. Y,, s. 1817, p. o. add, 

Bla< k River. 
Pierce, Jnnepli, Fai mer (deceased*, b. Vt., s. 1821. 
Ruli.'^on, W)^lev, Druj.'ciHi and Giucer, Evana' Mills, b. Jefferson Co., K. Y., 8. 

18-12, p.o". add. Evans" Mills. 
Roberts. Steplien, Farnur, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1815, p. o. add. Le Rayville. 
Robeits, S. C., Fat mer, b. Jefferson ('o.. N. Y., s. 1841 , p. o. add. Felfs Mills. 
Ri.li;trdM>n, J 110, A.. Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N.Y..S.1S18. p. (j.ad.l. Black River. 
Rider, C. 0,, Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y.. 8. 1821, p. o.add. Sanford's Corners. 
Rogers, Wol. -\., Farmer. U. Jeffirson Co., N. Y., s. 1832. p. <». adtl. Evans' Mills. 
Scott, Lawrence, Manufacturer Li mbiirger Clieese and Farmer, b. Herkimer Co., 

N. Y., s. 1842, p. o. add. Evans' Mil!-:. 
Slack, M. G., Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1819, j).o. add. SanfonPs Corners. 
Scoir. Reuben, Farnii r, b. Jeff, rson Co.. N. Y.,b. 181.'"i, p.o.Hfbl.Sanlonl'sC.irners. 
Stewart. Danford, Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y.,8. 1820, p. o.add. Evans' Mills. 
Steiubilber. (i. W., Farmer, b. Jeffer<on Co., N.Y.,8. 1842, p. o. add. Evans' Mills. 
Sbiniiuel, Jlorgan, Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 1832, p. o.add. Evans' Mills. 
Stewart, Sinili E., Farmer, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., s. 1839, p. o. add. Pameliii 

Foui' Cornens. 
Tascott, Cbas., Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 18.31, p. o, add. Sanford's Cors. 
Vebber, C. E., E.\-Propiietor Brick Hotel, Evans' Mills, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 

M. 18:5(i, p. o. add. Evans' Mills. 
Vebber, Alfred. Farmer, Carpenter, and Joiner, b. Fninklin Co., N. Y., 8. 1808, 

p. o. add. Evans' Mills. 
Vun Gineiiigen, Jfbii, Reslaunint, Evans' Mills, b. Switzerland, 8. 185r>, p. 0. 

add. Evans' Mills. 
Van Riacklin, Abrani, Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y.,8. 1820, p. o.add. Evans' Mills. 
Van Brackbn, Alex. II. (deceased >, s. 1810. 
Waddingbam, KianU, Ilanie-s .Manufacturer, Evans' Mills, b. England, 8. 1855, 

p. o. a.ld. Evans' Mdls. 
Warren, L. M.. Pn-priet-.r Lockport Mills, Black River, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 

8 IH.JC. p. o. atld. Black Itiver. 
Walntlb, Josepb, Manulnrtnrer Wiignns and Carriages, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 

s. 1S;17, p. o. add. Evans' Mills. 
Walmth, I»aac, Farmer, b. Monrg'v Co., N. Y., s. 1824, p. o. add. Evans' Mills. 
Wafiil, Henry J , Farmer, b. Jeffern'on Co., N. V, c. I«;i7. p. o.add. Le Rayvdie. 
We. li. Aiis'Ti, FariiKT, b. .I<!ir. Co., X. Y., s. 1812, p. u. atlil, Sanfonl's Corners. 
Woobv. vScliu\ler, Fanner, b. L-wis Co., N. Y., s. 1830, p. u. add. Evans' Mills. 
Wilcux. W. S.; p o. add. Bliirk Uiver. 

Zimniernian, Mi, Mnfr. Wle el Horse-Rakes, Evans' Mills, b. Jefferson Co., 
>i. Y., 8. 1838, p. o. add. Evans' Mills. 



LORRAINE. 

Adams, W. M., CliceBo-niuker, b. Jeff. Co., N. T., 8. 1840, p. o. add, Lorraine, 
llailey, Henry, Farmer and U. S. Loan Coininlssiotier, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 

1821, p. o. add. Adam8. 
Babcorli, / It, I'hvNteian and Surgeon, b. Keliseelaer Co., N. T., 8. 1823, p, o. 

add. l,..rniiiie. 
Brown, II. iii.v M., Land (Ovrier and nnjker, b. Jefferson Co., N, Y,, s. 1830, p, o. 

add. I.iiri'aine. 
llisliop, .Miv. .1. K., Billow of llie late Hev. J, K. Ui.liop, l>, Jeffcnwu Co., N, Y., 

8. 181(1, p. o. add. I.ormine. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



587 



nartlett, J. 11., Fjirnutr and Dairyman, b. Jeffenjoii Co., S. Y., 8. 184G, p. o. add. 

BttincB, ('. .(., Fiirincr and Pruduce Deiilur, b. JufTeraon C'n.. N. Y., s. 184J, p. o. 

li'ld. rii-ricpiiiir IMaiior. 

Hailiy. Cal-h, Fur r. I.. .Iffft-r-foii Ci)., N. Y., 8. IHil, p. o. add. Maiinavillc. 

Itiiiilcit, <'ti iiu-t>,v !>., Fanner and l)aii->mati, b. Uiiuldu Cu., M. Y., s. liS-J'J, p. o. 

add. Lorniim*. 
1'haHii, V. W.. Farmer, b. J.-nVrton Co., N. Y., «. lH:ifi, p. o.add. Adams. 
Curiiwcll, A. K., FaniKT and i>airynian, b. Jidl'eiiiuii Ci»., N. Y.,8. 1844, p.o.add. 

Adanii. 
(Jaulkiii-', U. A., Farinor and ^.lirymaii and Asso^sor, b. Jcffi'r-:oii Co., X. Y., s. 

is;;:i, p. o. add. Lorniiii<*. 
Fox, fii'oi-;;^ A., Farmer, Uairvman, and Cbcest-makor, b. Jt-ffenjon Co., N. Y., 

a. 1S14, p. o. a'Id. Lorniior. 
Fit/j:''rald, J. W., Fai inrr, b. Jfff'Twoii Cak, N. Y., t». \MX p. o. aild. Lorraine. 
(JardiiiT, Simtii'l D., FarouT. Ip. Itorksbiro, m. Islj, p, o, atbl. Man'i«ville. 
Uardtn-r, 11. .\., Farniyr and Chucisu-makui', b. JuflTLTsun Co., N. Y., a. 184G, p. o. 

add. Marintiviilu. 
tliUctt. .\. H.. Cbw'f-rnakiT, b. Ji-ffi-nion Co., N. Y., s. 1S41, p. o. ad I. Lorraine. 
L 'Wory, Lon-ri/.o, Karniwr and Dairyman, b. Ji'irur:ion Co., N. Y., 8. 1SI.\ p. v. 

aihl. Maiitts%'i]|«>. 
Lamsuri. K. K., FarnuT and Dairyman, b. JcfTnion Co., N. Y., «. 18 19, p, o. add. 

PiiTrcpiml Manor. 
Moon-. <'. ('.. .MiTdiant and Supervi-ior, b. Warron Co., N. Y., 8. \MG, p. o. add. 

Iiorraim*. 
(Hils, .K-ronn- K .. Farmer, b. Cayupa Co., N. Y., «. \H\% p. o. add. Pb-rropont Manor. 
I'unaoy, H. 11., F.truicr and D.tirym in, b. .Icft'i-r.'ion i\i., N. Y., w. lJ*-i(J, p. o. add. 

Adams. 
I'riest, AUonsii I)., FaruuT and Dairyman, b. JflTiTwon iU)., N. Y., b. IKT)."!, p. o. 

add. WoitlivilU-. 
Wisi', [►.mild, Farm(;r( retired), b. OrU-ana, Vt., s. ISllt, p. n. miil. L'trr.iinn. 
Wilcox. J. U., Fliiiir- and Crist-niilld. b. JftTcnion C-o., N. Y.,». 18:^0, p. o. add. 

Ijorntini*. 
Woolwiiitli, Win., Farmer and D.itryumn, b. Lewie Co., N. Y.,«. 1842, p. o. add. 

Ad:inis, 
\V\>oI\vurtli, Mrs. Wni., b. Lewis Co., N. T.. 9. IS4i, p. o. add. Adams. 



LYME. 

AngL'U, 1). \V.. Fiiniipr nnil Dairynmii, Lyme, U. Otsego Co., N. Y., a, 1822, p. o. 

mill. I'oinl lVtijii;mIu. 
Atwootl, Cliu'*. \V., KiirriiiT iiiul Diiiryiiiuii, Lyme, b. Jcfforsoii Co., N. Y., 8. 1840, 

|i. (I. iiihl. ('liiiiini(M)t. 
Arni;slr"ii{5, Win. A., Kiirtii.T iiinl I)iiirym;in, Lyme, I). Jeffe.'son Co., X. Y., 8. 

IS'lli, p. i>. lllM. CluiUIIKMlt. 
Iliiul, UmM. r., Kmi ;in<i I'.iiryiiiiui, Lvliie, li. M<mtgomcry Co., N. Y., 8. 

Iti W, |i. i>. ii.l.l. Tlir.'c-Mile liay, 
lii'iliiiiier, Hiifvcv, FitriDLT iinil Diiiiyiiiiin, Lyme, b. Fulton Cj., N. Y., 8. 1854, 

p. u. mill. Point IV'iiinsiilii. 
Beckfi. -Iifhii. Fjirmcr iiinl Diiirymiin, Lyme, b. Montguiilery Co., N. Y., s. l&Jo, 

p. (I. Il.l.l. Tlliv.-Mrle ll;iy. 
llloilget, Wm, .1., Itiliriil L iku CapUiiTi, Lyme, b. JetTersuii Co., N. Y., 9. 1805, 

p. II. Itllll. ('IlillllllUllt. 

Copley, llir.im, .M.iiitiliiclil:'er of Lnm'ier, Slittlfllesi, Stiver, Stone, etc., Cbau- 

iiii'iit, li. .leflui-S'in Co., N. Y., H. IS.J.'), p. II. ailil. Cluiiimuiil. 
Crmnli. \V , Miller, Cbuumoiit, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., a. Isio, p. o. aild. Cbuu- 

IllOllt. 

Grouse, tJen., Kurmer iiml Dairyman, Lyme, b. Mmitgoniery Co., N. Y., s. 185(5, 

p. o. ail.l. Three-Mile li^y. 
Cole, Isiuie \ , Farmer ami Dairyman, Lyme, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., B. 184:i. p. 

o. ailil. Three-Mile liay. 
Collitui, Lyman, Farmer anil Dairynian, Lyme, b. Otsego Co., N. Y., B. 182-^, p. 

o. a-lii. J'liiiil IVniii-ula. 
Cooley, C. II., Farmer aiel Dairyman, Lyme, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 1821, p. 

o. ikI 1. I'liiiit r'-niii-iila. 
Dewey, .\. -L, De.iler in I'roilnre, Fiih, etc., Cliaumont, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 

a. l.'tlii, p. o. ailil. Ciiinmoiit. 
Enos, W. W., (ieneial SLn lianiline and P. 51., Chanmont, b. Jeffersin Co., N. 

Y., s. 18 18, p o. ailil. ('lianmont. 
Rmpie, ChiiH., Farmer and Dairyman, Lyme, b. Fnlton Co., N. Y., s. 18.J5, p. o. 

add. Three- Jlile Hay. 
Kndues, Nelson L., Farmer ami Dairvman, Lyme, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., 8. 

18W, p. ... add Point IViiMnnli." 
Fisher, (.Jen. W., Farming and Fishing. Lyme, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 9. 1844, p. 

o. luhl. Chaniiiont 
Fisher, Elien .S., Farming and Fishing, Lyme, b. Jeff.'reiin Co., X. Y., s. 1818, p. 

o. add. Chanmnnt. 
Fox, Jiicob, Farmer and Dairyman, Lyme, b. Jeffei-son Co., N. Y., 6. 1838, p. o. 

a I.I. Thre-.Mil" liny. 
Frv, Ihirman. Farmer and Diiryman, Lyme, b. Montgomery 0>., N. Y., P. 18HG, 

P.O. add. Thr.-e Mile Hay. 
Flander.1, Jeremiah, Farmer and Dairvnian, Lyme, b. Montgomery Co., N. Y'., 

8. 18 I", p. o. add. Three-Mile Ilaj-. 
Failing. Jiilin P., Fanner ami Dairyman, Lyme, b. Jeffei-son Co,, X. Y., s. 1844, p. 

o. a.ltl. Point Peninsula, 
tlil.bins, Tims., Farmer, Lyme, li. Lister Co., X. Y., s. 18'2fl, p o.aild. Chanmnnt. 
lietman, .\. A., Phvsieian and Surgeon, Chaumont, b. .leffera.m Co., X. Y., s, 

I8.M, p. ...a.l.i I'li.inn t. 

C.aige, I... Kelired, Chaiuniint, li. Otwgo C^j., X. Y., s.I82n, p. n. add. Chanmont. 
Onde, (J. -11. H.. Farmer an-l Dairyman, L\me, b. Fnlton Co., N. Y., s. 1827, p. o. 

add. Thre.-.Mile ll.iy. 
(ielman, Frederirk, Farmer and Dairyman, Lyme, b. Herkimer Co., X. Y.,8. 1839, 

p. o. add. P.iiiit Peninsula. 
Cietman, Chrhtopher, Farmer and Dairyman, Lyme, b. Montgomery Co., X. Y., 

s. 18.17, p. o. add. Chanmont. 
Horton, Le Uay I)., Farmer, Lyme, b. Delaware Co., X. Y., 8. 1810, p. o. add. 

Chaiimiint. 
Horton, Henry, Farmer, Lyin •, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 1814, p. o. add. Chau- 

m .nt. 
llerriek, Geo. E.. Farmer and Dairyman, Lvme, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 1834, 

p. o. a.ld. Tliree-Mile Uay. 
Horton, K. E , Dealer in (^en.'ral ^lerchaudise, Chaumont, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 

's. 184'.), p. o. add. Cliaum.int. 
H.irtoTi, (1 ■.ir;ii.. Farmer, Ch.inmonf, b. Delaware Co.. X. Y., 9. 180ti, p. o. add. 

Chaumont. 
Uowett, I), v., Piop'ietor Central Hotel, Lvme, b. Jefferson-Co., N. Y., 9. 1831, 

p. o. aiM. Tliri..-Mile H;iv. 
U lyes, James S,, Fa m.-r an.l Dairyman, Lyme, b. Fnlton Co., N. Y., s. 1349, p. 

o. ad.l. Tlir..i-Mile Dav. 
H.irringloii, David, Farmer, Lym-, b. Herkimer Co., X. Y., s. 1847, p. o. add. 

t'liauiii'int. 
Houghton, Haiiii t.in. Farmer and L;me Burner, Lyme, b. Vermont, s. 1830, p. 

o. ad.l. Chaumont. 



Ilentz, Levi. Farmer and Lima Burner (deceased), Lyme, b. Verninnt, fl. 1812, 

p. II. ad.l. (.'liaum.int. 
Hentz, (.(..rar. Farni.'r. Lyme, li. .leffi-rsnn Co., N. Y., «. 1841, p. o. aild. Chaumont. 
Jewett, IL W., Pliysirian an.l Surgeon, Cltaiiuiunt, b. Oneida Co., X. Y., 8. 18o5, 

p. o a. I I. Cll linn .lit. 
Kin.slev, .hilin, Fanner and Dairvnmn, Lyme, b. Otsego Co., X. Y., 9. 18:t7, p. o. 

li.bl. Three-Mile Uiy. 
Kinsley, (.'has.. Farmer and Dairyman, Lyme, b. Otsego Co., X. Y., 8. 1837, p. o. 

ad.l. Th e.-Mile May 
Kn ipp, C. M.. Farm.-r and Diiryman, Lyme, b. Jefferson (^., X. Y.,8. 1818, p. 

o. add. <'liauni..iit. 
Lindsley, Daiil. II., Farmer and Dairyman, Ljme, b, Fulton Co., X. Y'., 8. 1839, 

p. o. ad.l. Chaumont. 
Larue, Win., Farmer, Lyme, b. Montgomery Co , X. V., s. 183.'t, p. o. aild. Point 

Peninsula. 
Moore, Eiiward It . Farmer and l>airyman, Lyme, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 1H44, 

p. II. iuld. Point Pen nsilla. 
MePherson, C. I'nderlaker an.l Dnigs, Cliaumont, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y'., 8. 

18 {li. p. o. add. Chaumnnt. 
Main, Joshua, ItiTied Lake Captain, Lyme, b. Herkimer Co., X. Y., ». 1824, p. 

o. a.ld Cha int. 

Xorlhiiip, Wm., Farmer, Lvme, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. IB.'iJ, p. 0. add. Three- 
Mile Mav. 
Xorthinp, John, Farmer, Lyme, b. Saratoga ('o., X. Y., 8. 1818, p. o. add. Thne. 

Mile Hay. 
Xugent, Letter. Farmer and Cooper, Lyme, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 18.32, p. o. 

add. ('liaum.int. 
Phillips, .I.ihn L.. Fanner, Lyme, b. Jeff rson Co., N. Y., 8. 1818, p. o. add. St. 

I.av( rence. 
Philli]is, Alim., Farmer, Lyme, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y , s. 1S23, p. o. add. Threc- 

.•Mile Itay. 
Pennoik, (^eo. W., Farmer, Lyme, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 1813, p. o. add. Cliau- 

m int. 
Parker, Chiis., Physeian and Surgeon, Lyme, b. Jeffeis.in Co., X. Y., s. 18'20, p. 

o. add. Three-Mile Hay, 
Ponnork, David .L, Farno-r and Dairyman, Lvme, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 18;J3, 

P.O. add. T ir.-i-Mile H.iv. 
Putnam, Aan.n, Farmer an.l Dairyman, Lyme, b. Montgomery Co., X. Y., a. 

la;l.'i, p. o. a.1.1. iV.int Peninsula. 
Killer, .l.isej.li. Farmer and Dairyman, Lyme. b. Otsego Co., X. Y., s. 1828, p. o. 

a.lil. Chauniont. 
lleed, D. n., Pr prietor Reed Hotel, Chaumont, b. Jefferson Co , N. Y^., 9. I83:t, 

)i. 11. ailil Clianmoiit. 
Eider, K. 11.. Farmer (deceased), Lyme, b. Jefferson Ck)., X. Y^., s. 18PJ, p. o.add. 

Cliauinont. 
KicketiB, Chas. (i.. Farmer, Lyme, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 18:13, p. o. add. 

Thr Mile Biy. 

Schuyler, Danl. .1., Dealer in Oenenil Merchandise, Lyme, b. Montgomery Co., 

X. v., s Ls;l.=,, p. o, a.ld. Threi.-Mile Bav. 
Seller, Aar.iii, Farmer, Lyme, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 18.38, p. o. add. Three- 
Mil.- Hay. 
Taft, J. W , FiiniiPV and Dairyman, Lime, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 1844, ji. o. 

a.ld. Three-Mile Hay. 
Taft, O. C, Retired. Lv me, b. Vennont, s. 1824, ]i. o. add. (^hauniont. 
Tliomps.in. Pembroke S., Farmer, Lyme, b. Jefleis.m (v'o., N. Y., s. 1834, p. o, 

a.ld. ChaniiHint. 
Wilcox, (). S., Dealer in fleneral Merchandise, Chaumont, b. Jefferson Co., X. l ., 

s. 18-13, p. o. add. Cliaumont. 
Wheeler, Menzo, Deab-r in Geni-nil Merchandise, Lyme, 1,. Windsor, Yt., «. 

18-.il, p. o. a.ld. Three-Mile Bay. 
Walrad C. B., Physie-aii and Surgeon, Lyme, li. Schoharie Co., X. Y., s. I8.if., p. 

II. ad.l.Thie.-Mile Bay. 
Wilcox, J. M., Farmer and Dairyman. Lyme, b. JLmtgomery Co., X. Y., s. 1834, 

p. o. add Three-Mill- liay. 
Wright, (ieii , Fanner ami Dairyman, Lyme, b. Oneida Co., X. Y., 9. 18;i8, p. o. 

add. Tliree-Milo Bav. 
Wilcox, A 11., Farmer and Dairyman, Lyme, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y^., 8. 1820, p. o. 

a.ld. Point Peninsula. 
Welle, 5L L., Farmer iinl Dairyman, Lyme, b. Jefferaon Co., X. Y., a. 18-23, p. 

o. add. Three-.Mile B.iy. 



ORLEANS. 

Biddleeom, R. B., Farmer an.l Jl. i. li.ul ami Kx-Member Assembly, li. Oneida 

Co., X. Y., 9. 18:1 1. p. .1. add. La Kargevlllo. 
Budlong,*;.. Fanuer(retireil),b. Herk.Co., N. V ,». 1840, p. o.add. laiFargeville. 
Bu.Uoiig, Catharine, Farmer (retired), b. Herk. Co., N. Y., a. 18:i0. p. o. add. L» 

F.irg.-ville. 
Bolt, Frederirk, Pliy-ieian, b. fiermany, 9. 18.''i7, p. n. add. iM Fargeville. 
Barlow. Wm. J., Farmer, b. J.-ff..r8.in C.i , X. Y., s. 1810, p. o. add. Orleans Cor. 
C4illiiis. Jas. L.. Farmer, b. Jefferaon Co., N. Y., ». 181.% p. o. add. Stone Mills. 
Collins, Joseph. Farmer, li. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 18117, p. o. add. Onnir. 
Collins, Mary JL. Fanner, d.iughtor of E. and H. Eddy, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 

8. Isii'T. p. o. ad.l. (imar. 
Collins. J. B., Prop. Omar Cooiiershop, b. Jefferson Co., X. T., 9. 18*), p. o. add. 

Omar. 
Collins. Enii-linc, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 1840, p. o. add. Omar. 
Edmonds, B. D., F.irmer, h. Jefferson C.i., X. Y.. s. 1810. 
Everett, Hniinar.1, Firmer and Supervisor, b. Jefferson C^J , X. Y'., 9. 1807, p. o. 

add. Stone Mills. 
Eckert, (Jen., F'armer, Weaver while in Germany, b. Germany, «. 184G, p. o. add. 

La Fargeville. ,. , „ 

Ei-kert, E., Farmer, b. Lewis Co., X. \ ., s. 1822, p. o. add. Iji Fargeville. 
Evans, .\bner H. f deceased i. b. Lewis Co.. N. Y., ". 181.'>. 
Evans, Clarisa, Fanner (retired), b. Jefferson Ci)., N. Y., B. 1818, p. o. add. La 

Fargeville. , , , ^ .„ 

Furst, Juo., JLisiin and Farmer, b. Ger., a. 18"ill, p. o. add. La Fargeville. 
Fiirst, Mary. b. Ger..8. IS'.l, p. o. add. La Fargeville. 

F.ot P K , Farmer, b. Jeffer-on Co., X. Y., s 1S2.-.. p. n. add. La Fargeville. 
Fult-1 David. Fann.-r, b. Jeff. C-i.. X. Y.. «. isiin, p. ... add. Orlea-is O.rnem. 
Fults Michael. Fanner. 1.. Jeff Co , X. Y., ". 1812, p. ... add. Orleans Corners. 
Fult«, Margaret. Fanu-r, b. Herk. Co., X. Y.. s. 184:;, p. o. add. llrl.-ans C..rn.-r9. 
Fonl A.,Farmer(retiredl, b. Monlg. (;..., N. Y.s. 18:»i. p. o.add. Orleans Corners. 
Fol-il.S.. Farmer (relln-d'.b. Oneida Co.. S. Y.,s. lS:t|-., p. o.iul.l. Orleans Corners. 
Ford, W. F., .\ttoniey and Counselor-at-Law, b. Jeff. Co., X. Y., 9. 18:18, p. o.add. 

Foils Simon, Firmer, b. Herk. Co., X. Y., a. 18-20, p. o. add. Iji Fargeville. 
Folts .line. Farmer, b. Herkimer Co., S. Y., 8. 18:14, p. o. aild. La Fargeville. 
Gates, S. W.. Farmer and B. R. Agt., b. Ji ff. Co., X. Y., s. 1810, p. o. add. U 

Farttoville. 
Gray, Saul.. Farmer and Chocao Mnfr., b. Hi-rkinur Co., K. Y., e. 18i:6, p. o. add. 

Orleans Corners. 



588 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Gray, I-mcv, Fjirmor ami Clit-rsp Blnfr., b. Oswego Co., N. Y., s. 182.'», p. o. add. 

Orlcaii- (.Vuln-ns. 
Oni.v, Klijuli (clHifnsfd). 
Gariock, lluiatf, FailniT anil Cheese Jlnfi-.. l*. II<rkinRT Co., X. Y., 8. 18:10, p. 

u. iidil. Oiit-ahM ("MrneiH. 
Goodni-li, N., KailiuT and Ti-achcr, b. Lewis Co., N. Y., s. 1820, p. o. add. La 

Faijii'ville. 
Goodriih, Mlii. C, Karnicr, b. ll.'ik. Co., 8. 1S:)7, p. o. ndd. La FarRevilU-. 
Goubl, Cro. \V., FaijMiT, b. Jillcr-s.in C..., X. Y., s. IslC, p. 0. add, Oaiar. 
(Joubi, May C, Farmer, l». Ji-tTi-rsuii Co., N. Y., .■*. IslK. p. o. add. Omar. 
Ilught-.*, M. J., FariniT and Com. liigliways, b. Wedlmorelainl Co., I'a., s. 1SG4, 

p. o. add. Iji Farjri-viUe. 
IlagtiH. .\. .\., Farm.r, b. Oiuida Co., X. Y'., b. 1KI2, p. o. add. Stone 5tills. 
Ibdiowa.v, Natlian, Farim-r, b. Jeffer-oli Cii., N. Y., 3. 181", p. o. adii. Umar. 
lliai>c, Jiuob. FariMcr. b. Jloiitg. Co.. N. Y., s. lli;:2, Ji. o. add. Orb-ans Corn.M-8. 
Hoiisf, Geo., Farmer, b. Jeffereun Co., K. Y., s. 1.S27, p. n. add. Orb-aii8 Coiner*. 
IloMoway. ^., Fariiii-r. b. St. Lawrenee Co.. X. Y., 8. lS4;i, p. o. aibl. Omar, 
Irwin. \Vtii. I!., JLreliaiit, b. Omn);e Co., N. Y., a. 1821, p. o. add. .St.>ne Mills. 
lr« ill, .Inc., M,i. Iianl, b. .lelV reoii Co.. X. Y., p. ... add. Sb.rle JlilN. 
Kn gilt, .M. v.. Hotel I'ropr , I.. .li'D'erson ('o., N. Y., ». l'4il, p. o. add. Omar. 
Kloek, Klijali. Farmer, b. Ilerk in.r Co., N. Y., s. lS:i7, p. ... ad.l. La Fargeville. 
Kloek, Kinil.v. Farmer, b. Dbio, s. 18.-,7, p. o. aibl. Li Fargeville. 
Kl.i.k, .1. .\.. Farmer, b. H.-rkiiin-r Co., N. Y., s. Is;i7, p. .,. a.M. Orleans Corner..*, 
l^nek*, Walter, Prop. .Saw- and Sbingle-in.ll, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., s. 184:i, p. 

o. ail. I. l.a F.irgeville. 
Loncks, An.lrew M., Farmer, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., s. 1842, p. o. add. Orleans 

Corners. 
Mulhern, liev. 1>. S., Pasb.r Regl. Raptiat Churcli siiuc 1874, b. Ireland, s. 1874, 

p. o. a.bi. La Fargevilb-. 
Mai^li, lie... I'.. Mi-.liaiiii', aii.l l'r..]i. Saw-and Grisit-mill, b. Jefferson Co.,N. Y., 

s. 18111, p. ... a.l.l. Stone Mills. 
Marsli. I!, 1! , Farni.r, b llirkim.'r Co., N. Y., s. 18".". p. o. add. La Fargeville. 
Marsb. M. M.. Fai nier. b. Jeffer-on Co., N. Y.. e. I84II, p. o. a.bl. La Fargeville. 
McKtiil.M', Mi.'b.iel, Farmer and Sailor, b. Jeffertion Co., N. Y., 8. 1848, p. o. 

a.ld. ClaM.in. 
MeKinl.-v, Klla, Fainier, b. .leff.Tson Co., N. Y.. R. 18.'.7, p. o. ad.l. Clavton. 
Na-h, .l.'l,., Fa mer, b. .IeHei^..n C..., X. Y., s. 180-, p. o. ad.l. La Fare.-ville. 
Xasli. K., F;irni.-r, b. Ilerk nier Co., X. Y.. .. 182:i, p. o. add. La Fargeville. 

Sew I I. S.. F.iniier, I.. Warri'ii Co , N. Y., «. IK'.l. p. o. a.ld. Omar. 

Newt..n, Mary, Farmer, 1.. .b'fl.'i-son Co., X. Y., s. 18:;'.P, p. o. a.l.l. Omar. 
Nellis, M. W., Fa-iiier, b. Hirkiln.-r Co., N. Y.. s. 184.">, p. o. add. Stone Mills. 
N.dii-, Margaret, Farmer, 1.. H.ikiiii.-r Co., X. Y.. s. 18-;.^, p. o. a.ld. St. me Mills. 
I'etrie, S.inlbnl, Farmer an. I Treas. of Wall Street Cheese-Factory, b. Herkimer 

C..., N. y., «. ls4il. p. o. a.l.l. La Fargev lie. 
Pelrie. Hani.ab, Fanner, b. Jeft rd..n Co., N. Y., s. 182.'., p. o.ad.l. La Fargeville. 
I'r.est, Albert, Farmer, b. .leliei-ion Co., N. Y., ». 1824, p. ... aibl. La Fiirg.'ville. 
Pr.est. H.rl.eit II., Farmer and Teaulier, b. Jeffeisoii Co., X. Y., s. 1(;5.1, p. o. 

ad.l. La F.irgeville. 
l'att.-r-..n, Fr.inklin, Farmer (retired), b. Jeflerson Co., X. Y., s. 1814, p. o. add. 

Omar. 
I'attejtion. Christiana, Farmer, b. Germany, s. 18;J1, p. o. add. Omar. 
Ib.ltiers. .Inn., Fngra vert .leeeaseih, b. Uelgiiim, s. 1824. 
H.dt.-re, Itutli, Farmer, b. Jel). Co., X. Y., .s. 182", p. o. add. La Fargeville. 
liee.l, Sarii-, Farm.'r, b. .let). C..., X. Y., s. 18.'ni, p. o. ad.l. Fi-bers Lan.ling. 
Hee.l, .Marv .1.. F.irin.-r, b. .leH. Co., X. Y., s. 18,i4, p. ... ad.l. Fi.shers Landing. 
li..bi>on, Walt.-r, Fanner, b. Seotbind, 8. I8;t8, p. o. a.ld. Omar. 
K.diison, K., Farmer, b. St. L. ('o., X. Y., 8. I8:)2, p. o. aild Omar. 
S1I.-.I.I, Alonzo, Fill ni.-r, b. Jell'. C., X. Y., 8. 18:12. p. o. add. La Fargeville. 
8. hell, J. M., I'roli. Sbiiic Mills Clieese-Faetory, b. Jeff. Co., X. Y., s. l.S4r., |i. o. 

a.bl. Stone .MilN. 
Seh. II, 1>. IL. Prop. Stone Mills Cheese-Factory, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 18J:l, ji. o. 

ad.l. Stone .Mill". 
Sm th, Wm. C., F.irlm-r, b. Oneida Co., X. Y., s. 18:B. p. o. ad.l. La Fargeville. 
Snell, A. J , Farmer, b. Ilerk. Co., X. Y., s. 18.w, p. .. a.l.l. La Fargeville. 
Sargent, Win., Fanner, b. Kng., 8. 1822, p. o. a.ld. La Fargeville. 
.Sargent. K.. Fanner, b. II. -rk. C..., X. Y., ,s. 1824, p. ... a.bl. La Fargeville. 
Sblmni.-ll, (',, Farmer, b. Ilerk. Co., X. Y., 8. 18111, \i. o.aild. I'aln. lia. 

Slii 1.11, M,, Farmer, b. Ilerk. C..., X. Y.. s. 181(1, p. o. add. I'lim. lia. 

Sargent, K. T., Sler.hint an. I I'. M., b. Jeff. Co., X. Y., ]>. ... a.ld. llrl.Miis Cors. 
Sa. gent, 11. F., Finiier, b. Jeff. Co., X. Y.,s. 1837, p. o. a.ld. Orleans Cors. 
Sliiitli, Simon, Fanner, b. .Montg. Co., X. Y., p. o. a.bl. La Fargeville. 
Smith, K., Fanner, b. J. ff. C..., X. Y., s. 1824, p. o.add. La Farg.-ville. 
Sinilli, Alnia, Farmer, b. J.-ff. Co.. X. Y., .«. llti:!, p. o. add. La Fargeville. 
Sniitli, Ib.bt., Jr., Fai iil-r, b. ,Ieft. (>•., X. Y., s. 1828, p. o. a.ld. La Fargeville. 
Seliollenberg, C. P., Farm.-r, b. Germany, s. 1847, p. o. ad.l. Fishi-r's Landing. 
Sidiolleiib. rg, C, F.irliier, b. (-ierniaiiy, «. 18:17, ji. o. add. FisherV Landing. 
Sargent, Mrs. L., Fainer. b. Jeff. Co., X. Y., ». 1821, p. o. a.bl. La Fargeville. 
Timerman, W. II., Farm.-r. b. Ilerk. Co., X. Y., 9. 18:1:1, p. o. add. Orleans Cora. 
Timerman, U., Farmer, h. .lelV. Co., X. Y., ». 18.111, p. o. add. Orl.'ans Cors. 
'I'im.'rninn. (i. F., Farm.-r, b. li.-rk. Co., X. Y., s. 18:14, p o. a.l.l. Oi leans Cors. 
Web b, C., Karni-r, b. Jeff. Co., X. Y., s. 18112, p. o. add. Fi.-lier's Landing. 
Weleli, II. K., Farmer, b. Ohio, p. o. a.ld. La Fargeville. 
Wlialey, Win., Fanii.-r, b. Ilerk. Co., X. Y.. 8. 18:1:1, p. o. add. La Fargeville. 
Walts, l.'has. ide.eiise.l l, b. Stenb.-n Co., X. Y., s. IS24. 
Watts, Eliza, Fanner, b. Uradlord, Pa., s. 1832, p. o. add. La Fargeville. 



PAMELIA. 

Augsbiiry, ryruH, Rolirfi] FniiiaT, h. JvUvnun Co., N. Y., H. 182fi, p. o. iiiM. 

I'hiih' ill I'diir ("orticif*. 
AtiHliii. «;. II , KiirunT. I.. Jrtr. r..., N. Y.. s. mm, p. o «d)I. Watortown. 
l^iuni-H, On-ii, KiiiiiiiT. I>. Jeff (\i., N. Y., s. 1819, p. o. utiil. ruiiu-liu Fuur Corn's. 
B.iriii-H, Awi kU'lM , \f. OlH-ti.*> <'ii., N. Y., h. ISUI. 

Itt-iitii.', S. \., FHrnuT, h. Wa-h. Co., N. \'.,s. In.^i?, p. o. odd. Sanford Corn'ij. 
KcaltH-. Alrx. Mli-c'd , k Wm\i. C,.., N. V., s. IM;"^?. 
Itmdli-.v, (j. <!., Kuriiior iind Dairynuui, b. iliTkiiiu-r Co., N. Y., ». 18.19, p. o. add. 

WntciUtwij. 
llentif, .\li*x., Kiiriiior and Dairyman, b. Wash. Co., N. Y., s. 18.'i7, p. o. add. 

Wat'-rlown. 
llcatif. Mre. Abx., FarminR and I>airv, b. Wusliington Co., b. 18UG, p. o. add. 

Wjlt.Tt-.WII. 

Conlryniiiii, li. II., Fiirnipr, and i^Iannfiirliircrof WaK"n!»,Carim};c8, ttc, b. Jeff. 

Co., N. Y., «. IK"i*i, p. M, add. Panii'liii Konr CornurM. 
CoiivirHc, II. 1)., I-iiiin' T. b. .b*n. Ci... N. Y., m. I»:i;i, p. fi. add. Wiilci town. 
('■•nvt-nti'. Iliniiii. Kit'd. Far., b. lln'-ida Co.,N'. Y., «. 18ljCi, p. o. add. Watntown. 
Ckdp, S. I'.. Fai ni-r, b. JotT. Co.. N. Y., 8. 184 1. 

(%»b', l.j)\viiii) (dui-iiift<-di, Ib'iiiiiimloii, Vl., K. 18^2, p. n. add. AVatcrtown. 
Cuntryiian. W. M., FarnitT and Dairyman, b. JilT. Co., N. Y., b. 1»<4", p. o. adil. 

\Vt>t*ii'>wii. 
(^intryman..l"hii II., FarnM-r nntl Dairyman, b. JoIT. Co., N. Y., 8. 18:;4, p. o.add. 

rann-lia Fimr CunuT-. 
C4iuitlr>ni<n. Djivi.t, Fai nvr and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., «. 1845, p. o. udd. 

I'amiliu Four Coinuiv. 



CA)nntryman, JoBppb, Farmer and Dair.\man, b. HcrkinH-r Co., X. Y',, a. 1831, 

JI. •>. lubl. I'aiiii'lia Four ('orneis. 
Countryman, (irurtre, Fainn-r and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8. 18;i7, p. o. 

add. Tanii-lia Knur Corners. 
De Ijonj.', Fred., FarnuM'. b. .Ictl. Co., 8, 1S4-*, i>. o. add. Watertown. 
KIl.suMrlb. Will.. Far. and Diiiijnian. b. .b-ft. Co.. h. 1S42. p. o. adii. Wati-rtown. 
Kddy. U. ('., Fiirin'-r and Dairyman, b. Jeff, (.'o., f. lt<-.i(i, p. o.add. Wateitnwn. 
Fuiiner, (leo. A.. Fai nier and A&seaeor, b. St. Lawrence Co., 8. 18,">4, p. o. add. 

\Valerti>\vn. 
Fulbi , Jlrs. F. J.. Farmer, b. Jeff. Co.. N. Y , 8. 184.1, p. o. »dd. Watcrtown. 
Fuller. K. 11., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8. 1842, p. o. add. 

Wal.-rti.wn. 
(ioubl, D.iiiiel. Fanner nn<I Dairyman, b. Montgomery Co., N. Y'., s. 1800, p. o. 

aild. ranielia Fuur C*il"nei-n. 
tiouldinjr, Matli8oti, Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y'., 1824, p. o. add. Panielia Four 

Corners. 
Gonbl, Will. C, Jiislice of the Peace, Agt. for Ithaca Ilorec-Ilake, also Keni- 

iii;;ton Sewiiig-Machines, Conld*8 Corners, b. Jeff. Co., Ji. Y*., b. 182(J, p. o. 

add. Watertuwn. 
Haven. D. \V., Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y'.. 1833, p. o. add. Watertown. 
Jlniitinir, M. It.. Farmer, b. Jeff. Co.. N. Y., Ih2(;, p. o. add. WaleHown. 
lluwlanil, .Jerniu"', Farmer and A>ees*or, b. Jeff. Co., X. Y'., 1S3;1, p. o. add. 

WaleitoHii. 
Ilowland, 4_l/.ial. died ISTii, aged seventy-six years, b. R. I,, e. ISdl. 
Kimball, (Jeo. H., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 1845, p. o. add. 

Watertfiwn. 
Kndi-r, .b»hn G, Cheosc Maker, Watertown, b. Gcrmai:y, 8. 1858, p. o. add. 

Waterinwn. 
Lawyer, L., Market Ganiener, Walorlown, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y'., 8. IKJl, p. o. 

add. Wat.-itowii. 
Myrick, A. K., Kee|peri>f Jefferson Insane Asylum, Watortown, b. Jeff. Co., N.Y., 

1^57. p. i>. add. Wat.'itnwn. 
Mills, lh-.\l.-i , Farmer, I.. .Fell. Co., N. Y'.. IS49, p. o. add. AVaterlnwn. 
MilU. II., Kann-raiid D.niyman, b. Ji-ff. Co.. N Y'., lJ^21, p. o.add. Walertown. 
51ix. Iv. Farmer and Dair^ man, b. ilontgomery (_!o., N. V., s. 1822, p. o. add. 

Watcrtciwn. 
Mix, Mrs. K., Farming and Dairy, b. St. Lawrence Co., N. Y'., s. IS^tO, p. o, 

add. Wiitertuwu. 
Makcp'Mce, l-jilinti. Farmer, b. Jeff. O'., N. Y'., 1810, p. o. add. Watertown. 
Mnyt-r. D. F., Carria^H Mnlr., Guuld's Cors., h. Jelt". Co., N. Y'., I8.*»t>, p. o. add. 

I*am>lia Four Coiners. 
Mnrrow, Alex., Fanner and Da rynian. b. Ireland, s. 1847, p. o.add. Watertown. 
Moriow, >lr.s. Alex., Farming and Dairy, b. Iieland, s. 1847, p. o. add. 

Watert-iwn. 
Niehids .\u-liTi, Farmer and Dairyman, b. Fairfield, Conn., 8. 181-*<, p. o. add. 

Wati-rtowii. 
Osborn, .I-mes, Farmer and Dairyman, also Ak'*"* for the Complete Washer and 

Univ.i.sal Wrinyer, I-. One'ida C..., X. V.. s. IslS, j). o. a<bl. Walr-rtown. 
t);r^biiry. Danitl, Farmer and Dairyman, h. Herkimer Cm., N. V., s. lsl2. p. o. 

adil. I'limelia Four Coini'i-s. 
I'arrish, Juhii L., Farmer and Dairyman, al^o Dealer in Stoek, b. Jeff. Co., N. 

Y'., isili, p. o. add. Watertown*. 
Ibigei-s, .lames ideceased', li. N. II., s. 1K17. 

linger-, L..renzo, Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 1820, p. o. ndd. Watertown. 
Karnu-v. Mr-. Jane F., Fanner, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y"., 182:t, p. o. add. Watertown. 
Haunoy, Wm. 'dereii.sed>, b. J.-ff. Co., N. Y'.. 182)». 
Sawdy, IJ. C.. Farmer and Dairyman, b. Ol*tego Co., N. Y., 8. 1835, p. o. add. 

I'ann-lia Four Corners. 
Scovill, .btlm, Fanner ami Dairyman, al'O Proji, ofSeoviirs Hotel, Military Cor., 

h. Jctl. Co., N. v.. 1S12, p. ... a.bl. Wat,-rl..wn. 
Stevens. Ma' tin, Farnn-r, b. Jeff. I'o., N'. Y., I><n7.p. o.add. I'ametia Four Corners. 
Tuvvrisend. Geo. K.. Farmer, b. .b-ff. Ci... N. V.. 18;12, |i. i.. a.bl. Waterl.-wn. 
T.)uiis.'iol, T. It.. Faniier(reliieil), b. J.-ft". Co., N. Y'.. 18im. p. o.add. Watertown. 
Van Aiiil)i-r, .1. N., Farmer (retired', b. Saratoga Co., N. Y., s. 182;i, p. o.add. 

Watertown. 
Van .\mb«r. D. D., Farnn-r, b. Jeff. Co.. X. V., l.'^ittt. p. o. add. Waterbiwn. 
Van Coughiiet. Mi-s. M. A.. Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., N. V., 1827, p. o. add. Watertown. 
Van C.iiiglu.et. J.-liii (d.-eeas.-d l.-;i;S). b. Fnllon Co., N. V., 8. 1848. 
\\ illiams. K., Farmer, b. Ommdaga Co., N. Y., s. 18;t:t, p. o. add. Watertown. 
William-, K. S.. Farmer (retired i, b. Oimntlaga Co., X. Y'., 8. 18:i3, p. o.add. 

Wiit.-rd.wn. 
White, Lvman, Fann.r. b. Franklin, Ma<s.. k. I8I8, p. o. a<ld. Waterf.iwn. 
Walt-. Wm,, Farmer ( let ired.,b. Ot--.e;ro Co.. N. V.. s. 182.'>. p. o.a.bl. Wat.-rtown. 
Walts, Fn-d. S . Farmer and Scln.ol-Teacher, b. Jell". Co., X. Y., 18M, i.. o. add. 

Watertuwii. 



PHILADELPHIA. 

.\blri.-b, M. E., P. M. and Drags and Medieini'S, b. Jellerson Co., N. Y., B. lS-12, 

p. o.a.bl. I'bibi.b-lpl.ia. 

All s, ll.-xl.-r. Far ■, b. Li-«is Co., X. Y., 8. 1,-141, p. o. add. Philadelphia. 

Allen, William. K.irmer (ileeeaaed , b, Masw.. a. 1K17. 

Allen, Havi.l. l-'.iniier and Dairyiiiali, b. Jefferson O., N. Y., B. lS2n, p. o. add. 

Pliihol.lplra. 
Allen, A. K.. Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y'., s. m20, p. 0. ad.l. Philadelphia. 
Allen, Il.-tlini.-l, F.irmer and Pairyman, b. Clinton Co., N. Y., s. 1«42, ji. o. add. 

I'biliob-lpliia. 
Allen. U.-iij.. Firmer and Dairyman, b. Clinton Co., N. Y., 8. 1842, p. o. add. 

IMiilad.'liibia. 

Ilaker, /. 1-1., Far r I'deeea-i'd), b. Oneida Co., N. Y., 8. IRW. 

llak.-r, Mi^. U . Farming and Dairv, h. Sal-atoga Co., S. Y., 8. 1827, p. o. add. 

l'bila.b-l|ilila. 
Ill-own. llenrv. Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 1S27, p. o. add. 

Philadell.liia. 
Bunni-ll, Wm.. Fanner and Dairyman, b. Lewis Co., X. Y., s. 1S42, p. o. add. 

Pliibolelphia. 
llenn.'tt, Mi-xti-r, Farmer and Itiiiryman, b. Lewis Ci., N. Y., s. 1S42, p. o. ndd. 

Pliila.lelphia. 
Baxter. \. .1.. Farnn-r and Dairyman and Carpenter and Joiner, b. Jefferson Co.. 

X. Y., ». l,s:i-2, !>. o.add. l"'liila.bl|diia. 
Ilaker, Perry. Farm. -n. ml Sp.-.iibitor Hb-i-easedi, b.IIorkllniT Co..X. Y., ». IM.I. 
Ilak.-r, Mib.'n. Fanner ami Dairying, b. Jeffotlion Co., N. Y., n. Ilt4i;, p. o. add. 

I'liilaib-ll'liia. 
Cas.-, <;. J.. Taiiii.-i. b. St. Lawii-nce Co., N. Y., B. 1S44, p. o. ndd. Philailel|>hia. 
Coni-t.a-k. Ani..ii. Farmer and Dairying, b. Oneida Co., N. Y., a. 1»41, p. o. a.ld. 

Pliila.lelphia. 
Child. Jos. H.. Farmer and Dairying, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y.,8. IftT. p. o..add. 

Slerlingvlb-. 
ChibI, Oliver, Snrvi'y..r an. I D.-aler in Iteal (jitate, b. Jeffeison (."o., X. Y., 8. 

LSU7, p. ■'■ a.ld. Pliilad.<l]>li a. 
Coolldge, T. J.. Fanner and Dairying, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., b. 18311, p. o. ndd. 

Philudelpliia. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



589 



Cdoliiltfc., Alfr.il (ic-tiriHl), li. Ma.li'on Co., N. Y., k. 1819, p. o. Bilil. Walei-»o»n. 
C..X, It. 'l'., Kurni.T una O.iirjili^-, b. JcHlikou Co., N. Y., h. 1« 9, p. o. add. 

IMlillKll'IpllLI. 

riiild, A ircm i ri-tin-d I, li. Pt-tiiti^ylvillliu, «. ISnri. p. o. add. Plliladelphiil. 

riiilil, (ilivi-r A., Fiirii.LT luid D.iiryiiig, I). Juflunioii Co., N. Y., ». IftJl, p. o. add. 

Pliiliidi'lphi.i. 
Comstiii k, K. I)., K;iiiinT and Dairj'hiK, b. Ll-wU Co., N. Y,, a, 1841, p. o. add. 

Phil.id.'Iplilji. 
0)uliil;i<*. ('. Iv, FiirtiuT and Dairying, 1>. Jefffl-Bun Co., N. Y., 8. 18:15, p. o. add. 

PJiiLKl.'Ipliia. 
Coni9t<r(k. A. C, llunlwiin' Miiilinnt, b. N. Y., 8. 1847, p. o. add. rhilndidpliia. 
llinluitli, .1. IT., KiiriiKTunil l)jiir\hi|!, Ip. Ji'ff. Co., N. Y., «. IS'Kl.p.o.add, I'hila. 
Kri^tn^toii Calfh, (innt-Milling and Lunilifring, b. Peiuia., 8. 18:tG, p. o. add. 

.st>'riiii;;vill.-. 
Kvan«. (ivo. II., Kurnicr ami Dairjiiig, b. JilT. Co., N. Y., s. 1820, p. o. aild. Slei- 

lihsvilk-. 
Fool, II .ndlry .1., Furmpr and D.iiiy, Ii. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8. 1837, p. o. add. Pliila. 
FuIliT, Lor-ili, Farmt-r and Daiiying. 1>. Siir'a. Co., N. Y., 8. IKM, p. o. add. IMnla. 
iririrnihs, (io^i., .Ir., FarnuT and Daily, b. (Int. Co., X. Y,,8. IH.'i'i, p. o. aild. Pbila. 
llann.-di.s (i-o.. Sr. iretii\-di, b. Ir>-laiid, n. lS.'.i, \k o. add. Pbiladtdpliiu. 
Ilolbrook, Ili*nd<T*oii, Farnit-r and Dalryitig, b. JflT. *.'o., N. Y'., 8. I81u, p. o. add. 

rbilud'lplra. 
II..wland, S., K.u inn- and nuirying, b. Jl-IT. Co., N. Y., B. 18:11, p. o. add. Pliila. 
Hall, Siini'l, F.irni.r and Dairying, b. .b-ff. Co., N. Y., 8. 1821, p. o. add. IMiila. 
Jug ill-, Ilinini K.. Fitriin-r and Diiirv., b. .b-IT. Co., N. Y*., 8. 1«:17, p. o. aild. Aniw. 
Kirkl.ri.b-, (!.•..., Farnuir and Dairyiiig, li..li.|r.Ci>., N. Y., 8. ISlll, p.... ailil. Pliila. 
l.:in.', II. S., M.D., Pliy8i.-ian an.l Snrg.'..n, b. M1018 ,8. 1808, p. o. a.ld. Phila. 
Mib-s K..l.t.. K.ini.or .ind Dairy, b. .(..ir. Co., N. Y., 8. IKffll, p. o. add. Phila. 
Matt.'.s..[i, <:iirl..-, FarnitT and Dairying, b. JflT. Co., N. Y., s. 1820, p. o. ad.l. 

Sli'iliiiKVill... 
Jl.rri.k, .III... It.. FiiriniT an.l Dairying, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., B. 1835, p. 0. ad.l. 

Sli-rliiigvilli-. 
Miic.-..Tnli.r, A» 1 K . Notary Public, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y,, b. 18 14, p. o. aild. Pbila. 
M.X.il, Win. Mill.-r, li. .Iffler.-oii Co., N. V., ». ls:l:!, p. o. a.l.l. I'bilad.-lpb a. 
Noi nianilor, Lewis K., Fanner and Dairying, b. JutT. Co., N. Y., 8. 1820, p. o, add. 

Pliilailelpliiu. 
Potter, A. W., lln.l-rtaker and Cabinet-maker, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 1827, p. 

o. iiil.i. l-bibulelpliia. 
P.iw.dl, Wni., Farmer i.li-c.'iised 1801), b. On.-i.ln C.)., N, Y. 
Powell. II it am. Farmer an.l Diiiiying, b. Jefft-njoli Co., N. Y'., 8. 1839, p. o. add. 

AiilM.-rp. 
Robert^, Josbiia, Farmer and Dairying, b. Jefforson Co., N. Y., 8. 1822, p. o. add. 

Pb la.lelpliia. 
Reed. Wil.b-r. Farmer and Dairying, b. Cniesliire, N. H., 8. 182(1, p. o. add. Ster- 

lingville. 
Reed, (liild--, Farmer and Dairying, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 183:1, p. o. add. 

Slo I ngvilb-. 
Rouse, Cavloi-. D -al.T in General Mercban.lise, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 1842, 

p. o' a.l.l. I'li.lad.'lplia. 
Scoflid.l, D. II., I>.alei in lieucral Merchandise, b. .Saratoga, N. Y'., ». 1841, p. o. 

a.ll. Ph.lad.'lpllia. 
Stri.-klan.l, J. T. (Ptiii-dl. li. J.ff..l-s..n Co., N. Y., s. ISll, p. o. ad.l. Pliiladelphia. 

Slriiklaii.l. Tlios.. Far r and Daiiyiiig. b. I'a„ «. lMi7, p. o. a.l.l. Sro. lingville. 

tSIr.kl.iii.l. Kb.'r T.. Farmer an.l Dairying, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y'., s. 1847, p. o. 

a.l.l. .■^terhngville. 
.Sharon. ,liio.. D.-aler in General Morchiindise, b. Ireland, 8. 1821, p. o.iuld. Ster- 

liiiKvilb'. 
Slianiii. Luke, Ib-al.-r in General Meichaiulise, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y'., 8. 1830, 

p. ...a.l.l. SI.-ililiKVille. 
Stri.klaii.l. Will., Farmer and Dairying, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y'., s. 1839, p. o. add. 

Phila.l.'lpliia. 
Stri.klaii.l. S.Mli, Farni.T (deei'iise.l). b. Pa., 8. 1807. 
Sir cUl.in.l. i\lahl..ii. Farmer (.le.ea.sed). b. Pa., h. 1807. 
Str . klan.l. Mary (reiire.h, b. Mass., ». 1814, p. o. add. Philadelphia. 
Seaman, Jam.-, Farmer anil Dairying, b. St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., s. 1847, p. o. 

a.l.l. Pbilad.'lpliia. 
Sweet, Henry II., Fanner and Dairying, b. Jeffei^son Co., N. Y.,B. 1323, p. o. add. 

Sterlingville. 
Sterling, S. ii , Farmer and Dairying, b. Jefferson Co., N. V., 8. 1809, p. o. add. 

Sterlinmill... 
Scollten, C..rn.-liiis. Fanner and Dairying, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 9. 1840, p. 0. 

a.l.l. IMiila.lelpliia. 
Sliortl, .liLs.. Farni.-r and Dairying, b. Ir.-!an.l, «. 1832, p. o. add. Sterlingville. 
Shiiitleff, .Mil... Fanner and Dairying, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. I8US, p. o. a.ld. 

Pbila.bdpbia. 
Smith, T. II., Fanner and Dairying, b. Saratoga Co., N. Y., 8. 1830, p, 0. add. 

Pliilad.'Ipbia. 
Tucker, Geo, K., Farmer and Super^-isor, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 183.3, p. o. 

a.l.l. Philadelphia. 
Wood, Silas, Farmer and Dairying, b. Saratoga, N. Y*., s. 1824, p. o. add. Pliila- 

ib'lpbia. 
Vait. Sallv, Farmer and Dairying, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8.1818, p. o. add. 

I'bila.l.'Ipliia. 
YVinn.'r, Daniel C., Farmer and Dairying, b. Canada, 8. 1824, p. o. odd. Evans' 

Mills. 
Wilson, Lyman, Farnn-r ami Dairying (deceased 1877), b. Vt., s. 1800. 
Wilson, Warr.Mi, Fanner and Dairying, b. .leffi-rson Co., N. \'., 8. 1827, p. o. add. 

Kv.ins' Mills. 
Wil.s..ii. Ili'iiry. Fanner (de.-eas..|l 1S73), b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. 18119. 
■\Vil.-on, Francis, Fanner and Dairying, b. Jefferson C'O , N. Y., s. 1844, p. o.add. 

I'bila.lelpbia 
Willsoii, JiKs., Farmer and Dairying, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 181 5, p. o. add. 

Pbila.l.'lpliia. 
YVbitiiey, W. ,M., Fanner, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y'., 8. 1827, p. o. add. Philadelphia. 



RODMAN. 

Barnry, B. L., Bu9in^^ss MjinnpT of II. Herring's Tannery, b. St. Ijawreiice Co., 

N. Y., p. 1^7^. p. o. jMlii. l^l<tI^lUl. 
Brown, Z. M., Kjh iiht luui Dairvririii, b. Vt., b. 181S, p. o. ad'I. It <linH)i. 
Itriiwii. .(. yi., Fniiner mui I>:urvni;in, b. Jcffi-iiiini Co., N. V., 3. lS4»i, n. o. add. 

It.nlncin. 
Cooli-y,0. M., FluurinK-iiml Gri^t-Mill, b. jL-fferson Co., N. Y., 9. 18:10, p. o. mid. 

Jtoiliiuin. 
Corilcv, Kri. KiirmtT Jiml Pairyiiuin, b.Ji-ff. Co.. X, Y.. s. 1814, p. o. ndil. Rodman, 
(^iprun, M. N.. l*a--lur uf tln' M. K. Church, b. Utieiilii Co., N. Y„ s. 1877, p. o. add. 

Curtis, Siliis. K iriiK-r :uid Dairyman, b. JffToraon Co., N. Y., a. 1824, p. o. add. 

Kiist U.Kiiimn. 
Chifti'i. .\. Smith, Karnior iitnl Dairyui.in, b, Jeffi-raun Co., N. Y., a. IS'2.'), p. o. 
:idd. Aduiiis. 



Chafin, PanUd T., FarniiT and Dairyman, h. JclTcrson Co., N. Y., ». ISTrf), p. o. 

aild. .Vdanic. 
Cole, J«*iw, FarnuT and liairynian, b. .Jeff. C«>., X. Y., .'«. I>f24, p. o. add. lEoilman. 
Cob', C S., Farnn-r and Itairvnian. U. JctT. «*«., X. Y., s. l>Cin. p. o. u'ld. ItoihiMn. 
Cooley. G. V., Kjirnirr and Dairyman, b. Jeflunfun Co., N. Y., b. IMl, p. o. aild. 

lliidniati. 
Coolty, A. W., J.d. I'riiitrr, cU:, h. J.-ff. Co.. X. Y'., s. \fW, p. o. add. K.Miriian. 
Dean, (i. K., Fanner and Dairyman, b. Jt-rTfrHon Co., X. Y., s. IKII, p. <•. aild. 

K;utt Kudntan. 
D(*an, II. S., Faridi'r and Dairvnian, rostintnttfr, and .InHticv of the Pi^ace, b. 

J.-rienj..n Co.. X. v.. «. ixl^ p. u. a-bi. l-JiM IbMlniiui. 
Dodj;*', Win. S., Fai int*r and Duirynnin, b. Ji-n«Ti»on Co., X. Y'., b. 1820, p. o. nUU. 

Ea-ft Uodniui. 
Dye, Harry It.. Farmer and Dairyman, b. }jOwit 0»., N. Y., 8. 1837, p. o. add. 

Kuiliiiaii. 
GatL>», c;c(.rK(* v., F'ariiicr, Supervisor, imd JuBlice of the Peace, b. Jrflferaon Co., 

N. Y., ». INIS. P.O. ad't. IC'.diiiaii. 
Ga^e, Cliait. S., Fainh r and Duirynnin, b. .\ib|{»>in, Vt.,i(. iHTt-t, p. o.adil. Itodnmn. 
Gates, L. H., Farmer and A'<'e«-or. b. .1. (T. Co.. X. Y.. a. l«i*.i, p. o.itdd. llMduian. 
Glazier, Silas (retired), b. Wiuthington <*»., N. Y., ". 18:W, p. o. add. KtHlnitm. 
GlaHier, Wni. C, Farmer and Dairynmti, b. \Va^llin|;lon Co., t{. Y., b. IKKJ, p.o. 

add Itodinan. 
Girdiiiiii-, lI'Miry. F.irnuT and Dairyman, b. JofTeraon Co., N. \'., ». 1814, p. o. 

add. Kodrnan. 
Gardini^T, Orwill M., Fanner and Dairyman, b. Je(Ter»«n Co., N. Y., s. 184.1, p. 

• .ad'I. U"dnnin. 
Grcenlcv. <'. b'., Farnu-r and Dairyman, b. JefTeraon Co.,X. Y., 8. 1842. p. o. add. 

Uoilman. 
Grnmimtn-, I>. S G.. Furnier and Dairyman, b. JclTerBon Co., X. Y., «. ISift, p. o. 

add. Uwdttian. 
Glasier, Ciias. E., Farnu-r an<l Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 1842, p.o. 

a<ld. AdaniB (.'I'litre. 
Gardner. \. IV, Fainier and Dairyman, b. Ltiwis Co., X. Y'., B. 1828, p. o. add. 

East Kodniiin. 
Green, Chas. A., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., b. 18:17, p. o. oild. 

Adams. 
Hill, 0. D., Farmer (retired), b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 1827, p.o. add. Kaat 

Kod-.ian. 
Hill, Jared A., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Madison Co., N. Y., s. 1N2(), p. o. add. 

Bod man. 
IIiij;lis. A. C, Dealer in Hardware, b. Herkimer Co., X. Y., 9. 1M4D, p. o. add. 

R.dman. 
IlerrinK, H., I'mp. <! Tannery, b. Lewis Co., X. Y., s. 1841, p. o. add. Rodman. 
Heatli. l.\ man. F-irniei- and Dairyman, b. Wiutbin^ton Oj., X. Y., ». IMl, p. o. 

add. Adams Centre. 
Herrinirtori, llarrv, Farmer and Dairvnian, b. Jvfferson Co., X. Y., a. 1824, p. o. 

add. Rodman. 
Hoath, Albert K., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Juffenon Co.. X. Y., e. 1818, p.o. 

add. R'tdniun. 
Isham, Gi iirj;!' F., Farmer and Dairyman, b. HampBliire, Ma^s., s. 1845, p. o. add. 

Rodman. 
KolIo;iir, Genrg- W., Farmer and Dairyman, b, Jeffereon Co., X. Y'., 8. 1812, p. o. 

atjd. Worthvtile. 
Loveland, L('-.ter. Farmer anrl Dairyman, h. Jefrerw)n Co., X. Y'., a. ISl.'i, p. o. 

add. Kodmin. 
Loveland, Liinian, Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferwn Co., N. Y., 8. 1810, p. o. 

a.ld. Adams. 
Miller, .\nson, Faniu-r and Cheese Manufacturer, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y.,s. 1843, 

p. (>. add. Kodnian. 
Xewtoii, O. K., Farmer and Dairj-man, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 1818, p. o. add. 

Itndman. 
Plank, Seymour S., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Schoharie Co., N. Y., s. 18:t0, p. o. 

add. Rodman. 
Pierce. F. \V., Hardware and Patentee of American Milk-Pan, b. Fninklin Co., 

X. Y.. 8. iSTo, p. ...add. U..diiian 
Priest, W. C, Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 9. 184-'>. p. o. add. R<Mlinan. 
Richardson, John J.. Farmer and Dairynuin, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 18:tfi, p. 

o.add. Wortl.ville. 
R^^iss, Eli, Farmer and Da'ryman.b. Jefferson Co., X. Y.,s. 18n,p. o.aild. .Vdams. 
Strong, G. B., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co , X. Y., s. isa6, p. o. add. 

itudnian. 
Siramuns, K. L., Farmer and Butter Mnfr., ' . Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 1825, p. o. 

add. Rotlman. 
Smith, B. Z., Fanner and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 1845, p. o. a/ld. 

Rodman. 
Spear, .1. P.. Builder and Contract^ir, b. J<-ff«T8on Co., X. Y., s. 1815, p. o. add. 

Bod man. 
Sill, John S., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., a, 1820, p. o. add. 

B^idriian. 
Todd, D. 51., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefforson Co., X. Y., s. 1820, p. o. add. 

East B.idman. 
Todd. K. L.. Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8.1816, p. o.add. East 

Rodman. 
Todd, Uaiiiel, Farmer and Dairvnian, b. Joffopson Co., X. Y., a. 1818, \i. o. add. 

Ka.<t R.idtnan. 
Wymari, Hun. (Hiver C, Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefforson Co., X. Y'., s. 1812, 

p. n. add, Kudmari. 
Wright. X. A , Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 1822, p. o, add. 

Rodman. 
Wood, Isaae S., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 1834, p. o.add. 

Rodman. 
Woolcott, K. H., Foreman in Tannery, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8, 1822, p. o. add. 

Rodman. 
Wa-<hlmrn. L., Prop. Wjuslilairn Huuse and Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 

ls4n. p. o. add. Ru.lnian. 
AViLshbnrn, J. R., Prop. Wiothburn House and Farmer, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 

is:t7, p. o. add. R.>dman. 
Woodwaiil, Mar<iuis, Fanur^r and Dairyman, b. Jufforsou Co.,X. Y., s. 1817, p. 

o. adil. Adams Centre. 



RUTLAND. 

.\ndnH, Ezekiel. Retired Farmer, b. foiin.. s. ixtn). p. o. add. Watt-rtown. 
Anrlrus, Stillmau. Farm-r. b. Jell. ('..., N. Y., h. XM-i. p. o. iuld. Watertown. 
Ang-ibnrv, .ler.iin- M.. I'.istmast.r, Black River, U. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 1S4I, p. o. 

add. Black River. 
Bentb-y, David. Fanner, b. J.-ff. Co . X. Y., «. 1828. p. o. add. BIm-k R ver. 
Brousou, Ma' ens. Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., s. 1823, p. o. add. 

KjLst Watertown. 
Conklin, Alvin, Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., X. Y., s. 1>24, p.o. add. East 

Watertuwn. 



590 



HISTORY OF JEFFEllSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



Croes, Snniuel, Mvrrbant, Fcli'e Mills, b. Jeff. Cu., N. Y., s. I84«, ii. o. ndd. Felt's 

Mi lit*. 
Clark, A^H, KuniKT and Dnirvman, h. JoflT. Co., N. Y., c. 1806, p. o. add. Black 

itiv-r. 
Cleiiit'titri. Kvincii, Kamier and I>-.tir,vniati, b. Lt^wis Co., N. Y., s. IMl, p. o. add. 

Sxitli Kiiilaiid. 
Diitilai*. Hjtrliiii 1*., FarnitT and DairyDian, b. JclT. Co., N. Y., s. 18.18, p. o. udd. 

Kiitlaiid. 
Pextcr. iKivi.l.ClmirMnfr.. Black River, b. Mhs«..8 18:tr>, p. o. add. Black llivcr. 
Uiiun, Alt'X., KaiiutT and C;it|wiiter, b. Warren Uo., N. Y., 8. ls:t7, p. o. add. 

Bbiek R.vrr. 
Dution, Knutiis B., Uetiittl KarnuT, b. Jiff. Co., N. Y., 8. 1810, p. o.add. Water* 

Inwn. 
Eddy, Kcbt-rt II.. Farmer and I>air>-n)an, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8. 1830, p. o. odd. 

F.'lfs MilU. 
Kiinif-s, ll<ni->- I'.. Fanner and Cliei-st.' Maker, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8. 184:J, p. o.add. 

Kjist Walertown. 
Eamea, Mr*. Clifr, Ki-Iired Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., X. Y., s. 18u7, p. o. add. East 

Watertown. 
Eaniftf. P.inifl J,, Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 8. 1830, p. o. add. 

K'tsl Wati-nnan. 
Friiik, S;imuel, Fai rtier and Dairyman and Justice of the Peace, b. Jeff. Co., 

N. Y.,». 18111, p. o. add. Km land. 
Fulton, J^fwe, Fanner ami Dairyman, b. Jeff, Co., N. Y., 8. 1812, p. o. add. Water- 
town. 
F.ird, J.din S.. Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., a. 1840. p. o. add. Black Kiver. 
Urixwold, t;. B , Miller, Fell's Mills, b. Jeffeison Co., N. Y., s. IS-'.l, p. o. atld. 

FelrV Mills. 
Graves, Klij ili, Teaeber, Fi-Il's Mills, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 18l;i, p. o. add. 

FellV >hll«. 
Craves. Martin 1... Fanner and l>»ii-}ni:in, b. Jefferaon Cu , X. Y., r. 1811, p. o. 

ndd. Felts Mils. 
Gowtly, Alfreil, Fanner and Dairyman, h. Lewis Co., N. Y., s. 18:J9, p. o. add. 

Walertown. 
Hardy, Charles C, Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 1830, p. o. 

add. Rutland, 
lluwiaiid, \N'illiam, Farmer and D.iirvman, b. J«ffer.-i<m Co., X. Y., 8. 1809, p. o. 

add. Black Kiver. 
Uadcock, Georg^j B., Fanner and Dairyman, b. Lewis Co., X. Y., s. 1864, p. o. 

a*ld. W..terto\vn. 
Hardy, .\d<lis<in W,, Farmer and Datiryman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., a. 18;i7, p.o. 

add. Etst Wiiterlowii. 
Kellogg, Sylvester, Farmer and Ilulel-keeper, Tylerville, b. Lewis Co., X. Y., 8. 

li<S2, p. o. add. Suutli Kiitland. 
Kimball, henry X., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., a. 1814, p. o. 

add. Buri'ville. 
Middletitn. Andiew (',, Farni<T, Dairyman, Ex-Senator, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 

8. I8:i4, p. o. add. Black Kiver 
Marshall, Henry. Lninber De.tler, Felt's Mills b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 1840, 

p. o. add. Felt's Mills. 
MiddU-tun, \\ m. D.. Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 1807, p. o. 

aiM. Black K>v^r. 
Middletdu, Chiistoplier, Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 1809, 

p. o.add. Black K ver. 
Monroe, Morrj-t C.. Furni-r and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., 8. 18.'i2, p. o. 

a'ld. Fast Watertown, 
Miller. Lori-nz-t K , Fanner and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co , X. Y., s. 1820, p. o. 

add. E^.st Watertown. 
McOmbi-r. Edmnnd, Faruit-r and Hntel-kei^per, Black River, b. Jefferson Co., 

N. Y., s. 182J, p. o. adti. Black River. 
OIney, L. D.. Farniei , b Jetlerson Co., N. Y , 8. 1825. p. o. add. Watertown. 
Poor, Christopher, Maimfaclnn-r Bent Chair Stock, Black River, b. Jefferson Co., 

X. Y., 3. 18 lit. p. o. add. Black Kiver. 
Parkinson, Phineas C, Faiiiii-rand Cheese-Maker, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., a. 1S44, 

p. u. add. Eist Wiitertowii. 
Parkinson, Jas. B , Farmer, b. Jeff. Co.. N'. Y , e. 184G, p. o. add. E. Watertown. 
Pohl, I'eter. Farm-T. b. Hesse Darm-Uult, s. |x.V., p. o. aiid. Blaek River. 
I'ool, h^lward S., Farmer and Dairynmn, I*. Jefferson Co., X. Y.,s. 18o0,p. o.add. 

Et-I Watertown. 
Phi Up-'. Orin A., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., X.T., 8.1S35, p.o.add. 

Rntlaucl. 
Kockwell, S meoii. Fanner and Dairyman, b. Jeff. Co., X. Y., 8. 1827, p. o. add. 

Rutland. 
Bock woo I, Fcrnanilo L., Hotel-keeper, Felt's Mills, b. Jeffersou Co., X. Y., 8. 

1S4T, p. o. add. F.lts Mills. 
KandatI, J>>|iii D.. Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jcflei-son Co., X. Y., a. 1S26, p. o. 

add. Bla< k River. 
Bu8P, .Maiisin.', Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 1811, p. o. add. 

S'lUth Clianipion. 
Soutbworth, Wm., Farmer and Town Auditor, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. ISlti, 

p. o. add. Rutland. 
Smith. Sidney 1... Farmer and Dairym in, K Jefferson Co., X. Y., ». 1821, p. o. 

add. Rutland. 
Smith, Hyr.'ii J., Farmer and Dairvman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 1846, p. o. add. 

Rutland. 
Scott, Daniel H.. Manufacturer, Black River, b. Jcffer^n Co., X. Y., 8. 1828, p. 

o. add. Bl I. k River. 
Scoti, Geo. H., Fcninan D. Dexter A Sons, Clmir Mnfrs., Black River, b. Jeffer- 
son Co., X. Y.. B. is:t:i. p. o. add. Black River. 
Smith, Benj. 1'., Farmer and Daiiyman, b. Oneiila Co., X. Y., a. 1831, p. o. add. 

Black Riv.-r. 
Scott, S--weM, Fanner and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y'., s. 1803, p. o. add. 

Black Riv r. 
Snath, Geo. W., Farmer and Su|>ervisor, b. JeffersoD Cu., X. Y.,8. 1S40, p. o. add. 

South Rutland. 
StebbiUN, L*tr< nro. Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., b. 1805, p. o. 

add. VJiwt Wnlertown. 
Treadway, Jonathnn F., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jeffervon Co., N. Y., s. 1819, 

p. it. adil. E'tat Watertown. 
TorpniuL', P<-i<>r. Farmo^ Felt's Milts, b. Herkimer Co.. N. Y., «. 1838, p. o. add. 

Fell's Mill-. 
Undorwo«Hl, Franc s. Farmer and Dairynmn, b, Jefferson Co., X. Y'., s. 1843, p. 

u. add. South Rutland. 
Vehcr. cinuidler C.. Prop. Felt's Mills Tannery, b. Jefferson Co., 8. 1830, p. o. 

add. F. Ii's M lis. 
Wheel-r. p.- Wilt C., .^Infr. W.koden PumjM and Water Pipes, Kelt's Stills, b. 

Jifferson Co.. N. Y.. ». I8;i<i, p. <>. add. FeliV MilN. 
White, M'". Sarah R. (iviired^. Felt s Mills, b. Vermont, s. l83o, p. o. add. Felt*a 

Mill". 
Witc-'X, Monire. Farmer and Dairjman, b. Herkimer Co., N. Y., 9. 1847, p. o. 

add. Bla<k River. 
WlUon. Wm. II.. Fanii.T (ntircd), b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 1307, p. o. add. 

Wat-r own. 
Wilson. Fr.iiik F.. Farmer and Dairyman, h. Jeffenhm Co., X. Y., 0. 1843, p. o. 

add. W.«lerto«n. 
Webb, Ani.d 1. Farmer (retired), Tylerville, b. Jeff«raon Co.. X. Y'.. s. 1808, p. o 

add. South Rutland. 



THERESA. 

Allen, Prince, Farmer and Wa-on-mak.r, Therc-a, b. Clinton Co., X. Y.,8. 1823, 

p. u. add. Evans' Mills. 
Allen, Conk, Farmer and Dair\iiig, There*i, b. Clinton Co., X. Y'., s. is:tl, p. o. 

Evan-' Mills. 
Bodmaii. M. B , Farmer and Dairying, Tlien'sa, b. Hampshire, Mass., a. 1821, p. 

(1. udd. Theresa. 
Branangh, J. \V.. Farmer and Dairying, Thensa, b. Belfast, Ireland, a. 1854, p. 

o. add. Rettwu'id. 
BjiII, Lincey, Farmer, Theresa, b. Xewark, X. J., s. 18(i7, p o. ndil. Plessis. 
Bitll, Chauriiy, Fai uier, ThereSii, b. JeRerstm Co., X. Y'., e. 1831, p. o. add. 

Plessis. 
Bjill, Egbert, Farmer and Cheese Manufr., Thcresii, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., s. 

18 t2, p. o. add. Plessis. 
Bearup, D.. Atttuntyand Pre-^. of B. R. and Morriatown K. R., There.-a, l. Herk. 

Co., X. v., s. 1S29, p. ... add. Tberes:.. 
Brittoii, A. X., Manntr. of Chairs and Furniture, Wholesale and Retail, Theresa, 

b. M.iss.ichusells, s 1843, p. o. add. Tliere^a. 
Bnllanl, P. D.( Retired ,TlienNi,h. Jeffei^tMn Co., X. Y'..r 1819, p. o.add. Theresa. 
Coe, Geo. .v., D.D.S., Denial Surgeon, Theresii, b. Jeffers^m Co,, X. W, s. l8o3, 

p. o. add. Theresa. 
Chapman. W. D., Jeweler and Mannfr. of .ill kindsuf FishingTackleand Baita, 

Then-sa, b. J^ffers..n Co., N. Y., s. 1819, p. o. aibl. Tber4-sa. 
Collia, J*din C , Mannfr. .if all gnub.-i of Woolen Goods, Therew 1, b. Herk. Co., 

X. Y., s. 1S4I, p. o. add. Theivsji. 
Church, A., Pn-pr. American Hotel, Theresa, b. Oneida Co., X. Y'., s 1830, p. o. 

udd. Theresa. 
Coniwell. 51. K., Groceries, Drups, and Sledicines, Theiesa, b. Jefferson Co., X. 

Y., s lvS:i3, p. o. add. TheresH. 
Cooper, Jo84-pl)ine, Farmer, ThereSii, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y'., b. ISitO, p. o. adil. 

Thfrt'sa. 
Cornwell, G. W., Fanner anil Justice of Peace, Theresa, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y'., 

8. ISUS, p. n. add. Therewi. 
Cooper, J. C, Farmer and Cheese Mannfr., Theresa, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., a. 

184.1, p. o. adtl. Theresa. 
Cole, Alaiifon, Farmi'r and Dairyman, Th» ies;i, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y'., s. 1822, 

p. u. add. Theresa. 
Dickhout, tieo.. Farmer. Dairying, and Cheese Mannfr., Theresa, b. Germany, 

8. is;rni, p. o. add. Redwood. 
Doolitlle, J. S., Fanning, Tli.resa, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., a. I8O0, p. o. add. 

Theresa. 
Diake, Jerendah V., Farming, Tlieresii, b. Saratoga Co., X. Y'., a. 1822, p. o. add. 

Theivsa. 
Dresser, Wm., Undertaktr and Justice of Peace, Theresa, b. Jeffcrs m Co., N.T., 

s. 1812. P.O. add. Ther.s:i. 
Eddy Bmther^, Dealers in Produce and General Merchandise, Theresa, p. o. 

atld. Theresa. 
Fisher, E. V., R. R. Station and Express Agent, Theresa, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y* , 

8. 1829. p. u. add. Th'■^e^a. 
Fisk, Chas. X., (Jeiionil Hardware Dealer, Theresa, b. Jefferstm Co., N. Y., m, 

1K4I, p. o. add. Theresa. 
Getnian, E, Pn'pr. <if Getman House, Theresa, b. Montgomery Co., X. Y., f». 

1».;9, p. o. add. Theresa. 
Hinman, W'illiam, Farmer, Theresa, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y'., s. 1S:!8, p. o. add. 

Thoresji. 
Howe, C, T., Farmer and Teacher, Thereaji, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y'., ?. 1849, p. o. 

add. Theresa. 
Hannah", Lucius, Physician and Snrg'^on (decea=ed"),Th«'re8ii,b. Herk. Co.. N. Y'. 
Huniiiigion, Isaac L., Painting, and Justice uf Peace 24 year«, Theresa, b. Nt w 

Hamp-liire, s. 182C, p. o. add. Theresa. 
Hungerford, L. C., Fanner, 31illwriglit, and Music Teacher, Tlieresa, b. Herk. 

Co.. X. Y'., s. IS17, p. *►. add. TliHresi*. 
Kelsey, Dr. J. E., Physician and Surgeon, Thcresji, b. Jefferson Co , X. Y*., a. 

18.VI, p. o. add.Theiesa. 
Kelsey, Gen., Genenil 5Ierchandise, Tlieres;*, b. Jefferson Co., X Y'., b. 1$43, p. 

o. add. There.-a. 
Lambie, W. M., G.-neral Merchandise, Tlieresii, b, St. Lawrence Co., X. Y'., a. 

187". p. o. ad'l. Tlitresa. 
Lambie, J. F., Gener.il Merchandise, Theresa, b. St. Lawrence Co., X. Y',, a. 18T0, 

p. o. add. Theresa. 
Laihrup, S. E., Farmer. Theresa, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y'.,8. 1841, p. o. add. Plessis. 
Lii Due, Chas., Fai iner and Glus«-blo\ver, Thenaa, b. Burlington, Vt., s. 183(i, p. 

o.add. K>-dw<K.d. 
Morrow, Jason C, C^i-hier in Bank, Therei^a, b. Ji-ffereon Co., X. Y., s. IS;t7, p 

o. add. Then-Sii. 
McAllister, J. F., Menhant, Theresa, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., 8. 1852, p. o. add. 

Ther-.-a. 
Og8bury. .M , Fanner (Retired), Theresa, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y'., a. 1819, p. o. 

add. Th- ri'sa. 
Ostrandter, .\llen. Farmer and Dairyman, Theresa, b. Jefferson Co., X*. Y'., 8. 

It.t8, p. .». add. Then-sl. 
Place, U.. Kai ming, Theres:i. b. Jefferson Co., X. Y'.. s. 184r>, p. o. add. Ple&sis. 
Parker, Johti, Gmceries, Drug's, aitd MiHlicines, and Supervisor, Theresa, b, 

J. fter>«on Co.. X. Y'.. s. 1S14. p. o. mid. Thert-.sii. 
Peck, Frank M., General Mercliandi.se, Tlieresa, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., a. 1838, 

p. o. add. Tlieresa. 
Pool, Chas., Prupr. Flouring-mill and Lumbering, Theresii, b. Jefferson Co., N. 

Y*., s. 1822, p. O. add. TbereSJi. 
Pool. Henry, Farm- r and Dairy (deceased), Theresa, b. Herk. Co., X. Y., a. 1820. 
Pool, /.ainian. Farmer and Dairy, Theresa, b. Jeffereon Co., X. Y'., s. 1828, p. o. 

adil. Therest. 
IWof, John C, Farming, Theresa, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y'., s. 1818, p. o. add. 

Tlieresii. 
Itodenhnrst. Kit hard. General Hardware, Theresa, b. England, s. ISCC, p. o.add. 

There-a. 
Ryther, A. G., Traveling Agent Cbicapo Paint Houae, Theresa, b. Jefferson Co., 

X. Y'.. «. I83«i. p. o. add. Therewi. 
StophenB*>n, E.. Farm.r and Carpenter, Theresa, h. Jefferson Co., X. Y'., 8. 1829, 

p. I), add. Theresa. 
Stephenson, Xormaii, Farmer, Carpenter, and Joiner, Thcrraa, b. CHntun Co., 

X. Y., s. 1813. p. o. add. Th-r.-sa. 
Seebcr, Wm. II., Fanner and Dairy, Theresa, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y'., a. 1826, p. 

t>. add. Therrsji. 
Still, Horatio. Farmer and Dairy, Therewi, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y., a. 1810, p. o. 

aild Theresa. 
Strough, I*. A , Farmer and Teacher. There-'a, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y*., a. 180:». p. 

o. a<ld. There*!. 
Strntton. Jonaihtn, Fanner and Dairv, Theresa, b. Vermont, s. IS31, p. o.add. 

Evan-* MilU. 
Suits, J-din, Farmer and Dairy, Thensa, b Monl;;omery Co., X. Yr.,8. 1850, p. o. 

add. Redwoo'l. 
Swan. Ch.st r, Fainer and Carpenter, Theresa, b. Jefferson Co., X. Y'., e. 181i7, 

p. o. add. Rttlwoud. 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



591 



Sholiijr, E. D., Mmiurr. of D.>im, Swh, Bliii Is, MouMingH, BafrltMs, Win-low- 

(rMna, find T'lbte-ilidus, Theresa, b. Jjfforsm Co., N. Y., s. I'il4, p. o. 

ikM. Ttioru^a. 
Siliabury, D. A., Orocorlee and PruvUIons, Thereia, b. Juffjrion Co., N. Y., s. 

1«.'»0, p. u. ti'l'I. Thoreii. 
SImont, ft, J., Fiirrn ;r, Cnttom-^ioiiso Offl:or, Ttioreia, b. Jjffj»ja Co., N. Y., 

fl. 1S3(>, p. II. ii'M TboreSA. 
Simon*, Capt. W. K , Kariniig and Siiliiig, Theresa, b. Jettenon Ci., N. Y., 8. 

1823, p. o. ad'l. Tliftrti-ta. 
Thompsiii, Jonathan (ICutiredl, Theresa, b. Swanzy, N. H., «. 18^, p. o.add. 

Tliore^a. 
Thrasher, J. S., Farni«r and Ctirponter, Theresa, b. JuRerAjn Co., N. Y., b. 1845, 

p. o. iwld. TheriMia. 
Thompson, C. W , ,\tlornoy-at-Law, Theresa, b. Joffen»on Co., N. Y., «. 1810, p. 

I), mid. ThoroBa. 
Vanderburgh, J. S., General M'Tchandito and Gro^erletf, Theresi, b. Jefferson 

Co., X. Y., B. 1826, p. o. a-Id. Theresa. 
WheokT, I*. E., Farmer and Dairy, Theresa, b. Jeffemun Co., N. Y., 8. 18i8, p. o. 

add. Thereaa. 
Wilcox, L.. Karmur and Dairy, Theresa, b. Cortland Co., N. Y., s. 1819. p. o. 

add. Thercta. 
Wood, J. H., Fanner and Dairy, Tnoresi, b. C»n ida, «. 18o2, p. o. ad'!.There*a. 
WoodnifT, Oliarl.'r., Kariner and Diiry, Thorosi, b. J^-ffersm Co., N. Y., s. HIT, 

p. o. add. Thurcjia. 
Wilsun, Mra. P., Fanner an 1 Dairy, Thereita, b. llerk. Co., X. Y., s. 18:)5. p. o. 

add. Tliore»H. 
Walter, Klian, Fanner and Dairy, Theresa, b. HoPk. Co., N. Y., s. 1842, p. o. add. 

TluTcsa. 
Walter, CurnHlius, Farmer and Dairy, Theresa, b. Herk. Co., N. Y., s. 1844, p. o. 

add. Tlieresa. 
West, W. L , Farmi'r and Dairy, Tborosa, b. Jefforsun Co., N. Y., s. 1820, p. o. 

ii<ld. Redwood. 
Whltiiki*r. W. J., Farmer, and Dealer in Ekjts, Cheese, and Poultry, Theresa, b. 

JefI.*rson Ci»., N. Y., s. 184-'>, p. o. add. Ple^nis. 
White, II. A., Fanner and Hardware, Theresa, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y.,«. 1839, p. 

o. add. Redwiiud. 
Yost, GfO. K., B inker, Theresa, b. Jt-ffurdim Co., N. Y.,s. 1838, p. o. add. Thero-«a. 
Zoiler, Henry, Farmer and Dairy, b. Miint«;omory Co., N. Y., s. 18 J7, p. o. add. 

Theresa. 



WILNA. 

Adams, H. H., Broker, b. N. Y., s. 1819, ]i. o. add. Carthage. 
Brown, U. K., Merctmnt and N.>(ary I'ubli^ b. N. Y., a. 1822, p. n. add. Carthage, 
Dr.inau.ch, Saml., Tanner, Carthage, U. Ireland, ». 1S70, p. u. add. O.irthajje. 
Itiirris, I.uke, Farmer and D.iiryman, Carthage, b. N. Y., s. IS^tl, p. o. add. Car- 
thage. 
Barr. Wesley. R<>al Estate and Insurance Agent, Carthage, b. N. T., s. 1836, 

p. o. add. Carthago. 
Becker, BarUjn, Fanner and Dairy, Girthage, b. N. Y., s. 1816, p, o. add. Ster- 

lingville. 
Brow8t<T, Joseph L., Farmer, Carthago, b. N. Y., 8. 1845, p, o. add. Antwerp. 
Coughtin, Jcro., .Vasociate E I- Cart'iatje itepublicju, Carthage, b. Canada, s. 1865, 

p. o. luld. Cartha;;!'. 
Chase, L. G., Ed. and I'rop. CiirUia>je Itepublican, Carth ige, b. N. Y., s. 1876, 

p. o. add. Carthago. 
Cobnrii, Mrs. W. M. (retired), Carthage, b. N. Y., s. 1819, p. o. add. Qirthage. 
Cathetl, Kev. J. Ev.jrist, Factor of Grace Church, (Carthage, b. N. Y., s. 1876, 

p. o. add. Carthage. 
Clark, Jno. \V., Dealer in Ki^ady-Modo and Ciiatom-M:uIe Clothing and Gents' 

furnishing goods, Carthage, b. N. Y., s. 186.5, p. o. add. Carthage. 
Clearwater, Danl., Farmer and Dairyman, Cartli ige, b. N. Y., s. 1841, p. o. add. 

Carthsge. 
Collins, I*., Fanner, Carth ige, b. Ireland, s. 1827, p. o. add. C<irthage. 
Copp, J. H., Physician and Surgeon, Cirthage, b. N. Y., h. 186;J, p. o. add. Nat. 

Bridge. 
Carter, W. H., Farmer, b. N. Y., b. 1815, p. o. add. N. Wilna. 
Crowner, St-iles, Farmer, b. N. Y., s. 182^, p. o. a'ld. Cirthage. 
f'owiin, ll'irman, Farmer, h. N. Y., s. 1819, p, o. aild. I^rthage. 
Canfield. William, Farmer, b. X. Y., s. 1816, p. o. add. X. Wilna. 
Clia«lwiek, J. U., Farmer, li. X. Y., a. 1841, p. o. a-ld. Wilna. 
Crimiis, Peter, Farmer, b. X. Y., s. 1827, p. o. add. Xalural Bridge. 
Cummins, Kich:ird, Jr., Blacksmith, b. St. Lawrence Co., X. Y., a. 1842, p. o. 

add, Carthage. 
Carpenter, W., Insurance Agt., b. Ilerk. Co., N. Y.,8. 1862, p. o. aid. Carthago. 
Davis, Geo., Boating and Carpentering, b. Jefferson Co., N. Y., s. ISi'-i^ p. o. ^d. 

Ciirthnge. 
Dodge, Loriston, Farmer and Dairy, b. Conn., s. 1839, p. o. add. Slerlingvill^. 
Derby, Harlcy, F.inner and Dairy, b. Vt., s. 1828, p. o, add. St>;rIingviUe. 
Dawlcy, J. II., Farmer and Dairy, b. X. Y., s. 1824, p. o. add. Xurth \V. P. 0. 
De La Fleur, .M. K. (retired), Carth.i-e, b. \. Y., s. !844, p. o. add. Cirthage. 
Francis. C. E., .Herchant, 53 State st., Carthage, b. N. Y., s. 1816, p. o. add. 

Carthage. 
Fulton, John C, Att'y and Counselor-at-Law, Carthage, b. N. Y., s. 1844, p. o. 

add. Carthage. 
FedigJin, Rev. J. J., Pastor St. James' Church, Carthage, b. Ireland, s. 1874, p. 

o. add. Carthage. 
Fledenbnrg, Geo. C, Prop, of Hatch Hjuse, Carthage, b. N. Y., s. 18U, p. o. add. 

Carthage. 
FttZ'^imotis, A., Farmer, b. N. Y., s. 1847, p. o. add. Carthnge. 
Fargo, Li?wis, Prop, of Hotel, Farmer and Dairy, b. N. Y., «. 1826, p. o. add. 

Wilna. 
Fulton. Sim?on, Farming, b. Vt., s. 1810, p. o. add. Carth ige. 
Foley. Peter, Farming, b. Ireland, s. 1812, p. o. a<ld. Carthage. 
Farley, J.imos T., Farming, b. X. Y., s. 1^5. p. o. add. i>irthage. 
Futt<m, E. F.. F.irming, b. X. Y., s. 1821, p. o. aid. Cirthage. 
Frasier, Mary, F.trming, b. Ma^s., 8. 1816, p. o. aid. Ctrthage. 
Gilbert, George, Att'y and Cjuuselor, Carthage, b. X. Y., s. 1854, p. o. add. 

Carthage. 
Gallagher, Richard. Mnfr. and DIr. in Furniture, Carthage, b. Ireland, s. 1817, 

p. o. add. Carthage. 

41 



Gondalr-, L. .1., Lin.l Aj^nt, rirlhii/», li N Y., 9. I81fi, p. o. njil. Cirlliaijc. 

(rntlia'ii, DivkI, F-iriiier. b. Kili;Iiiiiil, «. 1819, |>. u, u'ltl. \Viln:i. 

Gnihain, Murjr A., Farmer, l». N. Y., «. ISI't, |). o. oilij. Wilim. 

(Jnilmin, .lamo< It., KariQcr, U. N. Y.. «. 18K. p. u. ailil. Wilna. 

Cili ■<, .luliin K., Saw.ver, b. S. Y., «. IK Ifi. p. u. a^lil. tiirlhaif. 

Git*)., Mm. hiilly, Ka'rmiiiK an'l Saw-mill, h. N. Y., i*. 18.*>ti, p. o. adii. Cartilage. 

GalHH, Crm*>ti, Kairiiiii^, b. N". Y., «. IHt", p o. ailil. Ciirlhanr. 

Galvin, Jiiii'-., St K'k U -ali-r, (^artliagft, b. lr>*laiid, .. l«:l.*», p. ». a.1.1. Cjirlhage. 

Gru(}n, .MIitTt It., Wai^oii an<l Cirriage ^liiTr., Cartilage, b. ]i4!nM. Gu., N. Y., 

B. IH.t7, p. t». a-bl. (^.(rlha<;e. 
Hick..y, Jaiiind, Karmor and Dairym in, Carthagu, b. Ireland, s, 18 19, p. o. odd. 

C.rth.K". 
II uitini;^, .I.nnpli. Furmor, fJirtliaRe, b. N. Y., a. 1817. p. o. aild. Wilna. 
Han-tun, Natli , Fanner and Datrv, Carthago, b. N. Y., 8, IWT, p. o. add. Stcr- 

llni;villu. 
Hatch, Mr,.. S. K., rroprictreds o( Levis Huuie, Carthage, b. N. Y., s. 1837, p. o. 

add. Carthage. 

Hiloomb, O., Ri'llnd, Carthage, b. N. Y , «. IS\\ p. o. add. Carthage. 

Hubbard, II.. It "tired, Champion, b. N. V., a. 180-2, p. o. aild. I.'arlhage. 
Hubbard, (i.'o. W., Farmer, b. N. Y.. 9. ISl-j, p. o. add. North Wilna. 
Ilouknr, Mrs. r. M., RjliriHl, lLirthai;e, b. N. Y., «. l&lf., p. o. add. Orthage. 
Julinflon, F. B., Farmer, b. N. Y'., -.. 18:17, p. o. odd. Cartha;£e. 
IIendrickS'in,S. C., Farmer, b. hxii I., ». I8.'in, p. u add. Nurth Wilna. 
Kilby, \. K.. Att'y and (;.>un8elMr'at'Iaw, Carthage, b. Long I., n. 1840, p. o. add. 

North Wilna. 
Koyea, Samuel, Farmer, b. I»nR I., a. 1820, p. o. add. North Wdna. 
Levis, 0. 8. (retired I, b. N. Y., ». l«:l.'>, p. o. add. North Wilna. 
Ix>omis, C H., Merchant, b. N. Y., 9. 185:1, p. o. add North Wilna. 
Loumis, Manlv, SlanTr of Carriages, Wagons, etc., b. N. Y., s. I8I7, p. o. adil. 

North Wilna. 
Looniis, El>er, Farmer, b. N. Y.. 9. 1816, p. o. add. Sterlingville. 
I.inpheare, II. K , Farmer, b. N. Y., 9. 18^, p. o. ad.l. (iirtliage. 
Lanpheare, Fanny, Farmer, Ii. Maa-*., s. 18:l(i, p. o. a<ld. Carrhage. 
McCi)y, John F., Tanner, i^artlrigf', b. I'enna., s. 187ti, p. o. it/ld. rarthagO' 
Myers, K. 11., B.iiiker, Carlh.ii:e, b. N. Y., a. I8.W, p. o. add. Carthag.'. 
Miller, J. II., I'hy-ician and Surg., •'arthaj.-e.b. N. Y., s. 18—. p. o. luld. Carthage. 
Merrill, E. .M., Druggist, Carthage, b. N. Y., «. WM, p. o. a<ld. (Sirlhage. 
Maaon, M. 1'., Mfr of Majirjller Feath-r Dusters, Clirthage, b. N. Y., 8. 1857, 

p. o. add. Carthage. 
Main, Thoi. F., Farmer and Dairy, li. N. Y., 9. 1823, p. o. add. North Wilnoy. 
Main, Parish, Farmer and Dairy, b. N. Y., s. 1841, p. o. add. North Wilney. 
Norton, J. L., Merchant, t.'arthage, b. N. Y., a. 180*1, p. o. add. Carthage, 
Nie, Warren, Farmer, b. N. Y., ». 1824, p. o. add. Cartilage. 
Nutting, Louisa I>., Farmer, b. N. Y., s. 1820, p. o. aild. Natural Bridge. 
Nutting, Marin, Farmer, b. Vermont, 9. 1820, p. o. add. Natural Bridge. 
O'Neil, MichI, Wagon and Oirriage Mfr., b. K. Troy, «. 1870, p. o. add. (Carthage. 
Pennimin, tluy. Farmer, b. E. Troy, s. I8.'il, p. o. add. Wilna. 
Pierce, Charles, Farmer, b. E. Troy, s. 1824, p. o. aild. Carthage. 
Pool, David, Farmer, b. E. Troy, s. 1821, p. o. add. Natural Bridge. 
Ponningt*»n, .\. o., Farmer, b. E. Troy, ?». 1840, p. o. add. .\ntwerp. 
Peden,.la!i.T.. I'huieiau and .Surgeon, b. N. Y.City,". 18.58, p o. add. Cartkaga. 
Hogg, Marlin, Uetired, Carthage, b. N. Y. City, «. 1828, p. o. add. Carthage. 
Biley, Patrick, Firmer, b. Ireland, a. 1824, p. o. add. North Wilna. 
Stewart, K. Y., Merchant, i;arlhage, b. N. Y., «. 182:1, p. o. add. Carthage. 
Smith, .Mrs. II. B., Milliner, Cartha).'e, b. 5Ia>.9., 8. 1841, p. o. a-l.L (;artliaga. 
Stall ird, La Fayette G., Farmer, b. N. Y., s. 1824, p. o. add. (^rtliage. 
Stanard, (ieo. W., Fariuer, b. N. Y., 9. 1829, p. o. add. Cartha;;e. 
Sarviiy, Mre. Phila, Farmer, b. N. Y., 8. 1822, p. o. a.bl. Carthage. 
Symon.'i, F. 0., Farmer, b. Vt., 8. 18:iti, p. o. add. N.irlh Wilna. 
Smith, .Alon/.o, Farmer, b. N. Y., 8. 1824, p. o. add. Orthage. 
Schroer, F. A., Fanner and Blacksmith, b. PrU9-*ia, a. 1855. p. o. a<Id. Wilna. 
Touley, Brooks, Farmer, b. Vt., «. 1828, p. o. add. North Wilna. 
Ward, James i retired), Carthage, b. N. Y., s. 1804, p. o. add. Carthage. 
Willis, J. E., PostmasU'r, Carthag-, b. N. Y., s. 18)0, p. o. odd. Carthage. 
W.ioil, John B., Merchant, Cirtli igo, b. N. Y., 9. 1871, p. o. odd. Carthage. 
Ward, F. B., D.Mb'r in Ltim'ier. Oirthage, b. S. Y., 9. 18:tS, p. o. odd. (lirthage. 
Welch, Peter, Farmer, Carthase, b. Ir. land, s. 1819, p. o. add. Carthage. 
Welch, H. J., Attorney-at-Law, Carthage, b. N. V., «. 186.1, p. o. add. Carthage. 
Wood, Simoon, O) oper, b. N. Y., 9. 1812, p. o. add. North Wilna. 
Wood, Jonathan I retired i, li. N. H., 9. 18:11, p. o. ad I. North Wilna. 
White, Mary, Farmur, b. N. Y., 9. 1819, p. o. add. Wilna. 
Wood, Kev. J. A , Farmer, b. N. Y., s. 1347, p. o. add. North Wilna. 



WORTH. 

Bullock, Leonard, Farmer, Uetired, b. Jeff. Co, N. Y, 6. 1817, p. o. add. Wortb- 

Tille. 
Cornell, Edward, Farmer, Lumberman, b. Leeds Co., Canada, a. 1849, p. o.add. 

Worth t Centre. 
Gillott, Albert S., Farmer and Saw-Mill, b. Herk. Co., N. Y., a. 1830, p. o. add. 

Wortliville. 
Grim9haw, Henry L., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Oneida Co., N. Y., a. 1840, 

p. o. add. Worthvillo. 
Kellogg, S. B., Grist-and Saw-Mill and Supcrrisor, b. Jeff. Co., 8. 1847, p. o. add. 

Worthvillo. 
McCargor, J.ime., Farmer and Dairyman, b. Antrim, Ireland,a. 1847, p. o. add. 

Wortliville. 
McCargor, .Margaret, Wife of Jamea McCargor, b. Cheshire, Eng., 9. 1847, p. o. 

add. Worlhville. 
Mills, Geo. N , Farmer, b. Jeff. Co., N. Y., 9. 1815, p. o. add. Worth Centre. 
Pickert, E., Fariuer and D liryman, b. St. Lawrence (3o., N. Y., 8. 1874, p. o.add. 

Worthvillo 
Sloan, Isaac, Farmer and Dairyman, b. Aatrim, Ireland, a. 1855, p. o. add. 

Worthvillo. ^,, „ 

Turner, G inlon, F irmer and Dairyman, b. Lewis Co., N. Y., 8. 1847, p. o. add. 

Barnes' Orners. *j ir ^ooa 

Van Camp, Jacob, Farmer and Dairyman, b. Montgomery Co., N. l., s 1824, 

p. o. Olid. Worthville. 
Wilcox, Levi, Farmer and Dairyman, b. Jolleraou Co., N. T., a. 1826, p. o. add. 

Worthville. 



SUPPLEMENT. 



PERSONAL SKETCHES RECEIVED TOO LATE FOR INSERTION WITH TOAVN HISTORIES. 



VOLNEY STOW HUBBARD.* 

(WATEBTOWN CITY.) 

Volney Stow Hubbard was born in Adams, Jefferson Co., 
N. Y., on Dec. 15, 1818. His ancestors were among the 
first settlers of the New Enghind States. They came to 
America at an early period in the settlement of tlie coun- 
try. The subject of the present memoir was the eldest son 
of Claudius Hubbard, Esq., who was born in Middletown, 
Conn., May 24, 1791. He served his country with dis- 
tinction in the War of 1812, and subsequently held several 
oflBces — civil, religious, and military— with honor, adding 
thereto the refining influences of a Christian life. He 
died ]May 21, 1873, aged eighty-two years. He had three 
sons, two of whom, William C. and Silas M., devoted them- 
selves to the gospel ministry. William C. served his coun- 
try in the War of the Rebellion, as chaplain of a regiment 
he assisted in raising, with honor to his country and with 
credit to himself. 

The name Hubbard is an ancient one, having been traced 
back to the Saxon kings. Bela Hubbard, the grandparent 
of the subject of this memoir, descended in direct line from 
George Hubbard, of Glastonbury, England, who was born 
about the year IGOO, at the clo.se of the reign of Queen 
Elizabeth or the beginning of the reign of King James 
the First. He (Georgej settled in Glastonbury, Conn., on 
the lands assigned him there, a portion of which are still 
occupied by his descendants. He was a member of the 
first general court, in 1(538, and several subsequent years. 

The genealogy of his family has been preserved, but it 
is too extended to admit of particular notice in these pages. 
Naomi Stow, the wife of Bela Hubbard and grandmother 
of V. S. Hubbard, was sister of Silas Stow, afterwards so 
well known as Judge Stow, of Lowville, Lewis county, 
who was one of the first white men who came into this 
section previous to the first white settlement, in 1798. 
Naomi, grandmother of the subject of this paper, was, as 
is seen, a member of that branch of the famous Stow 
family in this country. Silas Stow, pro.specting in this, 
then wilderness, region, fell in with Messrs. Stors and 
Noadiah Hubbard near the present site of Carthage, in 
1793, being five years before any white settlement was 
made. Some members of the family have been persevering 
enough in their biographical researches to be able to show 
conclusively that our branch of the Stow family descended 
in a direct line from Sir Thomas More, prime minister of 
England in the time of Henry the Eighth. 

* See residence, busincsB-block, and portrait among the illustra- 
tions of Wntertnwn C\ty, facing page 163. 

592 



But the purpose of this sketch is more especially with 
the life of Volney Stow Hubbard, of Watertown, Jefferson 
Co., N. Y. On arriving at an age of helpfulness to his 
parents, he was occupied in the summer season with work 
on the farm, and sent to the common school of the place in 
the winter. This cour.se of life continued until about the 
age of seventeen, when young Hubbard was found sufl5- 
ciently advanced and thorough in his education to avail 
himself of the advantages of the first Teachers' Institute 
held in the county ; on leaving which his qualifications 
were found to be fully adequate to the teaching of a public 
school, and obtaining a certificate, he immediately entered 
upon that vocation, returning to the farm in the summer 
months, reviewing his studies in the fall to improve his 
qualifications, and teaching winters, rising higher and 
higher in his profession, and commanding each winter an 
increase of compensation. On arriving at twenty-one his 
growing desire for a higher order of attainments induced 
him to leave the farm and pursue his studies in the Black 
River Institute, at Watertown, where he continued most of 
two summers, when his reputation as a successful teacher 
and disciplinarian induced the Board of Trustees of one of 
the Watertown city schools, noted for its rough and turbu- 
lent element, to engage him at a salary unusually large for 
that period. He continued to teach that school and others 
very successfully up to the opening of the State Normal 
School at Albany, when, being still unsatisfied with his 
scholastic acquirements, and being desirous of the best 
methods of imparting instruction and the highest order of 
qualifications, he went to that institution, where he graduated 
with the highest honors in the first graduating class in the 
year 1845. Returning, he resumed his profession under a 
State Normal graduate's diploma, and was eminentlj' suc- 
cessful in elevating the standard of the public schools, 
thereby rendering them more popular and desirable than 
private or select schools. In consideration of the long term 
of service, the diligence, patience, and success of Volney S. 
Hubbard as a teacher and in the formation of character, who 
shall say that he may not have done as much good as others 
who have been more conspicuous in the councils of their 
country ? But long service in this vocation creates a desire 
for relaxation, and the subject of our sketch, having now 
arrived at an age when a decision for the future had to be 
made, took an extended trip through the country, in order 
to settle more clearly in his own mind the hotc and where 
he would settle for business and for life. He visited the 
eastern States and cities, the southern and western, return- 
ing by the way of St. Louis, Chicago, and the northern 



HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NEW YORK. 



593 



lakes, acquainting himself with the business, climate, soil, 
and productions of nineteen or twenty States of the Union. 
He reached home satisfied that there was no place he had 
seen where good health and the prospects of a business life 
were more promising than in Watcrtown. Here, in the 
spring of 1850, he invested the savings of his school-teach- 
ing in the mercantile bu.sincss, and now for nearly thirty 
years he has perseveringly and energetically occupied him- 
self in trade, acquiring an enviable competence, and giving 
to his family the best advantages of culture and travel the 
country aflords. In the year 1868 he built a fine brick 
block on Public Square, bearing his name and beautifying 
the locality in which his store is now located, and where, 
with his temperate habits and robust health, he is appar- 
ently vouchsafed a long future of prosperity and public 
esteem. 



ASHLEY TANNER.* 

(ALEXANDRIA.) 

Deacon Benjamin Tanner, father of the subject of this 
sketch, was born in 1779. lie moved to Tyringhani, Mass., 
where he married Polly Peltingell, a worthy Christian 
woman. Together they labored, obtaining as a reward of 
their industry a goodly property. They subsequently 
moved to Otsego county, New York, where Mr. Tanner 
purchased a farm. He afterwards moved to Mullet Creek, 
in Alexandria, Jefferson County, and settled his sons on 
farms near his own. He was a carpenter by trade, and the 
first to follow that avocation north of the Black river. He 
not only built all the houses and barns in tho vicinity dur- 
ing his time, but built the first church edifice, and organized 
the first Baptist church, and located the first burying-ground 
in the town. He died in 1839, aged 60 years : his wife, 
Polly, survived until ISGG, being 92 years and 9 months 
old at her decease. 

The family of Deacon Tanner embraced fifteen children, 
of whom six died in infancy. The others all lived to ad- 
vanced ages, and five are still living. 

Ashley Taimer, the eldest son, was born in Tyringham, 
Mai^s., April 26, 1793. At the age of twenty-one, and 
while a resident of Otsego county. New York, he married 
Miss Susan Smith. In February, 1819, they came to the 
town of Alexandria, in this county, with his fither and 
family, and six other families who were seeking homes in 
the western wilderness. And a wilderness they found it ! 
They had to shovel snow for five miles in order to reach 
their destination, which attained, they hastily erected a log 

* See portraits on page 275. 



hut, and built a fire in the centre, to keep from freezing. 
On arising from their humble beds the following morning 
they found six inches of snow on the floor of their domi- 
cile 1 They pa.ssed through incredible hard.ships, but dur- 
ing the ensuing six years made a comfortable home. They 
built, and for eighteen years kept for the entertainment of 
the public, the first hotel north of the Black river, and 
also dealt in provisions and black salts very extensively. 
3Ir. Tanner helped to survey all the roads in Alexandria 
and Orleans. He was also engaged in the lumber business 
for a time with D. C. Calvin. 

Mr. Tanner's family consisted of nine children, six 
daughtei-s and three sons, of whom four died of consump- 
tion. Ashley Tanner died of heart-disease, Feb. 18, 1867, 
aged seventy-nine years. 

Susan, wife of Ashley Tanner, was born in Otsego county. 

New Y'ork, March 30, 1796, and died of apoplexy, June 

13, 1864. A true Christian woman, whose memory is still 

fresh, although* 

" Sho sleeps in the valley." 



LOREN STONE. 



(ANTWEnP.) 

Andrew Stone, father of Luren Stone, was born in New 
Hampshire, and came to New York State in the year 1817, 
at the age of twenty-one years. He worked on a farm in 
the town of Rutland twij years. He afterwards purchased 
150 acres of wild land in the town of Antwerp, for which 
he paid two dollars per acre, and in 1819 moved on to the 
same. He married Hannah Shurtliff. They moved into 
the town with what few effects they pos.sessed, the only 
guide to their new home being marked trees, as no road had 
been laid out. Their nearest neighbor was Zalman Pool, 
who resided half a mile from them. He died in 1833, 
leaving a wife and seven children, of whom the subject of 
this sketch was the oldest son. His widow still lives in 
the village of Theresa. 

Loren Stone was married to Jane E. Stinson, of St. Law- 
rence county, in 1846, and ha.s had four sons and three 
daughters. One of his daughters, Sarah J., married G. 
W. Augsbury, of the town of Alexandria. For thirty 
years Mr. Stone lived on the old homestead, which he pur- 
chased of the heirs, leaving it, in 1874, to reside in a fine 
dwelling he owns in the village of Theresa. By hard labor, 
strict economy, and good management, he has amassed 
quite a fortune for a farmer. He is a worthy man in every 
respect, possessing a large amount of enterjirise and energy, 
which he has ever put to the b&st advantage. Portraits of 
this gentleman and his estimable wife can be seen elsewhere 
in this work. 



ERRATUM. 



In the account nf the murder of Sarah Conklin, on page 501, the year is omitted. It should be 1875. 



"c 



% 






,0 






V7o Ap-T-. -' 



■'j - « ' *v 



»./ .•;^- V,<^ .■•>^---. \/ ■"-■^^^ '-.0^' .•«;•. ^'ov*^ •■■ 
»°-% ■■: -''-. --.v<^.-' o*"-'^ •.■^4- /°'. --^■- ,'°"%. -..i 



'f\ .■t' 











1*- ^^ A^ ' 
















:' -*^^ 









-- -^^^ / / ^ ^' V 



P c" *^ 



, V , o - o , 



A^ » . < 



/^ V. 



• 4^ " ° * ■*A ( 






% 






. "^ t ° " « « <*ft o"^ • "• " 




0' 

^ "- ,^^ /^*v %/ ':^va\ \ A 






<4^ 



-\ 



V 



' f c' 






.■i' , c " c 




"°o 



' o ■ 



,'^^ 



A 






<■ 



•W^. .■^'^'' •••° '' 



0^ 



-^^n^ 






^o. 






A^ ^ o > . , V^ nV ..... -^o .'i> ^ o " • 



"^j, 

■^/.o^ 

^•^°- 



o 






' '^^ 



jv t ' - ' , <H 






,*^-,.^-,\ ,/...-:^;..°o /,.4i^,%, „.c» . 






,0-7-. 'V 






.0^ 









■^b 



'-t 

o^ 









\* .. -t- ""' '^° "^x \* .. ^- - 4 















.0*0 






• , '^< 



J r-, 







'"^ 
^ 






^--i"' 
.%->■ 



'^*, 



V '*?:^' 




